Our journey through the New World continues as we explore Central America and the Caribbean—regions of undeniable tourist appeal where cannabis travelers may encounter mixed information about which destinations offer opportunities to enjoy our beloved plant.

Central America

Costa Rica

Costa Rica's best-known expression is "Pura Vida." It means "life is good," "everything is fine," or "enjoy the moment." Locals use it as a greeting, a farewell, a way of saying thank you, or simply to express happiness. It reflects a positive outlook on life.

This philosophy of life, together with the country's strong appeal to adventurous North American tourists, often gives visitors the impression that they have arrived in a paradise where cannabis use is widely tolerated.

While this perception is true to some extent, recreational cannabis remains illegal in Costa Rica, whereas medical cannabis and industrial hemp are fully regulated and permitted.

The current legal status of cannabis in Costa Rica can be summarized as follows:

Recreational Use and Personal Consumption

• Personal use: Personal consumption is not subject to criminal penalties when it takes place in a private setting.

• Possession: Carrying small quantities intended solely for personal use is not considered a criminal offense.

• Public consumption: Smoking cannabis in public or open spaces is strictly prohibited.

• Sale and trafficking: The sale and trafficking of cannabis are serious criminal offenses under Costa Rica's Psychotropic Drugs Law and are punishable by imprisonment.

Medical and Industrial Use

• Legal framework: Regulated under Law No. 10113 (Medical and Therapeutic Cannabis and Industrial Hemp Act).

• THC-based medicines: Available only with a valid medical prescription and must be officially registered with Costa Rica's Ministry of Health.

• Distribution: Approved medical cannabis products are legally available only through authorized pharmacies.

To learn more about cannabis laws and regulations in Costa Rica, click HERE.

Mexico

In Mexico, cannabis use and possession exist in something of a legal gray area. The Supreme Court has decriminalized recreational cannabis use, but Congress has yet to establish a regulated market for its legal sale.

Here's what you should know about the current legal status of cannabis in the country:

What Is Legal

• Medical use: Fully legal under medical prescription and health regulations since 2017.

• Personal possession: Under the General Health Law, individuals may possess up to 5 grams of cannabis for personal use without committing a criminal offense.

• Home cultivation: Permitted only if you obtain an individual permit or court injunction from COFEPRIS.

• Designated consumption areas: Cities such as Mexico City have established specific monitored public spaces where cannabis consumption is permitted, including the Simón Bolívar roundabout.

What Remains Illegal

• Commercial sales: The commercial sale, distribution, and large-scale recreational trade of cannabis remain prohibited.

• THC products: Cannabis products containing THC cannot be freely sold in shops or dispensaries without the appropriate medical authorizations.

• Improper public consumption: Smoking cannabis in undesignated public areas or in the presence of minors may result in administrative penalties or fines.

To learn more about cannabis laws and regulations in Mexico, click HERE.

Caribbean

Jamaica

Rastafarian culture has played a fundamental role in the spiritual significance and popularization of marijuana in Jamaica, giving cannabis a sacred dimension that extends far beyond recreational use.

Reggae music, led by iconic figures such as Bob Marley, spread this message worldwide and helped establish Jamaica's reputation as one of the world's leading cannabis destinations.

Today, Jamaica is a country where marijuana is tolerated and decriminalized to a certain extent, although it is not fully legal.

Visitors can enjoy the island's relaxed atmosphere and cannabis culture, provided they respect local laws and remain within the permitted limits.

In Jamaica, small amounts of cannabis have been decriminalized. Tourists may legally obtain and consume marijuana for medical purposes only. To do so, they must obtain a medical cannabis permit from an authorized dispensary by presenting a medical recommendation or signing a health declaration at the dispensary.

The current regulations include the following key provisions:

• Possession limits: Possession of up to approximately 57 grams (2 ounces) has been decriminalized.

• Medical cannabis: Foreign visitors may obtain a medical cannabis permit allowing them to purchase and possess up to two ounces at a time.

• Public consumption: Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public places and in most indoor spaces, including resort balconies. Consumption is allowed only in specifically designated areas.

• Informal market: Although beach vendors may offer marijuana for sale, purchasing cannabis outside authorized dispensaries remains illegal.

• Travel restrictions: Taking any amount of cannabis out of the country is strictly prohibited and may be treated as drug trafficking.

Conclusion

Based on the situations described in these three countries—popular destinations for cannabis-minded travelers—recreational cannabis is not fully legal, yet there is, to varying degrees, a legal gray area or a certain level of tolerance toward personal use.

By exercising appropriate caution and respecting the local customs and laws of the places we visit, it is generally possible to enjoy cannabis only where doing so is permitted, while avoiding public areas frequented by families and minors.

Ultimately, by strictly complying with local laws, using common sense, minimizing risks, and consuming responsibly, you can enjoy a relaxing vacation in these destinations while staying on the right side of the law.

TO BE CONTINUED →