pura vida passENES

Things to do in Guanacaste

108 places and 204 secret spots in Guanacaste, with start times, how long each takes, prices as published and practical tips.

Food & Coffee

  • a'lo NicoFood & CoffeeSmall Flamingo restaurant run by a French chef and his Costa Rican wife, mixing both kitchens; breakfasts (crepes, fruit drinks) are the favorite.
  • AquasportFood & CoffeeBeach bar and grill in the middle of Playa Hermosa with tables in the sand, swings and a giant chair for sunset photos, and a DJ some evenings.
  • Bar Restaurante El VeleroFood & CoffeeShady beachfront restaurant on Playa Hermosa with a breezy terrace and themed nights such as Taco Tuesday and barbecue nights.
  • Blue Valley Chocolate (Beach Chocolate Factory)Food & CoffeeSmall bean-to-bar chocolate maker with a shop and workshop in Brasilito, where you can taste, make your own bar or visit its organic cacao farm.
  • Breaking Bread TamarindoFood & CoffeeOpen-garage bakery and brunch café near the skatepark, famous for fresh breads, shakshuka and French toast.
  • Cafe Mar AzulFood & CoffeeRelaxed all-day cafe at the Playa Grande Surf Camp in Palm Beach Estates, a short walk from the turtle beach.
  • Café Negro LiberiaFood & CoffeeLiberia's best-rated espresso bar, a block from Calle Real — a good coffee stop before or after the airport.
  • Café Playa Negra (Leche de Tigre restaurant)Food & CoffeeStylish hotel-restaurant in Los Pargos serving Peruvian food - ceviche, grilled seafood - plus pastries, a short drive from the Playa Negra reef break.
  • Café TicoFood & CoffeeLeafy patio café in central Tamarindo (next to the bookstore, on the Shrimp Hole street) serving local coffee and Costa Rican-style breakfasts and lunches.
  • Cafetería y Restaurante El AmanecerFood & CoffeeBright, modern café-restaurant in Liberia, 15 minutes from the airport, with Costa Rican breakfasts, a weekday casado lunch and a big pastry and coffee list.
  • Camiones de Comida Jardín Tamarindo (food truck park)Food & CoffeeGarden food-truck park 100 m north of Supermercado Pura Vida: sushi and poke, Mexican, Peruvian, Thai, burgers, arepas and Tico classics, with a small kids' play area in the middle.
  • Casa Liberia – Mercado Gastronómico y CulturalFood & CoffeeA food hall and cultural space in a house in Liberia's old center near Calle Real, with several small kitchens under one roof.
  • Corazón CaféFood & CoffeeSurf cafe near the Playa Negra turnoff that roasts its own beans; smoothie and açaí bowls for after the session.
  • Derecho SagradoFood & CoffeeSpecialty coffee bar that roasts its own beans, across from the Tamarindo skate park - one of the best-rated spots in town.
  • El Cafecito Santa CruzFood & CoffeeCozy café in an old house in the middle of Santa Cruz, the cowboy town of Guanacaste, with casados, milkshakes and vegan options.
  • El Mercadito de Tamarindo Food and Cocktail MarketFood & CoffeeOpen-air food court next to Patagonia with stalls for poke, tacos, pizza, burgers, Asian and Italian food, French pastries and cocktails, so a group can all find something.
  • Father Rooster's Beachfront Bar & GrillFood & CoffeeBeachfront bar and grill right on the sand of Playa Ocotal, under a big mango tree, with tables facing the sunset.
  • Ginger Restaurant BarFood & CoffeeAsian-inspired tapas and cocktails served in an open-air, treehouse-style dining room on stilts among the trees on Playa Hermosa's main street.
  • Hacienda Casa del VientoFood & CoffeeLodge with a bar-restaurant and pool in Cuajiniquil, handy for a meal on a day at the Junquillal refuge or the Murciélago sector; it also offers boat tours.
  • Il RusticoFood & CoffeeA casual Italian restaurant on the main road in Playa Avellanas, run by a couple from central Italy: homemade pasta, pizza and salads with good ingredients – the prosciutto pizza comes with freshly shaved parmesan.
  • Jalapeño EateryFood & CoffeeBreakfast-and-lunch spot inside the Playa Negra Surf Lodge with handmade tortillas, burritos and tacos from mostly organic local produce - and homemade hot sauces.
  • La Casita del MariscoFood & CoffeeSeafood house on the sand at the north end of Playa Hermosa, with sunset views over the bay and howler monkeys in the trees at dusk.
  • La Choza de LaurelFood & CoffeeOpen-air Guanacaste country restaurant 400 m from the Liberia airport entrance, with staff in traditional dress, live marimba and a casado that gets recommended most.
  • La Esquina de AvellanasFood & CoffeeA small open-air food court and meeting spot in Playa Avellanas with a few restaurants, a natural-food store, a clothing boutique and artisan kiosks; it sometimes hosts live music and community events.
  • Lola'sFood & CoffeeOne of Costa Rica's best-known beach restaurants: wooden tables right on the sand under palms and almond trees at Playa Avellanas, with surfers in front and postcard sunsets.
  • Mundo Milo Eco Lodge (restaurant)Food & CoffeeSmall eco-lodge restaurant by Playa Junquillal with a varied menu of local and international dishes and vegetarian options.
  • Nogui'sFood & Coffee · from $4A beachfront seafood restaurant on the south side of the Tamarindo roundabout, known for sunset views over the bay and its homemade pies - the banana pie is the classic.
  • NOI BistroFood & CoffeeCozy, laid-back breakfast and lunch bistro in the center of Tamarindo with stacked banana pancakes, colorful bowls and tuna tartare, plus vegan and gluten-free choices.
  • Nordico Coffee HouseFood & CoffeeMinimalist, air-conditioned coffee house on the second floor of Plaza Tamarindo run by a Guanacaste roaster.
  • Pangas Beach Club TamarindoFood & CoffeeOpen-air beach restaurant where the Tamarindo estuary meets the ocean, with seating on the sand under big trees and good sunsets.
  • Papaya Restaurant (Conchal Hotel)Food & CoffeeGarden restaurant inside the small Conchal Hotel in Brasilito.
  • Patagonia del MarFood & CoffeePopular beachfront restaurant in Brasilito with Pacific views - come around sunset.
  • Posada Real Café y RestauranteFood & CoffeeCafé-restaurant on Calle Real, 150 m south of the old Gobernación, known for gluten-free options and reimagined Costa Rican breakfasts.
  • Potrero Brewing CompanyFood & CoffeeCraft brewery in the middle of Potrero with an outdoor food court next door (sandwiches and donuts, pizza, burritos) - order from the stalls and drink local beer.
  • Restaurante Coco LocoFood & CoffeeBeach bar and seafood restaurant on Flamingo beach, known for its coco loco cocktail served in a coconut and for sunsets.
  • Restaurante Donde PipeFood & CoffeeBusy, long-standing Liberia restaurant near the center, open from early morning, for Costa Rican and casual plates.
  • Restaurante Mar AzulFood & CoffeeSeafood restaurant and fish market in Playas del Coco where you pick your fish, preparation and sauce from the day's catch brought in by local artisanal fishermen.
  • Restaurante TatankaFood & Coffee · from $12Seafood-focused restaurant at Hotel Tatanka near Playa Junquillal - fish and ceviche a short drive from the beach.
  • Restaurante Villa del SueñoFood & CoffeeRestaurant of the small Villa del Sueño hotel, a short walk from Playa Hermosa, with fresh fish, homemade desserts and live music on some nights in high season.
  • Restaurante y Hotel donde Claudio y GloriaFood & CoffeeRestaurant and small hotel right on Playa del Coco, with outdoor tables facing the bay; breakfast, lunch and dinner with sea views.
  • Roberto's (La Gaviota Tropical)Food & CoffeeBeachside restaurant at La Gaviota Tropical on Playa Hermosa, open from breakfast to late dinner; known for fresh fish and local cocktails.
  • Sabor Porteño RestauranteFood & CoffeeSeafood restaurant in Liberia serving Puntarenas-style coastal cooking; locals and visitors rave about the ceviche porteño and the whole fish with seafood.
  • Surf BoxFood & CoffeeA café-restaurant near Playa Flamingo that's known for its breakfasts and fresh-tasting food, with a bar and outdoor seating – a good start before a beach day at Penca, Potrero or Flamingo.
  • The Shack Restaurant & BarFood & CoffeeLong-running open-air locals' hangout on the main road in Surfside, Potrero: lots of TVs, local craft beer and live music.
  • Tio Leo Coffee TourFood & Coffee · from $45Small family coffee and cacao farm just outside Liberia that runs a hands-on tour with tastings, roasting and a cooking class.
  • Tropic Tamarindo Costarican CuisineFood & Coffee · from $100Garden restaurant and cocktail bar in Tamarindo built around local ingredients, with jaguar and iguana murals.

