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The Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica was one of my favorite spots on my trip. It’s truly amazing how you can spend days here and always have things to explore. Every corner reveals something new, with nature and beauty that just keeps drawing you in.
Located along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, the Nicoya Peninsula mainly lies in Guanacaste Province, while the southern part is in Puntarenas Province. This place is one of the must-see attractions in Costa Rica, especially for beach lovers and surfers. In fact, it’s known worldwide as a top surfing destination, with some of the most spectacular beaches in Costa Rica located nearby, offering perfect opportunities for catching waves.
Over the years, the Nicoya Peninsula has grown more popular, but thanks to conservation efforts, it still holds onto its authentic charm. Measures have been taken to protect the exotic Costa Rican wildlife that thrives in its lush forests, so you’ll find several Costa Rican national parks in this area where you can immerse yourself in nature.
Visiting the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
Let me break down all the essentials for visiting the Nicoya Peninsula. Covering such a large area can make planning a bit overwhelming, but I’ll guide you through the best things to do and places to stay so you can make the most of your time. Here’s what you’ll find in this guide:
- Best things to do in the Nicoya Peninsula
- Other beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula
- How to get to the Nicoya Peninsula
- Best hotels on the Nicoya Peninsula
Best things to do in the Nicoya Peninsula
There are plenty of exciting things to do in the Nicoya Peninsula, so you’ll find something for everyone, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family. Here are a few top spots to consider:
1. Tamarindo, a top tourist attraction on the Nicoya Peninsula
If you’re looking to experience one of the most beautiful beaches in Guanacaste, Tamarindo is one of the best places to visit on the Nicoya Peninsula. It’s not only a stunning beach area but also home to some of the best restaurants in Costa Rica. There are also lots of chic bars, making it a great place to relax and have a good time.
You may have heard of Tamarindo, especially if you’re into surfing, as it’s known for its fantastic waves year-round. Even if you’re new to surfing, you can always sign up for these classes, which make it easy to get started.
1. Tamarindo, a top tourist attraction on the Nicoya Peninsula
We stayed here for two days to fully enjoy all the great attractions in Tamarindo. One of our favorite experiences was this catamaran tour at sunset, which gave us incredible views as the sun dipped below the Pacific horizon. Another unforgettable option is this horseback ride along the shore—there’s nothing quite like it!
There are plenty of beaches in Tamarindo, each with its own vibe. If you want a quieter, more peaceful spot, head to the beaches a little further from town. If you have a car, I recommend visiting Playa Grande, Playa Avellana, or Playa Conchal. Playa Langosta is within walking distance, so there’s no excuse not to check it out.
If you have extra time, I suggest a trip to the Catalina Islands, which are close to Tamarindo. While they’re technically not part of the Nicoya Peninsula, many excursions depart from here. The diving around the Catalinas is phenomenal, making it a prime spot to experience diving in Costa Rica and enjoy its underwater beauty. If you’re certified, be sure to go for a dive and explore the area’s incredible marine life. However, if you’re not certified, you can get your PADI certification or just enjoy a snorkeling trip.
2. Las Baulas National Marine Park, a must-visit spot in Nicoya, Costa Rica
Las Baulas National Marine Park is a true treasure of Guanacaste province and one of the best places to visit on the Nicoya Peninsula. Finding pristine, almost untouched ecosystems like this is rare these days, and the park offers a unique opportunity to witness the nesting of the majestic leatherback turtles, one of the largest turtle species in Costa Rica and a truly special part of the world’s wildlife.
If you’re planning to see this incredible event, the best time to visit is between late October and mid-February. Consider booking this night tour with a naturalist guide to get a front-row seat to this beautiful process. You’ll also learn fascinating details about these amazing animals.
2. Las Baulas National Marine Park, a must-visit spot in Nicoya, Costa Rica
We saw plenty of green turtles during our visit, but depending on the season, you might spot Olive Ridley and leatherback turtles as well. Nature is unpredictable, but that’s part of the magic! If you’re curious, you can check out our guide to turtle nesting in Costa Rica for more insights.
While on the tour, respecting the nesting process is essential—photos and touching the turtles are prohibited. The tour is conducted silently and from a respectful distance so the turtles feel safe enough to lay their eggs without disturbance. Interfering with the nesting process can cause the turtle to abandon its mission and return to the sea without laying the eggs.
Apart from turtle watching, Las Baulas National Marine Park is home to some stunning beaches like Playa Ventanas and Playa Carbón, where you can relax and swim. This park also has the largest mangrove in Central America, which you can explore on this boat safari or this kayak ride. Both offer incredible ways to experience the park’s vibrant natural beauty from a different perspective.
