Discover the Secrets of Longevity in Costa Rica's Blue Zone

At Summer Coast Realty, we don’t just help you find a property—we connect you with a lifestyle rooted in well-being, community, and purpose. One of Costa Rica’s most unique and fascinating areas is the Nicoya Peninsula, home to one of the world’s five Blue Zones, where people live significantly longer and healthier lives than the global average.

Here’s everything you need to know about what makes Nicoya special—and how you can be part of it.

What Is a Blue Zone?

A “Blue Zone” refers to a geographic region where people consistently live to 100 years of age and beyond, experiencing fewer chronic diseases and a higher quality of life.

These areas are not defined by a single factor but by a cluster of interconnected lifestyle habits.

Key Characteristics of Blue Zones:

Exceptional Longevity: People in Blue Zones consistently live to be 100 years old or older at a much higher rate than the general population.
Health Span: Not only do they live longer, but they also enjoy fewer chronic diseases and maintain their vitality well into old age.
Unique Lifestyle Factors: Blue Zones are shaped by a combination of healthy habits—diet, activity, social ties, and a strong sense of purpose.

The Nicoya Diet: Whole, Local, and Purposeful

The traditional Nicoyan diet is a plant-based, nutrient-dense regimen centered on “the three sisters”: corn, beans, and squash. It also includes:

Seasonal fruits and vegetables
A moderate intake of meat (mostly fish and poultry)
Minimal consumption of processed foods and added sugars

This natural, unprocessed way of eating is one of the cornerstones of their longevity.

Key Factors Contributing to Longevity in Nicoya

Strong Sense of Community and Social Connections: Family comes first in Nicoya. Residents enjoy frequent interaction, shared responsibilities, and community participation, which reduces stress and increases emotional well-being.
Plant-Based Diets: Meals are made up mostly of whole, unprocessed plant foods like beans, corn, squash, fruits, and greens.
Active Lifestyles: Residents stay physically active through gardening, walking, farming, and other daily tasks, without needing gyms or formal exercise routines.
Plan de Vida (Sense of Purpose): Having a reason to get up each day—whether it’s work, family, or service to the community—is considered vital to both happiness and longevity.
Access to Healthcare: Costa Rica’s national public health system, “La Caja”, provides affordable preventive and primary care.

Specific Locations Within the Nicoya Peninsula

Nicoya: The historic heart of the region, home to many friendly centenarians.
Nosara: A wellness hub known for yoga, surfing, eco-living, and high-quality international community.
Sámara: A laid-back beach town, perfect for families and expats seeking connection and tranquility.
Santa Cruz, Hojancha, Carrillo, and Nandayure: Charming rural towns with deep traditions, beautiful landscapes, and authentic Blue Zone living.

Lifestyle Habits Shared by All Blue Zones

Diet: Predominantly plant-based meals, rich in legumes, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Physical Activity: Daily low-intensity movement integrated naturally into life (walking, gardening, manual labor).
Social Connections: Strong family ties, frequent social interactions, and community support.
Sense of Purpose: Known as “Ikigai” in Okinawa and “Plan de Vida” in Nicoya—having meaning in life is essential.
Low Stress: Emphasis on slowing down, spending time with loved ones, and engaging in spiritual or meditative practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 5 Blue Zones in the World?

Okinawa, Japan
Sardinia, Italy
Nicoya, Costa Rica
Ikaria, Greece
Loma Linda, California, USA

Why Are People in Costa Rica So Healthy?

They prioritize family, avoid excessive use of alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs, and embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle—living simply, joyfully, and with deep social bonds.

What Foods Do People in Blue Zones Avoid?

They generally avoid processed foods, added sugars, sugary drinks, excessive meat and dairy. Their diet is 95% plant-based.

What Is the Life Expectancy in Costa Rica?

According to the World Bank, the average life expectancy in Costa Rica is around 79.1 years, one of the highest in the region.

How Can You Show Respect in Costa Rica?

Simple gestures like a warm smile, greetings such as “hola” or “buenos días”, and learning basic Spanish go a long way in showing cultural respect.

Why are they called BLUE ZONES?

The term “Blue Zones” originated when researchers began marking regions with unusually high life expectancy on maps using blue ink. These areas, identified through longevity studies, consistently showed significantly higher numbers of centenarians and healthy older adults compared to global averages. The blue circles on the maps came to represent the regions where people were not only living longer—but also enjoying better health well into old age.

Ready to Experience the Nicoya Lifestyle?

Whether you’re looking to retire, relocate, or invest in paradise, Summer Coast Realty is your trusted partner in finding the perfect home in Costa Rica’s Blue Zone.

Let us help you embrace the lifestyle that leads to a longer, healthier, and more joyful life.

AUTHOR

Lindsey Cantillo

C.E.O. of Summer Coast Realty. Flamingo Tamarindo Beach Properties

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