Trip Planners

  • Amstar DMC Costa RicaTrip PlannersInternational DMC with a Guanacaste operation providing airport transfers, excursions and on-site assistance for resort guests.

Parks & Wildlife

  • Apami Wildlife Rescue CenterParks & WildlifeWildlife rescue center run by the Monkey Park Foundation in a forest near Santa Cruz, where guides explain the stories of each rescued animal.
  • Cuajiniquil ToursParks & WildlifeFamily business in the fishing village of Cuajiniquil running boat trips around the Santa Elena bays: snorkeling, sunsets, sport fishing, walks on beaches and islands, birdwatching, dolphins and whales.
  • Cuilpilapan (waterfalls, hanging bridge & Mirador Jaguar)Parks & Wildlife · from $10A family-run, solar-powered reserve bordering Miravalles National Park — its Nahuatl name means 'river of colors'.
  • Hacienda El Viejo WetlandsParks & WildlifeHistoric cattle hacienda on the edge of the Tempisque wetlands that offers boat cruises, wildlife watching and tastings of local rum, beer and traditional food.
  • Las Pumas Rescue Center and SanctuaryParks & Wildlife · from $17Wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center on the Pan-American Highway near Cañas, with wildcats, monkeys, birds and sloths.
  • Maryola Tours - Tamarindo Estuary Boat SafariParks & WildlifeSmall operator for a roughly two-hour boat safari in the Tamarindo estuary with an English-speaking guide - migratory birds, howler monkeys and crocodiles - plus fishing trips.
  • Palo Verde Boat ToursParks & WildlifeFamily-run boat safari on the Tempisque river next to Palo Verde National Park, known for crocodiles, monkeys and wading birds.
  • Sensoria Rainforest ExperienceParks & Wildlife · from $132Private rainforest reserve on the north side of Rincón de la Vieja with blue waterfalls, thermal pools and mud, visited on guided half-day experiences.
  • Tamarindo Estuary Tours (Mi Rey)Parks & WildlifeLocal outfit running covered boat tours, kayak rentals and horseback rides through the Tamarindo estuary mangroves - crocodiles, howler monkeys, birds, raccoons and bats.

Tours & Adventure

  • Black Stallion Eco RanchTours & Adventure · from $65Working ranch in the hills behind Tamarindo that offers zipline, horseback rides at sunset and ATV combos, with a barbecue dinner option.
  • Cañón de la Vieja Lodge (adventure center)Tours & AdventureAdventure lodge on the Río Colorado canyon just north of Liberia, running rafting and tubing trips, canopy and rappelling for day visitors.
  • Costa Rica Amazing TripsTours & AdventureLicensed local tour desk covering the Papagayo coast, with combos to Rincón de la Vieja, rafting, diving at Playas del Coco and sailing.
  • Diamante Eco Adventure ParkTours & Adventure · takes 4 h–8 h · from $15An all-in-one adventure park on a private bay near Playa del Coco: an almost mile-long dual Superman zipline with Pacific views, a free-fall jump, ATVs, and a sanctuary with sloths, big cats, toucans and butterflies, plus lunch and a beach with kayaks and paddleboards.
  • Guti Tours Horseback RidingTours & Adventure · from $80Small-group horseback rides along the beaches south of Tamarindo, galloping on the sand and crossing volcanic rock.
  • Hacienda GuachipelínTours & Adventure · takes 1.5 h–8.5 h · from $35A working cattle ranch at the foot of Rincón de la Vieja volcano that packs a week of adventure into one day: horseback with local sabanero guides, whitewater tubing on the Río Negro, a canyon zipline with rappels and a Tarzan swing, then hot springs and a volcanic mud bath.
  • La Casona de Santa Bárbara (Finca La Zanja Negra)Tours & AdventureA 150-year-old country house about 30 minutes from Santa Cruz where local cooks Marta Vallejos and Geiny Ruiz host village history walks, traditional food tastings, clay workshops and hands-on tortilla and clay-oven cooking, with music and Guanacaste cheers.
  • La Leona Waterfall Adventure HikeTours & AdventureLocal Curubandé operator next to La Leona Restaurant that guides the river hike — wading, swimming and rope sections — to the La Leona waterfall in its slot canyon.
  • Nacho ToursTours & AdventureLocal tour and transfer company in Tamarindo with a perfect 5.0 on Google that sells the main Guanacaste day trips, from the Rincón de la Vieja volcano to Rio Celeste.
  • Ponderosa Adventure ParkTours & AdventureRoadside adventure park near Liberia where you ride through a savanna with African animals, zip over the canopy and tube a river.
  • Rincon Thermals & AdventuresTours & Adventure · from $50Big activity park on the slopes of Rincón de la Vieja that mixes hot-spring pools and mud with zipline, horses and a jungle waterslide.
  • Río Perdido (thermal river, canyon adventures)Tours & AdventureAn adventure hotel (SLH) around a hot thermal river in a white-walled canyon near Miravalles, with canyon ziplining, tubing, bike trails and a spa.
  • The Congo Trail Canopy TourTours & Adventure · from $8.81Adventure park near Nuevo Colón, on the road to Playa Matapalo: a 10-line zipline, ATV and horseback tours, plus a rescue center and sanctuary with capuchin monkeys.
  • The Monkey FarmTours & Adventure · from $18A hillside farm above Ocotal offering guided farm-animal tours, a medicinal garden and horseback rides (jungle, beach and sunset).
  • Vida Aventura Nature Park (Vida Aventura Ranch)Tours & AdventureA ranch a few minutes from Rincón de la Vieja National Park offering horseback rides over open hills, canopy and bike trails, with a pool and restaurant.
  • Witch's Rock Canopy Tour (WRCT Adventures)Tours & Adventure · from $33Zipline park in the dry forest on the road to Playa Cabuyal: 9 lines with hanging bridges, plus horseback and ATV/UTV rides, some combined with a visit to a quiet beach.

