15 Best Beaches You Should Visit In Guanacaste
Welcome to Guanacaste, Costa Rica’s “ Gold Coast” where clean and clear waters, breathtaking natural beauty, and sun-kissed shores, await you!
This warm paradise is located in the northwest corner of the country and it is famous for its beaches. Whether you are a snorkeler, surfer, sunbather, or simply a lover of coastal views, Guanacaste has the perfect beaches.
Let’s find out the best beaches in Guanacaste. Vamos a la playa! Let’s hit the beach!
15 Best Beaches You Should Visit In Guanacaste
Guanacaste, located in the northwest region of Costa Rica, offers some of the most beautiful and varied beaches in the country. Here are some of the best beaches you must visit during your vacation.
1. Playa Conchal
Playa Conchal is one of the unique beaches in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, you will find a unique shoreline of crushed shells instead of sand. The white shell-covered sands with clear, blue waters make it an ideal spot for you to lounge and enjoy the stunning views.
The calm, transparent waters are perfect for snorkeling and allowing you to explore a lively array of marine life. Playa Conchal’s gentle waves are ideal for swimming. This beach is less crowded, offering a relaxing and peaceful environment where you can read books, take walks, or bask in the sun.
Playa Conchal is about an hour and a half away at 39 miles (63 kilometers) from the Guanacaste Airport which is easily accessible. With its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, Playa Conchal provides a unique and memorable beach experience in Costa Rica.
2. Playa Tamarindo
When you visit Playa Tamarindo, you will be stepped into one of Costa Rica’s most vivid and beautiful beach destinations. Tamarindo offers a perfect combo of natural beauty and lively culture.
Tamarindo has an energetic vibe as there are a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars where you can enjoy for a while. The beach is famous for surfing as it is a suitable spot for both beginners and experienced surfers. You can also enjoy other water activities such as fishing, snorkeling, and kayaking.
At sunset, the sky transforms into a display of colors, providing a stunning backdrop for your evening strolls. Playa Tamarindo is about 1hr 20 mins away from the Guanacaste Airport. