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Best tours in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 05.04.2023

Bordered on the north by  Nicaragua , edged by the Cordillera de Guanacaste mountains to the east, with the Pacific to the west, Guanacaste delivers some of Costa Rica’s most stunning landscapes. Arguably best known for its beaches, Guanacaste is also a paradise for hikers and wildlife-watchers, with exceptional national parks and natural attractions lying within the province. Ready? These are the best tours in Guanacaste.

12 best Guanacaste tours

• #1 Surf, party and see turtles in Tamarindo

#2 Relax and watch wildlife rafting Rîo Corobici

#3 explore arenal volcano.

• #4 See secret waterfalls in Rincón de la Vieja
• #5 Surf and see turtles in Santa Rosa National Park

#6 Ramble along Rio Celeste near Tenorio volcano

#7 tour heliconias rain forest and hanging bridges.

• #8 Be wowed by birds in Palo Verde National Park

#9 Discover underground caves

• #10 Visit Diamante Eco Adventure Park

#11 Take a trip to Nicaragua

• #12 Be thrilled by a Buena Vista Mega Combo Tour

Travel ideas for Costa Rica, created by local experts

12 days  / from 2980 USD

Costa Rica: Coast to Coast

From paradise beaches, scenic narrow waterways and magical rainforests, Costa Rica has much to offer. Head east and discover the tranquil Caribbean Sea, head west for the tumultuous Pacific Ocean and surfer’s paradise.

10 days  / from 1825 USD

Discover Northern Costa Rica

This self drive itinerary allows you to explore the Central and Northern highlights of Costa Rica: from the active volcano Arenal to the cloud forest of Monteverde and the beaches of Guanacaste with plenty of surf & yoga - discover why they call it the land of Pura Vida - pure life!

10 days  / from 1440 USD

A self drive Caribbean adventure

It's time to discover Costa Rica's Caribbean coast in your own rental car: From Boca Pacuare, where the turtles come to lay their eggs, to the unique culture of Cahuita and the beaches of Puerto Viejo! Your trip will finish in Turrialba, home of the main archaeological monument in our country.

It’s true to say that Guanacaste province has undergone big changes in recent years. The airport has been expanded, and a huge number of hotels continue to pop up along the Pacific coast. 

That said,  Liberia , the region’s main hub, remains one of the most charming cities in Costa Rica. In addition, there are plenty of places to get off the beaten track to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences. 

From catching epic waves on world-class surf beaches , to hiking and wildlife-watching in awe-inspiring national parks, it’s fair to say that tours in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, are nothing but diverse. If that wasn’t enough, you can also explore Arenal volcano from Guanacaste, and visit Nicaragua .

To help plan your trip, read on to find out about the best (day) tours in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

For more pre-trip intel and inspiration, read our full guide to Guanacaste , and talk to our local experts to kick-start your Costa Rican adventure.

Tamarindo beach and town, Guanacaste, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

#1 Surf, party and see turtles in Tamarindo 

Once a sleepy fishing village, these days Playa Tamarindo delivers a lively beach culture, and even livelier nightlife.

But fear not if you also fancy some R&R. This stretch of coast is known for its stunning scenery. The sight of the sun slipping into the Pacific beyond the headland at the southern end of the beach is undeniably soul stirring.

Tamarindo is also a beauty spot beloved by beginner surfers, with reliable, relatively gentle waves breaking on Playa Tamarindo itself, along with neighbouring Playa Grande and Playa Langosta. 

If that wasn’t enough reason to visit, between November and mid-February leatherback turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in Marino Las Baulas National Park.

Located on the Río Mata estuary between Conchal and Tamarindo, this is one of the few remaining nesting sites of its kind in the world.  

Intrigued? Get the lowdown on Tamarindo in our guide .   

Travel tip: if you love beaches and plan to spend longer in Costa Rica, read up on the best beaches in Costa Rica .

Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica — one of the best Guanacaste tours for surfers and sunset-lovers © Shutterstock

Five kilometres west of Cañas, the long-established  Safaris Corobicí  (t2669 6191) specialises in gentle floating trips on the Río Corobicí.  

While these usually last from two hours, half-day trips are also available, with snacks included.  

Knowledgeable guides row while you observe the local mammals and reptiles, including howler and spider monkeys, surprisingly large crocodiles, iguanas and caimans.  

The trip also provides a prime opportunity for birdwatching, as several species — including motmots, cuckoos, falcons, ospreys, herons and the endangered jabiru stork — can be spotted along the river.

Keep your eyes peeled for spider monkeys while rafting Rîo Corobici © Kit Korzun/Shutterstock

Located in Arenal Volcano National Park, 14km west of  La Fortuna,   Arenal volcano is one of Costa Rica’s top natural attractions, with its majestic conical peak looming large over the region. 

As such, taking a trip to Arenal volcano is one of the most rewarding tours to enjoy from Guanacaste, with a huge range of activities available.

On land, there's a host of hiking trails for all abilities , with expansive Arenal Lake offering fishing, kayaking and windsurfing trips. Or how about ziplining through the jungle, or going canyoning?

In addition, the area around Arenal volcano is a hotbed of stunning hot springs — take your pick from glitzy spa experiences in sublime tropical surroundings, and secret hot spots beloved by locals.

Taking of sublime surroundings, Arenal’s La Fortuna waterfall is a must-visit — it’s clear to see why it features in our run-down of the  best waterfalls in Costa Rica .

Interested in visiting Arenal from Guanacaste? Read up on Arenal volcano and discover the best Arenal volcano tours .

Awe-inspiring Arenal volcano, Costa Rica © Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock

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#4 See secret waterfalls in Rincón de la Vieja

Nature lovers visiting Guanacaste will want to push  Rincón de la Vieja National Park  to the top of their trip plans.

Sitting pretty 25km northeast of Liberia, the park’s varied landscapes and elevations delivers big on several fronts. 

First up, there’s the volcano the park is named after. With a perfectly proportioned conical peak, this is one of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes, as testified by the sulphur pools, bubbling mud pots and hot springs you’ll find in the park. 

Several trails run from the ranger station, with the westwards route to the  cataratas escondidas  (hidden waterfalls) coming especially recommended.  

With over 200 resident species — among them the three-wattled bellbird, the Montezuma oropendola, the trogon, and the spectacled owl — Rincón de la Vieja National Park is seventh heaven for bird-watchers.  

In addition to birds, keep an eye out for tapir, red deer, collared peccary, the two-toed sloth, and howler, white-faced and spider monkeys. Be sure to set off early and allow a full day to see as much as possible.

You’ll also want to set off early if you’re planning to hike to the summit of Rincón de la Vieja volcano. The trailhead is accessed via the Las Pailas entrance, with a marked route traversing lower montane rainforest that's lushly covered with epiphytes and mosses.  

At the summit (7.7 km away), Rincón de la Vieja presents a barren lunar landscape. There’s a smoking hole surrounded by black ash, with a pretty freshwater lake, Lago los Jilgueros, to the south. 

Secret waterfalls await in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Guanacaste, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

#5 Surf and see turtles in Santa Rosa National Park 

With top trails and turtle-spotting opportunities, and excellent surfing, it’s little wonder that Santa Rosa National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most visited national parks. It’s also the country’s oldest. 

Home to home to 115 species of mammal, 250 species of bird, 100 amphibian and reptile species, and 3800 species of moth, Santa Rosa showcases Costa Rica’s biodiversity in staggering style. 

Visit between July and November to witness hundreds of olive ridley turtles nesting on Playa Nancite. Though too rough for swimming, the picturesque beaches of Naranjo and Nancite are popular with serious surfers.   

Note that many of Santa Rosa’s trails are intended for scientific researchers rather than tourists, so they’re not well signed. As a result, it’s a good idea to hire a guide. 

If you walk only one trail in park, make it the very short (1km) and undemanding  sendero natural, which provides an introduction to the unique features of the tropical dry forest. 

This curves around from the road just before La Casona — a formidable wooden and red-tiled homestead that’s one of Costa Rica’s most famous historic sites. Top tip: at one side of La Casona, a stair path leads to a viewpoint offering a magnificent perspective of the twin volcanoes of Rincón de la Vieja National Park.

Along the trail, look out for monster iguanas hiding on branches, and for the ubiquitous bats.

Santa Rosa National Park, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is known for its turtles © Shutterstock

Designated a national park in 1995, Tenorio (1916m) is an active volcano, and the area is incredibly geothermically active. 

For example, within Tenorio Volcano National Park  you may well encounter mud pots and fumaroles — little columns of hot vapour escaping from the ground. 

Beginning at the park’s ranger station at the park entrance, a 6km trail takes you into the forest, where it eventually splits into a few well-marked loops. Just be aware that one false move could see you stepping into superheated volcanic soil — don’t step off the path.

The main trail is a steady climb that opens up to a spectacular view of Volcán Miravalles before leading to the striking waterfall of Río Celeste, where you can take a refreshing dip. 

The highlights of the park, though, are a stunningly bright blue lagoon, the Laguna Azul, and similarly coloured sections of the river that flow alongside the trail.

Though most people come to the park to glimpse the surreal turquoise waters of the Río Celeste, wildlife also thrives within the park’s borders. You may well see tapirs, agoutis, armadillos, long-tailed manakins and howler monkeys.  

The Rough Guides to Costa Rica and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel tip : read up on the best hikes in Costa Rica — Rio Celeste is among them.

Rambling Rio Celeste is one of the best excursions in Guanacaste, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

If you love the tropical rainforest in all its lush, biodiverse beauty, you’ll want to devote a whole day to  Heliconia’s Rain Forest and Hanging Bridges.  

Merging with Tenorio Volcano National Park, this privately-owned forest with a boutique lodge boasts over 70 hectares of pristine forest.  

Non-guests are very welcome to walk the 2.5 km wooded trail for a modest fee — expect to see a flurry of dancing butterflies, monkeys, tapirs and sloths along the way.

The walk also presents an impressive array of flora, with bromeliads and orchids dazzling at every turn.  

The highlight here is a series of suspension bridges that extend through the forest canopy. There are four bridges in total, three of them 30-metres high and 95-metres long.  

The forest’s centrepiece is the fourth bridge — over 100 metres long and a heady 40 metres above ground.

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the rainforest, with epic views awaiting those with a head for heights.  

Expect to see sloths on your tour of Heliconias Rain Forest and Hanging bridges © Harry Collins Photography/Shutterstock

#8 Be wowed by birds in Palo Verde National Park  

Created to preserve the habitat of migratory birds, Palo Verde National Park is a must-visit for avian aficionados.

Located on the northern bank of the Río Tempisque, it’s home to one of the largest concentrations of waterfowl in the whole of Central America, which is really saying something. 

Among the 300+ species of bird regularly seen here, you’ll find the endangered jabiru stork and the black-crowned night heron. Away from the riverbank, it’s likely you’ll see toucans and increasingly rare scarlet macaws.   

To maximise your experience, visit during the height of the dry season — between January and March — when most of the 250 or so migratory species are in residence. Come evening, birds, monkeys, coatis and deer gather around the precious waterholes.  

Alongside there being fewer birds during the wet season, it’s worth noting that parts of Palo Verde National Park are inaccessible during the wet season. This is because flooding creates saltwater and freshwater lakes and swamps.  

Time it right, though, and birders will be rewarded with an unforgettable excursion of a lifetime.

Travel tip: read our guide to the  best national parks in Costa Rica .

Scarlet macaws, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Unveiling an eerie underground world of stalagmites and stalactites in a network of around forty interconnected caves, Barra Honda National Park is a Guanacaste tours you won’t forget in a hurry.  

While this trip isn’t for claustrophobes or acrophobes (some of the caves are over 200m deep), those with a sense of adventure will find the experience utterly exhilarating.

After being kitted out with a rope harness and a helmet, a guide will lead you into the otherworldly subterranean world. At times the formations resemble a crumbling cathedral complex. 

While most people visit the enormous stalagmites and stalactites in Terciopelo cave, those interested in culture should ask about exploring Nicoa. The remains of pre-Columbian people were recently found here, along with burial ornaments that are thought to be over two thousand years old.   

Love wildlife? Ask about taking a guided bat tour. These usually leave the ranger station at 4pm, returning by 8pm after you’ve witnessed thousands of bats leaving the Pozo Hediondo cave. It’s another experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

Barra Honda cave, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

#10 Visit Diamante Eco Adventure Park 

With an attractive oceanfront location, and one of Costa Rica's top wildlife education centres,  Diamante Eco Adventure Park comes highly recommended for all ages. 

Most folk are drawn here by the reputation of the park’s ziplines. These include the 30-foot free fall Quick Jump, and the ocean-view Superman experience. Running for almost a mile, this is Costa Rica’s longest dual-zipline.

Then there’s the hanging bridge to walk — watch out for crocodiles below while keeping your eyes peeled for parrots and toucans in the forest canopy. 

Meanwhile, Diamante’s Animal Sanctuary offers up-close viewing opportunities, with biologists on hand to answer any questions. The sanctuary’s residents include sloths, monkeys, jaguars and pumas, plus plenty of birds, frogs, and reptiles.  

There’s also a butterfly observatory, a glorious botanical garden, and a hands-on coffee, chocolate and sugar cane cultural experience in the park’s replica of a traditional house.

When you’re done on land (ATV tours and horse-riding are also available), head to Hammock Beach to kayak or paddle-board.

Visit Diamante Eco Adventure Park for some of the best zipline experiences in Costa Rica © Shutterstock

If you're looking to maximise your experience of Central America, visiting Nicaragua  is a top tour to take from Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

You can cover a surprising array of experiences in a single day. Better still, consider booking a weekend break to explore  Lake Nicaragua  and its largest island —  Isla de Ometepe . 

Blessed with lush scenery, the island’s name comes courtesy of Nicaragua’s original inhabitants, the Chorotegans, who named it after its twin volcanoes — Ome Tepetl, meaning “the place of two hills”. 

Alongside viewing the volcano, with trails leading to craters and waterfalls, Isla de Ometepe has much to offer travellers who are interested in indigenous culture.

For example, guides at Finca Magdalena (an agricultural cooperative and lodge) lead tours to view some of the island's petroglyphs. They also offer volcano hikes, and trips to the cloud forest and volcano lagoon.

For a very different experience, you could take a trip to San Juan Del Sur  in Nicaragua. Only thirty minutes from the border crossing at Penas Blancas, it's known for its crescent-shaped beach and excellent surf breaks. 

No longer the sleepy fishing village it was some ten years ago, San Juan del Sur has a reputation for being something of a party town. That said, its vibe remains laidback, with candy-coloured buildings hosting small hostels and hotels, microbreweries and bars.

Want to explore more of the region? Read up on the best things to do in Nicaragua , and find inspiration in the Insight Guide to Central America .

Concepcion volcano, Ometepe island, Nicaragua © Shutterstock

#12 Be thrilled by a Buena Vista Mega Combo Tour 

If you fancy experiencing a stack of Guanacaste’s glorious adventure experiences on one gratifying tour, it doesn’t get better than booking a  Buena Vista Mega Combo Tour . 

As its name suggests, this trip combines a range of activities to form one big experience in the grounds of Buena Vista Lodge.

Located near Rincon de la Vieja volcano, this beautiful site offers everything from ziplining and hanging bridge walks, to horse-riding and hiking. Then there’s the epic jungle slide that zooms you down through the rainforest.

It goes without saying that you can expect to see a lot of wildlife here, too (this is Costa Rica, after all). And, as a result of its location near Rincon de la Vieja volcano, Buena Vista is blessed with a bounty of mineral-rich mud baths and hot springs — perfect for chilling out in after all that hiking, riding, zipping and zooming.

Take a Buena Vista Mega Combo Tour to enjoy adventure activities in wildlife-rich surroundings © Shutterstock

For more inspiration, read up on the  best things to do in Costa Rica , and get yourself a copy of  The Rough Guide to Costa Rica . Our  Costa Rica travel tips  will also help you plan your trip.

Not keen on planning? You'll love our  customisable Costa Rica itineraries . Talk to our Costa Rica experts to take the first steps to enjoying an unforgettable trip.