Surf, Boats & Diving

  • Blue Dolphin SailingSurf, Boats & DivingSunset catamaran trips from the end of Calle Cruz with snorkel and swim stops, drinks and dinner; dolphins, whales and rays are sometimes spotted.
  • Iguana Surf Camp & Surf ShopSurf, Boats & DivingTamarindo's long-running surf shop and school (open since 1989) in front of the beginner break, now with a surf camp.
  • Kayak Club TamarindoSurf, Boats & Diving · from $65Kayak shop on the beach by the Tamarindo roundabout running guided mangrove paddles and the kayak-and-snorkel trip to Isla Capitán, with patient guides and fruit breaks.
  • Marlin del ReySurf, Boats & DivingCatamaran company sailing from Tamarindo and Playas del Coco, with snorkeling and sunset cruises along the Guanacaste coast.
  • Pargos AdventuresSurf, Boats & DivingSurf and paddle shop in Playa Negra: board rentals and lessons, guided SUP through the mangrove tunnels of the Nandamojo River, SUP yoga, and two-hour guided tide-pool snorkeling at low tide for families.
  • Pura Vida Ride (Las Catalinas)Surf, Boats & DivingOutdoor shop in car-free Las Catalinas that rents mountain bikes, kayaks and paddleboards and guides rides on the town's trail network, with a coffee stand on Playa Danta.
  • Salty Smile SurfSurf, Boats & DivingSmall Tamarindo surf school with a perfect 5.0 on Google from over 500 reviews, praised for patient instructors and flexible lessons that follow the swell.
  • Sea Breeze Fishing & AdventuresSurf, Boats & DivingSmall private-charter outfit in Tamarindo with two center-console boats for fishing, snorkeling and sightseeing, rated 5.0 on Google.
  • Tamarindo Surf & ToursSurf, Boats & DivingOne-stop tour desk by the Tamarindo roundabout that sells surf lessons, fishing trips, estuary tours and day trips.

Day Passes & Hot Springs

  • Blue River Resort & Hot SpringsDay Passes & Hot SpringsRustic hot-spring resort on the north side of Rincón de la Vieja with a hot river, pools, a spa and a dinosaur-themed park.
  • Hacienda Pinilla Beach ClubDay Passes & Hot Springs · from $10Beachfront clubhouse inside the gated Hacienda Pinilla community, with a pool, restaurant and a surfable beach.
  • Hotel Buena Vista del RincónDay Passes & Hot Springs · takes 4 h–9 h · from $75A big ranch-style adventure park on the slopes of Rincón de la Vieja volcano where one day pass covers ziplines, hanging bridges, a record-long jungle waterslide, a horse ride to a waterfall, volcanic mud baths and hot springs, plus a buffet lunch.
  • Langosta Beach ClubDay Passes & Hot SpringsMembers' beach club on Playa Langosta that is also day-pass accessible: pool with loungers looking onto the beach, a restaurant and bar in tropical gardens, sunset happy hours and live music.
  • Las Hornillas Volcano Hot SpringsDay Passes & Hot SpringsA private property on Miravalles' active side where you walk between bubbling mud pots, steam vents and sulfur crystals, then soak in volcanic mud and hot pools.
  • Pueblo Antiguo Lodge y Spa (thermal pools day pass)Day Passes & Hot SpringsA small country lodge on a 42-hectare forest estate in La Sierra, near the old Abangares gold mines.
  • Termales El GuayacánDay Passes & Hot SpringsFamily hot springs on a farm by the Quebrada Hornillas in Fortuna de Bagaces, with natural thermal pools, volcanic mud, a lookout and a restaurant.
  • Thermomanía (Aguas Termales Thermomania)Day Passes & Hot SpringsBig family hot-spring park in Fortuna de Bagaces with thermal pools, a volcanic mud spa and natural steam sauna, open into the evening.
  • Yökö TermalesDay Passes & Hot SpringsLong-running hot-spring center fed by Miravalles springs, with several pools (including slides), jacuzzis and a steam bath, plus a restaurant known in the area for over 25 years.

Stays

  • Casa Chameleon at Las CatalinasStaysAdults-only boutique resort on a hillside above the bay at Las Catalinas.
  • Hotel Capitán SuizoStays · from $10Long-running beachfront hotel on the quieter south end of Tamarindo beach, with bungalows and suites set in tropical gardens.
  • Villa Buena OndaStays · from $110Private micro-resort near Playas del Coco that hosts one group at a time, with eight suites on six secluded acres.

