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What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – September/October 2023

WHALES ARE WHAT’S SHAKING!

The world’s longest mammal migration with humpback whales from both hemispheres coming to our pristine waters to have their young, teach them the art of survival, breaching and feeding and begin the migration to the colder waters of both hemispheres. The Humpbacks are the main attraction and can be found just off the coast of Manuel Antonio and during these two months the whale watching tours are jaw dropping experiences with these majestic giants. Costa Rica has become so well known for “once in a lifetime experiences” and the experience of seeing these mammals up close, marveling when they breach with the dramatic background of Manuel Antonio is unforgettable. The Marina Pez Vela Guest Center has created opportunities for every budget and every style traveler so do NOT miss out on this opportunity to create memories with friends and family and also to support the local tour operators and economy during what are traditionally the most challenging months of the year.

COSTA RICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY, September 15

Come by the Marina as we will have events, typical foods, traditional folk dances and music popping up in and around the month-long celebration of our Independence.

HALLOWEEN, October 31st

What was once an expat holiday, hidden in the bars of the area, has become one of the most enjoyable family evenings and cultural fusion of the entire year. The Marina, with easy and safe trick or treating has become the PLACE to be for Halloween. Seeing both the expat and local families come together with their kids and extended families to celebrate everything that is so special to our community, and this project is one of the highlights of the year. As the dates approach, stay tuned for restaurant specials and details on the schedule and security measures to insure a safe and enjoyable Halloween here at Marina Pez Vela.

TOURNAMENTS ARE COMING

Get ready for the iconic Dorado Derby which is coming soon on November 11th & Dorado Derby Dos on November 18th. These are super-fun tournaments, ideal for families, friends, first time anglers, and anyone just looking to experience a day on the water, the fun of fishing at a great price in a great environment. Inquire now at the Marina Pez Vela Guest Center for your reservation and more details, +506 2774-9006.


What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – August 2023

Whale Season is an eagerly anticipated time of the year that brings excitement and wonder to Marina Pez Vela in Quepos. The arrival of the humpback whales marks a special time for locals and visitors alike. These magnificent creatures, known for their acrobatic displays and haunting songs, travel thousands of miles from their feeding grounds in the Southern Hemisphere to the warmer waters of Costa Rica to breed and give birth. Marina Pez Vela offers an ideal vantage point to witness these majestic marine mammals up close as they frolic, breach, and tail-slap in the ocean.

Whale watching tours are readily available at Marina Pez Vela, allowing visitors to embark on unforgettable journeys to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat, Brisa Elegante or Sunset Sails.

The Marina Pez Vela itself serves as a hub of activity during Whale Season. Its state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant atmosphere create the perfect setting for visitors to relax and soak up the coastal ambiance. The marina boasts a variety of amenities, including restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and a lively promenade, ensuring that there is always something to enjoy after a day of whale watching.


What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – July 2023

Quepolandia Magazine and Marina Pez Vela share a close relationship as they both contribute significantly to the promotion of Quepos, Costa Rica as a tourist destination.

Marina Pez Vela is a world-class marina located in Quepos that attracts sailors, yachters, and boating enthusiasts from all over the world. The marina offers a wide range of services, including boat rentals, fishing charters, and water sports, among others. Additionally, Marina Pez Vela has several restaurants, bars, and shops that offer a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Quepolandia Magazine, on the other hand, is a popular magazine in Quepos that focuses on promoting tourism in the area. The magazine provides a wealth of information on the region’s attractions, activities, and events, making it an essential tool for both tourists and locals.

The close relationship between Quepolandia Magazine and Marina Pez Vela is evident in the magazine’s regular coverage of the marina and its activities. The magazine regularly features articles and advertisements about Marina Pez Vela’s services, events, and attractions. This helps to promote the marina to a wider audience and attract more visitors to the area.

Furthermore, Marina Pez Vela supports Quepolandia Magazine by advertising in the magazine and distributing it to visitors at the marina. This partnership helps to increase the magazine’s reach and promote the region, contributing to the growth of tourism in the area.