Travel tip: want to make the most of your time in Costa Rica? Our epic Coast to Coast trip takes in a host of top attractions and activities, including Tortuguero National Park , Arenal volcano , and Tamarindo , Guanacaste.

Header image: Nicoya, Guanacaste, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Costa Rican Tours

Your one-stop shop of the guanacaste region.

THINGS TO DO IN COSTA RICA

ConchalFun is your gateway to Costa Rican Tours of the Guanacaste Region .  We have Costa Rican Tours that are beyond compare and will take you to the hidden gems of the Guanacaste Region!

Are you wondering how to get the most out of your visit to the Guanacaste area of Costa Rica?  Wanting to make sure you spend your days sinking into the culture and experiencing the raw beauty that makes Costa Rica one of the most popular destinations in the World?

ConchalFun is here to help you explore the myriad of things to do in Costa Rica.  We call Playa Conchal our homebase and we share our local guides’ expertise and knowledge of the area as we take you to the secret places only insiders know exist.  We have a tour for everyone from children to adults and focus on meeting your needs–be it a family affair, a large group of friends/work mates, or a romantic destination for two .  We love making your trip a special memory that you and your friends and family will always cherish  (just check out our Trip Advisor and Google reviews!).

Because we love what we do it is our pleasure to take you out to explore amazing destinations whether it is on an ATV Tour of one of our amazing beaches or a Private Sailboat Charter .   Our goal is to make sure your trip is tailored to your needs.  Our adventure tours of Costa Rica are filled with limitless possibilities.  We can take you on a hike (1 mile or 4.5 mile options) of the Rio Celeste River, waterfalls, and even catch a little time to visit the Sloth Sanctuary.

For those of you that love the rich history of Central America, you can also experience the Colonial charm of Nicaragua on our Nicaraguan Colonial Tour .  During this full day’s adventure will not only get you a second stamp on your passport, but it will transport you to another world and teach you the folklore and craftsmanship of our neighboring Nation.  You’ll also get to view/visit three amazing volcanoes.

If you can’t get enough of our azure blue waters, you can certainly join us for a Private Sailboat Tour   and enjoy your day with food (did we mention our amazing fish tacos and wide array of beverages), snorkeling, fishing, and soaking in the sun in solitude.

We also understand that a large group may have many competing demands that make it hard to choose just one tour/activity and we offer our Mega Fun Tour , which fits as much fun into one day as possible as you zip line above the forest, explore hanging bridges, enjoy the mud spas, and take in the view of Rincon de la Viejas.

Our many Costa Rican Tours offer you unique, tailored adventures of a lifetime.  We hope you’ll take a moment and explore your options.  We are here to help you have the vacation of a lifetime!

Safe Travels, Andrei and the ConchalFun Team

Rio Celeste Hiking

Catamaran Sunset Cruise

Mega Fun Combo

Jet Ski Guided Tours

Sport Fishing

Yellowfin Tours

• Surf School
• Transportation

We offer amazing nature tours focusing on real eco tourism activities. Our trips include half day and full day tours to National Parks like Rincon de la Vieja, Palo Verde, Santa Rosa and many more. Visit volcanoes, tropical forests, beaches, wetlands and other highlights in Guanacaste.

Our adventure trips include canopy tours ( zip lines ), canyoning or canyoneering, white water rafting in wild rivers, hiking tours and boat tours in one of the many rivers. Enjoy unparalleled adventures and fantastic nature destinations.

Enjoy the fantastic beaches that Guanacaste offers. Go snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing along the colorful and incredible coastline of Guanacaste. We offer amazing and unique private tours to secluded and pristine beaches.

We also offer first class transportation. Our fleet of modern and well equipped minivans will take you anywhere you want to go. Discover the amazing province of Guanacaste, home of steaming volcanoes, hot water springs, incredible beaches, horseback riding and more.

We are Yellowfin Tours , your Guanacaste Tour Company.

Your full service company for nature tours, adventure experiences, family trips and wildlife trips. We are located in Flamingo, a beautiful beach community and center for all the best nature and adventure tours being offered in Guanacaste.

Best Selling Tours

Our clients love our catamaran sailing trips. We offer either morning departures and also afternoon/evening sunset tours.

Combo Tours

Our combo tours will take you to the vast Rincon de la Vieja National Park and its mighty volcano. Hot springs, canopy, canyoning and more.

Kayaking is one of the most eco friendly activities we offer. Silently explore the dense tropical mangrove forests and the blue ocean.

Snorkeling is a must in Guanacaste. The abrupt coast and rugged rocky pinnacles created a perfect habitat for fish and marine wildlife.

Testimonials

"I cannot say enough wonderful things about this company. Honestly, Dervin (the owner of the company) and his group of drivers and tour guides were the best part about our trip to Costa Rica. They were very knowledgeable about the area, and very professional, but also super friendly and fun. They all went out of their way to make sure that we were taken care of , safe, and that we were happy with our experiences. I will absolutely use Yellowfin every time I visit Costa Rica. Thank you !!" Andi Reden

"My family of four, along with my sister and her family and our parents stayed at the Villa Corazon del Mar this summer for a week. We were greeted at the airport by Greavam. He and Pepe brought all twelve of us to eat and to the grocery store prior to getting to the villa. Each day Greavam or Dervin was with us or organizing our activities. Some things that we did include horseback riding, Lazy Lizard catamaran and snorkeling, jet ski rentals, watching sea turtles lay eggs in Playa Ostional, and the canopy tours/ mud bath/ and hot springs in Rincon de la Vieja. We even ate supper with Drevin, his wife, Anna, and children (Daniel, Allen, and Catalina) and Greavam on our way back from watching the Ridley sea turtles laying eggs....which only happens four days twice a year. This shows that the reviews are "spot on" when it reads that these guys treat you like family. Both men taught all of my family things that we will always remember. We were all truly impressed with Yellowfin Sporting Charters services, but more importantly with the hospitality that these wonderful people have shared with us!!!" Nicole

"I had an amazing trip to Costa Rica and owe a big thank you to Dervin for the experience! Dervin was very accommodating of our large group and very knowledgable about the country. He answered all our questions and was very informative! He took us to local hang outs off the beaten track so we could experience the real Costa Rica! He took us out on a catamaran and even brought us fresh shrimp because we had request it. He takes the time to get to know his clients and customizes trips for you! I can't say enough good things about Dervin and Yellowfin Sportfishing! Choose Dervin next time you are in Costa Rica, You will not be disappointed!" Samantha

"Thanks to my dad and friends, I've been dealing with Mr. Dervin ever since I went to Costa Rica for the first time! I'm 18 and have known him for about 7 years and nothing I could say about him could match up to how truly amazing he really is! Such a genuine guy, and the service he provides is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. You're basically royalty with Mr. Dervin! He's very adventurous and any activity we encounter he takes care of us always. He recently set up a very important project for my school in Maryland and I've had nothing but outrageous results. Mr. Dervin's the man to go to; I wouldn't chose another tour guide or staff for anything else! I just got back from vacation, (with Dervin tagging along thank goodness), and another amazing vacation came out of it! Mr. Dervin is your go to man! You won't regret it!" Kattie

Home » Best Costa Rica Tours » Guanacaste Tours

Horseback Riding at Hacienda El Roble

Hacienda El Roble has been raising their own horses to work the farm for over 100 years. They are strong, gentle-natured, well cared for, and eager to show their playful side. This 2 hour ride through the farm includes the Rio Cañas River which is perfect for nature lovers. The river is surrounded by a […]

Morning or Sunset Catamaran Sail & Snorkel

The tour starts aboard a luxury catamaran in the Flamingo Marina area. The crew will set the sail (depending on the wind) and navigate for about 5 miles to some of the most beautiful isolated beaches and snorkel locations of Costa Rica. A snorkeling guide will show you marine wildlife such as sea turtles, dolphins, […]

Snorkeling Tour of Catalina Islands

Head out by boat to the Catalina Islands, a group of volcanic rock formations in the Pacific Ocean. Your snorkeling adventure includes 2 sessions of snorkeling at 2 different locations, allowing you to see the variety of underwater marine life that can be found here. You might spot seahorses, turtles, angelfish, octopuses, moray eels, eagle […]

Diving Tour of Catalina Islands

Start the boat ride with briefings from your guides regarding the boat and dive safety and procedures. Keep your eyes open for signs of dolphins, whales (in season), mating turtles (in season), and the amazing jumping rays. Your guides will choose 2 dive sites, weather & daily conditions depending, to perform 60 ft max dives […]

Buena Vista Mega Adventure Combo

Transfer by ground about 1 – 1.5 hours to the Buena Vista adventure park. This full-day tour includes a canopy zip-line, hot springs, a thrilling waterslide, and horseback riding. Glide through the air on a canopy zipline beneath Rincon de la Vieja Volcano before sliding down a 400-meter water slide. A delicious lunch will energize […]

Rincon de la Vieja Waterfalls Hike

Transfer by ground about 1 – 1 .5 hours to the Rincon de la Vieja area. Start your adventure with a scenic hike to impressive Victoria Waterfall, which drops dramatically 35 meters to the Rio Negro. The surrounding canyon has unique vegetation, and you can swim in the crystal-clear waters at the base of the […]

Rincon de la Vieja National Park Hike

This morning, transfer about 1.5 hours to the Rincon de la Vieja area. Hiking through Rincon de la Vieja National Park is a great experience for the entire family. The trails bring you close to residual volcanic activity such as boiling mud pools and fumaroles. You will have the opportunity to explore craters and see […]

Palo Verde National Park & Guaitil Pottery Tour

The Palo Verde National Park is one of Costa Rica’s important wetland ecosystems. The wetlands of Palo Verde are a great destination for wildlife and bird watching. As you explore the park with your guide by boat, keep an eye out for crocodiles, roseate spoonbills, and other local animals. After a tasty lunch, you’ll head […]

Canopy Zipline on Dry Forest

What better way to enjoy the tropical dry forest of Guanacaste than gliding through it? Feel like the birds do when they fly over this beautiful environment, or like the monkeys when they swing off tree branches. Several cables will take you through the trees, from platform to platform, so you can enjoy the forest […]

Class II – III Whitewater Rafting

Transfer 1 – 1.5 hours inland for a day of whitewater rafting. Beautiful wildlife and exuberant vegetation serve as the backdrop while you paddle across these exciting rapids! You’ll receive gear and a safety briefing before paddling out. Experienced rafters and beginners alike are guaranteed to enjoy the river and the amazing nature that you […]

Liberia City & Shopping Tour

Explore Liberia City, historically known as “La Ciudad Blanca” or the white city for the white dirt roads, white adobe homes, and the people who avoided the extreme heat by wearing all white. Walkthrough the city and discover its history from your knowledgeable guide. You’ll have the opportunity to stop at the various gift and […]

Diamante Eco Adventure & Animal Sanctuary

Transfer by ground to Diamante Eco Adventure Park & Animal Sanctuary, which features family-friendly excursions like a zip-line, Tarzan Swing, Kayaking, Stand-up Paddle Boarding, Snorkeling, Hiking Trails, and Mountain Biking. The animals that inhabit the sanctuary include toucans, jaguars, pumas, sloths, monkeys, and a variety of frogs and birds. *Prices vary based on pickup location. Please specify […]

Surf Lessons at Tamarindo Beach

Your tour begins with a trip to world-famous Tamarindo Beach, the perfect spot for beginners and experts alike. Your surf guides will give you some pre-surfing instruction on how to paddle and stand up on your board.  Then, you’ll head out onto the water and test your skills! Minimum Age:  8 Passenger Minimum: 2 Duration: […]

Rio Celeste Rainforest Hike

Transfer 1.5 hours to Tenorio Volcano National Park, where you will begin a challenging hike through the rainforest on paved pathways. Discover the abundance of flora and fauna that inhabit the park on the way to Rio Celeste Waterfall. Your naturalist guide will point out the wonders of the forest and explain the science behind […]

Barra Honda Caves Tour

The main attraction of Barra Honda National Park is an intricate system of limestone caverns. Barra Honda consists mostly of a 60-million-year-old coral reef. It looms 300 meters above Tempisique Valley at a height of 450 meters. A constant drip of rainwater on the calcium carbonate has created this underground ecosystem. Within the park, be […]

Borinquen Adventure Day: canopy zip-lining, horseback riding, and hot springs

Enjoy an exciting horseback ride up the mountain and through the Guanacaste plains with beautiful views of the pacific coast and Rincón de la Vieja Volcano. After horseback riding, you will get to fly over the treetops, zipping across the canyon and in front of the breathtaking Borinquen Waterfall. Then, recover your energy over a […]

Rio Perdido Adventure Day: hiking, zip-lining, canyoning, & hot springs

Early this morning you’ll take a 2-hour scenic drive to the Bagaces area. Arrive at Rio Perdido and begin your adventure with a nature hike! Visitors will have the opportunity to swim in different parts of the river along the way. After a visit to the springs, a delicious lunch awaits you at the restaurant. […]

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Updated February 2024

Whether you’re looking to go for a long weekend or adventure for a week, this is the ultimate guide for the best hotels and things to do in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

Guanacaste is one of the most popular regions to explore in all of Costa Rica . With incredible resorts and hotels, access to the beach, and outdoor adventure, it’s the ultimate place to escape for a week.

It comes as no surprise that anyone landing at Liberia Airport in Costa Rica is heading to the beach. The crystal turquoise waters beckon travelers from around the world to come for a relaxing escape. Many retreats to Costa Rica’s top hotels perched high above the coastline, offering peaceful, panoramic views. During the day, time is spent leisurely around the pool or exploring Costa Rica’s grand landscape. 

Situated in the northwest region of Costa Rica, the Guanacaste Province is rich with many experiences, whether you’re an adventure seeker or looking for a relaxing escape. The “Pura Vida” mindset sets the tone as easy going, and life is filled with passion, giving visitors a unique vacation.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Guanacaste:

• Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo , for the best overall hotel
• Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo , for the best luxury hotel
• Secrets Papagayo , for the best all-inclusive hotel
• El Mangroove, Autograph Collection , for the best boutique hotel

Things to Do

• Take Sunset Catamaran Tour
• Go on a Safari Boat Adventure in Palo Verde National Park
• Visit Tenorio Volcano National Park, Rio Celeste Waterfall, and Sloth Sanctuary

For more Costa Rica inspiration and resources, head here !

What to Know Before Visiting Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Getting to Guanacaste, Costa Rica

The region is best reached by direct flights into Liberia from airports like LAX. To reach the popular resort area of the Papagayo Peninsula, expect about a 30-45 minute drive. Be sure to pre-arrange transfers in advance if you do not plan on renting a car yourself. Use Google Flights or Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights.

Spanish is Costa Rica’s language. You will find that English is widely spoken.

Currency & Money

Most vendors accept USD and credit cards, though it is advised to keep some local currency on you.

Renting a Car

Renting a car is incredibly easy and a great way to explore the province. I recommend booking with Discover Cars for the best deals and coverage options. Be sure to get full coverage insurance to insure precaution. One thing to be aware of is the trunk not closing properly, as you should keep no valuables in sight. During our trip, our trunk didn’t close properly, and later realized it could have been a huge opportunity of error. 

Bring: Bug Spray

Bug spray is an absolute must, and one with high levels of Deet is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions About Guanacaste

Is Guanacaste, Costa Rica Safe to Travel To?

Generally speaking, it is safe to visit and the locals are incredibly kind. As with any new destination, take the necessary precautions for safety. One plus is that this region is often spared from natural disasters like hurricanes, so it can be considered a safe place to visit year-round.

What is Guanacaste, Costa Rica Known For?

It is home to some of the best coastlines along the Pacific Ocean, where pristine beaches are available. Inland and nearby, you’ll find other popular areas to explore, like the local mountain ranges and volcanoes in the country’s parks and nature reserves. In the Papagayo area, the top hotels are found here for those looking for luxurious resorts. Many travelers come here for a relaxing vacation in a serene setting. 

What Airport Do You Fly Into for Guanacaste, Costa Rica?

You will fly into Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia (LIR) to access the province of Guanacaste. From the airport to the Papagayo area, expect around a 45-minute drive.

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Guanacaste, Costa Rica?