Sodas & Local Food

  • CoopetortillasSodas & Local FoodA women's cooperative about 500 m from Santa Cruz's main park that has cooked traditional Guanacaste food over a nearly 5-meter wood stove for decades - hand-patted corn tortillas, rice-and-corn soup and tripe soup at very low prices.
  • Mar & Tierra Restaurante Doña FlorSodas & Local FoodA friendly local restaurant a couple of blocks off Coco's main road, good for real Costa Rican food at fair prices: gallo pinto for breakfast, casados, fried rice and fresh fish later in the day, plus burgers, sandwiches and tacos.
  • Restaurante Lochito'sSodas & Local Food · from $10Casual local restaurant a few minutes' drive from Playa Junquillal, the go-to for fresh-caught fish and Tico casados on this quiet stretch of coast.
  • Restaurante Los ComalesSodas & Local FoodClassic budget eatery for Guanacaste-style typical food in central Liberia, open from early morning.
  • Soda BrasilitoSodas & Local FoodBeachfront soda in Brasilito with cheap, filling plates such as arroz con pollo, arroz con mariscos and casados.
  • Soda Buffet El EsteroSodas & Local FoodSmall family soda a few blocks from the beach where you build your own casado from a daily buffet, with a 4.9 Google rating.
  • Soda CurubandéSodas & Local FoodThe one restaurant in the center of Curubandé, the farming village at the foot of Rincón de la Vieja: casados, rice dishes and bocas, cooked the traditional way.
  • Soda Don Rogelio (leche dormida)Sodas & Local FoodThe little soda by Cañas' central park where Rogelio Gutiérrez started making leche dormida in 1946 – a cold, sweet milk drink whose recipe the family still keeps secret.
  • Soda HermosaSodas & Local FoodFamily soda on the Playa Hermosa road (about 300 m from the second entrance) with big, cheap plates: casados, catch of the day, patacones and fruit shakes, plus vegan Tico plates.
  • Soda Jardín TropicalSodas & Local FoodSimple soda near the beach in Playas del Coco serving casados, grilled fish and big breakfasts all day; good value and generous portions.
  • Soda La FuenteSodas & Local FoodRoomy soda on the main street of Bagaces with a lunch buffet of rice, beans, chicken and fried vegetables; a good local stop on the road to Rincón de la Vieja or Cañas.
  • Soda LulaSodas & Local FoodRoadside soda in Comunidad, on the way from Liberia airport to the Coco and Papagayo beaches, opening at 5 am: hearty casados and fresh juices at local prices.
  • Soda MarcellSodas & Local FoodNo-frills Potrero soda for local-style casados and fish plates, with milkshakes; it closes early afternoon.
  • Soda TeresitaSodas & Local FoodLively family soda on the road into Playas del Coco, with fish casados and kid-friendly fried chicken and fish fingers at soda prices.
  • Soda y Marisquería MarcelaSodas & Local FoodNeighborhood soda and seafood stop in Villareal, a short drive inland from Tamarindo, where locals eat.