For a quarter of a century, this magazine has been a beacon of light, guiding locals and tourists alike to the best of Quepos. It has showcased the area’s beauty, history, and culture, making it a must-read publication for anyone looking to explore this magnificent part of Costa Rica.

Through its commitment to excellence and its unwavering dedication to the community, Quepolandia has become an integral part of the region’s identity. It has been a vital tool for businesses, a source of information for visitors, and a platform for community events.

So, let us raise a glass to Quepolandia, its staff, contributors, advertisers, and readers. Here’s to another 25 years of promoting the wonders of Quepos and all the beauty that it holds. Cheers!


What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – May/June 2023

What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela

WHAT AN AMAZING START TO 2023!  The first months of this year have meant so much to the family at Marina Pez Vela and our local community. Certainly, the highlight of the first trimester of the year has been the overwhelming return of our friends, families, and tourism industry which has surpassed the expectations of even the most optimistic projections. At the Marina, from the record setting RockStar Tournament in January right through to the Marina Pez Vela Open and Offshore World Championships in late April, it has been amazing to see the energy, passion, smiles, and absolute love affair which our new and returning guests are enjoying with our community and facility. While May and June used to signal the end of a high season, they are now a welcomed transition into the refreshing first rains of the year and what promises to be a busy summer travel season.

The Marina continues to celebrate our community and this destination with some great events, celebrations and some incredibly fun tournaments to keep on your schedule.

Summer Solstice Shootout, July 1

The Summer Solstice shootout is a one-of-a-kind tournament that everyone should find a way to participate in if possible. Unlike most tournaments which are focused on either one species (Dorado Derby) or are Billfish-focused, the Summer Solistice Shootout is all about diversity and time. Anglers and teams have all day to try to capture as many species as possible in a day. The event is really a celebration of the diversity of our rich marine environment and an opportunity for big and small boats, along with anglers of all shapes, sizes, and experience levels to enjoy fishing inshore, offshore, trolling, and bottom fishing with up to 20 available qualifying species. Do not miss a chance to participate and create some unforgettable memories in this year’s Summer Solstice Shootout.

We Are MPV

While we will always be sharing news and events in this newsletter, we will also be featuring one of our tenants, charter operations, or departments to being to share with you all a glimpse of all of the people and teams who make this project so amazing. This month we highlight Marsha Bennet and Quepos Tackle Shop.

It is quite simply impossible to think about the Sportfishing industry and history of Quepos without highlighting the fingerprints of Marsha Bennett, owner/heart and soul of the Quepos Tackle shop. Marsha, operated her iconic The Runaway Grill restaurant that has fed so many of our families with love, passion, stories, and laughter. Marsha is a world class angler and has been a part of the growth of the Sportfishing industry here from day one. It is fitting that her Quepos Tackle shop, located right on the waterfront is now equipping our fleet of boats and visiting anglers with everything that need to continue setting record, catching memories, and building the lore of the very industry she helped to put on the map. Whether you are an experienced veteran or preparing for your first trip out on the water, don’t miss the chance to visit Marsha and her team at the Quepos Tackle Shop.


What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – April 2023

What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela

The HEAT IS ON here at Marina Pez Vela in April. More than just a reference to one of the warmest months here in paradise at the end of the traditional dry season, the temps here at MPV are on high as this is another action packed time for us at the Marina. April includes one of the busiest and most sacred holidays here in Costa Rica, Semana Santa, as well as the Marina Pez Vela open and the Offshore World Championships.

Semana Santa, April 2 – April 9

From Palm Sunday, Domingo de Ramos to Easter Sunday, Costa Rica celebrates the iconic Semana Santa. This week sees a huge part of the nations population, concentrated in the Central Valley flocking to the beaches and coastal communities to celebrate. Quepos and the marina is no exception, and this is one of the most exciting and busy weeks of our year. At the marina we’ll be having a special schedule of activities, beginning on Wednesday 5th with the last Movie Night of the season; the on Thursday, Friday and Saturday will be offering live music and traditional folk dance during sunset.