The dry months from December to April are the most ideal if you’re looking for a fewer amount of rainy days. However, off-season may present better price points for hotels.  

What are the Entry Requirements for Costa Rica?

All countries are allowed to enter by air as long as they meet the country’s visa and COVID-19 entry requirements. For more information, please see this link .

The Best Hotels in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Hotels and Resorts in Peninsula Papagayo

Where you choose to stay in the area of Guanacaste is completely up to you and the experience you are looking for. It is good to note that some of the hotels may have more remote locations that require a rental car or hired drive to go explore the local area. You’ll find this a lot with the resorts in the Peninsula Papagayo area. I stayed at the Andaz and found that frequently we had to hire a driver to go visit nearby sights. It would have made more sense to rent a car for the entirety of the time to be able to go explore. 

For those who are looking to be closer to surf towns and beaches, you’ll like the area of Tamarindo. There are several upscale hotels here for couples and great family resorts. You will want to consider booking a rental car as well. 

Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo

Located in the area of Papagayo Peninsula, the Andaz is an incredible hotel for those looking for a relaxing escape with the opportunity for adventure ( Read the full review here ). Its luxurious rooms overlooking the Culebra Bay are memorable, the food is incredible, and the service is truly special. Book the best rates here .

Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo

One of the top hotels in Central America, the Four Seasons is a beautiful hotel with its own 18-hole golf course right on site. Book the best rates here .

Secrets Papagayo

One of the only all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica, Secrets has a stunning location on the peninsula. Hiking trails are nearby and plenty of areas to relax in. Book the best rates here .

El Mangroove, Autograph Collection

High design and upscale amenities define this intimate boutique hotel. There are two restaurants on location and a beautiful pool area to enjoy. Book the best rates here .

Hotels and Resorts In or Near Tamarindo

Tamarindo bay boutique hotel.

A boutique, adults-only property known for its proximity to shops and the beach of central Tamarindo. Book the best rates here .

Cala Luna Luxury Boutique Hotel & Villas

A zen-focused boutique hotel that is a close walk to the beach. Very popular for romantic getaways for couples and their bungalow suites. Book the best rates here .

JW Marriot Guanacaste Resort & Spa

For the best family resort that has all of the activities and beach access, look no further. Book the best rates here.

Casa Chameleon Hotel Las Catalinas

Not directly in Tamarindo, but just north is Casa Chameleon. It’s a luxury, adults-only boutique hotel that overlooks the ocean. Book the best rates here .

Where to Eat in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

You’ll find that you can enjoy a lot of your meals right at your own hotel if you’re located in Papagayo Peninsula, hence the recommendations. If you venture out or located in Tamarindo, there are several options from casual to fine dining. My suggestion is to always call ahead to be sure whether or not a reservation is mandatory for hotel restaurants. 

Where to Eat in Papagayo Peninsula

Chao pescao at andaz costa rica.

A lively tapas bar, that serves local cuisine with a twist and fresh cocktails. Be sure to try the house drink and order the chicken arepas.

Ostra Restaurant at Andaz Costa Rica

This is where elevated cuisine meets Costa Rican flare. Try the ceviche, indulge in one of the entrees, and save room for dessert!

Rio Bhongo at Andaz Costa Rica

A casual restaurant with a wide variety of options, like tacos, salads, and sandwiches.

Lola’s at Playa Avellana

If you take a drive down the coast, be sure to plan your day around this happening spot on the beach. Try their tacos with freshly made tortillas.

Where to Eat in Tamarindo

Bamboo sushi club.

The fish has never been fresher, and this is the place to eat the local catch. Their sushi is really popular amongst the locals and ex-pats who live here.

Surf Shack Burgers and Wings

Come here for a casual bite for burgers & wings. The atmosphere is really laidback for the region. 

What to Do in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Experience santa rosa national park.

One of the most amazing parks and nature reserves, the Santa Rosa National Park is home to several experiences from beaches to natural forest growth. You can explore mangrove swamps, oak forests, marshlands, serene beaches. You can self-tour or hire a local guide to bring you through the highlights of Santa Rosa. 

Go Birdwatching in Palo Verde National Park

One of the densest areas for local birds is in Palo Verde National Park . There are over 280 species of birds here, so you will not be surprised to see species like the scarlet macaw and caracaras. There are a lot of attractions here at Palo Verde, some of the top ones include Sendero La Roca which is a trail that takes you to a lookout over Palo Verde’s lake. There are also some great safari boat tours available that allow you explore more of the park and see more wildlife.

For those looking to be more adventurous, you may enjoy hiking Sendero El Guaycayán or Cerros Calizos. Another popular thing to do in Palo Verde is a boat tour to Isla Pájaros to spot the largest colony of black-crowned night heron. 

Adventure in Tenorio Volcano National Park, Rio Celeste Waterfall, and Sloth Sanctuary

For those looking to chase a beautiful waterfall, you’ll want to head to Tenorio Volcano National Park. Home to Celeste Waterfall, known for its turquoise color, brings in tons of visitors who are looking to marvel at it. Be prepared for a two-hour hike each way, it is a strenuous activity to do but well worth the effort.  This guided private tour from Guanacaste is a good option for those looking for a hosted experience.

Another option for a great waterfall is at La Fortuna .

Have an Epic Beach Day at Lola’s + Playa Avellena 

This happening beach club is the spot to come watch the surf, have a few drinks, and kick back on the beautiful Playa Avellena beach. Lola’s onsite restaurant also means you don’t have to leave for food. I spent an entire day here on my trip relaxing on the powdery sand, sunbathing, and dipping into the ocean. I loved that we could enjoy the food right there and there were fresh coconuts for sale on the beach. 

Go Beach Hopping with a Rental Car

One of the best activities I did while visiting Guanacaste was hopping from one beach to the next on the day we rented a car. We visited a few different beaches like Playa Flamingo, Playa Avellanas, and Playa Conchal. They are all quite easily accessible and some have amenities vs others are more remote. I recommend booking with Discover Cars for the best rental car deals and coverage options.

Visit Rincon de la Vieja National Park

If you’re looking to get a view or experience of the local volcanoes in this part of Costa Rica, then consider visiting Rincon de la Vieja . It is home to the famous Rincon de la Vieja Volcano and other active geothermal sites in the area. In this national park, it is possible to see hot springs, mud pots, geysers, and more. This guided volcano hike, waterfall swim, and hot springs tour is a good option for those looking for a hosted experience.

When you enter the park, there is a great trail that is almost two miles long called Las Pailas Loop and you can see some geothermal activity. Alternatively, you could hike the summit but be prepared for a strenuous full-day hike. 

Explore the Beach Town of Tamarindo and Surfing

One of the coolest beach towns in Costa Rica is in the province of Guanacaste, called Tamarindo . It’s a very laidback destination with plenty of shopping, beach hotels, and surfing. 

It makes for a great day trip if you’re at a resort and are looking to go somewhere for the day. Take a look at the recommended restaurants above as well for your time there. 

Get Out on The Ocean

With premier access to the Pacific Ocean, there are a few ways to experience it. Some of the most popular are scuba diving, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. I would highly recommend having your hotel help you find a reliable guided tour to do so.

The amount of sea life here is incredible and you won’t be disappointed however you choose to experience it. One other epic activity to consider is a sunset catamaran tour . It’s a popular activity at the resorts in the Papagayo Peninsula. 

Go Whitewater Rafting on the Tenorio River

If you’re looking for a real boost of adrenaline, you can certainly go whitewater rafting on the Tenorio River . Along the way, you’ll see lush scenery and pass by wildlife. You will want to book with a reputable company for your time and consider safety precautions for this trip. I would advise again for your hotel concierge to help arrange this kind of tour. 

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These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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Home » Destinations » Ultimate Guide to Guanacaste, Costa Rica and Fun Things to do

Ultimate Guide to Guanacaste, Costa Rica and Fun Things to do

By Author Costa Rica Travel Life

Posted on Last updated: March 17, 2024

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

If you’re planning a vacation to the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica, lucky you! It’s one of my favorite places to visit in Costa Rica because not only is it exceptionally photogenic, but it’s also home to chilled-out surf towns, golden sand beaches, and plenty of bucket-list-worthy activities like ziplining, scuba diving, and horse riding.

There are over 400 miles (249 kilometers) of Pacific Coast here in the Guanacaste, and it’s surrounded by lush mountains, including the active Rincon de la Vieja Volcano (one of the best volcanoes to visit in Costa Rica !)

Of course, the surfing here is among the best in Costa Rica , as you’ll learn below. So, if surfing is your sport of choice, consider a vacation to Guanacaste next. 

What makes the region even more appealing is its unique climate – it doesn’t have a ‘rainy’ season, and it is, in fact, the driest part of Costa Rica. So, if you’re looking to vacation somewhere with pretty much guaranteed good weather, then head to the Guanacaste. 

In this blog post, I list 7 of the best towns in the region and detail 15 of the best things to do in Guanacaste (hint – there’s fishing, surfing, and waterfall chasing, to name but a few). There’s pretty much every adventure activity you can imagine available here! 

About Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Guanacaste is one of the provinces situated partly on the beautiful  Nicoya Peninsula , together with the Puntarenas province. This 121-kilometer stretch of the Pacific Coast is easily one of the most naturally beautiful places in Costa Rica, if not the (75.2 miles) world. 

Guanacaste is nestled between Nicaragua in the North and the Nicoya Peninsula to the South. It’s known as Costa Rica’s “gold coast,” thanks to the dozens of golden sand beaches here. As such, it’s a very popular tourist destination, particularly with surfers who visit this region to surf at some of the best surf spots in the world; these include Witch’s Rock near Playa Flamingo and Playa Guiones near Nosara . 

Interestingly, the part of Guanacaste on the Nicoya Peninsula is one of only five Blue Zone areas globally, which means that people here live the longest and are among the healthiest people in the world. This “Pura Vida” lifestyle has attracted people to the area for decades. 

Some noteworthy towns in Guanacaste include Tamarindo, Nosara, and Samara – all large towns with lots of restaurants, hotels, all-inclusive resorts , and activities. Nosara is a more upmarket town with a great surf beach (Playa Guiones), and it’s also known worldwide as a great place to practice yoga.

On the other hand, Tamarindo is a well-known party town that is also home to a very pretty golden-sand beach. While the small town of Samara has a more hippie vibe and is home to gorgeous and secluded Playa Izquierda.

Some smaller towns on the Nicoya Peninsula include Playa Flamingo, which I’ve mentioned earlier as being the gateway to one of the best surf breaks in the world out at Witch’s Rock, and Playa Coco, a small town that also knows how to party!

Regardless of what you want from your vacation, Guanacaste is sure to have just what you need!

Getting Around Guanacaste

Most tourists come to the Guanacaste from   Liberia Guanacaste International Airport , one of only two International Airports in Costa Rica. There are daily flights here from elsewhere in Costa Rica and worldwide destinations (most commonly from North America and Europe). Liberia International Airport is just outside of Liberia and is a short drive to other well-known destinations in the Guanacaste like Playa Coco and Playa Flamingo. 

You can get a short domestic flight from Liberia Airport to Tamarindo Airport; this flight only takes 10 minutes, but there aren’t many flights doing this route weekly, so I don’t recommend this option.

It’s only an hour and 10-minute drive between Liberia Airport and Tamarindo, so I recommend driving it yourself . You can easily rent a car from the airport with Discover Cars . We use them the most because they include mandatory insurance (required in Costa Rica) and don’t have hidden fees.

Towns like Playa Coco (a 30-minute drive) and Playa Flamingo (an hour’s drive) are also an easy drive from the airport. However, Nosara (2.5 hours drive) and Samara (2 hours drive) are further, so that’s important to remember when planning your trip. 

You can get a taxi/ uber for between $70 to $150 USD, depending on your final destination in Guanacaste. Alternatively, a shuttle service operates from Liberia Airport to many towns on the Guanacaste, including Tamarindo, Nosara, Samara, and Playa Flamingo – this starts at only $45 USD per person one-way.

You can catch the public bus with Transportes La Pampa, which stops at both Tamarindo and Playa Flamingo if you’re on a budget. This bus leaves every hour and costs just 1400 colones ($2.64 USD), but you may need to head out to the main road from the airport to flag this down as sometimes it doesn’t turn into the airport!  You can search the route here , and there is a number to call for more info. Personally, I just take the shuttle.

Some tourists come to Guanacaste from   San Jose International Airport , the other International Airport in the country and the largest one. If you land at San Jose International Airport and get a rental car , you can easily drive to the Guanacaste; it’s a 3-hour 25-minute drive without stops and takes you via Route 27 and Interamericana North Route 1. If you don’t have a rental car, you can hire a private driver or catch a cab, but considering the distance, this will be costly! 

Once you’ve arrived in Guanacaste, you will notice that the roads here are not in the best condition – especially to the south near Samara and Nosara. So if you want to drive yourself and explore the area, it is recommended to  rent a 4WD car . With that said, those only visiting Tamarindo or Playa Flamingo won’t need a 4WD. The road along this section from San Jose is in great condition.

For getting around each town, it’s pretty easy to bus around in the north between Tamarindo, Playa Coco, and Playa Flamingo. The same can be said for Nosara and Samara. However, when it comes to connecting towns to the south (Samara and Nosara) with towns to the north, shuttles in Costa Rica are the best way to travel. Although this can be done via bus, the routes require multiple bus changes and can take most of the day.

Related Read: Check out the best free and cheap things to do in Tamarindo !

7 Most Popular Places to Visit in Guanacaste 

1. tamarindo .

Tamarindo is one of Costa Rica’s most visited tourist destinations and the most popular in Guanacaste. Home to beautiful beaches , an electric atmosphere, and all the comforts one could want, Tamarindo shouldn’t be overlooked for a beach getaway.

In fact, Tamarindo Beach is one of the prettiest in the region, with golden sand and backed by lush green mountains. 

For many, Tamarindo is ideal for a short holiday because of the town’s location close to Liberia – home to one of Costa Rica’s international airports. On top of that, Tamarindo is safe – an important factor when choosing a place to visit abroad. Plus, the town here is lined with  lots of great restaurants  and boutique shops. Tamarindo pretty much has everything you need from a vacation town.

Although many come to unwind, don’t miss the chance to get out and explore all the  best things to do in Tamarindo . Some of the best activities available in this vibrant town include relaxing on a sunset catamaran cruise, catching some huge fish on a sports fishing adventure, going scuba diving , and drinking craft beer. In fact, Tamarindo is a well-known party town in the Guanacaste region, and if a good night scene is important to you on vacation, then this is the town for you. 

Popular sights like La Leona waterfall and Rio Celeste are within easy reach of the town. What’s pretty cool, too, is that you can see turtles nesting at Playa Grande, which is next to the main beach in Tamarindo! This phenomenon is seasonal, though. 

As with most of the other beachside towns in Guanacaste, Tamarindo is popular with surfers, although its calm waves attract more beginners than advanced surfers. There are plenty of great surf lessons in Tamarindo to choose from that start around $50 USD!

Where to Stay in Tamarindo

There are so many options for  places to stay in Tamarindo . There are over 100 hotels and hostels in the downtown area catering to all types of travelers and their budgets. 

Selina Tamarindo – $

The Selina  is a good option for budget travelers, and I have personally stayed here. It’s an upper market hostel with a great atmosphere and pool. The location is also near the beach, and the dorm rooms and privates all have AC.

Rates begin at $70 USD/night. You can   book Selina Tamarindo on HostelWorld here ,  Booking.com here , Hotels.com here , or Expedia here .  

Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel – $$

If you’d prefer a little more luxury, the  Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel   comes with gorgeous rooms, a large pool, and a modern and sleek design. However, the location is slightly back from the beach and not for families.

Rates begin at $130 USD/night. You can book Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel here on Booking.com , here on Hotels.com , or here on Expedia .

2. Samara 

The sleepy coastal town of Sámara is often the go-to choice for a family getaway in Costa Rica. 

Sámara’s rather protected bay means the swells here are much calmer than in nearby towns like Nosara and Playa Flamingo. So, if you want to surf some ‘easy waves’ or are new to surfing, then Samara is the place for you!