Secret spots in Guanacaste

  • Playa ConchalBeach · FreeA beach made of billions of crushed seashells instead of sand, with clear turquoise water that's among the best in Guanacaste for snorkeling right off the shore.
  • Playa TamarindoBeach · FreeGuanacaste's liveliest beach: a long arc of sand with mellow beginner waves, boats bobbing in the bay and a sunset the whole town turns out for.
  • Las Pailas Volcanic LoopTrail · about $17An easy loop of about 3 km on the slopes of an active volcano, past bubbling mud pots, hissing fumaroles and a steaming sulfur lagoon — a little Yellowstone in the tropical dry forest.
  • Llanos de Cortés WaterfallWaterfall · about $8A broad curtain of water spilling over a rock ledge into a big, shallow pool with its own sandy beach — the easiest swimming waterfall in Guanacaste, just off the Inter-American Highway near Bagaces.
  • Mirador de La Cruz (Bahía Salinas lookout)Viewpoint · FreeThe lookout on the western edge of La Cruz town, high above Bahía Salinas: the whole bay and its islands out to the open Pacific.
  • Oropéndola Waterfall (Río Blanco canyon)WaterfallA 25 m (82 ft) waterfall dropping through a rock notch into a deep green-blue pool in the Río Blanco canyon, near the Las Pailas entrance of Rincón de la Vieja.
  • Playa AvellanasBeach · FreeA long, laid-back surf beach backed by mangroves and dry forest, with several breaks for every level — and a famous local pig that sometimes wanders into the shallows.
  • Playa FlamingoBeach · FreeA wide curve of pale sand with a faint pink tint, usually gentle water and green hills behind — one of the best family swimming beaches on this coast.
  • Playa Grande (Las Baulas)Beach · FreeA wide, wild beach inside Las Baulas Marine National Park, where giant leatherback turtles nest — no buildings on the sand, steady surf and huge open sunsets.
  • Playa Hermosa (Papagayo)Beach · FreeA long, gently curving bay on the Gulf of Papagayo with calm water, gray volcanic sand and some of the most reliable sunsets on the coast.
  • Playa Penca (Punta Cacique, Playas del Coco)Beach · FreeA small white-sand cove at the tip of Punta Cacique, the forested headland between Playas del Coco and Playa Hermosa.
  • Playas del CocoBeach · FreeThe fishing-and-diving town beach of the Papagayo coast: dark sand, colorful boats moored offshore, islands on the horizon and a boardwalk that fills up at sunset.
  • Poza Los Coyotes (Cañas Dulces)Swimming spot · about $6Crystal-clear turquoise pools, small waterfalls and a cave on a family farm founded in 1827 near Cañas Dulces, a cheap and well-loved swimming day out from Liberia.
  • Restaurante El MiradorViewpointA viewpoint near Curubandé, Costa Rica.
  • Witch's Rock (Roca Bruja)Nature spotA lone rock stack off Playa Naranjo that gives its name to one of Costa Rica's best-known surf breaks.
  • Bahía Junquillal Wildlife Refuge (Playa Junquillal, La Cruz)Beach · about $14A sheltered 2 km white-sand bay in a small protected refuge near Cuajiniquil, with calm water inside marked swim limits, Blue Flag status and shady picnic and camping areas.
  • Calle Real (Liberia's historic street)Landmark · FreeLiberia's old main street, one of the few places in Costa Rica where whitewashed adobe and bahareque houses with tile roofs and corner doors still line the sidewalk, next to the old Gobernación and the House of Culture.
  • Cerro Pelado (Cañas)Viewpoint · about $6A bald, wind-blasted ridge east of Cañas – an old extinct volcano – where a short, steep climb from a farm gate puts you on a 2 km grassy crest with 360° views: the Tilarán wind turbines behind you, the Guanacaste lowlands and the Gulf of Nicoya ahead.
  • Guaitil Pottery VillageLocal shop · FreeA village where families still make Chorotega-style pottery by hand — coiled, burnished with stones, painted with natural clay pigments and fired in wood kilns — and sell it from their front porches.
  • Isla Capitán (Captain Island)Nature spot · FreeThe uninhabited rocky islet in the middle of Tamarindo Bay.
  • Islas CatalinasNature spotA small group of rocky islets about 30 minutes by boat from Playa Flamingo, visited for scuba diving and snorkeling.
  • Islas Murciélago (Bat Islands dive site)Nature spotA group of rocky islands off the tip of the Santa Elena Peninsula and, with the Catalina Islands, one of the two signature dive destinations of the Papagayo coast.
  • La Cangreja WaterfallWaterfall · about $17A slender waterfall dropping into an electric-blue pool deep in Rincón de la Vieja National Park — the reward for a roughly 10 km round-trip hike through dry forest and grassland.
  • La Casona (Santa Rosa National Park)Landmark · about $15The historic hacienda house where Costa Rica beat William Walker's filibuster army in the 1856 Battle of Santa Rosa — now a small museum in the dry forest with a monument, a lookout and short trails.
  • Las Catalinas Trails (above the car-free town)TrailLas Catalinas is a walkable, car-free town with about 35 km of hiking and mountain-bike trails through dry forest; ridge trails look down on bays and rocky islets.
  • Mirador Playa PrietaViewpointA viewpoint near Playa Prieta, Costa Rica, popular at sunset.
  • Parque Amor de Temporada & beach boardwalk (Playas del Coco)Park · FreeThe seafront park at the main beach entrance of Playas del Coco, where a long beach promenade with small parks, playgrounds and basketball courts runs under big shade trees.
  • Parque Bernabela Ramos (Santa Cruz)Park · FreeThe shady central plaza of Santa Cruz, best known for its domed stone kiosk carved with Chorotega-style motifs.
  • Parque Central Mario Cañas Ruiz (Liberia)Park · FreeLiberia's shady town square, framed by the white modern church and local shops, where families gather on benches in the early evening and on weekends.
  • Parroquia Santo Cristo de Esquipulas (Santa Cruz)Landmark · FreeSanta Cruz's parish church holds the Cristo Negro de Esquipulas, a dark crucifix that draws pilgrims every January; the old pink bell tower stands beside the modern church.
  • Playa BrasilitoBeach · FreeA working fishing-village beach with grey sand, small boats pulled up on the shore and a relaxed main street of sodas and souvenir stands.
  • Playa Buena (Bahía Culebra)Beach · FreeA wide pale-sand beach inside Bahía Culebra with almost no waves, shady trees and views across the bay.
  • Playa CabuyalBeach · FreeA long white-sand beach with turquoise water at the north end of the Papagayo coast, framed by big dry-forest hills and far from any town.
  • Playa Calzón de PobreBeach · Free · hidden gemA tiny light-sand cove on the Playa Hermosa side of Punta Cacique, loved by locals for its calm turquoise water.
  • Playa Copal (Bahía Salinas kite beach)Beach · FreeThe long beach in the inner corner of Bahía Salinas that made Costa Rica a kitesurfing destination: from November to May steady, strong winds funnel across the bay, and several kite schools give lessons and rent gear right on the sand.
  • Playa Danta (Las Catalinas)Beach · FreeA calm, gray-sand cove in front of Las Catalinas, a car-free, Mediterranean-style town stacked on the hillside — good for swimming, paddleboarding and poking around the rocks.
  • Playa Iguanita (Iguanita Wildlife Refuge)BeachA grey-sand cove inside the Iguanita National Wildlife Refuge on the inner shore of Bahía Culebra, backed by dry forest and mangroves.
  • Playa LangostaBeach · FreeTamarindo's calm, quiet neighbor: a short beach with rocky edges, tide pools full of little fish and a small river estuary — a local favorite for a sunset walk.
  • Playa Naranjo (Santa Rosa National Park)BeachA wild, wide beach inside Santa Rosa National Park with Witch's Rock (Roca Bruja) standing offshore, one of the world-famous surf breaks of Costa Rica.