Stay tune to our social media profile on Facebook where we always post the schedule of activities.

Marina Pez Vela Open, April 15

The Marina Pez Vela Open is going to be a one day shoot out. The Tournament is an important warm up event for the Offshore World Championships, which start with their kick off event the next day, but is also a chance for locals or visiting anglers to compete and share in these fun one day events. This years MPV Open brings the best of competitive fishing with the IGFA (International Game Fishing Association) division. Don’t miss out on your chance to be a part of this amazing kick off event!

Offshore World Championships, April 16-April 21

The Super Bowl of sports fishing returns to Costa Rica again this April and will be bringing together the World’s Best Anglers to compete for ths coveted World Championship title. Unlike most tournaments here in Costa Rica and around the world, the OWC requires that teams have won a prequalifying tournament to participate and anglers fish all days on a rotation of Costa Rican flagged vessels. This tournament is an important support for a local charter fleet. There is no better time to come to the Marina and watch the international teams with their daily weigh ins, national flags and team spirit and 4 days of the worlds most competitive fishing. These anglers compete by international rules, don’t have the luxury of their own boats, captains and crews and are on a new boat each day to insure parity and a focus on angler skills. Come out and support all the international teams, but moreover Costa Rica and Marina Pez Vela as the host of this global celebration and competition.


What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – March 2023

WHAT AN INCREDIBLE START TO 2023! The INSANITY of the Rockstar tournament, to the incredible fun of the Rooster Rodeo, an Iconic Pescadora Tournament & the Super Bowl, have brought more energy and life to MPV than we have ever seen before and the year is JUST GETTING STARTED. March is keeping the pedal to the metal in terms of fun, activities and some more action-packed tournaments.

SAILFISH SLAM, March 4th

This one-day sailfish shootout is bringing both the new comers and the world best anglers together in some amazing fun formats that people just can’t get enough of. The event provides a team award to the boat which gets the most RELEASE points, which are awarded for each sailfish caught, and released in the event. It is a GREAT way for friends, family, coworkers or even random groups of individuals to come together to enjoy some amazing fishing and fight for the top boat. There are also awards for the Top Junior Angler, (16 years and under), Top Female Angler (some of the best in the world are from or frequent this area) and First Time Angler Award. This last prize is in recognition of just how many first-time fishermen and women we have joined in these events, and prizes go to the most releases by a first timer. Get your team, sign up and don’t miss this epic shootout.

MOVIE NIGHTS

This is the last month of our free movie nights under the stars. What began as a fun way to kick off the weekend has become part of our community culture here at Marina Pez Vela during the dry season. Whether you are here on vacation or a local looking for a unique way to spend the evening with a selection of dining options and a classic under the stars, this is a great option. Every Wednesday night at 6:30pm, you can pull up a seat, toss down a pad or lay out on the “lawn” and enjoy a free movie on Costa Rica’s largest outdoor screen. You can check out the Marina Pez Vela Facebook page to vote each week for your favorite movie! The one with most votes gets the screen time.


What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – February 2023

AMOR, GALLOS, SUPERBOWL, PESCADORAS y PELICULAS…….That is right, 2023 is here and after an epic January here at MPV, we are extremely excited to share with you an action-packed schedule for February 2023.

ROOSTER RODEO – February 4

February starts with a huge bang with our annual ROOSTER RODEO Tournament. This one-day shootout targeting one of the most amazing species in our inshore waters—the Rooster Fish or Pez Gallo—is an event not to be missed. This is a catch and release tournament which is an incredibly fun event for anglers of any skill level and is one of the only tournaments here in Costa Rica which focuses on and celebrates the amazing inshore coastal fishery that we are blessed with in the area. There are prizes for the most release points and largest rooster fish, but more than anything this is another inexpensive and fun one day tournament which brings together friends, family, coworkers, and some of the top inshore fishermen and women in the area for a great time! There is still space so reserve your charter boat and join the RODEO! marinapezvela.com/events/rooster-rodeo-2023/ Read More…