Samara beach is exceptionally pretty, with palm trees lining the beach and golden sand. This charming town (it’s more of a village, to be honest) is known for its safe atmosphere, and because of that, it’s an ideal beach destination for both families and couples in Costa Rica. 

On top of that,  Sámara is home to tons of amazing things to see and do . A short 25-minute drive away is Belen Waterfall, which has some gorgeous natural pools for you to cool off in. The marine life in the waters around Samara is fantastic too, especially out at Isla Chora, a small island part of the reef that protects Sámara from heavy ocean swells. On a snorkeling tour , you can see turtles, pufferfish, and lots of small colorful reef fish.  

Along the beach in Samara, you’ll see lots of  fantastic restaurants  that serve unique cuisines, including homemade delicacies, seafood, yummy juices, locally brewed coffee, healthy salads, meats, and plenty of vegan options. There are several beach clubs dotted along the beach, and these are great places to watch the sunset with a drink in hand.

Sámara really is a top choice in Guanacaste! 

Where to Stay in Samara

La mariposas – $.

If you’re on a budget, there are many options, but not many are good.   Las Mariposas   is my top choice, with its location only 100 meters from the beach. The hostel has a great atmosphere for meeting other travelers and is suited for the social backpacker.

Rates begin at $25 USD/night. You can book Las Mariposas here on Hostelworld  or  here on Booking.com . 

Hotel Entre Dos Aguas – $

If you consider yourself a mid-range traveler, I have a great choice for you catering to couples and families). Hotel Entre Dos Aguas is a rustic hotel with simple amenities on a beautiful property, perfect for those who want a true Costa Rican stay. 

Rates begin at $60 USD/night. You can book Hotel Entre Dos Aguas here on Booking.com .

Read our detailed guide about deciding  where to stay in Samara with the best hotels and areas !

3. Nosara/ Playa Guiones

Nosara   was once considered a hidden gem, but today, this slice of paradise is a thriving tourist town attracting people (mainly surfers) worldwide. This small town was put on the tourist map thanks to the epic waves at Guiones Beach (also known as Playa Guiones); there are both left and right breaks to be caught on this 7 km (4.3 mi) stretch of beach.

Playa Guiones is also where I recommend basing yourself during your vacation to Nosara, as it’s where everything happens, and all the  best restaurants  and boutique stores are located here. On the other hand, Nosara town is not near the beach and is quite quiet (it doesn’t have a lot going on!)

I should mention that Nosara is considered an ‘expensive’ destination in Guanacaste, and accommodation and eating out can be costly. However, considering the awesome surf here as well as it being a very safe town , I still recommend it to visitors to Costa Rica. Nosara is popular mostly with families, couples, and surfers! 

As well as being a surf mecca, Nosara is also a well-known yoga destination. So, if you’re into that kind of thing, it should definitely be added to your list. Nearby the town, you can check out the Nosara Biological Reserve. This 90-acre nature reserve is home to an abundance of wildlife, and if you want to get your adrenalin pumping, why not check out the 21 ziplines at Miss Sky, which is considered the longest canopy tour in the world!

Where to stay in Nosara/ Playa Guiones

As I mentioned earlier, you  want to stay near Playa Guiones, not in Nosara . The town of Nosara is not near the beach and is also not where all the best restaurants and shops are, and they are all in a small downtown area near the beach. 

Selina Nosara – $

For budget travelers, stay at  Selina Nosara . This hostel is definitely a luxury hostel, and the price reflects that, but, in my opinion, it’s worth spending the extra $$$. Selina boasts a beautiful pool and offers a heap of free activities daily. This is without a doubt the nicest hostel I have ever stayed at!

Rates begin at $68 USD/night for two guests. You can book this hostel on Booking.com here ,   Hostelworld here , Hotels.com here , or Expedia here .

The Sunset Shack – $$$

If you have a bigger budget, you will have more options available to you in Nosara. My top choice is   The Sunset Shack  which averages around $280 USD a night. It’s perfectly located, close to the beach, and has a pool. 

The property is an old-school surf camp, which gives it a fun atmosphere. You can check availability and book a room online here on Booking.com , here on Hotels.com , or here on Expedia .

4. Ostional 

Playa del Ostional  is home to one of the most amazing wildlife phenomena in Costa Rica . An arribada, as it’s called, is when hundreds of turtles come to shore to dig and lay their eggs on a beach at once.

The event happens in the rainy season, around one week before a new moon. Playa del Ostional is a 20-minute drive (9.9 km) from the town of Nosara. There’s not much happening in Ostional other than the turtles; there are very few accommodations and restaurant options, so not many people spend the night here.

Instead, they stay in Nosara and book a tour to come see the turtles here. If you decide to spend the night in Ostional, you will have the place pretty much to yourself!

There are many tours to Playa del Ostional from Nosara to see the turtles, and they start from $60 USD per person. A more in-depth tour can be booked with the Wildlife Conservation Association which is outlined in our things to do in Nosara blog !

Where to Stay in Ostional

Cabinas arribadas – $.

As I’ve said, there are limited accommodation options in Playa Ostional, but Cabinas Arribadas is a great, reasonably-priced option just 700 meters (2,297 feet) from the beach. It also features a restaurant, a large garden, and a shared lounge. The rooms here are shared dorm-style.

Rates begin at $70 USD/night for two guests. You can check availability and book online here on Booking.com .

Villas Punta India – $$

Another option is  Villas Punta India  which is a little further from the beach (a 12-minute walk away), the villas here are spacious and stylish, and there’s also an outdoor pool and restaurant. 

All of the villas have a terrace where you can enjoy the views. Rates begin at $95 USD/night. You can check availability and book online here on Booking.com , here on Hotels.com , or here on Expedia .

5. Playa Flamingo

With stunning beaches, water activities galore, and the most beautiful sunsets,  Playa Flamingo is an incredible destination in Costa Rica . It’s also only an hour from Liberia International Airport, which is handy! 

There aren’t any flamingos to be found here (despite its name), but the sand on the beach here does have a slightly pink hue, which is where the beach got its name. The mile-long stretch of beach here, combined with the turquoise water and the crescent shape of the curved bay, makes for spectacular views.  

Once you’ve arrived in Playa Flamingo, you’ll notice the layout of the area is different from other towns in Guanacaste. There aren’t any services located directly on the beach, but there are a small number of vendors selling everything from drinks and snacks to small souvenirs or rentals of umbrellas and beach chairs. There are restaurants and stores on both ends of the beach, though, together with some hotels/hostels. 

The town  is just a short walk from the beach and is mostly perched on the hillside looking south to Flamingo Beach or north to Potrero Beach. It’s a small town, but there’s everything needed to comfortably base yourself here for a few days.  

While a beach day is a must, there are many other fun activities to do in and around Playa Flamingo, like witnessing an active volcano at Rincon de la Vieja National Park and horseback riding along the beach here. But the most popular and most famous thing to do here is to surf the iconic Witch’s Rock , just North of Playa Flamingo. It’s only suitable for advanced surfers, and many famous surfers have been spotted here! So, if you’re a keen surfer, you just have to add Playa Flamingo to your must-visit list! 

Where to Stay in Playa Flamingo

Massai apartments – $$.

Unfortunately, there aren’t many options in Playa Flamingo for budget travelers, but thankfully  Massai Apartments  is wallet-friendly and highly recommended. This beautiful hotel has fantastic reviews, a pool, and its apartments come with full kitchens! The hotel is a short walk to Playa Flamingo, and you’re also not far from Playa Potrero. 

Rates begin at $118 USD/night. You can book an apartment here on Booking.com , here on Hotels.com , or here on Expedia .

Oceanica 827 – $$$

Those that can spend a little more will be able to enjoy places closer to the ocean. Most of the options in this budget range are individual apartments. One of the best is  Oceanica 827 . The apartment’s balcony has sea views, and it’s possible to enjoy dining outdoors.

The apartment provides a luxurious and private place for a reasonable price. Check rates and availability  here on Booking.com ,  here on Hotels.com , or  here on Expedia .

6. Liberia 

In the heart of Guanacaste province is the city of Liberia. It’s nicknamed La Ciudad Blanca (the white city) for the white gravel once used on the city’s roads and the whitewashed buildings around town.

Chances are you may find yourself in this city at some stage during your trip to the Guanacaste as it is home to one of only two international airports in Costa Rica – Liberia International Airport. This is an excellent starting point for your vacation – even if you don’t plan to stay right in the city.

Liberia really is the perfect gateway to the amazing beauty of the Guanacaste region as it’s centrally located with a lot of different easy day trips nearby. There’s loads to do in Liberia , from a tour to see one of  the most spectacular waterfalls in Costa Rica , chocolate tours, a mini-African safari, great craft beer breweries, and exploring Parque Nacional Palo Verde, a 45,000-acre national park that is home to the most migratory birds in the whole of Central America. 

Where to Stay in Liberia

Hostel dodero – $.

For budget travelers,  Hostel Dodero  is arguably the top choice. It’s centrally located, clean, comes with friendly staff, and is well-reviewed! The property also has a beautiful garden and terrace area.

Rooms have shared bathrooms, and some rooms have their own patios. Rates begin at $20 USD per night. You can check availability and book a stay online  here on Booking.com  and  here on Hostelworld .

Best Western El Sitio Hotel & Casino – $$

For those with a moderate budget,  Best Western El Sitio Hotel & Casino  is a good option in town. The hotel has a pool, includes breakfast, a fitness center, and modern rooms. The garden is particularly nice, especially if you’re interested in bird watching.

The rooms are modern and comfortable, and some rooms overlook the garden. Rates start at $126 USD for a one-night stay. Check availability and book online  here on Booking.com ,  here on Hotels.com , or  here on Expedia .

7. Playa Coco 

Considered one of the fastest-growing tourist towns in Guanacaste, Playa Coco, or ‘Coco Beach’ as tourists like to call it, is home to a 3 km (1.2 mi) stretch of beach as well as a small town. It’s most well-known for its incredible scuba diving sites like Monkey Head, Bat Islands, and Catalinas Islands and the awesome fishing to be done in the waters here.

It’s also just a 30-minute drive away from the International Airport in Liberia, so it’s where many tourists decide to start their vacation in Guanacaste. 

The town itself is small and consists of one main street with numerous bars, restaurants, stores, and accommodation options . Unlike other towns on this list, you can’t surf at Cocoa Beach; although skimboarding is popular here instead. You will need to head to Witch’s Rock if you’re an advanced surfer or Tamarindo Beach if you’re a beginner. Other activities available here include snorkeling at Marin del Rey or Kuna Vela, kayaking , or simply watching the sunset from the beach. 

Playa Coco is a small town, that’s for sure, so you may be surprised to learn that it’s a lively party town. Yep, the town comes alive at night – there are many bars dotted along the main street, and they often have live music and drink specials. If you’re in town during a holiday (Christmas, New Year, etc.), be prepared to party, as the bars here really put on a show during the holiday season. 

Where to Stay in Playa Coco

Hotel savannah – $.

If you’re on a budget in Playa Coco, consider  Hotel Laura’s House  – just a 2-minute walk from the town’s min street with an outdoor pool and a lovely garden area. The rooms here are basic but comfortable. 

Toro Blanco – $$

For mid-range travelers, consider  Toro Blanco , a lovely hotel just 150 meters (490 feet) from the beach – there’s even a swim-up bar and pool, which is pretty cool! As well as that, each apartment here has its own equipped kitchenette. 

Rates begin at $85 USD/night. You can book Toro Blanco here on Booking.com , here on Hotels.com , or here on Expedia .

15 Best Things to do in Guanacaste 

1. explore rincón de la vieja national park.

The Rincon de la Vieja National Park is home to the largest and most active volcano in Guanacaste, with the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano and the dormant Santa Maria Volcano located within this giant national park. It’s a whopping 35,000 acres in size and is also home to the Rio Negro Hot Springs, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It’s undoubtedly one of the  best National Parks in Costa Rica .

As well as that, there’s an awesome adventure center here that offers horseback riding, ziplining, and tubing (mentioned below in more detail on the Guachipelin Adventure Volcano tour.)

The Rincón de la Vieja Volcano is 600,000 years old, and its last large eruption was back in 1998. In fact, it still bubbles and produces steam to this day. Directly translated from Spanish, the park means ‘the old woman’s corner’ and is named so by the native tribe who believe a witch at the top of the mountain causes it to bubble and steam (like a cauldron!) While you can explore this park on your own, tours are quite popular here.

There are two entrances to the national park. The most popular is Las Pailas to the west and Santa Maria to the north.

As I mentioned earlier, there are some great hiking trails; I recommend the short 20-minute trail to the Las Pailas (boiling mud pots) – a cool feature of the area where the mud is so hot it bubbles in small pools! Another good hike is the  Catarata La Cangreja trail  (about 3 miles each way) which leads to a beautiful waterfall. There are also guided hiking tours on offer here,  such as this tour . 

The National Park is around an hour drive from Liberia. One of the best ways to get here from Liberia is by booking a full-day adventure tour.   This tour includes transportation and incredible activities  like ziplining through the tree canopy, stunning waterfalls, horseback riding, water sliding, a spa visit complete with a mud bath and hot springs, and even lunch!

While the park is just over two hours from both Playa Flamingo and Tamarindo.   This tour from both towns   is highly recommended and is 8 to 10 hours in duration. This tour is less about adventure activities and more about the national park.

For thrill-seekers, there are a lot of tour companies selling full-day combo tours to Parque Nacional Rincon de la Vieja. Common inclusions are ziplining, hot springs, tubing, and horseback riding. This  Guachipelin Adventure Volcano tour  is an insanely popular tour choice because on this 10-hour tour; you’re certain to get your adrenaline pumping with ziplining, horseback riding, and tubing.

It also includes a visit to natural hot springs, a volcanic mud bath, and a full buffet lunch. You can drive yourself to the National Park to start this tour, or for an extra fee get transportation included. There are numerous pick-up locations throughout Guanacaste, including Liberia, Playa Flamingo, Playa Coco, and more!

Rincon de la Vieja National Park is open Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays) and costs $17 USD for adults and $5.60 USD for kids – if you don’t have a tour booked. 

2. La Leona Waterfall

Getting up close to one of   Costa Rica’s spectacular waterfalls  is something you have to do while you’re here and is one of the top Guanacaste activities. La Leona is definitely a place worth visiting. Until now,  La Leona Waterfall  has been a hidden gem, but its beauty has made its popularity rise in recent years. 

This gorgeous waterfall sits within a canyon and the water running through it is turquoise blue. It’s one of the few, if not the only, waterfall in Costa Rica with these characteristics. Its water comes from the “white river” or “Rio Blanco” that finds its source in the skirts of the Volcano Rincon de la Vieja. 

The best time to go to La Leona Waterfall is between December and April in the dry season (also   the best time to visit Costa Rica , in general.) This is because it’s easier to walk through the river and trails at this time of year, outside of these months, the excessive rain can turn the river brown, and the waterfall can lose its blue color. I should also mention that it’s best to visit the waterfall on weekdays and not on weekends since it gets more crowded.

La Leona Waterfall is located in the small town of   Curubandé , 20 minutes from Liberia and two hours from Tamarindo. 

Unfortunately, the only way to visit La Leona Waterfall is on a guided tour. This is because the waterfall’s location within the canyon requires safety gear and an expert guide to access it. Thankfully, tours are very cheap and they are often considered one of the best tours in Costa Rica .

The best way to get to the Leona Waterfall is through Liberia. As mentioned, the waterfall is only 20 minutes from the town, and the road is well maintained.  This three-hour excursion  involves hiking the jungle trails around the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano into the falls. The highlight of this tour is getting to swim right near the waterfall at Poza La Pipa – a secluded swimming area with turquoise-blue waters where the Blanco and the Colorado rivers cross through.

From Tamarindo, there are two companies I know of that offer tours to La Leona. They are  Native’s Way  and Costa Rican Way. The tours aren’t cheap because there is a 2-hour drive to the waterfall each way. If you have your own vehicle, you can save around $100 USD per person – so renting a car for the day is a good option! The cheapest way to visit La Leona Waterfall from Tamarindo, and what I did, is to drive yourself to Curubande. 