  • Playa Negra (Los Pargos)Beach · FreeA legendary right-hand reef wave over dark volcanic rock — even if you don't surf, it's a great place to watch barrels peel past from the shore.
  • Playa OcotalBeach · FreeA small, sheltered cove south of Coco with dark sand and some of the best free shore snorkeling in the area along its rocky points.
  • Playa PanamáBeach · FreeA wide, calm bay on the south edge of the Papagayo gulf with dark sand, hardly any development and shallow water that suits swimming.
  • Playa PotreroBeach · FreeA long, calm bay just north of Flamingo with a slow, residential feel, a handful of restaurants and good sunsets.
  • Playa Puerto SoleyBeach · FreeA big, calm beach at the small fishing village of Puerto Soley, deep inside Bahía Salinas and a few kilometers from the Nicaraguan border.
  • Playa Rajada (Bahía Salinas)Beach · Free · hidden gemA small light-sand cove at the far northwest corner of Costa Rica, past the fishing village of El Jobo on Bahía Salinas.
  • Poza La Pipa (Curubandé)Swimming spot · FreeThe biggest of Curubandé's turquoise river pools, a family favorite with a natural rock slide polished by the current and little stone dams built by swimmers.
  • Pozas del Cañón (Río Colorado canyon pools)Swimming spot · Free · hidden gemClear blue-green pools in a pale rock canyon of the Río Colorado, just off the road from the Pan-American Highway to Curubandé.
  • Puente de la Amistad (Tempisque Friendship Bridge)Bridge · FreeA cable-stayed bridge, roughly 780 m long and a gift from Taiwan, that carries the highway over the Tempisque River into the Nicoya Peninsula.
  • Tamarindo Estuary (crocodile spotting)Nature spot · FreeWhere Tamarindo's mangrove estuary meets the sea: American crocodiles often bask on the sandbanks while herons, ospreys and kingfishers fish the channel.
  • África SafariParkA private wildlife park of about 100 ha in El Salto, south of Liberia, with African animals such as zebras and giraffes.
  • Bahía Pirata (Playa Bahía de los Piratas)Beach · Free · hidden gemA well-hidden cove with soft sand, calm water and little rocky islets just offshore.
  • Bosque Encantado Waterfall (Santa María sector)Waterfall · about $16.95 · hidden gemA small, pretty waterfall of cold, fresh water in the 'Enchanted Forest', about 800 m from the Santa María ranch house — the easiest waterfall walk in this quiet corner of Rincón de la Vieja.
  • Cañas Mosaic Church (Parroquia Patriarca San José)Landmark · Free · hidden gemCañas' parish church on the central park is covered top to bottom – including its nearly 30 m bell tower – in bright tile mosaics designed by Cañas-born painter Otto Apuy: winding vines, starbursts, religious and jungle scenes made from whole and broken tiles.
  • Cañón de Liberia Lookout (Las Morocochas)Viewpoint · Free · hidden gemA lookout over the deep canyon of the Río Liberia, where white volcanic gravel (cascajo) and twisted dry-forest shrubs make the slopes look almost snowy.
  • Casona Santa María (historic ranch house, Rincón de la Vieja)Landmark · about $16.95 · hidden gemAn adobe ranch house from the old Hacienda Santa María, restored in 1997 and now the ranger station of the park's Santa María sector — one of the few surviving casonas of Guanacaste's cattle era, with an old sugar mill along the short Colibrí trail.
  • Cataratas Escondidas (Hidden Waterfalls, Las Pailas sector)Waterfall · about $16.95 · hidden gemA tough out-and-back hike from the Las Pailas station up over old Pleistocene lava fields and open grass slopes to waterfalls in the canyon of the Quebrada Agria, with wide views toward the Pacific side.
  • Catholic church of Playas del CocoLandmark · FreeA small, airy parish church a block from the beach, the spiritual center of this fishing-turned-tourist town.
  • Ecomuseo de la Cerámica Chorotega (San Vicente)Landmark · FreeA community museum in San Vicente, the potters' village just past Guaitil, telling the story of Chorotega ceramics - old pieces like the comal for tortillas and the tinaja for chicha.
  • Ecomuseo de las Minas de AbangaresLandmark · about $5 · hidden gemAn open-air museum in La Sierra, above Las Juntas de Abangares, on the site of what was Costa Rica's biggest gold-mining operation (1884–1931).
  • Ermita de la Agonía (Liberia)Landmark · FreeLiberia's oldest church: a whitewashed 19th-century adobe chapel that sums up why this is called the 'White City' — a calm stop a few blocks from the central park.
  • Flamingo Point Lookout (Punta Salinas)Viewpoint · Free · hidden gemA small gazebo lookout on the rocky hill at the north end of Playa Flamingo, where Punta Salinas and Isla Plata split Brasilito Bay from Potrero Bay.
  • GuayaboViewpointA viewpoint near Guayabo de Bagaces, Costa Rica.
  • Humedal Lacustrino Río CañasNature spotA protected wetland created in 1994, managed by the Tempisque Conservation Area.
  • Humedal Laguna MadrigalNature spotA protected lake wetland created in 1994, in the Arenal Tempisque Conservation Area.
  • Humedal Palustrino Corral de PiedraNature spotA protected marsh wetland created in 1994, managed by the Tempisque Conservation Area.
  • Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción (Liberia)Landmark · FreeA striking white church from the early 1970s, with an A-frame nave and a tall separate bell tower on the north side of Parque Central.
  • Isla Bolaños (seabird refuge)Nature spot · hidden gemA small rocky island in the middle of Bahía Salinas, protected as a national wildlife refuge since 1981 because it shelters nesting colonies of magnificent frigatebirds and brown pelicans.
  • Islas Pelonas (snorkel and dive islets off Coco)Nature spotRocky islets at the mouth of Coco bay, a classic short boat ride for divers and snorkelers based in Playas del Coco: reef fish, moray eels, rays and puffers around the boulders.
  • La Leona WaterfallWaterfall · hidden gemA small turquoise waterfall at the end of a narrow Río Blanco canyon just outside Curubandé, 20–30 minutes from Liberia.
  • Liberia Farmers' Market (Feria del Agricultor, Campo Ferial)Local shop · FreeLiberia's weekly feria at the fairground next to the ICE building: farmers selling fruit, vegetables, cheese and snacks at local prices.
  • Mercado Municipal de LiberiaLocal shop · FreeThe town market: produce stands, butchers, grocers, clothing stalls and a few sodas where locals eat breakfast and lunch — the everyday side of Liberia.
  • Mirador de Tamarindo (Mirador Hill)Viewpoint · FreeOne of the highest points in town, on the hill next to the Wyndham hotel.
  • Mirador Golfo PapagayoViewpointA viewpoint near Golfo Papagayo, Costa Rica, popular at sunset.
  • Mirador La Roca (Palo Verde)Viewpoint · about $12 · hidden gemA limestone outcrop with steel stairs at the end of a short trail in Palo Verde National Park: from the top you look over the lagoon, the Tempisque River and, on clear days, the Gulf of Nicoya.
  • Mirador Santa Cruz-CarrilloViewpointA viewpoint near Santa Cruz, Costa Rica, popular at sunset.
  • Mirador Shenkui de RajadasViewpointA viewpoint near Rajadas, Costa Rica, popular at sunset.
  • Mirador Valle Naranjo (Santa Rosa National Park)Viewpoint · about $17 · hidden gemA short dry-forest trail off the rough road to Playa Naranjo that dead-ends at a lookout over the Naranjo valley, the beach and Witch's Rock standing in the sea.
  • Monumento al Sabanero (Cowboy Statue, Liberia)Landmark · FreeA statue of a steely-eyed sabanero — the Guanacaste cowboy — near the entrance to town, with a poem by local writer Rodolfo Salazar Solórzano.
  • Murciélago Sector, Santa Rosa National Park (Poza del General)ParkThe far-north sector of Santa Rosa National Park on the Santa Elena Peninsula, where dry forest meets beaches with crystal-clear water.
  • Museo del Sabanero (Liberia)LandmarkA small museum of Guanacaste cowboy (sabanero) culture inside the Casa de la Cultura, with lassos, saddles and other ranch tools.