What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – January 2023

A new year is upon us, full of new beginnings, new hope, new opportunities and an undeniable sense of energy, optimism, and Pura Vida in every breath of air! The last month of 2022 truly set a tone for what is to come and after an amazing holiday season here at Marina Pez Vela, highlighted by the Iluminous nightly show and some amazing holiday celebrations, we are ready to celebrate all that 2023 has to offer. While for many places, after the Christmas and New Year holidays there is a bit of a lull, at MPV we move into the biggest events of the year to keep that energy and action moving with a super fun slate of news and events.

MOVIE NIGHTS ARE BACK!

Every Wednesday night at 6:30pm the Marina welcomes back our community and visiting tourists to enjoy a free movie night under the stars. This is a great weekly tradition that brings together our local community and visitors to share in some magical sunsets and a weekly feature on Costa Rica’s largest projected outdoor screen. You can check out our social media profile on Facebook and Instagram for the weekly feature films. This is a great way to break up the week, enjoy a sunset and some food specials at any of our amazing restaurants, and spend an evening with family and friends, chilling under the stars at MPV.

PELAGIC ROCKSTAR, January 12-15

The biggest, baddest, largest jackpot tournament in all of Costa Rica is BACK. The 2023 Rockstar is going to be the event EVERYONE will be talking about for the rest of the year. There are already a record number of boats and anglers signed up for this event at the time of publication and it promises to be the single largest tournament in the history of Costa Rica, both with number of participating teams and with the largest payout in history here.  If you are reading this before the 12th, get a team together and join the fun at MPV. If not, the daily weigh ins and energy around this event is something you will not want to miss!

ROOSTERFISH RODEO, February 4

While this event is not until February, we wanted to include here to encourage anyone interested to swing by or call the Marina Pez Vela Guest Center and get signed up. This one-day tournament focused on Roosterfish, one of the iconic inshore fish which is helping to make the local fishery famous all over the world. This catch and release tournament focused on conservation tagging Roosters for research and seeing which of our teams can land the largest Rooster of the day.  A super fun tournament for anglers of all skill levels and the inshore nature also makes it a great way for those who might be a bit nervous about heading offshore to experience a tournament all right off the coastline. Whether you are busy fighting this beautiful and fun species, or just marveling at the coast with a cold beer in hand, a day in the Rooster Rodeo is a day to remember!


Marina Pez Vela – Mariana Grillo’s Christmas Concert Update

We’re sorry for any inconvenience but due to the Costa Rica FIFA game today Mariana Grillo’s Christmas Concert has been moved to Sunday December 3. Please join us and enjoy!


What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – December 2022

Everything is ready in Marina Pez Vela to start the Holiday Season, one of the most anticipated periods for many throughout the year. It is precisely this illusion and joy that led Marina Pez Vela to organize different activities to enjoy the festivities. We proudly want to invite you to our light show Iluminous: A Christmas Experience at the Marina, a daily show feature at 7pm, until January 8th. The entrance is free, and the show is around 25 minutes long.
 
Also, on Friday, December 2nd we´ll have a presentation of Folkloric Dance at the amphitheater. Later, on Saturday 3rd, there will be a Christmas concert by the singer Mariana Grillo, starting at 5 pm, while on Sunday 4th prepare your cheers and your patience, because the Triathlon is coming back stronger than ever to Quepos.
 
The week of Monday 19th to Friday 23rd we´ll be hosting a Christmas Cultural Week, so that visitors can enjoy folklore activities and musical band presentations.
 
Finally, Marina Pez Vela will say goodbye to the holidays with the Iluminous Closing Concert, which will be in the charge of the instrumental group Ignis. This presentation will be on Friday, January 6th at 5pm in the amphitheater.
 
Hope to see you all at the marina! We want to thank you for your support throughout this year and wish you happy holidays!


