When traveling abroad, get a policy from one of the best travel insurance companies. You can get a 5% discount on Heymondo, the only insurance that pays all medical bills upfront for you, HERE!
Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is the second largest province in the country, and, paradoxically, the least populated. This means that throughout its territory and its more than 600 kilometers (373 miles) of coastline, you’ll find abundant, exuberant nature.
Beyond its scenic beauty, Guanacaste is home to some of the best places in Costa Rica, where you can observe wildlife, volcanoes, and spectacular marine ecosystems. In addition, it has a fairly dry climate, so you can fully enjoy each of its corners almost all year round.
Personally, traveling through Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula was an unforgettable experience, and Guanacaste was undoubtedly the highlight. So, I want to share all the information you need to plan your visit so you can explore this area for yourself.
This guide is for you if you’re thinking about adventuring through the jungle, visiting paradisiacal beaches, or checking out some of the most impressive national parks in Costa Rica. Below, I’ll share the best places to see in Guanacaste and some accommodation recommendations for your trip.
1. Tamarindo, an essential place to see in Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Tamarindo is one of the most popular places to see in Guanacaste, as it’s home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. Of course, keep in mind that this is one of the most crowded places in the province, so it’s not ideal if you want to escape the tourist crowds. Even so, there is no shortage of restaurants, nightlife venues, and hotels for all budgets.
Tamarindo Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Guanacaste and has been classified as an Ecological Blue Flag Beach. It boasts nearly 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) of white sand with lush vegetation, a mountainous environment, perfect surfing waves, and, of course, the iconic coconut trees of a tropical paradise.
There are all kinds of things to do here, but my favorites are this catamaran ride, which gives you stunning coastal views at sunset, and this diving (or snorkeling) tour that goes to the fascinating Catalinas Islands, another top tourist destination in Guanacaste.
There are several beaches near Tamarindo that are worth visiting, so, if you have enough time, I recommend checking out the surrounding areas. One of the best beaches is Playa Conchal, an excellent place to go horseback riding at sunset. Don’t worry; I’ll tell you about the other beaches later.
2. Las Baulas National Marine Park, one of the best places to visit in Guanacaste
Las Baulas National Marine Park is another precious corner of Guanacaste province in Costa Rica, right next to Tamarindo. Here, not only will you find protected spaces where you can connect with nature, but you can witness the nesting of the leatherback turtle, one of the most incredible species of Costa Rican turtles, and one of the largest in the world.
The spawning season is from the end of October to mid-February, so if you visit the park during this time, you can join a night tour and witness this wonderful natural phenomenon.
That said, it’s crucial that you don’t photograph or touch the turtles since this could interrupt their nesting process, causing them to return to the sea and lose their eggs. Instead of interfering, you should watch them from afar in total silence. Disconnect from your phone and focus on these incredible creatures in their natural habitat; you’ll be glad you did!
In addition to turtle nesting, Las Baulas National Marine Park is home to magnificent beaches, particularly Ventanas Beach, Carbón Beach, Grande Beach, and Langosta Beach. The largest mangrove in Central America is also located here, so it’s worth taking this boat safari from Tamarindo to get a closer look at its wild and exotic vegetation.
3. Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, a must see in Guanacaste, Costa Rica
The Rincón de la Vieja Volcano is one of the most famous volcanoes in Costa Rica, so it’s a must-see in Guanacaste. It’s in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, a protected area with a network of trails leading to different points of interest, such as hot springs, waterfalls, steaming geysers, and boiling natural pools.
The park is divided into two well-marked areas: Santa María and Las Pailas, the latter being where the volcano trail starts. However, this trail is currently closed, due to an increase in volcanic activity in recent years. The last eruption occurred in April 2023, when the volcano expelled materials, vapors, and ash 500 meters (1,640 ft) into the air.
If the trail is open when you go, you should know that it’s a 16-kilometer (10-mile) circular route. Taking into account the extra time to take photos, relax, and appreciate the views of the Nicoya Peninsula and Lake Cocibolca in Nicaragua, it’ll take you around 8 hours to complete.
If it’s closed, don’t worry; the park is still worth visiting. For example, in the Las Pailas section, there is a 3-kilometer (2-mile) circular route that takes you to volcanic mud pools, hot springs, and a small volcano. You can also take the route to the beautiful La Escondida or La Cangreja waterfalls, or to the closer Oropendola waterfall.
The Santa María section is about half an hour away by car and features hot springs, the Santa María mansion, cold water pools, and a waterfall in the Enchanted Forest.
If you’re short on time or want to better organize your visit, this full-day tour includes pickup in many areas of Guanacaste and takes you to the best sites in the park.
4. Nosara, another one of the best beaches in Guanacaste
Nosara is one of the best places to visit in Guanacaste if you’re seeking tranquility since it’s away from the busiest places on the coast. Unlike the surfer spirit of Tamarindo, Nosara is the yoga mecca of Costa Rica, so you’ll find daily classes on the beach for all levels, accommodations that offer multi-day retreats, and healthy restaurants.
In this small town of 5,000 inhabitants, there are no paved streets, so the dirt roads get muddy during the rainy season. You’ll need a 4×4 vehicle to access them, but it’s not too bad.
Nosara’s 3 kilometers of white sand invite you to stroll along the sea while listening to the sound of the crashing waves. Here, you can also appreciate the nature of the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge, which I’ll tell you about shortly. But first, you should know that there is a mangrove next to the beach and a sign warning about crocodiles. We didn’t see any during our trip, but keep an eye out.
Finally, besides yoga, this is a great spot for surfers. If you’re up for taking a class or practicing your skills, you’ll find good waves here all year round. To me, it seemed like one of the most beautiful places in Guanacaste, where the locals are friendly, and the Tico spirit is strong.
5. Ostional Wildlife Refuge, one of the most important protected spaces to visit in Guanacaste
If you’re an animal lover or nature enthusiast, the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best places to visit in Guanacaste. In addition to its dreamlike landscapes, it’s famous for being the world’s largest nesting site for the olive ridley turtle. If you’re really lucky, you’ll also spot leatherback and green turtles.
This area consists of four beaches, Nosara, Ostional, Pelada, and Guiones, and covers about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) of coastline. The refuge also includes a large area of coastal estuaries and mangroves and 3 nautical miles of protected marine area. As a curiosity, Playa Ostional is the only beach in the world that allows the harvesting and selling of sea turtle eggs since so many turtles come here to lay their eggs that they end up destroying pre-existing nests.
The peak season for visits is from July to December when the turtles arrive. For 3 or 4 days each month, more than 170,000 turtles come to the coast to lay their eggs, a natural spectacle that will leave you speechless. If you’re visiting outside this window, don’t be discouraged! You’ll be able to watch the eggs hatch, and maybe some stragglers who still need to lay their eggs.
It’s important to note that you need a qualified guide to accompany you since access to the beach is closed to protect the nesting process and conserve the species.
6. Visit Sámara Beach, one of the best things to do in Guanacaste
Sámara Beach is another place in Guanacaste that you should include in your itinerary. Although it’s always been a popular destination among national tourists, in 2013, it was chosen as the second most beautiful beach in Central America. Ever since then, it has become a super popular spot for international travelers.
The picturesque town of Sámara is home to small shops, restaurants, and bars. It also has a white sand beach with a family-friendly atmosphere and gentle waves, so it’s ideal for travelers with little ones. Here, you can enjoy a quiet swim or exciting surfing lessons.
Another stand-out feature of Sámara Beach is its beautiful coral reef, particularly the area surrounding Chora Island. There are kayak tours that can take you there so you can explore the depths of the sea. I also really like this tour, which includes a dolphin-watching excursion, followed by free time to snorkel on Chora Island.
On both Samara Beach and Chora Island, it’s common to see sea turtles in the water. If you’re interested in seeing the turtles nesting, I recommend this sunset tour.