You’ll then need to book with a tour office or head to the tour office you booked with (if you booked in advance like me.) There are lots of different tour operators in the region. One of the most popular is  Guanaverde Experiences , which is the one I choose. This budget-friendly tour is 3 to 4 hours in duration. A local guide will take you on a moderate hike through the rainforest, canyons, and rivers on this tour. Once you reach the waterfall, you can dive in for a refreshing swim in the natural swimming pool here. 

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

• Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
• Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
• Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
• Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
• Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here ! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here .

3. Drink craft beer

There’s nothing I love more than getting a taste of the area with some excellent craft beer. The craft beer industry in Costa Rica is thriving, and breweries are popping up all over the place. 

Two breweries out near the airport in Liberia are great stops for a cold beverage while you wait for your flight. You might like it so much you’ll grab some cans to take with you while exploring Costa Rica or take them home!  Numu Brewing Company  is one of them, and it’s located in an industrial park very close to the airport. Their full-flavored beers are inspired by the Costa Rican climate and feature tropical fruits. Favorites here include the Chorotega IPA with hints of tropical fruits mixed in with a signature hops flavor or the Liberian Kölsch with a subtle maltiness and fruity notes.

Captain J Match Brewing Company  is also in the Liberia airport area and is a small microbrewery that is gaining popularity. The beer here aims to represent the Guanacaste region of the country with local flavors. Try the Flamingo Mosaic Pale Ale or the refreshing San Juanillo Summer Ale. The owner here is great, too, and will talk you through how all the beers are made.

If you’re staying in Nosara, I urge you to try  Guiones Brew Co. , which recently opened in town. Although they usually only have a few beers on tap, what they do, they do well. Of course, my favorite is the IPA, but they also have a tasty Pale Ale. Guiones Brew Co. is known for its wood-fired pizzas too. They only cost $14 USD and are full of flavor – perfect with a craft beer. It opens at 4 pm, but it’s best to head here after 5 pm for a better atmosphere. 

If you are basing yourself in Samara, then head to  2 Gringos Artisan Brewing . Which is located right in the middle of town , 2 Gringos is one of the best breweries I have visited in Costa Rica . On tap, you’ll find a huge selection of beers, and during my visit, there were over 24 on offer. They ranged from hoppy IPAs, crisp pilsners, and fruity sours. A beer at 2 Gringos costs around 4,000 colones ($7.50 USD) which is pretty expensive for Costa Rica. This brewery is located in Coco’s Mexican Restaurant, so you can eat delicious tacos while you drink beer!

The town of Tamarindo has its own brewery, too; it’s called Volcano Brewing Co. Visiting  Volcano Brewing Co.  is a must for craft beer lovers. Although the actual brewery is now closed to the public, you can drink at their beachside restaurant and pub while enjoying the live music and sunshine. They had four types of beer available the last time I was there, including an IPA and a Pale Ale, and both were delicious. I also had lunch here and highly recommend the pulled pork sandwich!

4. Go on a sunset sailing cruise

Sitting aboard a luxury boat with a drink in hand as the sun sinks into the Pacific Ocean is easily one of the best and most relaxing things to do on the Guanacaste. Truly, the sunsets here are spectacular and amazing to view from the water where nothing is blocking your view. You can enjoy a sunset cruise from most of the towns on the peninsula, including Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, and Samara. 

From Tamarindo, one of the best tours on offer is   this sunset cruise through Tamarindo Bay . Aboard a catamaran, you’ll sail out into the bay in search of magnificent views, wildlife, and of course, an epic sunset. It includes an open bar, water activities, and a meal for only $85 USD! The best part is that the boat is capped at 35 people – unlike other cruises that have around 50! The tour lasts for 5 hours and finishes just after the sun sets in Tamarindo. 

If you’re staying in the Playa Flamingo area, this   Sunset Catamaran Tour from Flamingo Beach  sets off in the afternoon and then finishes early in the evening. What’s great about this catamaran is that it’s equipped with fun activities like trampolines, a freshwater shower, kayaks, a stairway to the sea, and an open bar! Keep an eye out for marine life like sea turtles, manta rays, dolphins, and whales as you cruise along the water. Then, get the chance to jump off the boat for a snorkeling stop. All the gear is provided too, which is a nice bonus. 

A sunset cruise from Samara is a great way to spend an afternoon. Most tours depart at 3 pm and head out to Isla Chora, where you can try some snorkeling before sitting down with a drink back on board to enjoy the sunset. You can book this cruise with  Sámara Adventures , and they need a minimum of four people to run the tour. Unfortunately, the tour is 18+ only, so you’ll have to leave the kids at home (bummer!)

5. Learn to surf

The surf in Guanacaste is some of the best in Costa Rica, and thousands of surfers come here every year to conquer the epic waves here. Although it’s mostly known as an area for more experienced surfers, there are some easier waves to catch on Tamarindo Beach and Samara Beach. 

I did a few lessons at Samara Beach when I first started visiting Costa Rica. I learned a lot of the basics and now surf all over the country. Don’t get me wrong, you can certainly learn at the other surf breaks around Guanacaste but you should look to hire an instructor and only surf small days.

If you consider yourself an experienced surfer, you have to try surfing at Witch’s Rock. This well-known reef break is arguably the best surf spot in Costa Rica, and it attracts a lot of famous faces. Witch’s Rock is located just north of Playa Flamingo, and unusually, you need a boat to get out there. The closest beach is called  Naranjo Beach , and keen surfers often camp. Of course, you can book tours from Playa Flamingo that will take you out there for the day. You can also book tours from Tamarindo. These  cost $920 USD for an entire boat  that can take seven surfers.

Another challenging and popular surf spot on the Guanacaste is  Guiones Beach , about a 15-minute drive from the town of Nosara. There are both left and right waves here, and with 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) of beach, there’s plenty of space for everyone. The best time to surf here is from March to November. This also happens to be the low season, so avid surfers enjoy the lower prices and lack of people. 

Agua Tibia Surf School  is a great school for beginners. They have some of the best instructors in town, and the only negative is their location in South Nosara. If you want a good surf school closer to North Nosara,   Nosara CR Surf School   is another top-rated school. 

In comparison, Tamarindo Beach in Tamarindo is perfect for beginners or maybe those who’ve never tried surfing! The calm waters here mean that your chances of standing up on your board are greatly increased. There are surf lessons offered here every day, with an average lesson costing about $50 USD for two hours. The trick is to find a good school that’s highly rated.

This two-hour surf lesson in Tamarindo   is top-rated and has over 1,100 five-star reviews. If you’re a beginner, I don’t recommend renting a board and giving it a go on your own. There are rocks hidden beneath the water in Tamarindo, and the local guides know where to go to avoid them. 

6. Visit Rio Celeste

One of the most beautiful rivers and waterfalls in the country and one of the   best things to do in Costa Rica   is located right here in Guanacaste. Rio Celeste is a natural phenomenon where two rivers meet and cause the water to turn bright blue. This happens because particles in the two rivers mix and become heavy enough to reflect light, causing the blue color. It’s one of the most incredible places I have seen in Costa Rica.

Rio Celeste is quite a drive from most of the towns on this list – Tamarindo (2.5-hour drive); Samara (3-hour drive); Nosara (3.5-hour drive); Playa Flamingo (2 hours and 15 minutes). Therefore, I recommend allowing a full day to visit this natural beauty!

Rio Celeste is located within Tenorio Volcano National Park, and unless you have your own vehicle, you will need to join a tour.   This specific tour   leaves Tamarindo at 6:30 am and includes a guided walk through  Tenorio Volcano National Park , a visit to Llanos de Cortez Waterfall, and a guided tour through Finca Verde Lodge for a sloth and wildlife tour. 

If you do have your own vehicle, I recommend leaving the town you’re staying in really early to arrive at the park around opening time at 8 am. This is the best time to visit without the crowds and be sure to visit the waterfall first. This is the busiest attraction in the park and by 10 am the staircase down is packed. The entrance fee is $12 USD per person. 

7. Go ziplining

Ziplining through the forests of Costa Rica is such a fun way to see the amazing scenery and get an adrenaline rush! This is one of the most popular things to do on the Guanacaste! You can try ziplining at many of the towns on the Guanacaste, including Liberia, Tamarindo, Nosara, and Playa Flamingo. 

Ziplining is also available in Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park, where you can zip through the trees, rock climb, swing, and cross over a hanging bridge over the White River Canyon. One of the best ways to go zip lining here is on this  Guachipelin Adventure Volcano Combo . This epic full-day adventure only costs $135 USD for the self-drive option (what we did) or $149 for the included transport; you can get picked up in Liberia, Playa Flamingo, and Playa Coco for this particular tour. 

Just outside of Playa Flamingo,  The Guanacaste Forest Zipline tour  takes place at a large farm that has been in the same family for generations. This zipline course consists of nine different cables suspended at 390 feet (119 meters)! Some of the ziplines stretch as far as 1,800 feet (549 meters) long! As you zip through the forest, you’ll see various birds , families of howler monkeys, iguanas, and horses and cattle from the farm. There are three different times for the tour 8 am, 10 am, and 1:30 pm, with each tour taking about three hours. The morning tour is the best because it’s much cooler and you’re more likely to see wildlife.

The most popular ziplining tour in Nosara is the canopy tour with   Miss Sky . Their canopy tour is the longest in the world at 11 kilometers (6.8 miles). You’ll do 21 ziplines on the tour that are on average 500 meters (1,640 feet) long. The tour also includes a stop at a waterfall and finishes with a zipline into a five-story building. 

In Tamarindo, ziplining is more about being above the canopy with wide-open views that let you know just how high up you are. You’ll go fast, get a little scared, but overall, have a great time. 

There are a few different tour options in Tamarindo, depending on what you want. The first, and what I did, was a ziplining tour on its own.  Tours such as this one  cost only $65 USD and involve a ride out into the mountains and around ten ziplines. It’s a great introduction, and the tours last around 1 hour. Of course, you can see lots of wildlife and enjoy spectacular views. 

8. Go see the turtles at Playa del Ostional

Turtles are one of the most amazing animals in Costa Rica. And the Guanacaste province is so important as a nesting habitat for several species of turtles. Thousands of turtles visit this stretch of the Pacific coast every month for breeding, they lay eggs on the beaches here, and as a result, tourists flock here to see the turtles . In my opinion, this is one of the best things to do on the Guanacaste (in fact, I’d go as far as to say it’s a must-do!).

There are two nesting seasons here in Guanacaste. From September to December, you can see green and black pacific turtles, while olive ridley turtles can be seen from September to April – these are the ones you will witness at Playa del Ostional. 

At Playa del Ostional during these months, this phenomenon occurs a week before a new moon about once or twice a month. It’s known as an arribada, and it’s one of the best things we’ve witnessed during our time in Costa Rica. 

From Nosara, you can book a tour to Playa del Ostional for $60 USD per person. You will leave Nosara early in the morning or just after dark. These tours just include transport and not a tour guide nor food etc. Alternatively, if you’re after a more in-depth tour, book your tour with the   Wildlife Conservation Association . Their tour involves talking with an expert about the phenomena, transport, and a guided tour on the beach. This costs $150 USD per person plus a $35 USD fee. 

From Samara, you can book  this specific tour  which visits one of three beaches – Playa del Ostional, Playa Camaronal, or Playa Corozalito. 

Because the tours take place in the dark, taking photos can be difficult because you can’t use your flash. 

There are other beaches along the Guanacaste to see turtles other than Playa del Ostional, although that is the most popular spot. From Playa Flamingo, this   night nesting tour with Flamingo Adventure s  includes an experienced guide who will take you to a secluded beach. You’ll get a special red light to see them in the dark that won’t disturb the turtles as they lay their eggs. The tour is $59 USD and includes transportation.  

From Tamarindo, you can also see turtles at Playa Grande, which is located next to Tamarindo Beach. Although the beach is separated from Tamarindo by the river, water taxis take you across for only 1,000 Colones ($1.60 USD.) Although you do need to plan ahead to spot the giant leatherback turtles because they can only be seen between November and April.  On this turtle nesting tour , you can see Green Pacific and Olive Ridley turtles pretty much year-round, and it’s 4 hours in duration. 

9. Go boutique shopping

I don’t know about you, but I just love picking up some unique souvenirs and clothing when I’m on vacation because it means I’ll have something to take home that nobody else will have. Lucky for me then that the Guanacaste is filled with some fantastic boutique shops; in fact, I spent many hours here shopping, and I picked up some really cool stuff! Some of the best towns to go boutique shopping in this region include Nosara, Samara, and Tamarindo. 

Nosara is filled with small boutique shops that sell clothing you probably wouldn’t expect to see in a small beach town in Costa Rica . I loved shopping at  WLDFLWRS , which is connected to the brewery in town. Some other great places to shop include  Love Nosara   and  MaderArte . These boutique stores are certainly not cheap, but the quality is high. 

Shopping is also excellent in Tamarindo! There’s a variety of great boutique shops to pick up unique clothing or a new bathing suit or explore a local market. Every Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm, the Tama Market sells everything from fruits and vegetables to locally-made jewelry.  The Tama Market is located behind Plaza Tamarindo   near the skatepark. Another great market in Tamarindo is the  Tamarindo Moonlight Market  which is held on Thursday nights from 6 pm to 9 pm and has delicious Costa Rican food along with live music and performances.  

There are plenty of boutique shops in Sámara too.   Gypsy Boutique Sámara  is a firm favorite of mine and has some really cool woven bags. Another cool place is a jewelry stall located in the small food court next to   Rosa  restaurant. The selection here is mesmerizing, and I could have spent all day looking at their collection. 

10. Visit Belen Waterfall

Belen Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall with some small natural swimming pools at the top that are a refreshing place to cool off on a hot day. The falls look the most magnificent in the rainy season (June to November), but we visited in December, and they were still flowing.  Located around 25 minutes from Sámara by car, this is the closest town to the falls.

I have heard that Belen Waterfall is not overly enjoyable towards the end of the dry season around April. Without the rain, the waterfall becomes stagnant, and algae bloom. Unfortunately, there was some algae during our visit in December, so it’s best to keep your head above the water when swimming here.  

The waterfall does get quite busy on weekends, but you can visit with very few people around during the week. If you don’t have your own car, you’ll need to rent a scooter or ATV, take the bus, or organize a tour/taxi. 

If you’re coming from Samara you can catch the bus from downtown Sámara heading towards Nicoya. Tell the driver you are going to Carretera Belen – he will know where to stop. Once off the bus, you need to walk 2 kilometers from the highway down a country road. Of course, you can always try to hitchhike too! 

Once there, a guy charges everyone 1,000 Colones ($1.88 USD) for “parking” regardless of whether you took the bus or not. 

Finding the waterfall is pretty easy with Google Maps, and you can  find its location here . Just be sure to keep an eye out for the sign on your right as you get really close to the waterfall. We drove too far, thinking the sign was for another waterfall (silly us) and it would be tough to turn around in a car on the narrow road. 

11. Relax at a beach club

Beach clubs are some of my favorite places to relax while on holiday. Great food, cocktails, and service right to your lounge chair on the beach – does it really get any better? There are several great beach clubs in the Guanacaste region, specifically in Tamarindo and Samara – which I will detail below. 

Tamarindo is known for its nightlife! So, if you’re here in the evening, head to one of the beach clubs to enjoy a few drinks and watch the sunset. In my opinion, the beach clubs in Tamarindo really have to be enjoyed at sunset at least once during your stay. We enjoyed the  Ocho Beach Bar  at the southern end of Tamarindo with its live DJs and happy hour specials. You must try their sangria! Another great beach club is  El Be , and they also have great cocktails and a more central location. 

While staying in Samara, we spent a lot of time at two beach clubs there. The first was   Gusto Beach Restaurant Pizzeria Bar . They offer free beach chairs with the purchase of a meal, so this is where I spent most of my days escaping from the sun right on the beach. The second was  La Dolce Vita ! Here is where I spent my sunsets and nights enjoying my first drinks or a light meal. The restaurant often has live music, and it’s so popular that you need to reserve a table during peak season. There are other beach clubs in Sámara, but these are two of the best!