What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – November 2022

The arrival of the month of November brings with it two of the most anticipated activities of the year: the Dorado Derby Fishing Tournament and the Thanksgiving celebration, which guarantees fun for people of all ages, the only requirement is want to have a good time and enjoy the adventure to the fullest.

In the case of the fishing tournament, it will take place on two dates: November 12 and 19. Those who are interested in participating must formalize their registration through marinapezvela.com or by emailing [email protected].

If you have questions or queries, you can contact the tournament’s team at +506 2774-9006. In its fifth edition, the sporting event will bring together people from the United States, Costa Rica and all of Central America on our beautiful Quepos coast.

Another activity that also awaits you is the Thanksgiving celebration, which will take place on November 24. As part of this celebration, the different restaurants that are located in our commercial plaza will have a special menu and activities for the day.


What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – September/October 2022

The whales have arrived to Quepos.

With the arrival of August, the whale watching season officially begins in our country. This is how the coast of Quepos becomes the ideal setting for tourists to enjoy this impressive and wonderful spectacle of nature.

The visiting season for these marine mammals, which ends in the month of October, is even more pleasant to enjoy thanks to the packages designed by Marina Pez Vela, which adjust to all budgets, tastes and tourists needs.

Because it is one of the most sought-after shows by tourists during these dates, it is very important to reserve the tour by calling 2774-9006 and 2774-9010. Consider that the prices of the different tours are valid for nationals and residents until October 16 and include taxes. In addition, there is also the option of packages with lodging. For more information go to marinapezvela.com.


What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – August 2022

Anyone who has spent time in Manuel Antonio area during the months of August-October can attest to the fact that they are months usually dedicated to recharging batteries, renovating spaces, and enjoying a bit of well deserved down time after all the intense high season and busy summer travel dates.

With the incredibly unique whale migration, Marina Pez Vela officially kicks off the whale watching season in August with daily tours leaving the Marina to witness these amazing creatures in the waters just outside the MPV. If you have not been out on the waters, do NOT miss this opportunity as it is simply magical.

For tour information contact IFishQuepos.com.

The authentic taste of Mexican food has come to Marina Pez Vela

Lovers of Mexican food now have a new option at Marina Pez Vela. Agave Restaurant, a gastronomic concept that combines original dishes with a special touch of flavors, colors and a varied offer for all tastes.

Among the menu are tacos al pastor, fajitas, enchiladas, guacamole, tortilla soup, nachos, cochinita pibil, fish, shrimp cocktail, and others.

Mexican cuisine is recognized and acclaimed worldwide for its wide variety of aromas, textures and ingredients, including spices and other endemic products that bring richness and a unique flavor to each dish.

Agave’s hours of operation are Tuesday to Saturday from 12 a.d. to 10 p.m and Sunday from 3pm to 9pm. For reservations call 8919-1700.


What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – May/June 2022

What's Shaking headerWHAT AN AMAZING START TO 2022!  The first months of this year have meant so much to the family at Marina Pez Vela and our local community. Certainly, the highlight of the first trimester of the year has been the overwhelming return of our friends, families, and tourism industry which has surpassed the expectations of even the most optimistic projections. At the Marina, from the record setting RockStar Tournament in January right through to the Marina Pez Vela Open and Offshore World Championships in late April, it has been amazing to see the energy, passion, smiles, and absolute love affair which our new and returning guests are enjoying with our community and facility. While May and June used to signal the end of a high season, they are now a welcomed transition into the refreshing first rains of the year and what promises to be a busy summer travel season.

The Marina continues to celebrate our community and this destination with some great events, celebrations and some incredibly fun tournaments to keep on your schedule for May and June.

Summer Solstice Shootout, June 18

Last year we inaugurated this tournament on the longest day of the year in terms of daylight here in Costa Rica. The Summer Solstice shootout is a one-of-a-kind tournament that everyone should find a way to participate in if possible. Unlike most tournaments which are focused on either one species (Dorado Derby) or are Billfish-focused, the Summer Solistice Shootout is all about diversity and time. Anglers and teams have all day to try to capture as many species as possible in a day. The event is really a celebration of the diversity of our rich marine environment and an opportunity for big and small boats, along with anglers of all shapes, sizes, and experience levels to enjoy fishing inshore, offshore, trolling, and bottom fishing with up to 20 available qualifying species. Do not miss a chance to participate and create some unforgettable memories in this year’s Summer Solstice Shootout.