7. Liberia, the capital city of Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Liberia is another hotspot in Guanacaste since many travelers fly into its airport or use the town as a home base while visiting other tourist sites in the province. I think there are several interesting things to keep an eye on, although I recommend staying in some of the better beach towns.
Of course, if you have time, it doesn’t hurt to get to know a little about “The White City”. Here, you’ll find a great mix of traditional and modern architecture and several shopping centers. I recommend getting lost in the streets of its old town, specifically Calle Real, where you’ll find traditional mud and adobe houses painted with lime, giving them that characteristic white color.
Although these buildings have been restored to protect the city’s cultural identity, they still have their original interior courtyards and the famous “doors of the sun”, a type of double door that makes the most of natural light.
I also recommend visiting the Guanacaste Museum to learn more about the local history and culture. This building used to be a prison, but today, it’s full of art by local and national artists. All these attractions make Liberia one of the main cities to visit in Costa Rica.
8. Barra Honda National Park, a unique thing to see in Guanacaste
Visiting Barra Honda National Park is a unique thing to do in Guanacaste, as this is the only park in the country with a complex of underground caverns. Up until pretty recently, it was believed that Cerro Barra Honda was a volcano, as experts believed the sound of bats coming out of the caves was actually geothermal activity.
However, in the 1960s, they discovered around 40 perfectly preserved caves throughout the park, although they’ve only explored 19 of them. These caves were formed by the constant rushing of water on the rock, which is mostly composed of calcium carbonate. As the water came in contact with the rock, this mineral dissolved and formed these wondrous caverns.
The depths of the caves range from a few meters to nearly 800 meters (2,625 ft). Inside, you’ll find impressive rock formations, such as stalactites and stalagmites. Currently, you can only visit the Terciopelo Cave, which requires descending a 17-meter (55-foot) ladder!
If you decide to embark on this exciting adventure, you must book a tour. This excursion lasts 4-5 hours and includes your permit to access the park, all your safety gear, and a guide. For me, it is one of the coolest things to do in Guanacaste.
9. Playa Flamingo, one of the best tourist destinations in Guanacaste
Unlike other tourist sites in Guanacaste, Playa Flamingo is a town where you can find a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere. Far from the nightlife and touristy attractions, this place offers tranquility and some of the most luxurious hotels.
Scattered throughout the surrounding mangrove forest and green hills, you’ll find small shops and cute boutiques. However, you’ll also run into lots of tourists, so if you want to immerse yourself in the local Tico culture, this isn’t the best spot.
Still, the spectacular scenery here makes this place worth a visit. If you go at sunset, you’ll see the pink reflection cascading over the beach, and you’ll understand why this is called Flamingo Beach. Also, if you’re traveling as a couple, I recommend taking this romantic catamaran sunset cruise. There is also this private dolphin-watching tour, a great alternative that you can do as a family.
Finally, Playa Flamingo is one of the best destinations in Guanacaste to practice sport fishing, and over 40 world records have been set here. Thanks to its proximity to deep waters and bays protected from strong currents, it’s possible to catch many species of incredible fish, such as blue marlin, mahi mahi, and roosterfish. If you’re interested, check out this fishing excursion.
10. Visit Playa Hermosa, one of the best things to do in Guanacaste
Playa Hermosa is another town in Guanacaste you shouldn’t miss. With its 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) beach and beautiful surroundings, Playa Hermosa is one of the most popular destinations for tourists seeking a tranquil seaside vacation.
Despite its popularity, the beach is rarely crowded. The sands may not be as spectacularly colorful as other beaches, but the crystal-clear water and well-preserved marine ecosystem are sure to amaze you. In fact, Playa Hermosa has received a Blue Flag designation.
The best way to explore this area is to take this catamaran cruise and snorkeling tour, which will allow you to appreciate all the richness of its seabed while enjoying the beautiful views of the coast.