In Playa Flamingo, Cocos Loco is very popular. While you’re here, you HAVE to try their signature drink named after the restaurant. The Coco Loco Cocktail is served frozen in a coconut and is made with coconut water, coconut cream, guaro, rum, and tequila.  

12. Go scuba diving

Scuba diving in Costa Rica is truly a bucket list activity, and in my opinion, one of the best places in the world to dive is right here on the Guanacaste Peninsula, specifically around the Las Catalinas Islands near Playa Flamingo and Bat Island close to Tamarindo. Although expensive, these areas are a great place to learn to dive and get certified if you’re a beginner!

Scuba diving around the Las Catalinas Islands is an amazing way to see incredible wildlife in an underwater paradise. This area is known for its giant manta rays, reef sharks, sea turtles, dolphins, and humpback whales. If you’re an experienced scuba diver with your certification,   this specific tour is a great option  that includes two 45-minute dives. You can be picked up from your hotel (most locations in Tamarindo, Playa Grande, Playa Conchal, and Playa Flamingo) and taken to the Playa Flamingo Dive Centre, where you’ll get on a boat and head out.  

If you’ve never been scuba diving before or are looking to get your certification, the Guanacaste is a great place to do it. You can complete your  PADI Open Water Diver Certification as part of this course , including the chance to scuba dive off the coast of Playa Flamingo. The course is completed over multiple days, including diving in a pool and diving in the ocean. The great thing about this certification is that it’s good for a lifetime, so you can scuba dive anywhere in the world!  

You can also do your PADI Open Water dive course in Tamarindo for $800 USD. If you just want to experience diving, you can also do this  half-day dive course  that has you diving in the ocean. Although you won’t get certified, it’s a great introduction with 5 hours of training and a dive to 10 meters (33 feet). 

Similarly, there are some fantastic dive spots near Tamarindo that beginner and advanced divers will really enjoy! As I’ve mentioned earlier, the best dive experience is out to Bat Island to swim with bull sharks. This is a fantastic opportunity for Advanced Open Water certified divers to challenge themselves and swim with large sharks.  The tour includes two dives , one at Bat Island (where the bull sharks are) and the second near Playa del Coco, where you can see manta rays, turtles, and other ocean life. 

I should also note that the small town of Playa Coco is a great spot to base yourself if you love scuba diving; that’s because of its close proximity to some top dive sites, including Monkey Head, Bat Islands, and Catalinas Islands. There are numerous dive shops in the town where you can book yourself a dive tour. 

13. Horseback riding

Horseback riding is without a doubt one of the most popular things to do in Guanacaste; in fact, there are several places you can ride a horse here – from a beach horseback ride in Playa Flamingo to a jungle trek near Nosara, there’s a horseback adventure suitable for every type of traveler in the Guanacaste region. 

Riding a horse along a beautiful beach is really popular in Playa Flamingo. It’s a great way to enjoy the beach and view from a totally different perspective! I recommend booking a tour for this, and  this particular Horseback Riding Jungle and Beach Tour  is excellent as it also includes transportation there and back. Before you start, the team helps you pick out a horse that is suited for your level. The two-hour tour includes rainforest trails where you might spot howler monkeys, iguanas, and parakeets and then a walk (or gallop!) along the beach. My top tip for this tour is to bring long pants, good shoes, and your camera!  

Another beach that is popular for horse riding is Tamarindo beach. All up and down the beach, you’ll find people offering horseback riding tours. A great time to enjoy a ride is at sunset, and you can ride the entire length of the beach. These tours can be negotiated on the beach but expect to pay around $40 USD for an hour ride. If you want more of a tour, you can book horseback riding tours in the mountains too. Tour companies such as   Natives Way Costa Rica  offer a 2-hour tour for only $65 USD. 

Whilst horse riding in Nosara is a little different but equally as awesome. That’s because the entire area here is filled with trails used to navigate the mountains, rivers, and dense jungle.  On this horseback riding tour , you’ll head off with your newfound friend and explore the area for 1 hour. Along the way, you’ll cross rivers, spot monkeys, and even take the horses for a shower afterward. It’s a fun and exciting experience, and they even have ponies for kids as well as all the safety gear required. Most importantly, you’ll ride horses that are really well cared for and groomed. 

If you want the best of both worlds from your horse riding adventure – the beach and the jungle, then  this tour   from Samara is a great choice! The tour encompasses all the terrain around Sámara, including the river, jungle, and beach. This means you get to experience all that Sámara has to offer and have the chance to see monkeys, birds, butterflies, and crocodiles. The tour lasts for 2.5 hours and finishes on Sámara Beach. If you can, I highly recommend doing the sunset ride starting at 4 pm! 

You can also do a horseback riding tour at Ponderosa Adventure Park, 15 minutes from Liberia; the tour takes you along some tropical forest trails. 

14. Go fishing

Costa Rica has some of the best fishing spots in the world! Experiencing the thrill of reeling in a big catch is definitely one of the best Guanacaste activities. You’ll need a tour to fish in the waters here, and you can book a tour from most locations in Guanacaste.

From Playa Flamingo, there are both half-day and full-day options available. The half-day option is this   sportfishing private charter tour   which includes inshore fishing around the islands off the coast of Playa Flamingo. Depending on the season, you’re likely to catch mahi-mahi, red snapper, yellowfin tuna, or jack carvelle. You might even reel in a roosterfish – the crew calls it a “great fighting fish that will leave your arms tired but put a smile on your face.” The cost is $500 for up to five people.  

For a longer trip,   this all-inclusive full-day charter  takes you offshore fishing for $1,500 for a group of up to six. Offshore is where you’re more likely to get some of the big game sportfish like sailfish, marlin, dorado, wahoo, and roosterfish. The captain and crew are all experienced fishermen and will help clean, bag, and ice whatever you catch so you can enjoy it later.  

Fishing charters are also a very popular activity in Tamarindo. There are lots of fishing charter companies based here, and you can choose from inshore and offshore charters. The inshore charters only go a few miles off the coast and tend to fish for small tuna, snapper, wahoo, and dorado. Inshore tours are typically only half days (4 hours.)   This specific tour costs $540 USD for four people .

On an offshore charter, the tour lasts for 9 hours (there are also options for 7), and you can fish for sailfish and marlin. Of course, the tour can also go inshore, so you can mix it up depending on what’s working.

Although there is no “season” for fishing in Tamarindo, there are better times of the month as the quality of the fishing depends on ocean currents, availability of baitfish, and water temperature. However, you can catch fish all year round. 

Please be aware that you need a fishing license in Costa Rica. This costs $17 USD for eight days; however, it’s not policed heavily. 

15. Visit Parque Nacional Palo Verde

Parque Nacional Palo Verde is one of the best spots to see wildlife in Costa Rica – especially birds. Spanning more than 45,000 acres,  Palo Verde  is one of the most densely populated areas of migratory birds in all of Central America. 

The park is easily accessible from Liberia at about an hour’s drive via the main Inter-American highway, but you can also drive here from other towns in Guanacaste if you have a rental car. There is a bus that you can catch into Bagaces town that leaves from Liberia, and then from Bagaces, you would need to get a Uber or taxi 20 km (12.4 mi) down the gravel road which leads to the park. 

During the rainy season, floodwaters from the Tempisque River create huge marshes here that attract all types of birds. Then in the dry season (typically from December to May), the marshes shrink to form smaller pockets of water throughout the park. It’s best to plan a visit here during the dry season as roads can be completely impassable after heavy rains.

To see the most wildlife, find one of the smaller bodies of water and just sit and wait. You’ll likely spot lots of birds and may even be lucky enough to see some howler monkeys or capuchin monkeys. Or head out on the 20-meter (66 feet) boardwalk at Laguna Palo Verde – another great place to see the animals that call this park home. Alternatively, this jungle river cruise which departs from Tamarindo, Playa Coco or Playa Flamingo is a great way to get up close to the wildlife!

Getting Around Costa Rica

How you choose to get around Costa Rica is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your holiday here! How you do it depends on your budget, travel style, and comfort level. 

Renting a Car

Without a doubt, the number one way to explore Costa Rica is in a rental car. We book rental cars on the Discover Cars website as we have had good experiences with them in the past.

One of the things you need to watch for when renting a car in Costa Rica is the mandatory insurance that the government requires you to have. There are a lot of very cheap rentals that don’t include this mandatory insurance (TPL) in the original booking price, but there are also ones that do. To avoid additional surprise charges when you pick up your rental car, be sure to rent a car that includes the mandatory insurance when you book.

Thankfully, on Discover Cars it’s easy to tell apart the companies that include the mandatory insurance and those that don’t. The trick is you can’t pick any car on their website. In the picture below, you can see this rental car, with pick up in Jaco, includes the TPL. That means the mandatory insurance is included in the price. Any cover you get above that is extra.

Of course, I still suggest getting the full coverage offered by Discover Cars, which covers you even more.

You can  browse cars on Discover Cars here .

Book Shuttles

If renting a car isn’t in your budget, you don’t feel comfortable driving in Costa Rica , or you just don’t like driving, shuttles are the next best option. There are hundreds of shuttle routes available all over the country, and they are very affordable.

Shuttles in Costa Rica are specifically for tourists and often include pick up and drop off at your selected hotels and airports. The drivers also speak some English, and the vehicles have air conditioning. You’ll also be guaranteed a seat when you book a shuttle (which isn’t the case with the public bus system.)

To get the best price, use the website  Bookaway . They compare all the offers and prices of shuttle companies in Costa Rica so you get the best price! Honestly, we have saved so much money using Bookaway! 

You can search for shuttles online on Bookaway here.

Lastly, you can use the public bus system. On short journeys, such as from San Jose to La Fortuna or Uvita to Manuel Antonio, this system is great. However, the longer the journey the more hassle and time spent on a bus. It’s undoubtedly best to save the public bus in Costa Rica for short and straightforward trips!  

The public buses are definitely the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica, but they are not always very reliable and schedules often change without notice and delays are to be expected. The buses can also be very crowded and hot – so just be prepared!

It’s also good to speak some Spanish if you plan on riding the public bus since most drivers and ticket booth operators don’t speak English.

Thanks for reading!

Guanacaste on the Nicoya Peninsula is certainly one of my favorite places for a vacation; I mean, it has great surf, stunning beaches, and perfect weather. What more could you want?!

Thanks so much for visiting Costa Rica Travel life. I hope this guide to the best things to do in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, has helped you better understand this large province. I just know you will love your time there; I, for one, cant wait to return soon!

Please browse around our website; I’m sure you’ll find lots of more useful information! 

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Monday 4th of December 2023

Thank you guys for awesome detailed review, story and advice! Keep a good work! I enjoyed reading every line.

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Guanacaste Travel Guide – Your Ultimate Resource for Exploring Costa Rica’s Coastal Paradise

If you’ve been tempted to visit Costa Rica by visions of curling Pacific waves, honey-colored beaches, and shores where coconut palms dip low to meet the sands, then chances are you’ve been tempted by Guanacaste province. This most northwestern corner of Costa Rica is one of the most celebrated regions of the country.

The happening surfer mecca of Tamarindo is here, with perfect, cruising point breaks for those who bring the boards. So is the chilled Playas del Coco and the yoga hub of Nosara. These salt-washed relaxation havens are balanced out by an inland of volcanic sierras and smoking volcanos, cloud forests, and eco lodges in the jungles. And if you’re an adventure enthusiast, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the captivating Rincón de la Vieja National Park, known for its breathtaking landscapes.

Check out this customizable Guanacaste tour .

This guide will run through everything you need to know about traveling through the epic region of Guanacaste. It’ll touch on the famous surf towns and the adventure activities in the inland reserves, while also highlighting the best times to visit and the logistics of getting there and around.

If at any point throughout this guide you find yourself with any questions, reach out to The Explorer’s Passage for help building your dream trip. Let’s begin!

My experience in Guanacaste

Guanacaste is the Costa Rica that people dream of while stuck at their office desk or while commuting to and from work. The coastline is where it hits that most quintessentially tropical zenith. There are beaches of all shapes and sizes, few I don’t pine after during those cold winters. I’m talking about the likes of the golden Playa Guiones in Nosara and the glistening Playa Conchal further north.

Travel has not only become my passion but also my profession, as I proudly founded The Explorer’s Passage, an premier industry award-winning adventure travel company. We are a team with over three decades of expertise in Costa Rica, confident in our position as the best tour operator in this remarkable destination.

Should you find yourself with questions while reading this guide, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us . We would be more than happy to assist you in crafting your perfect journey!

What’s in this guide?

Where is guanacaste, how to get to guanacaste, getting around, the best time to visit guanacaste, the top places to visit in guanacaste, where to stay in guanacaste.

• More beaches to visit

Why travel with The Explorer’s Passage?

Guanacaste is as far north and west in Costa Rica as it’s possible to go. The province begins right on the Nicaragua border and rolls south as the Guanacaste Volcanic Mountain Range delineates its eastern end.

Guanacaste also occupies a large chunk of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, too, which is where you’ll find all those lauded beach surf towns, from Tamarindo to Nosara. Guanacaste also creeps up into the famous Central American cloud forests that await northeast of San José – the bucket-list biodiversity hotspot of Monteverde that is no more than 10 miles (16 kilometers) from the provincial boundary.

That’s easy. The very fact that Guanacaste’s popular national parks host some of the best beaches in the whole of Central America, let alone Costa Rica, means that it’s among the most accessible regions of the country.

For example, you can arrive from the Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) (also known as the San José International Airport) which is around a 3-hour drive from the Guanacaste provincial border. So you shouldn’t have any shortage of buses or private shuttle options from the capital after you jet in or pass through while connecting from other major destinations further south and east.

The Liberia Guanacaste Airport (LIR) offers another convenient option as it’s located just about a 35-minute taxi ride from the beaches or about 25 minutes from Guanacaste’s vibrant capital city of Liberia . Now the second-largest airport in the country, the Liberia Guanacaste Airport has a range of long-haul links from Europe and North America, including popular seasonal connections from Zurich, London, and Los Angeles.

Liberia, Costa Rica serves as a gateway to the country’s stunning beaches and national parks. The city of Liberia is a great starting point to tour some of the areas that make Guanacaste truly remarkable. Jetting there gets you into the heart of the Guanacaste province, just over an hour’s drive from the waves of Tamarindo and about the same from the western banks of Lake Arenal. As a bustling urban center, Liberia offers modern amenities and radiates traditional charm. 

So you made it to Guanacaste, now what? Traveling along some of the major highways, whether by private organized transport or public options, will allow you to see some wonderful attractions. There are oodles of beach towns in Guanacaste to explore that are all linked neatly together by Route 21 as it cuts right through the heart of the Nicoya Peninsula. There are also mountain resorts, cloud forests, and national parks that you can reach by traveling along the well-maintained Highway 1 towards San José, a part of the famous Pan-American Highway.

While some choose to rent their own vehicle, we would caution against it. As is the case across Costa Rica, smaller provincial roads in Guanacaste aren’t always paved and can be prone to landslides and mud. That can make travel by a car rental both unpredictable and challenging, particularly during the rainy season (April to September).

It is for these reasons why opting to plan your trip with a travel company, like The Explorer’s Passage, who has strong local knowledge allows you to take advantage of years of expertise and travel with peace of mind. Be sure to choose a trusted travel operator who is familiar with the local region’s intricacies, ensuring that you make the most of your time in Guanacaste without the potential challenges of driving yourself. This is arguably the best approach for hassle-free transportation.

Another option for getting around Guanacaste is tourist shuttles which have a capacity ranging from 6 to 12 passengers. However, even tourist shuttles can’t quite compare to the level of convenience, comfort, and flexibility offered by a travel company who offers private transportation arrangements to and from the airport, as well as throughout your trip.

The dry season is widely seen as the best time to visit the province of Guanacaste. That officially runs from November to late-March, but can actually begin in October and linger on well into the summer months in these parts, since Guanacaste is the hottest and driest of all the regions in Costa Rica. Average daytime temperatures remain steady throughout this time, usually 70-90°F (31-87°C). You can also go weeks without seeing a drop of rain. It’s the best beach weather you could ask for.

There are some exceptions to the rule. Firstly, intermediate- and advanced-level surfers might actually want to come in the wet season months of June, July, and August. The waves are bigger and more consistent then, with big storm systems sending up the swell from deep in the Southern Hemisphere.

Secondly, wildlife lovers could also do better with birdwatching and sloth spotting tours in the cloud forests in the months immediately after the wet season, when the numerous national parks are at their lushest and most vibrant. If wildlife is the inspiration for your trip, check out this full species list of Guanacaste wildlife .

You could spend months and months exploring Guanacaste province on its own and not get bored. But there are some best places that we think all first-time travelers to the Guanacaste region simply must have on the itinerary. They are:

Playa Tamarindo is blessed with a handful of seriously high-quality surf breaks that cater to all levels of board riders. There’s a hollow river mouth wave to the north (beware of the crocs!) that barrels routinely on southerly swells. All that’s transformed the place into something of a chillout hub, with more after-surf clubs and cocktail bars than you can shake your piña colada at.

Even if you aren’t chasing waves, there are plenty of opportunities for other popular beach activities such as kayaking, catamaran tours, fishing tours, and more.

Tamarindo is known for its prime location in eastern Guanacaste that makes it a major draw for visitors. Despite its modest size as a surf town in Costa Rica, this area offers the convenience of being in close proximity to a vibrant nightlife scene with lively bars, delicious restaurants, and diverse shops. Additionally, Tamarindo provides access to a selection of upscale, all-inclusive hotels and resorts to choose from.

Tamarindo is also right beside Playa Grande, a nesting site for endangered leatherback turtles protected as part of Las Baulas National Marine Park. This pristine beach comes with a relaxed atmosphere, best for swimming, sunbathing, and wildlife encounters.

The jungle-covered sierras of central Guanacaste tumble down to the shoreline in gorgeous fashion around the surf-yoga town of Nosara. A bit further from the big resorts of the northern Nicoya, this one’s for those who prefer to be out of the action while in Costa Rica.

Nosara is known for its more laid-back vibes compared to neighboring beach towns in Guanacaste like Tamarindo.  Nosara’s tranquil nature aligns with its famous yoga scene, offering various world-class retreats from both daily classes to week-long immersive experiences.

Nosara itself is a district that has many towns and beaches. Guiones is a town where you’ll find healthy cafes and eco shops strung along the main sands of Playa Guiones, which also happens to host the finest waves in the area (and is great for beginner surfers). There’s also no shortage of locally owned family shops that make up a majority of Nosara’s businesses. 

Just north of Playa Guiones, Playa Nosara offers an authentic Guanacaste experience with top-notch lodging, restaurants, and opportunities for yoga and surfing. Other beach towns include Pelada, a small town popular among both tourists and locals, and Garza, a small local fishing town where you might find boats departing for snorkeling tours and whale watching tours.

Venture to the hills above and you’ll find some of the lushest coastal rainforests in this section of Costa Rica, with hiking trails to waterfall tours and more. Or head to the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge , a protected sanctuary dedicated to preserving the nesting grounds of turtles that use the Ostional beach each month to lay their eggs.

• Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park

The Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park straddles the extreme eastern edge of Guanacaste. The national park is a whole world away from the cinnamon-hued beaches that the region is known for. We’re talking 34,000 acres (nearly 13,800 hectares) of rugged highland terrain in Costa Rica that’s carved through by cascading waterfalls and clad in primeval rainforests. There’s even space in the national park for not one, but two volcanic summits!

Rincón de la Vieja National Park also provides access to several marked hiking paths from the Santa María Ranger Station in Guanacaste. Also, don’t miss the chance to get your adrenaline pumping with whitewater rafting and canyoning tours.

• The Bat Islands

The Bat Islands, known as the Islas Murciélagos to the locals, are one of the best-kept secrets of Guanacaste. They fragment off the far northern corner of the province, just opposite the forested headlands of the Santa Rosa National Park.

Diving is the top activity here. Avid scuba veterans come to Costa Rica to score visibilities of up to 100 feet (about 30 meters) and dive sites that go down more than 115 feet (about 35 meters) to reveal sea caves and volcanic reefs. Sightings of the formidable bull shark are very common, as are manta rays and big coral sponges, which are a touch safer to be around.

• Lake Arenal

Just under 16 miles (approximately 26 kilometers) of the 17-mile-long (around 27 kilometers) Lake Arenal lies within the borders of Guanacaste province. Though the adventure mecca of the Arenal National Park is mainly in the neighboring Alajuela province.

Lake Arenal is the largest lake in Costa Rica and a veritable windsurfing haven, offering steady 20-30 mph (32-48 kph) gusts during the dry season months. When the water stills in the wet season, lake kayaking and hiking the surrounding peaks takes over. Get ready for some incredible vistas of the Arenal Volcano on the horizon! If Arenal National Park has caught your interest, check the amazing Arenal Tour we offer.

For more details, check out this  customizable Guanacaste tour .

Naturally, where you stay in Guanacaste will depend on where you choose to go. But there are some eco lodges, all-inclusive resorts, and hotels that we keep going back to because we think they offer something unique and unforgettable.

Check out our top picks for best places to stay in Guanacaste by location:

• Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort – Treat yourself to a touch of luxury in the midst of hedonistic Tamarindo by choosing to stay at Tamarindo Diria. This highly rated, 4-star hotel offers you front-row seat views that overlook surf breaks and a huge central pool that’s a few paces from the beach. This resort also has all-inclusive packages to choose from.
• W Costa Rica Reserva Conchal – The W Costa Rica resort hotel is a hidden paradise in Guanacaste nestled amidst lush mangroves and sugar-white sands. Admire panoramic reserve views from your suite’s private plunge pool, unwind at the resort spa, and dance the night away at the electrifying Zona Azul club.
• Westin Reserva Conchal – This is an all-inclusive golf resort and spa. Positioned between Costa Rica’s forests and beaches, this 2,400-acre (971-hectare) retreat offers a lagoon-style pool, championship golf course, and rejuvenating amenities like their Heavenly Spa.
• Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge – Perched on one of the coastal ridges around Nosara, this hotel has suites that open to visions of black-sand beaches and untouched tropical rainforests rolling north along the Nicoya Peninsula. It’s also got a wonderful infinity pool with the very same eye-watering views!
• The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel – The original surfer’s spot in Guanacaste with direct access to Playa Guiones, The Gilded Iguana is a hotel loved by surfers, yoga enthusiasts, and adventure travelers. Experience a relaxing yoga retreat or thrilling mountain biking at a historic landmark that brings together Costa Rica travelers of all kinds.
• Olas Verdes Hotel – This hotel is a small beachfront retreat in Nosara. It offers easy access to sand and surf in a serene atmosphere. Olas Verdes is perfect if you’re looking for surf and yoga lessons, exploring nearby restaurants, and hanging out by your private wave-shaped pool.

RINCÓN DE LA VIEJA

• Borinquen Thermal Resort – Get into the Guanacaste jungles and glimpse at the peaks of the Rincón de la Vieja reserve here. Great hiking trails lay at the doorstep of this resort. Also, the rooms are spacious and comfy and beautiful waterfalls are close by, but the real pull has to be the natural hot springs that offer a relaxing soak on site.
• Hotel Hacienda Guachipelín  – With views of the dry tropical forest and Rincón de la Vieja Volcano , this award-winning eco-hotel offers 79 comfortable ranch-style rooms and suites. It even offers access to natural volcanic hot springs and tours through the nearby Rincón de la Vieja National Park.

THE BAT ISLANDS (In the Santa Rosa National Park)

• Dreams Las Mareas – Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica is an emerald sanctuary on the shores of Playa El Jobo. Its all-inclusive family packages include luxuries like limitless dining and drinks, access to tours of the neighboring national park, and chances to explore the pristine beach where mischievous monkeys swing from the Guanacaste trees.
• Nandel Beach Resort – Along the northwest corner of Guanacaste, Nandel Beach Resort has a private beach, two outdoor pools, and a restaurant. Picture yourself still enjoying views of the lush Santa Rosa National Park from the comfort of your air-conditioned hotel room or while lounging on a terrace.

LAKE ARENAL

• Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa – This is the ultimate green-friendly luxury retreat in Costa Rica’s La Fortuna. Get ready to unwind in spacious suites, complete with Juliet balconies and volcano views. Access to rejuvenating thermal water spas more than make up for the lack of a beach.
• Arenal Manoa Resort Hotel & Hot Springs – A paradise for both adventure enthusiasts and relaxation seekers. Take a dip in Arenal Manoa’s mineral-rich hot springs or satisfy your taste buds at the resort’s Alambique Bistro, and get a chance to see the day-to-day workings of a typical Costa Rican farm.
• Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa – A five-star resort nestled amidst the lush rainforest and at the base of the majestic Arenal Volcano and near its national park. This resort has it all – nature, adventure, and pure relaxation. Indulge in luxurious rooms, soak in the healing thermal mineral spring river, and explore the exclusive Shangri-La Gardens.

More Guanacaste beaches to visit

While we’ve already delved into some of the most famous hotspots of Guanacaste province, it’s time to uncover more of the beautiful beaches we can’t leave off the list.

Here are some of the other best beaches to visit during your trip to Guanacaste:

• Playa Conchal – Just north of Tamarindo and nearby the town of Brasilito, Playa Conchal in Costa Rica is known for its exceptional sand made up of finely crushed seashells. Surrounded by abundant foliage and pristine, azure waters, this beach is ideal to tour for snorkelers and sunbathers.
• Playa Hermosa – Playa Hermosa has a striking shoreline and powerful surf breaks. It’s a favored destination for seasoned surfers and is known for hosting many international surfing events. Playa Hermosa overlooks the Papagayo Peninsula in northern Guanacaste and is relatively uncrowded, providing a serene environment for those seeking a calm paradise.
• Playa Rajada – Also known as Playa El Jobo, Playa Rajada is a stunning beach that can be found in Guanacaste near the Costa Rica border by Nicaragua near the Guanacaste National Park. This Costa Rican beach offers a remote and secluded coastal experience.
• Playa Sámara – On the Nicoya Peninsula near a small town called Galilea lies Playa Sámara, a beautiful beach adored by Costa Rica visitors. Its captivating landscape, tranquil waters, and laid-back ambiance have made it a beloved destination for those seeking beauty and serenity.
• Playas del Coco – Playas del Coco is a fishing village and a popular beach with a 1.8-mile (3-kilometer) stretch of dark sand beach in the Gulf of Papagayo, near the previously mentioned Playa Hermosa. It is known for its easy access to shops, tours, and restaurants, making it an ideal family-friendly destination.

If you’ve enjoyed these travel tips and are seeking more, The Explorer’s Passage has plenty more hidden-gem attractions, beaches, and more in Guanacaste that we can recommend based on your preferences.

At The Explorer’s Passage, we organize many exciting tours to all corners of Costa Rica,  creating unforgettable experiences for our guests. We are experts in tailoring trips to fit your budget, offering many options from tours that can include only the essentials to indulgent trips with all-inclusive hotel stays.

Our dedicated team is here to assist you with whatever you may need from arranging international flights and in-country transfers to planning special excursions, finding authentic restaurants, and much more. Just let our team know what you need!  

Experience Guanacaste with the best tour operator in Costa Rica. With over 30 years of experience in the tourism industry, our team has extensive local knowledge and networks that you can trust.

We pride ourselves on delivering extraordinary tours based on travelers’ needs and are humbled by our guests’ testimonials . In fact, our dedication has earned us a 5-star rating on Tripadvisor , and awards by Travel+Leisure Magazine and Newsweek. Check us out and discover why so many travelers worldwide choose us . My team and I would love for you to join us on a trip to Manuel Antonio or any of our many other adventure trips !

If you liked this post, be sure to check out The Ultimate Travel Guide to Costa Rica . You’ll also find more of this kind of adventure content on our blog page !

Cheers, Jeff

Jeff Bonaldi Founder & CEO The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi

Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE .

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3 replies to this topic

Age is just a number. Are you suggesting that you have mobility limitations? Getting to that waterfall involves a lot of steps.

Both of these require some reasonably easy hiking; you’d have the option of seeing waterfalls without doing a lot of stairs.

It is 500 steps down and 500 steps up, and you have to pay to do it. It's a waterfall, and there are plenty of others and some are still free.

There are places to sit down to rest, but yes, there are lots of steps each way.

The trail to the Arenal Observatory’s smaller waterfall has considerably fewer steps: https://www.arenalobservatorylodge.com/free-activities/danta-waterfall-trail/ . Your day pass allows you to access the other trails, too - the legend of the map at https://www.arenalobservatorylodge.com/property-map/ shows the length and difficulty level of each trail.

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15 Interesting Facts About Costa Rica

C osta Rica is a land of diversity. There are adventures for almost every kind of outdoor and nature enthusiast. Did you know that US News ranks Costa Rica #10 as one of the best countries for adventure?

What if you are looking for relaxation ? Discover some of the best beaches in Costa Rica.

Before you go, learn some of the interesting facts about Costa Rica that you may not already know along with Costa Rica highlights and tips for traveling in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica Highlights and Tours

Map of the guanacaste region of costa rica.

Guanacaste Region - Costa Rica Map courtesy of Google

Chris and I recently traveled to Costa Rica. It was our first time in the country as well as in Central America. Did you know that Central America is made up of 7 countries: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama ?

These are some of the interesting facts about Costa Rica that we learned from our research. Hopefully they will help you in your planning and to have a fun and safe adventure.

1. Tap Water is Generally Safe to Drink

If you have traveled to many Latin American countries, you know that the water quality may be somewhat iffy.

Costa Rica is a country that thrives on tourism. The Costa Rican government works hard to provide clean drinking water in almost every part of the country. I F YOU ARE CONCERNED, you may want to stick with drinking bottled water.

As Chris and I returned happy and healthy from our trip to Costa Rica after drinking the tap water, using ice cubes in the restaurants, and enjoying smoothies, we are now happy to share our experience.

We drank water both from the tap at our vacation rental as well as from a filtered water pitcher. Both were fine, though the filtered water tasted just a bit better in my opinion.

At the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo, we drank water from the tap as well as the bottled water provided for free in our rooms each day.

Check Out My Travel Gear Recommendations on Amazon

2. Mosquitos Are Aplenty

One thing you don’t always think about is the need for  bug spray in paradise . It is a must for your tropical vacation packing list and one of the very handy tips for traveling in Costa Rica.

I am a magnet for bites at home while my husband rarely gets bitten. After reading the recommendations from other travelers to bring bug spray, I did a little research and found the  BUGGINS Original Gnat & Mosquito Insect Repellent  with a light vanilla, mint and rose scent. I didn’t mind the smell at all.

Some  tropical locations  have mosquitoes and no-see-ums. Having been bitten by both, I prefer not to give those nasty bugs a chance.

I forgot to spray on bug spray for my last night in Costa Rica. After arriving home I began to notice small bites on my arms and legs.

3. You May Need a Rain Jacket

Although Chris and I traveled to Costa Rica at the beginning of the rainy season, we didn't see a drop of rain during our week-long stay. In fact, the weather was hotter than normal.

The rainy season is from May to November, and we traveled during the first week in May.

I would recommend tucking in a packable rain jacket just in case. Along with that, I would also suggest a waterproof cover for your backpack, especially if you carry expensive photography gear.

While Chris and I didn't experience any drastic changes in the weather, from what I could gather from my research, flash rainstorms are quite common.

We did take a day trip from the coast to a tropical rainforest and were sure to bring our rain jackets (just in case). The temperature was at least 15° cooler, but still pleasant. That takes me back to the previous tip however: be sure to wear bug spray!

4.Things to Know About Costa Rica if You Rent a Car

With our experience in choosing things to do in Guanacaste Costa Rica with excursions to Tamarindo, Playa del Coco, Plaga Langosta, Playa Hermosa, Rincon de la Vieja National Park, and the Papagayo Peninsula, I would definitely recommend renting a car.

If you choose to rent a car in Costa Rica, you will surely encounter Rental Car Insurance . Some agencies include the additional insurance in the quote when you rent online, and others will simply surprise you with it.

