The Guanacaste Peninsula, located on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, is a stunning destination with a diverse landscape that includes lush mountains, dense jungles, and scenic coastlines. Here, you’ll find a variety of vibrant beach towns, each with its own unique character, from surf-friendly hotspots to quiet coves with bioluminescent displays. Guanacaste is also known for its fresh seafood, friendly locals, and a laid-back atmosphere that captures the essence of Costa Rican culture.
Top Destinations in Guanacaste: Where to Go and What to See
The Guanacaste region is dotted with numerous towns and beaches, each offering something unique:
Northern Guanacaste
- Playa Hermosa – A relaxed beach destination (note: there are multiple Playa Hermosa beaches in Costa Rica, so double-check locations).
- Coco – Known for its lively nightlife and accessible beach, it’s a popular spot among tourists.
- Playa Flamingo – A luxury destination with beautiful sands, crystal-clear waters, and high-end resorts.
- Tamarindo – A bustling town with a strong surf culture and plenty of options for dining and nightlife, though it can feel quite touristy.
Central and Southern Guanacaste
- San Juanillo – A quieter, hidden gem, ideal for snorkeling and experiencing natural beauty.
- Playa Nosara – Known for yoga retreats and a relaxed, bohemian vibe. A favorite for wellness-focused travelers.
- Samara – A family-friendly beach town with a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for laid-back days by the sea.
- Santa Teresa – This up-and-coming beach town is a personal favorite. It offers a mix of surf culture, digital nomad vibes, yoga studios, and luxurious yet affordable accommodations. This was our favorite place.
- Montezuma – Known for its hippie charm, waterfalls, and beautiful beaches.
- Paquera – Home to year-round bioluminescence, this quiet town is the launch point for unforgettable bioluminescent tours.
Best Beaches in Guanacaste, Costa Rica
We explored some of Guanacaste’s beaches ourselves and received recommendations from locals and other travelers. Here’s a breakdown:
Must-Visit Beaches in Guanacaste
- Playa Conchal – Known for its unique shell-studded sand and crystal-clear water, Playa Conchal is a must-visit for beach lovers.
- Playa Hermosa (near Santa Teresa) – This is a great spot for beginners looking to try surfing or enjoy a peaceful day on the beach.
Beaches Recommended To Use By Locals That We Didn’t Visit
- Nacascolo – Touted as a beautiful, serene beach, ideal for a quiet day by the ocean.
- San Juanillo – Often described as a paradise for snorkeling and exploring tide pools.
- Playa Nosara – Perfect for those interested in yoga and a chill beach vibe.
- Samara – A great spot for families, with calm waters and plenty of beachside cafes.
How to Get Around the Guanacaste Peninsula
Traveling through the Guanacaste Peninsula can be challenging due to the region’s rough roads. Here’s what you need to know:
- Road Conditions: Many roads are unpaved, in poor condition, and can become impassable during the rainy season.
- Rent a 4×4: You must have a 4×4 with good suspension you’re traveling in the area by car. Drive super carefully. Even with such a vehicle, I accidentally scraped the front bumper when I ran over a pothole.
- Route Planning: The main road runs along the northern coast and through the mountains. Unfortunately, this doesn’t make it easy to access some of the western beaches. We initially planned to beach hop down the coast but quickly learned that many beach routes are inaccessible from the main road.
As you can see, this way looks shorter, but it’s really not. It may be more scenic, but you should not drive it unless you have a very high suspension vehicle and good insurance:
This is the proper way:
Our Recommended Itinerary for Guanacaste: North vs. South Beaches
We found the southern part of Guanacaste much more appealing than the north for a few reasons. The south generally offers more affordable accommodations (we found great Airbnbs for around $100 per night in May) and it feels less commercialized.
Where to Stay in Guanacaste: Northern vs. Southern Beach Towns
- In the North: Stay a few days to explore popular beaches like Nacascolo and Playa Conchal. For the best experience at Playa Conchal, head to the side near the Marriott – this area boasts the whitest sand and clearest water.
- In the South: Make Santa Teresa your base. Santa Teresa is a lively town full of digital nomads, yoga studios, trendy cafes, affordable luxury villas, and surf shops. The surf here is fantastic, and beginners can take lessons at Playa Hermosa, where the conditions are beginner-friendly. For a deeper dive into what Santa Teresa has to offer, read our full guide on the best things to do in Santa Teresa.
Top Things to Do in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
- Surfing at Playa Hermosa: Perfect waves for beginners, with lessons readily available.
- Yoga and Wellness: Santa Teresa has lots of yoga studios and wellness retreats, ideal for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Sunset at Playa Santa Teresa: Enjoy breathtaking sunsets with a laid-back vibe, ideal for unwinding after a day of activities.
For more on Santa Teresa, read our full guide on the best things to do in Santa Teresa.
Experience Bioluminescence in Paquera: A Must-Do in Costa Rica
One of the most magical experiences in Costa Rica is witnessing the bioluminescent waters in Paquera. This area offers year-round bioluminescence, making it possible to see glowing water on night tours.
- Tour Recommendation: We booked a tour with Vigdis and Thomas on Airbnb for $45 per person! This was a highlight of our entire trip and something we’ll never forget!
Day Trip to Tortuga Island from Santa Teresa: Snorkeling & Adventure
Tortuga Island is a stunning spot for snorkeling, relaxing on white-sand beaches, and spotting tropical fish in clear waters.
- Tour Recommendation: We went with Zuma Tours for $70 per person. This day trip includes transportation, snorkeling gear, and lunch, making it an excellent value for a full-day adventure.
Conclusion: Exploring the Best of Guanacaste, Costa Rica
The Guanacaste Peninsula is a diverse, beautiful area with something for everyone – from laid-back surf towns and secluded beaches to vibrant tourist hotspots. While the north is home to popular spots like Tamarindo and Playa Conchal, the southern beaches, especially around Santa Teresa, offer a more relaxed, bohemian vibe.
Whether you’re looking to surf, spot bioluminescent waters, or enjoy a day trip to a nearby island, Guanacaste has an abundance of unique experiences. Embrace the relaxed pace, prepare for rough roads, and enjoy one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful regions.