Surrounded by lush tropical forests, Playa Hermosa is also a good spot to call home base while you visit other tourist attractions in Guanacaste, such as the Llanos del Cortez Waterfall, the Miravalles Volcano, and other beaches and national parks. So, keep it in mind if you’re looking for hotels in Costa Rica.
11. Playa del Coco, a relaxing place to visit in Guanacaste
Playa del Coco is right next to Playa Hermosa, so it’s another tourist attraction in Guanacaste you can visit. Like its neighbor, Playa del Coco is just 20 minutes from the Liberia airport, so it’s a good place to call home for a few days. This is actually one of the most popular spots for families since you can find all kinds of activities and services here.
Playa del Coco is frequented by both locals and tourists, thanks to its relaxing atmosphere and wide range of accommodation options for all budgets.
If you’re in the mood for a laid-back activity, this catamaran sunset cruise is perfect. For something more exciting, there are horseback riding tours on the beach, snorkeling sessions, kayaking excursions, sport fishing, and more. Finally, the vibrant nightlife scene is also worth checking out, and you’ll find bars sprinkled along the beach and downtown.
12. Diving in Guanacaste in the Bad Islands and Catalina Islands
Playa Flamingo, Playa Hermosa, and Playa del Coco are located in the Gulf of Papagayo, where you’ll find two of the best diving sites in Costa Rica: the Bad Islands and the Catalina Islands. These islands are surrounded by strong currents, but they offer seasoned divers the opportunity to explore the well-preserved ecosystem at an affordable price.
For example, the Bat Islands are home to bull sharks measuring up to 6 meters (19.6 ft) long. They generally inhabit the deep waters surrounding Santa Rosa National Park, one of the few places in Guanacaste where they can be easily found.
The Catalina Islands are home to various types of sharks, turtles, eels, and large schools of fish. However, the Pacific manta rays, the largest species of this group, are the stars of the show.
This tour for certified divers is an excellent way to observe these marine creatures up close. The excursion departs from Playa Hermosa or Playa del Coco and includes two dives in the Bad Islands, the Catalina Islands, or some other place, depending on your skill level.
There is also this other tour from Playa Flamingo to the Catalina Islands, but you must be certified to participate. If you’re not, consider taking one of the snorkeling tours or an introductory diving tour.
Not far from the Gulf of Papagayo, Tamarindo offers this tour that includes two dives in the Catalina Islands. This excursion is also reserved for certified divers, but if you have the time, you can take this diving course to get certified. Otherwise, there is this snorkeling tour to the Catalina Islands or this introductory diving course.
13. Miravalles Volcano, another tourist attraction in Guanacaste, Costa Rica
The Miravalles Volcano is the highest point of the Volcanic Mountain Range of the province of Guanacaste, measuring around 2028 meters (6,653 ft) high. Although you can access the summit if you’re in good shape and hire a guide, there are other things to do in the surrounding area. Most people visit this national park to experience the relaxing and healing properties of the hot springs surrounding the volcano.
Keep in mind that getting here can be a bit tricky since the road is mostly unpaved and bumpy. Plus, if it has rained a lot, you’ll want to drive a 4wd vehicle. Of course, if you don’t want to risk it, this excursion is one of the best things to do in Guanacaste.
During the tour, you’ll follow a path to different geysers, sulfur rivers, and fumaroles emitting volcanic gas. The geothermal energy produced here is used to produce electricity that supplies light to the entire province of Guanacaste. This excursion also includes a horseback ride through the incredible landscapes, followed by time to soak in the hot springs or volcanic mud baths.
Finally, Tenorio Volcano National Park is quite close to the Miravalles Volcano, so if you’re visiting this place on your own, you can add this national park to your itinerary. The park, which is home to a lush forest and all kinds of fauna, is also where you can hike to the Río Celeste Waterfall and marvel at its bright turquoise waters.
14. Nicoya, one of the most traditional places to visit in Guanacaste
Nicoya is a small city where you can learn more about the ethnic traditions, customs, and cultural heritage of Costa Rica. If you are on your way to one of the beach destinations, I recommend making a pit stop here on your way back.