3. Santa Teresa, the most popular spot for surfing in the Nicoya Peninsula
Santa Teresa is one of the most iconic beaches in the Nicoya Peninsula and a paradise for surfers. This area has it all—tropical beaches, steady waves, sunny weather, and the famous “Pura Vida” vibe.
While the main beach is wide and lined with soft white sand, I suggest renting an ATV to explore the surrounding area. It’s an easy and fun way to navigate the dirt roads and check out the most popular spots in Santa Teresa at your own pace. Plus, if you’re into surfing (or want to learn), the area offers waves for every skill level, with several surf schools offering surfing lessons to help you dive right in and embrace the local culture.
3. Santa Teresa, the most popular spot for surfing in the Nicoya Peninsula
If you’re just starting out, head to Playa Hermosa, located about 2.5 miles north of Santa Teresa (not to be confused with Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste or Puntarenas). It’s a great spot for beginners. Alternatively, Playa Carmen, located 2 miles south, is a quieter option with fewer surf schools.
For more experienced surfers looking for a challenge, La Lora Beach is a must-visit. It’s one of the best spots for more advanced surfing and even hosts annual competitions. Suck Rock is also worth a visit—here, waves break against a reef and can reach up to 20 feet high. Even if you’re not ready to tackle these waves yourself, watching the pros tackle them is quite an incredible sight.
4. Montezuma Waterfalls, another beautiful site on the Nicoya Peninsula
While there are many famous beaches in the Nicoya Peninsula, there’s much more to explore, and one of the highlights is Montezuma. This small coastal town has a relaxed, bohemian vibe and an undeniable charm. You can easily stroll through its narrow streets in 15 minutes, and along the way, you’ll find craft shops, cozy cafes, and great restaurants to enjoy before or after exploring the area’s natural beauty.
4. Montezuma Waterfalls, another beautiful site on the Nicoya Peninsula
Though the town’s beach is lovely, most visitors come to Montezuma for its famous waterfall, which is also one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica. The Montezuma Waterfalls are a must-see, and you’ll find plenty of natural pools where you can take a refreshing dip amidst the lush jungle. To get there, you’ll need to follow a 2.5-mile trail that begins in the center of town.
If you want to experience one of the best waterfalls on the Nicoya Peninsula, I recommend joining this guided tour with a local guide. There are some safe spots from which you can jump into the pools, and your guide will point them out. Plus, the tour is well worth the price—it includes an ATV ride and a zipline through the jungle.
5. Curú National Wildlife Refuge, another must-see on your Nicoya Peninsula itinerary
If you’re hoping to spot local wildlife, Curú National Wildlife Refuge is one of the absolute best places to visit on the Nicoya Peninsula.
You can drive there from Santa Teresa in about an hour or do what we did and book this guided tour. Having a guide makes a world of difference in spotting the animals here, as they can be hard to see in the dense forest without a trained eye.
5. Curú National Wildlife Refuge, another must-see on your Nicoya Peninsula itinerary
Spanning 3,700 acres, Curú is home to several species of Costa Rican monkeys, including the endangered spider monkey, as well as coatis, scarlet macaws, and a variety of native birds.
During your visit, you’ll stroll along scenic trails, keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife hidden among the lush vegetation. After the hike, you can cool off with a swim at the refuge’s beach—a refreshing way to end the visit. We loved our time there, and I highly recommend exploring this natural reserve on your next trip to Costa Rica.
6. Tortuga Island, the most popular excursion in Nicoya, Costa Rica
Tortuga Island is another spot you cannot miss. This paradise, located between the peninsula and mainland Puntarenas, offers endless ways to enjoy its turquoise waters, along with a variety of fun tours perfect for a family vacation on the Nicoya Peninsula.
6. Tortuga Island, the most popular excursion in Nicoya, Costa Rica
The quickest way to get there is by taking this tour from Paquera, the closest town on the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. However, Tortuga Island is so popular that you can find tours departing from all over Costa Rica, including San José, La Fortuna, Arenal, Monteverde, and Guanacaste. These tours usually cover the bus to the Puntarenas port and the boat ride to Tortuga Island. You can book your spot here.
Once you arrive, there’s no shortage of things to do on Tortuga Island. While many people love simply relaxing on the beach, it’s also a popular spot for those interested in snorkeling in the Nicoya Peninsula. You can even take a walk along the Sendero de Los Poetas, a scenic trail on the island. And if you’re up for more adventure, there’s a sign-up area on the beach where you can choose from a range of water activities like kayaking, jet skiing, banana boating, paddle boarding, and more.
7. Bioluminescence, a fascinating phenomenon in the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
Seeing bioluminescence has always been a dream of mine. If you’re not familiar with it, it’s a natural phenomenon where tiny lights appear in the water when it’s disturbed, like magic! This effect is caused by a type of microscopic algae that only grows in a few places around the world.
7. Bioluminescence, a fascinating phenomenon in the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
When I visited the Nicoya Peninsula, I knew it was one of the best places to see bioluminescence, so I signed up for this night kayak tour to try my luck. It ended up being an unforgettable experience, even better than I’d imagined, though nearly impossible to capture in photos!
For those interested in maximizing their time, here’s a travel tip: the bioluminescence tour departs from Paquera, the same port you return to from the Tortuga Island excursion. We combined both tours in one day, going on the bioluminescence tour right after getting back from the island, and it worked out perfectly!
8. Sámara, another beautiful beach in Nicoya’s Blue Zone
Sámara is another gem in Nicoya’s Blue Zone, and in 2013, it was even voted the second most beautiful beach in Central America.
You might wonder what makes it so special, and while I suggest you experience it yourself, I can tell you it has a unique charm and white sands that are sure to take your breath away. The town itself is a treat, too, with boutique shops, surf schools, spots to try traditional Costa Rican dishes, and laid-back bars that maintain a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
8. Sámara, another beautiful beach in Nicoya’s Blue Zone
One of my favorite things to do in Sámara is dolphin watching. We did this excursion that takes you on a dolphin-spotting trip and then gives you time to snorkel at Isla Chora or on the reef near the beach. This area is one of the top places in Costa Rica to see dolphins, especially bottlenose and tropical spotted dolphins. If you’re lucky, you might even spot humpback whales.
We saw plenty of dolphins, but what surprised me most was the reef at Isla Chora, which you can also reach with this kayak tour from the beach. It’s in excellent condition and teeming with colorful fish, so it’s definitely worth the visit. We didn’t see any turtles, but some people in our group spotted one.
If turtles are on your bucket list, consider booking this sunset excursion to see them nesting. The tour usually takes you to Corozalito Beach or Camaronal Beach south of Sámara, but if there’s a big nesting event, you’ll go to Ostional Beach to the north.
9. Ostional National Wildlife Refuge, an amazing place to see turtles in Nicoya, Costa Rica
A few years ago, I saw an image that really stuck with me—thousands of turtles lining a beach, laying their eggs, covering the sand as far as the eye could see. After some digging, I found out it was from the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge, and I knew right away I had to experience it myself.
In my opinion, this is one of the most incredible places to visit on the Nicoya Peninsula. It’s the largest nesting site for olive ridley turtles in the world. If you’re lucky, you might also spot leatherback or green turtles, though they aren’t as common.
9. Ostional National Wildlife Refuge, an amazing place to see turtles in Nicoya, Costa Rica
There’s something special about this place, where different factors come together to create a mesmerizing natural wonder. Every month, from July to December, you can witness mass arrivals of turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs.
This phenomenon lasts about three or four days, with more than 170,000 turtles flooding the coast—it’s nothing short of amazing! In fact, there are so many turtles that harvesting and selling their eggs has been allowed to help control the number of nests, as some turtles even end up destroying existing ones due to the sheer lack of space.
The refuge has four beaches: Nosara, Ostional, Pelada, and Guiones, stretching across roughly 9 miles of coastline. It also features estuaries, mangroves, and three nautical miles of marine area. If you decide to visit, you’ll need a guide to access the beach. I recommend booking this tour for the best experience!
10. Nosara, a peaceful Blue Zone Beach on the Nicoya Peninsula
If you’re looking for a quieter beach destination on the Nicoya Peninsula, Nosara is the perfect escape. It’s far less touristy than nearby Sámara, offering a serene atmosphere where you can relax and soak in the slower pace of life.
This small town, home to just around 5,000 people, embodies a laid-back, simple lifestyle. Its beach is actually part of the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge, which makes turtle watching one of the top activities you can do in the area.
10. Nosara, a peaceful Blue Zone Beach on the Nicoya Peninsula
But that’s not all Nosara has to offer. The 2-mile-long beach is peaceful, and the unpaved streets add to its charm. You’ll find a tourism scene focused on yoga classes and healthy dining, which pairs perfectly with Costa Rica’s laid-back vibe. Surfing lessons are also popular because what’s a Costa Rican beach without surfing?