  • Museo Regional de Guanacaste (El Cuartel)LandmarkRegional history museum housed in Liberia's former city barracks, known locally as El Cuartel, just off the plaza; it also hosts art and cultural events.
  • Parque Ecológico de LiberiaPark · FreeA green pocket on the south side of Liberia with a walking path along the river, dry-forest trees and plenty of birds — where local families come to stroll and let kids run.
  • Parque Nacional Diriá (ranger station)Park · hidden gemA little-visited forest park south of Santa Cruz in the Nicoya Peninsula highlands, with tropical and cloud forest, deep river valleys and a ranger station that starts two trails, one to the seasonal Brasil waterfall.
  • Parque Nacional Guanacaste (Pitilla station)Park · hidden gemA large protected area on the slopes of the Orosí and Cacao volcanoes in the far north of Guanacaste, mostly visited through remote ranger and biological stations such as Pitilla.
  • Parque Nacional Marino Las BaulasParkA marine national park and Ramsar site covering about 167 km² of Tamarindo Bay.
  • Parque Nacional Palo VerdeParkPalo Verde covers about 18,400 ha of the Tempisque River valley, some 30 km west of Cañas.
  • Parque Nacional Rincón de la ViejaParkThe national park around Rincón de la Vieja volcano in Guanacaste.
  • Parque Nacional Santa RosaParkSanta Rosa National Park in Guanacaste was created in 1966.
  • Playa Blanca (Junquillal)Beach · Free · hidden gemA hidden white-sand cove just north of Playa Junquillal, a rare white-sand beach on this coast.
  • Playa Blanca (Papagayo Peninsula)Beach · Free · hidden gemA white-sand beach on the Gulf of Papagayo side of the peninsula, with soft waves and rock formations that make a natural pool.
  • Playa Carbón (Las Baulas)Beach · Free · hidden gemA secluded black-and-white sand beach in Las Baulas National Marine Park, just past Playa Ventanas and reachable only on foot.
  • Playa DantitaBeach · Free · hidden gemA tiny white-sand cove with clear turquoise water hidden past the headland from Playa Danta — a short jungle trail keeps it quiet.
  • Playa El Jobo (Bahía Salinas)Beach · Free · hidden gemA sheltered white-sand beach in Bahía Jobo, next to the fishing village of El Jobo: clear water that is good for snorkeling, shade trees along the sand and local boats at anchor.
  • Playa Huevos and its sea cavesNature spotA half-moon beach on the Papagayo Peninsula known for two sea caves that open up at low tide, natural tunnels in the old rock.
  • Playa JunquillalBeach · Free · hidden gemThree kilometers of nearly empty sand with low-tide rock pools and a community-run sea turtle hatchery — Guanacaste the way it looked decades ago.
  • Playa LagartilloBeach · Free · hidden gemA small, wild beach about 1.5 km south of Avellanas with driftwood, rocky outcrops and a little river mouth.
  • Playa Marbella (Frijolar)Beach · FreeA remote surf beach an hour-plus south of Tamarindo.
  • Playa Matapalo (Guanacaste)Beach · Free · hidden gemA quiet dark-sand bay west of Playas del Coco, with a green ridge behind it, small boats and kayaks, and rocky corners to explore at either end.
  • Playa Minas (Zapotillal)Beach · Free · hidden gemA white-sand, forest-backed beach with no buildings at the end of a rough dirt road — one of the last truly wild beaches between Tamarindo and Flamingo.
  • Playa Nacascolo (Papagayo peninsula)Beach · Free · hidden gemOne of several quiet beaches on the Papagayo peninsula: pale sand, calm shallow water and forested headlands, with capuchin monkeys often in the trees behind the sand.
  • Playa Pan de Azúcar (Sugar Beach)Beach · Free · hidden gemA pretty, little-visited crescent known as Sugar Beach, reached on foot by short natural trails from Playa Prieta; a viewpoint hike above gives a view over the bay.
  • Playa Penca (Potrero)Beach · Free · hidden gemA small, calm cove at the north end of sleepy Potrero with almost-white sand and clear turquoise water — the kind of place locals bring a cooler and stay all day.
  • Playa Potrero Grande (Ollie's Point)BeachA remote beach on the Santa Elena Peninsula inside the Guanacaste Conservation Area, home of Ollie's Point, a long right-hand point break.
  • Playa Prieta (Potrero)Beach · Free · hidden gemA small, quiet dark-sand cove near Potrero with rocks at either end and almost no development.
  • Playa Ventanas & Dante's RockNature spot · Free · hidden gemA small cove just north of Playa Grande, behind a rocky point and a big sea stack locals call Dante's Rock — tide pools at low tide and a quiet place to watch the sun go down.
  • Playa Virador (Papagayo Peninsula)Beach · Free · hidden gemWhite sand, few rocks, shade trees and gentle waves on the outer coast of the Papagayo Peninsula.
  • Plaza Los Mangos (Santa Cruz)Park · FreeThe square also known as Plaza López, in Costa Rica's 'folklore city', where the wooden bullring and grandstands go up every January for the Fiestas de Santa Cruz in honor of the Santo Cristo de Esquipulas.
  • Puente Avellanas (mangrove footbridge)Bridge · Free · hidden gemA rickety wooden footbridge that cuts straight through the mangrove behind Playa Avellanas, linking the beach with a couple of small hotels.
  • Punta Guachipelines LookoutViewpoint · Free · hidden gemA short, steep loop on the rocky headland west of Playa Danta, part of the Las Catalinas trail network.
  • Punta San FranciscoViewpoint · FreeThe rocky headland between Tamarindo and Playa Langosta.
  • Reserva Biológica Lomas de BarbudalNature spotA biological reserve of about 26 km² in Guanacaste, some 15 km southwest of Bagaces.
  • Reserva Forestal TabogaNature spotA forest reserve created in 1978 in the Arenal Tempisque Conservation Area.
  • Santa María Hot Springs Trail (Rincón de la Vieja)Trail · about $16.95 · hidden gemA forest trail from the old Santa María ranch house to steaming sulfur springs on a creek, in the quiet eastern sector of Rincón de la Vieja where spider monkeys, guans and agoutis are common.
  • Volcán OrosíNature spotOrosí is an inactive volcano of the Cordillera de Guanacaste near the Nicaraguan border, inside Guanacaste National Park.
  • Volcán Rincón de la ViejaNature spotRincón de la Vieja is an active volcanic complex about 23 km from Liberia.
  • Aguas termales de Rincón de la Vieja (1)Swimming spot · hidden gemA hot spring near Liberia, Guanacaste province.
  • Bagaces Town Square & San Caralampio ChurchPark · FreeThe renovated central park of Bagaces (Parque Medardo Guido) facing the parish church of San Caralampio, with a few old adobe houses and the town's Casa de la Cultura nearby — a quiet stop between Liberia and Cañas.
  • Bahía Santa Elena (marine management area)Nature spot · hidden gemA protected bay on the north side of the Santa Elena Peninsula, covering the Santa Elena, Lucas and Matapalito bays: fine-sand beaches, rocky points and coral rock in the shallows.
  • Cabro Muco Waterfall (Miravalles south face)Waterfall · about $45 · hidden gemOne of several hidden waterfalls on the forested south flank of Miravalles Volcano, reached with local guides on a route that also passes the Piedras Rojas and Morpho Blanca falls and natural pools.
  • Cascada 1 Rio NegroWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Liberia, Guanacaste province.
  • Cascada 2 Rio NegroWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Liberia, Guanacaste province.
  • Cascada 4 Rio NegroWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Liberia, Guanacaste province.
  • Cascada Grande de La Fortuna de BagacesWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near La Fortuna, Guanacaste province.
  • Catarata Quebrada BrasilWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Santa Cruz, Guanacaste province.
  • Catarata Salitral, Cañas DulcesWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Cañas Dulces, Guanacaste province.