One of the most important religious buildings here is the Colonial Church of San Blas, dating back to around the 6th century and located in the heart of Central Park. Nearby, you can explore La Casa de Cultura, which houses local relics and hosts live musical performances.
Of course, it’s also nice to simply get lost in Nicoya’s streets and observe the locals’ daily lives. During our trip, we visited Las Guayabitas Market, an outdoor venue selling native products like pujagua corn, pipianes, cherries, and chilotes. If you’re up for it, you can make the 40-minute climb up to Cerro de la Cruz.
15. Visit the Río Negro Hot Springs, a fun thing to do in Guanacaste
If you liked the hot springs of the Miravalles Volcano, the Río Negro Hot Springs are another place you should visit in Guanacaste. They’re very close to Rincón de la Vieja National Park and have rejuvenating and therapeutic properties so you can enjoy the ultimate relaxation.
My favorite thing about these hot springs is that they’re surrounded by a beautiful tropical forest. Plus, a series of hanging bridges lead into the pools, creating a postcard-worthy image. The waters in these pools are said to be full of beneficial minerals, so don’t miss the opportunity to take a mud bath in this natural spa. While they’re heated by the geothermal activity of the volcano, the temperature doesn’t get too hot.
To get there, you can drive your rental car in Costa Rica from Tamarindo, which takes about 2 hours. The area has dressing rooms, restrooms, and lockers to keep your belongings safe. Just don’t forget to buy your ticket in advance!
16. Santa Rosa National Park, an interesting thing to see in Guanacaste, Costa Rica
If you still have some energy left for more sightseeing in Guanacaste, head to Santa Rosa National Park, the first national park in Costa Rica. This dry forest, unique in Central America, is home to 500-year-old trees, dreamy beaches, wildlife, and scenic trails.
The most popular beach here is Playa Naranjo, which is frequented by experienced surfers. This is where you can see Witch Rock, one of the oldest rock formations in the country, estimated to be more than 130 million years old.
Alternatively, Nancite Beach is one of the few nesting sites in the world for ridley turtles, a critically endangered species. This area can only be accessed by biologists and students with a special permit.
Besides its natural wonders, this park was also the site of the Battle of Hacienda Santa Rosa, where a group of Costa Rican volunteers faced an invading American force. If you want to learn more about this historical event, you can view the military exhibitions, photographs, and memorabilia at La Casona Historical Museum.
Finally, if you prefer a guided tour of this area, I recommend the excursion we took. It allowed us to explore the park and learn about the interesting city of Liberia.
17. Palo Verde National Park, a place you cannot miss in Guanacaste
Palo Verde National Park is another awesome place to visit in Guanacaste, especially if you love nature and want to see some native animals of Costa Rica. Unlike other protected areas in the country, this park is home to around 15 different natural communities, although 50% of the park is wetlands.
This ecosystem contains more than 750 plant species, many species of birds, both migratory and resident, and snakes, crocodiles, and other reptiles, such as iguanas and lizards. There are also pumas, but spotting them is very rare.
Although you can explore the park’s trails on foot, I think it’s better to sign up for this half-day boat ride along the Tempisque River. It includes pick-up from different points in Guanacaste and allows you to comfortably observe the wild fauna and go into other corners that are only accessible by boat.
18. Llanos del Cortez Waterfall, an incredible place to visit in Guanacaste
You also can’t leave the province of Guanacaste without visiting the Llanos de Cortez Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica. It’s near the city of Bagaces, 30 minutes from Liberia and next to Palo Verde, making it a good getaway if you’re staying in the city.
This 13-meter (43-foot) waterfall is surrounded by a kind of white sand beach where you can dry off and sunbathe after swimming.
If you don’t have a way to get there, this full-day excursion from Tamarindo is a good option. In addition to the Llanos de Cortez Waterfall, it also goes to the Río Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park as well as an area where you can see the friendly sloths of Costa Rica, which, by the way, are not found in Guanacaste.