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, many of the top hotels in Nosara offer yoga and spiritual programs, allowing you to unwind and focus on your well-being with guidance from holistic specialists.
11. Barra Honda National Park, one of the best national parks on the Nicoya Peninsula
Barra Honda National Park is one of the most unique and biodiverse parks in the country. Here, you’ll find a complex of caves that were discovered not too long ago under mysterious circumstances.
For a long time, people thought Cerro Barra Honda was a volcano due to the rumbling sounds that resembled flowing magma. But, it turned out the sound was coming from millions of bats living in the cave system, which actually consists of about 40 caves. It wasn’t until the 1960s that scientists discovered that Barra Honda wasn’t a volcano but a mountain made mostly of calcium carbonate. This mineral dissolves in water, creating these fascinating underground chambers.
11. Barra Honda National Park, one of the best national parks on the Nicoya Peninsula
Today, visitors can explore 19 of these caves, with depths reaching up to nearly 2,600 feet below sea level. The most popular cave is Cueva Terciopelo, which is well-maintained and equipped with a staircase to help visitors descend. The rock formations inside—stalactites and stalagmites—look almost otherworldly.
To visit, you’ll need to book this tour, as the guides provide both the necessary park permits and safety gear, like helmets and harnesses, for your underground adventure. The tour lasts about five hours, so afterward, you’ll still have time to check out more of the Nicoya Peninsula’s natural beauty.
12. Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve and Cabuya Cemetery
If you enjoy hiking, the Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve is a must-see on the Nicoya Peninsula. As the country’s first nature reserve, it offers some of the best hiking trails in Costa Rica. The reserve is a great place to immerse yourself in nature, and with a bit of luck, you might spot a few mammals or bird species along the way.
There are two main trails: the Danish trail, a short 1.2-mile loop, and the Swedish trail, which is a longer 5-mile route that takes you all the way to Cabo Blanco Beach. The Swedish trail is a bit more challenging, and the hike can take around five hours, so make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for the journey.
12. Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve and Cabuya Cemetery
The reserve is open Wednesday through Sunday, and the entrance fee is $12 per person. It’s located about 15 miles from Santa Teresa, so it’s easy to reach by car. Alternatively, you can book this private tour that includes a pick-up service and a naturalist guide to optimize your experience.
During your visit, you’ll also get the chance to explore the Cabuya Island Cemetery, located about 1,300 feet off the coast. This unusual site can only be accessed during low tide. As you approach, you’ll see graves and crosses blending with the tropical vegetation and a stone path that disappears when the tide rises—a truly fascinating place to explore.
13. Church of Nicoya (Church of San Blas), the first church in Costa Rica
Nicoya is one of the best towns on the Nicoya Peninsula, where you can really dive into Costa Rican culture. If you’re heading to any of the Pacific beach towns from San José, you’ll likely pass through here—so why not take a quick detour to check out its rich historical and cultural roots?
13. Church of Nicoya (Church of San Blas), the first church in Costa Rica
The main attraction is the Church of San Blas, one of the most significant religious landmarks in the region. This almost 500-year-old church is a beautiful example of colonial architecture, and stepping inside feels like going back in time. Around the church, you’ll also find other notable landmarks like the House of Culture and the scenic Central Park. More than just a church, San Blas holds relics from Costa Rica’s colonial era, including religious statues, bronze artifacts, and classic paintings.
After visiting the church, stroll around Nicoya’s streets to get a feel for daily life in an authentic Costa Rican town. Make sure to stop by Las Guayabitas Market, where you’ll find unique local products you won’t see anywhere else. If you’re up for a short hike, head to Cerro de la Cruz for the best views. It’s about a 40-minute trek, but the panorama of Nicoya and the surrounding area makes it well worth the effort!
Other Blue Zone beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula
Apart from the well-known beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula I’ve already mentioned, there are plenty of other coastal destinations worth adding to your itinerary. But first, let’s talk about what makes the Nicoya Peninsula so special. It’s home to one of the world’s five Blue Zones, areas where people tend to live longer, healthier lives, often reaching 100 years old.
Whether it’s the fresh, clean water, the local diet, the laid-back lifestyle, or the rejuvenating effects of the beaches, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly why people live so long here. While I can’t promise that a visit will add years to your life, exploring some of these beaches will definitely make you feel more alive:
Tamarindo
- Playa Pan de Azúcar: Just 2 miles from Potrero, you can enter through the Sugar Beach Hotel to reach this quiet, white-sand beach with crystal-clear waters. It’s often blissfully empty, so you might get this little paradise all to yourself!