  • Cuajiniquil fishing pier (Muelle Incopesca)Landmark · FreeThe working pier of Cuajiniquil, a small fishing village on the Santa Elena bays.
  • El Farallón Petroglyphs (Cañas)Landmark · about $10 · hidden gemA rock wall on a family farm in Cedros de Sandillal, north of Cañas, carved with dozens of pre-Columbian petroglyphs, from sun-like circles to other designs.
  • Mirador Cráter Von SeebachViewpoint · hidden gemA viewpoint near Aguas Claras, Alajuela province.
  • Mirador de las fumarolas, Rincón de la ViejaViewpoint · hidden gemA viewpoint near Liberia, Guanacaste province.
  • Mirador de PithayaViewpoint · hidden gemA viewpoint near Cuajiniquil, Guanacaste province.
  • Mirador del CraterViewpoint · hidden gemA viewpoint near Aguas Claras, Alajuela province.
  • Mirador Mico Pintado (petroglyph lookout, Bagaces)Viewpoint · hidden gemA hilltop above Bagaces named after a large pre-Columbian petroglyph of a monkey carved in the rock.
  • Mirador sobre Bahía SalinasViewpoint · hidden gemA viewpoint in Guanacaste.
  • Mirador Tierras Emergidas (Santa Rosa National Park)Viewpoint · about $17A roadside lookout on the paved park road to the Santa Rosa ranger station, with a wide view over the dry-forest plains of the park.
  • O Nature TrailTrail · hidden gemA trail in Guanacaste.
  • Pailas de Agua Fría (cold bubbling pools, Santa María sector)Nature spot · about $16.95 · hidden gemOdd little pools of light-brown mineral water that bubble cold — the gas is carbon dioxide, not heat — at the foot of the humid forest among heliconias and bleached dead trunks.
  • Playa Ana LauraBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa AnimaBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa AzulBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa Bajo GrandeBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa BlancaBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa Blanca (Santa Elena Peninsula)Beach · hidden gemA remote white-sand beach on the western Santa Elena Peninsula, at the end of a long dirt track from the Murciélago sector.
  • Playa Blanca ViewpointViewpoint · hidden gemA viewpoint near Veintisiete de Abril, Guanacaste province.
  • Playa BrasileoBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa CabuyaBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa CallejonesBeach · Free · hidden gemA rocky, roughly 800-meter beach by a small fishing village between Paraíso and Playa Negra, with the sand covered in spiral shells.
  • Playa CarbonalBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa CarrizalBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa CementerioBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa CocoBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa CocoBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa ConventillosBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa CoyoteraBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa El ManzanilloBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa El NaranjoBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa El OstionalBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa El RobleBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa Escondida (Junquillal, La Cruz)Beach · Free · hidden gemA little beach between the Junquillal wildlife refuge and Playa Corona, known for gentle waves that suit families.
  • Playa GrandeBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa GringosBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa GuacamayaBeach · hidden gemA secluded beach on the wild coast between Playa Matapalo and Las Catalinas, at the edge of the Gulf of Papagayo.
  • Playa GuariaBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa GuarumoBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa Honda (Bahía Pirata)Beach · Free · hidden gemAn undeveloped white-sand beach with clear water in the Bahía Pirata area, and a nesting beach for black (Pacific green) sea turtles.
  • Playa Huevos, LiberiaBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa Jícaro (Papagayo Peninsula)Beach · hidden gemA pretty cove inside Bahía Culebra on the Papagayo Peninsula, one of the boat-only beaches that tours visit for a swim and snorkeling around the rocks.
  • Playa JicoteBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa La CagaditaBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa La CanoaBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa La FlorBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa La VirgenBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa LagartoBeach · Free · hidden gemA rocky, kilometer-long stretch between Punta Lagarto and Punta Flor, between Junquillal and Marbella, known for small-scale traditional fishing.
  • Playa MansitaBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa ManzanilloBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa MarinaBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa MariquitaBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa Mata BueyBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa MatapalitoBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa Monte del BarcoBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa MorrosBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa NanceBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa Nombre de JesúsBeach · Free · hidden gemA hidden stretch of fine light sand and turquoise water in the Bahía Pirata area, west of Playa Minas.
  • Playa PapaturroBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa PedregosaBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa PedroBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa Penca PalmasViewpoint · hidden gemA viewpoint near Tempate, Guanacaste province.
  • Playa PiñuelaBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa Pitahaya & MiradorBeach · Free · hidden gemA pristine grey-sand beach with crystal-clear water, cliffs and streams, backed by dry forest full of wildlife near the Río Tabaco.
  • Playa Prieta (Papagayo Peninsula)Beach · Free · hidden gemAnother of the stair-access public beaches on the Papagayo Peninsula, tucked between Playa Virador and Playa Huevos.
  • Playa RealBeach · Free · hidden gemA small, secluded beach with clear, warm water between Playa Nombre de Jesús and the Bahía Pirata coves.
  • Playa RespingueBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa RóbaloBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa SombreroBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playa Surco de PiedraBeach · Free · hidden gemA quiet dark-brown sand beach south of Junquillal, with shade trees along the back and a moderate slope into the sea.
  • Playa Toyosa (Mostrencal)Beach · Free · hidden gemA small beach right next to the Bahía Junquillal refuge with calm, crystal-clear water and shade trees; a few rocks separate it from its neighbor.
  • Playa VenadoBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Playas ColoradasBeachA beach in Guanacaste.
  • Refugio de Vida Silvestre La FlorParkA protected area near La Flor, Rivas province.
  • Rio Negro Hot SpringsSwimming spot · hidden gemA hot spring near Liberia, Guanacaste province.
  • Sendero Los Patos (Santa Rosa National Park)Trail · about $17A fairly flat 1 km dry-forest trail near the start of the Playa Naranjo road that ends at a viewpoint over a valley toward the ocean.
  • Villarreal Friday MarketLocal shop · Free · hidden gemA small local produce market held on Friday mornings at the corner of the soccer field in Villarreal, the Tico town just inland from Tamarindo.
  • Volcán CacaoNature spotA volcano in Guanacaste, mapped on OpenStreetMap.
  • Volcán OrosilitoNature spotA volcano in Guanacaste, mapped on OpenStreetMap.
  • Volcán PedregalNature spotA volcano in Guanacaste, mapped on OpenStreetMap.