We Are MPV

While we will always be sharing news and events in this newsletter, we will also be featuring one of our tenants, charter operations, or departments to being to share with you all a glimpse of all of the people and teams who make this project so amazing. This month we highlight Marsha Bennet and Quepos Tackle Shop.  

It is quite simply impossible to think about the Sportfishing industry and history of Quepos without highlighting the fingerprints of Marsha Bennett, owner/heart and soul of the Quepos Tackle shop. Marsha, operated her iconic The Runaway Grill restaurant that has fed so many of our families with love, passion, stories, and laughter. Marsha is a world class angler and has been a part of the growth of the Sportfishing industry here from day one. It is fitting that her Quepos Tackle shop, located right on the waterfront is now equipping our fleet of boats and visiting anglers with everything that need to continue setting record, catching memories, and building the lore of the very industry she helped to put on the map. Whether you are an experienced veteran or preparing for your first trip out on the water, don’t miss the chance to visit Marsha and her team at the Quepos Tackle Shop.


What’s Shaking @ Marina Pez Vela – April 2022

What's Shaking headerThe HEAT IS ON here at Marina Pez Vela in April. More than just a reference to one of the warmest months here in paradise at the end of the traditional dry season, the temps here at MPV are on high as this is another action-packed time for us at the Marina. April includes one of the busiest and most sacred holidays here in Costa Rica, Semana Santa, as well as the Marina Pez Vela open and the Offshore World Championships.
 

Semana Santa

Sunday, April 10th – Sunday, April 17

From Palm Sunday, Domingo de Ramos to Easter Sunday, Costa Rica celebrates the iconic Semana Santa. This week sees a huge part of the nation’s population, normally concentrated in the Central Valley, flocking to the beaches and coastal communities to celebrate. Quepos and the marina is no exception and this is one of the most exciting and busy weeks of our year. While at the time of printing our specific Semana Santa schedule has yet to be confirmed as we continue to monitor Pandemic protocols for events, stay tuned to the Marina Pez Vela Website and social media for final events, movie nights and cultural activities at MPV.  
 

Marina Pez Vela Open

April 23

The Marina Pez Vela Open is going to be a one day shoot out with an entirely new format this year. The Tournament is an important warm up event for the Offshore World Championships, which start with their kickoff event the next day, but is also a chance for locals or visiting anglers to compete and share in these fun one-day events. This year’s MPV Open brings the best of competitive fishing and fun fishing together with two entry divisions, including one for IGFA (International Game Fishing Association) rules which require that each angler hook and release their own billfish, and another division for a relaxed meat fish division which allows for hook and pass angling for those with a bit less experience. Don’t miss out on your chance to be a part of this amazing kickoff event!  
 

Offshore World Championships

April 24-April 29

The Super Bowl of sports fishing returns to Costa Rica again this April and will be bringing together the World’s Best Anglers to compete for this coveted World Championship title. Unlike most tournaments here in Costa Rica and around the world, the OWC requires that teams have won a prequalifying tournament to participate and anglers fish all days on a rotation of Costa Rican flagged vessels. This tournament is an important support for a local charter fleet who felt the direct impacts of Covid drops in tourism, brings a global spotlight on the nation’s world class Sportfishing waters, our conservation efforts and hospitality. There is no better time to come to the Marina and watch the international teams with their daily weigh ins, national flags and team spirit and 4 days of the world’s most competitive fishing. These anglers compete by international rules, don’t have the luxury of their own boats, captains and crews, and are on a new boat each day to insure parity and a focus on angler skills. Come out and support all the international teams, but moreover Costa Rica and Marina Pez Vela as the host of this global celebration and competition.