- Playa Conchal: Playa Conchal is one of the most unique beaches on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, famous for the tiny shells that line its shores, especially at each end of the beach. The shells create a beautiful contrast with the turquoise waters, making it an ideal spot for photos.
Samara
- Playa Carrillo: Nestled in a beautiful bay, Playa Carrillo is a family favorite, especially on weekends. The beach is surrounded by palm trees, with calm, shallow waters perfect for kids and relaxing days in the sun.
Nosara
- Guiones Beach: Located within the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge, this beach’s pristine white sand stretches over 4 miles. It’s a popular spot for beginner surfers and is known for its focus on sustainable tourism. Plus, it’s one of the Blue Flag beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula, meaning it meets high environmental and safety standards.
Santa Teresa
- Cabo Blanco Beach: This beach is the kind you’ll see on travel brochures – stunning and serene. But getting here takes some effort, as you’ll need to hike 5 miles through the Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve. The reward is a quiet, almost private beach with amazing turquoise waters.
- Playa Malpaís: With a laid-back surfer vibe, Malpaís is surrounded by lush greenery, golden sand, and clear waters. It’s an ideal place for a refreshing swim or a sunset stroll along the shore.
How to get to the Nicoya Peninsula
First off, you should know that the Nicoya Peninsula is separated from the mainland by the Gulf of Nicoya and the Tempisque River estuary. If you’re planning to rent a car in Costa Rica, there are two main ways to get across: you can take the Friendship Bridge or hop on a ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera.
How to get to the Nicoya Peninsula
The bridge is your best bet if you’re coming from Monteverde or heading to the northern part of the peninsula. But if your destination is further south or central, the ferry might be the better option, depending on your starting point. If you do choose the ferry, I highly recommend reserving your spot in advance, especially if you’re bringing a car, as these spots fill up quickly. Ferries run several times daily between Puntarenas and Paquera, with the last one leaving around 8:00 pm.
Once you’re on the Nicoya Peninsula, be prepared for some bumpy roads, some of which have pretty rough sections. A 4WD vehicle is the way to go, especially during the rainy season when mud can make certain routes challenging. In some areas, renting an ATV can be a fantastic option for navigating the muddier paths and enjoying a bit of adventure along the way.
Best hotels on the Nicoya Peninsula
The Nicoya Peninsula offers a variety of great accommodations to consider, from beachside resorts to eco-friendly hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in the Nicoya Peninsula, which also rank among the top hotels in Costa Rica.
Tamarindo
- Tamarindo Sunshine: If you’re looking for a place to feel right at home, these apartments in Costa Rica are your best bet. Just 300 feet from the beach, they’re ideal for a quick dip in the sea anytime. The apartments can accommodate up to 2 people and come with a kitchen, plus an outdoor patio or terrace for enjoying the views.
- Occidental Tamarindo: If you’re looking for all-inclusive hotels in Costa Rica, Occidental Tamarindo offers a relaxing experience with simple rooms and ocean views. The resort has an outdoor pool, a jacuzzi, and various entertainment options to keep you busy.
Santa Teresa
- Canaima Chill House: This spot is a great value, just a 10-minute walk from the beach. The air-conditioned rooms have kitchenettes and private balconies or terraces, which will give you a nice mix of comfort and convenience. The complex also includes a pool to cool off after a day at the beach.
- El Gato Rojas Surf Hostel: El Gato Rojas is one of the best beachfront hostels in Costa Rica, offering a range of options, from shared dorms and private rooms to garden tents, catering to different budgets and preferences. They also host activities for guests to socialize and meet new friends.
Sámara
- Hotel Giada: If you’re looking for the top eco-lodges in Costa Rica, Hotel Giada is an excellent choice, located only 800 feet from the beach. The rooms are simple but styled with tropical touches, and they all offer views of either the pool or the surrounding area. Some of the higher-tier rooms even have private hot tubs!
- Locanda Samara Beach: Choose from apartments with terraces and double or triple rooms, or go for some of the most recommended bungalows in Costa Rica if you want a unique experience. The room rate includes a delicious breakfast each morning and access to the hotel pool, perfect for refreshing swims on hot days.
Map of the Nicoya Peninsula
Here’s a map of the Nicoya Peninsula with all the must-see attractions I’ve mentioned in this guide. Also, take a look at our map of Costa Rica, which highlights even more incredible destinations to add to your travel itinerary.
That wraps up everything you need to know about the Nicoya Peninsula! If you have any questions or want to share your experiences, feel free to leave a comment below—I’d love to hear from you.
Safe travels!