YOU ARE REQUIRED BY COSTA RICAN LAW TO ACCEPT THE MINIMUM RENTAL CAR COMPANY'S COLLISION DAMAGE WAIVER AND THIRD-PARTY INSURANCE .

This is regardless of the coverage you receive through your own credit card. You may, however, be given the option of different levels of coverage.

Chris and I opted for the minimum coverage . We had our rental car for one week, and the extra insurance added on approximately $150 to the total cost. If you aren't expecting this cost and haven't budgeted for it, you will definitely be surprised.

Manual-transmission vehicles are the standard . An automatic may be available, but you will need to request one in advance and they will most likely cost more to rent.

Is a 4x4 rental in Costa Rica a good thing? Yes. Yes. Yes.

Chris and I did not have a 4x4 and found that even getting up the hill to our vacation rental was a challenge in our low end car. Going back for another visit, we would definitely get a 4x4.

We also traveled over some very bumpy and questionable "roads". A 4x4 would have been so much nicer. There are limited options for local transport if you choose not to rent a car.

Additional Tips for Traveling in Costa Rica:

• Be a defensive driver and drive with caution
• Mountain roads are often winding and narrow
• You will find nicely paved roads as well as dirt roads that are bumpy and filled with potholes
• The assistants at the gas stations fill your gas tank for you
• Some roads are toll roads which require cash
• Police have been known to conduct routine stops to check documentation. You will need to show them your license and passport (to prove that you are driving within the time limit of your visa—30 days for tourists).

5. Carry Some Cash with You

Many of the places you stay, pre-booked attractions, and some restaurants will accept credit cards. It is a good idea, however, to exchange money for colones to be able to pay for those extras, some tips, and the local eateries that don't take credit cards.

6. Tipping is Not Mandatory in Costa Rica

Tipping is not mandatory in Costa Rica. You will find that many establishments already include a 10% tip or service charge. If you feel as though your guide, driver, hotel maid service, server, or excursion host has given you super service, tips are always appreciated.

The standard amount to tip in Costa Rica is 10% and you can give either Costa Rican colones or US dollars.

7. Costa Rica’s National Currency is the Colón

The national currency in Costa Rica is colones ₡.  You may be able to pay for accommodation and tours in USD as well as with your credit card, but having local currency on hand to pay at local eateries and such may be required.

1 USD is approximately = 600 colones

Chris and I booked a couples massage while in Costa Rica. When booking, they requested that we have the necessary amount in local currency to pay in colones. If you are unsure, ask.

8. Sales Tax and Service Fees

In Costa Rica, it is required by law that restaurants include a 10% service fee that translates as a tip. Sales tax for restaurants, retails stores, and tourism services is currently 13%.

9. Tips for Traveling in Costa Rica: There is No Daylight Saving Time

One of the important things to know about Costa Rica is that it does not follow Daylight Saving Time . Costa Rica is located roughly  10 degrees north of the equator .

From March to November, the current time in Costa Rica is the same as Mountain Daylight Time in the United States. For Chris and I, there was no time change at all . Yay for no jetlag! From mid-March to mid-November, the current time in Costa Rica would be the same as Central Time in the United States.

Sunset occurs around 6:00 pm each evening and the sky start to get light in the morning around 5:00 am.

10. Pay Attention to the Seasons When Booking

Interesting facts about Costa Rica to know before you go? It has two tropical season: dry season and green season .

Dry season (also known as high season ) is from December to April . During these months, many tourists arrive in Costa Rica to enjoy the tropical weather. Green season aka the rainy season is from May to November .

Chris and I visited at the beginning of the rainy season. We did not experience any rain; in fact, the weather was unseasonably hot. Many of the locals that we talked with were anxious for some cooler weather and rain.

We did not experience heavy rain nor mud, but if you travel to Costa Rica during the rainy season months, you will want to be prepared for the weather and driving conditions. It is always a good idea to bring your rain gear with you, even if the skies start out blue in the morning.

As far as the best time to go to Costa Rica? I would say, "Whenever you can get away!" I would think the shoulder season would be ideal: April to May and November and December.

11. Learn Basic Spanish Phrases

Wherever you travel in this great big world, it is a good idea to have a few LOCAL words and phrases ready to go when you visit. The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish. As one of the best tips for traveling in Costa Rica, do yourself a favor and learn a few of these basics words and phrases:

• Hello - Hola
• Goodbye - Adiós
• Please - Por favor
• Thanks - Gracias
• You're welcome - Con Mucho Gusto
• Good morning - Buenos días
• Good evening - Buenas noches
• How are you? - Cómo estás?
• Pure Life - Pura Vida

One of the fun facts about Costa Rica? You will hear "Pura Vida" often as it r epresents Costa Ricans' relaxed attitude towards life . It can be used to say "hello", "goodbye", "everything is okay", and to brush off negativity. It is a way of life and an attitude.

12. Wildlife

Costa Rica is full of a diverse population of animals and wildlife.

As Chris and I followed our guide in the Rincon de la Vieja National Park and tropical forest, we were surprised when he showed us snakes, butterflies, a toucan, and insects.

We would have never known they were there.

We visited the Diamante Animal Sanctuary as well where we saw monkeys, butterflies, sloths, jaguars and more. Again, if you are hiking in the forest, you may never spot them on your own.

We did, however, see plenty of monkeys at Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo. They were abundant in the trees around the resort. The first morning we saw them, we said, "Oh, how cute."

Turns out that some were howler monkeys! Important things to know about Costa Rica and monkeys: if they happen to be in the trees outside your hotel room as the sun goes down, you are in for a noisy night. The sounds coming out of these cute little monkeys is not so cute!

The most common creature that we saw while snorkeling was the sea urchin. While the water was not nearly so clear as the water in Moorea, Tahiti , there was still plenty to see in Costa Rica.

13. Fun Facts About Costa Rica: A "Soda"Isn't What You Think it Is!

One of things to know about Costa Rica is that a soda is a small eatery, much like a mom and pop restaurant. Sodas typically offer open-air seating, traditional Costa Rican food, and a relaxed vibe.

One of the best Costa Rica travel tips is to eat at a soda; it is an awesome way to immerse yourself in the culture while also saving a little money!

14. A Tour Guide is Worth the Investment

One of the benefits to a guided tour is having a guide who is accustomed to spotting the wildlife in nature that you would typically walk past without seeing.

Chris and I enjoyed a guided tour through the rainforest with Joaquin of Sensoria as one of our Costa Rica highlights. Our tour included a hike, waterfalls, time to relax in the thermal pools, climbing to the top of the viewing tower to see the volcano in the Rincon de la Vieja National Park, and lunch.

Joaquin, our guide, shared his expert knowledge of the rainforest, a few snake sightings ("Don't worry", he said. "Pit vipers aren't easily excited!" Yikes!), and was happy to take pictures for us.

15. Tips for Traveling in Costa Rica: WiFi is Available

As a forward-thinking country that relies on the tourism industry, Costa Rica is no stranger to technology. One of the important things to know about Costa Rica is that many populated areas have access to either cable or DSL high-speed Internet. WiFi is available free of charge in certain locations throughout the country.

Chris and I enjoyed great service at our vacation rental in Playa Hermosa as well as at the Andaz resort on the Papagayo Peninsula.

Travel and Photography Gear

Travel photographer in Norway

If you are hoping to “UP” your travel skills beyond using your camera phone (though I still keep mine handy), you will definitely need some upgraded camera gear.

• Canon Powershot G1 X Mark III  – A point and shoot with Manual mode options
• Canon t8i  plus a lens kit – Perfect for beginners
• Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS  My favorite lens for the Canon t8i
• Canon 6d Mark II DSLR  – An upgraded camera for intermediate photographers
• Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens  for the Canon 6d Mark II

You can see more of my photography gear recommendations on my  Amazon Storefront .

Frequently Asked Questions: Things to Know About Costa Rica

Should i be concerned about my valuables.

Don’t flash expensive jewelry, electronics, purses, or clothing. You'll want to do your best to blend in. Be mindful of handing over your phone to a stranger to take pictures for you. Really, if you have valuables that you are concerned about, just leave them home.

What is Costa Rica known for?

Costa Rica is famous for its incredible natural wonders, aromatic coffee, chocolate, Pura Vida lifestyle, beautiful beaches, wildlife, rainforest, volcanoes, mountains, delicious food, and progressive government.

What is the population of Costa Rica?

Approximately 5 million people.

Does Costa Rica have a military?

No. They do maintain small forces capable of law enforcement, but Costa Rica has no permanent standing army.

Are there volcanoes in Costa Rica?

Yes. There are over 200 volcanic formations. Of those, approximately 100 actually show signs of activity and only five are classified as active.

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Final thoughts on 15 interesting facts about costa rica.

Clearly, these are not ALL the things to know about Costa Rica before you go. Be sure to check out my additional posts about Costa Rica highlights: the Guanacaste Region, the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo, and things to do at Playa Hermosa.

You may also enjoy these posts...

• Costa Rica Travel Tips: 10 Easy Answers to Your FAQ’s
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• Need Vitamin Sea? Top 10 Reasons for a Couple’s Beachside Getaway

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10 fast-growing summer vacation spots in 2024—according to tripadvisor.

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An aerial view of the Lighthouse in Maunabo, Puerto Rico

Looking to collect a new stamp in your passport this summer? The most popular international vacation destinations for U.S. travelers in summer 2024 include familiar beach locations like Cancun and Cabo San Lucas in Mexico as well as Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, according to Tripadvisor’s new summer travel index . The sunny hot spots are joined by European mainstays like London and Paris, the host of the 2024 Summer Olympics.

But Tripadvisor also revealed which international summer travel destinations are seeing notable year-over-year growth, and, according to the travel site, the Maldives and Peru plus some lesser-known, remote spots are poised to be summer vacation “it” destinations in 2024.

This year’s summer travel season is shaping up to be big, according to Tripadvisor’s survey of American travelers. Nearly all respondents (92%) said they plan to spend at least the same amount on travel as last summer, while more than half said they’ll shell out more on this summer’s trips than those they took last year. Forty-four percent say they plan to take more trips and 55% say they plan to travel for longer. Summer travelers are also planning to go further this year, with 44% saying they’ll travel more than 7 hours to reach their vacation destination, according to Tripadvisor.

If you need some summer trip ideas, here are 10 international destinations that Tripadvisor pinpointed as trending for 2024:

No. 1: Maunabo, Puerto Rico

Maunabo, Puerto Rico

Forested mountains meet the Caribbean coastline in this stretch of southeast Puerto Rico, where tourists can immerse in nature at the Punta Tuna Wetlands Nature Reserve and visit the Punta Tuna Lighthouse that was built by the Spanish in 1892.

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Biden vs. trump 2024 election polls: biden leads trump by only single digits in new york, latest survey shows, here are the major allegations against sean diddy combs as cassie ventura breaks silence on attack video, no. 2: puerto rico, spain.

Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria

Located on the Spanish island of Gran Canaria, Puerto Rico’s beaches and clifftop hotels are a draw. But the Angry Birds-themed amusement park is the main attraction for kids.

No. 3: Playa Avellana, Costa Rica

View of beautiful Avellanas Beach in Guanacaste, Costa Rica (Playa Avellanas)

The surf breaks here beckon expert surfers, but newbies can take lessons on the gentler waves nearby in Tamarindo.

No. 4: Cusco, Peru

Cusco, Peru.

Cusco is a jumping off point for visiting Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and Rainbow Mountain, but it also charms travelers with its historic plazas, markets and museums.

No. 5: Iru-fushi, Maldives

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi

Iru Fushi translates to “sun island” and the 52-acre patch of soft sand is home to Sun Siyam Iru Fushi , a luxury resort with overwater villas and 14 restaurants and bars.

No. 6: St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands

Cruz Bay, St John, United States Virgin Islands.

You don’t need a passport to visit this “international” destination in the Caribbean. St. John is the smallest of the tree U.S. Virgin Islands. It’s also home to Trunk Bay, which was just named the best beach in the world in 2024, according to World’s Best Beaches.

No. 7: Aguas Calientes, Peru

View of Aguas Calientes city, near Machu Picchu, Peru.

Travelers arrive to Aguas Caliente by train, and most are here to visit Machu Picchu, though the town is also famous for its hot springs.

No. 8: Malé, Maldives

Maldivian capital Male view from above

While much of Maldives will make you feel like you have the island to yourself, Malé is the densely populated capitol, and is home to the National Museum, a bridge that links it to the airport island of Hulhule, and a coral stone Old Friday Mosque that dates back to 1656.

No. 9: Fasmendhoo, Maldives

Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa

Arrive by seaplane to Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa , which is spread out on Fasmendhoo, a small island on Raa Atoll. The 114-villa resort has a dive center, wedding chapel, spa, kid’s club, and more.

No. 10: Andros, Bahamas

Peaceful sunset at the island of Andros, Bahamas

While it’s the largest island in The Bahamas, Andros feels remote. Visitors come here for superlative scuba diving and deep-sea fishing.

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COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

Costa Rican President Accused of Offering Bribes to Congress President

Costa rican business sector protests exchange rate policies, ice’s poor planning disrupts costa rican businesses, costa rica revisits controversial diquis hydroelectric project, costa rica’s economic crisis prompts businesses to demand policy changes, costa rica birdwatching: meet the gray hawk.

Today we meet the gray hawk, a pretty bird of prey from the northern parts of Costa Rica with a nearly identical twin flying around the southern parts of the country. These birds enjoy eating animals with squirrel in their name, but hate wearing backpacks. I’ll explain.

The gray hawk (Buteo plagiatus) has the same name in Spanish, gavilán gris . I once thought these birds ranged across the northwestern section of the country, with another patch of the same species down near Osa. Well, I was wrong. It turns out that the southern population is a different species, the gray-lined hawk, with a different scientific name (Buteo nitidus).

It’s a similar deal as the gray-necked wood-rail , what was once considered a single species is split up into two distinct species with the only visible difference being difficult for the layperson to detect. In the case of these two gray hawks, the gray-lined hawk has a few more gray bars on its upperparts and a slightly wider white tail band.

One of my bird books says the end of the gray hawk’s territory is somewhere near Dominical. I was just driving to check cameras in Pérez Zeledón, and I spotted a gray hawk on a telephone pole just a few miles from Dominical. At fifty-something miles per hour I have no idea which species I saw.

The general life history of the gray hawk is that they prefer broken forest, scattered trees, and forest edges over solid forested areas. They like to ambush their prey from a perch in one of those scattered trees. The creatures they’re ambushing are lizards, frogs, snakes, small mammals, large insects, and occasionally birds. When it’s time to make the next generation of gray hawks, they build a nest in an evergreen tree and lay two-ish eggs.

When a species I’m writing about doesn’t have a ton of interesting information in my books or after some searching around on the internet, I’ll check to see what’s been published about them in scientific journals. I found two interesting nuggets about gray hawks in the literature. First, a few guys who were doing some bird watching tours in Costa Rica published the fact that they saw gray hawks eating a variegated squirrel and a squirrel cuckoo .

Apparently, those were newly documented prey items for gray hawks. I didn’t know you could get published for something like that, and it makes me want do some literature searches on all of the predator-prey activity I’ve recorded with my camera traps. The second article was specifically about the gray hawk’s dislike of wearing backpacks. Researchers were fitting gray hawks with backpacks with transmitters that allowed them to track them, and a decent number of individuals were able to break free ahead of schedule.

I see gray hawks frequently while checking camera traps and driving on the roads in Guanacaste. While I was working at a wildlife rehabilitation and release center, I had to learn how to handle birds of prey by quickly shooting gloved hand towards their feet and catching their legs between my fingers, leaving my other hand free to do whatever needed to be done. I’ll always remember that a gray hawk was the first species that I ever attempted this maneuver upon. 

I’ve recorded gray hawks with my camera traps in exactly one scenario, a gray hawk landing near a source of water and either taking a drink or splashing all over the place taking a bath. I’ve included a few of my favorite gray-hawk-near-a-puddle clips in the video below.

About the Author

Vincent Losasso, founder of  Guanacaste Wildlife Monitoring , is a biologist who works with camera traps throughout Costa Rica. Learn more about his projects on  facebook  or  instagram . You can also email him at:  [email protected]

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