Playa Chino is the first beach/reef you encounter when you enter Puerto Viejo, and is site to many pictures of patrons of Caribeans Coffee and Sunset Mango Bar. The first part of this reef is sheltered, so there are less waves to contend with. On the outside of the reef, I observed and eradicated quite a few 10-12 cm animals. This western end of Playa Chino Reef was home to some of the biggest animals I have encountered yet (22cm).
On the western end of Playa Chino and the Eastern entrance to Salsa Brava, I have noticed a few adults, but most of the animals encountered are around 10cm in length. After passing through Salsa Brava, some of the deepest waters on this reef are found, just in front of Rocking J’s hostel. Quite a few animals have been encountered in this area, with most animals being 10-12cm in length.
The Eastern end of Playa Cocles had some smaller individuals, with a few larger adults hiding under the reef. I didn’t get too much time at this last location, but I have seen at least 5 adults in this area.
Below is a map of the area around Puerto Viejo, and where I have seen populations of Lionfish.
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