19. Guanacaste National Park, another place to visit in Guanacaste for nature lovers
Guanacaste National Park is one of the most representative protected spaces in the country, covering 32,000 hectares (79,000 acres), and is one of the largest biological reserves in the world. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 thanks to its incomparable biodiversity, which includes 140 species of mammals, more than 300 species of birds, amphibians, reptiles, and more than 10,000 species of insects.
The park is so big that it’s divided into three distinct sections. The first is the Maritza sector, which includes the Orosí volcano and its surroundings. The ecosystem here is a dry-to-humid forest with waterfalls, ravines, and a great variety of birds.
The Pitilla sector, on the other hand, includes the entire rainforest area. Here, you can hike the various trails to spot birds and other animals while enjoying privileged views of Lake Nicaragua.
Finally, the Cacao sector has trails that will take you to the top of the Cacao volcano, as well as the lush vegetation of the rainforest found at the base.
20. El Farallón archaeological site, a captivating place where you can learn about Guanacaste’s past
Finally, your tour of Guanacaste isn’t complete without visiting El Farallón. It may not be as popular as the other sites on the list, but I assure you that it’s worth checking out if you feel like traveling back in time.
The Farallon monument has held a Historical-Architectural Heritage of Costa Rica designation since 1998 and is the largest archaeological site in the country within private property. It’s said that religious ceremonies dedicated to the Sun (Sua) and the Moon (Chía) were carried out here by one of the indigenous tribes originally from the area, the Corobicies.
The engravings on the Farallon wall are truly incredible and were made using a technique called channeling, which consisted of making grooves in the rock with sharp tools. There are dozens of these figures, and you can distinguish drawings of all kinds, mostly related to nature.
Since the monument is on private property, you must buy a $10 ticket to visit.
Where to stay in Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Below, you’ll find some accommodation recommendations in Costa Rica for your visit to Guanacaste province. There are several different places you can use as a base, such as Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, Playa Hermosa, Playa del Coco, Sámara, or Nosara, depending on the type of hotel and atmosphere you’re looking for. If I have to give you 5 options, these are my favorites:
- Occidental Papagayo: Located in the Gulf of Papagayo, near Playa Hermosa and Playa Panamá, this is one of the best hotels in Costa Rica. Guests must be at least 18 years old, and in addition to its luxurious pool and outdoor jacuzzi, there is an all-inclusive package available.
- Occidental Tamarindo: As one of the most famous all-inclusive hotels in Costa Rica, this resort boasts an outdoor pool, a jacuzzi, a tennis court, and various entertainment options like dance classes. Its rooms are simple and offer stunning ocean views.
- Tamarindo Sunshine: If you’re trying to travel cheaply, I recommend staying in one of the apartments in Costa Rica, specifically in Tamarindo. These particular apartments are just 100 meters from the beach and accommodate 2 guests, making them perfect for a Costa Rica honeymoon. Each unit has an outdoor patio or terrace so you can enjoy the views of the surrounding area, and an equipped kitchen so you can prepare your meals.
- Hotel Bosque del Mar Playa Hermosa: This luxurious hotel in Costa Rica will help you vacation in style. Its large rooms feature sitting areas and spacious balconies, and the complex offers first-class dining options combining international cuisine with local flavors. It’s in the beautiful Playa Hermosa.
- Playa Grande Surf Camp: Finally, this is one of the best hostels in Costa Rica, featuring a communal kitchen and a restaurant. It’s just meters away from Playa Grande and has various accommodation options, such as 6-bed dorms, private double rooms, and an outdoor treehouse.
Map of Guanacaste, Costa Rica
To wrap up, this map has all the places to visit in Guanacaste to help you plan your itinerary. I also recommend consulting our Guanacaste beach guide and our map of Costa Rica, which feature more ideas on where to eat, stay, and play.
That’s it for the best places to see in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. I hope this guide helps you discover all the charm of Guanacaste province. If you have any questions or want to share your travel experience in Costa Rica, feel free to leave a comment below.
Pura Vida!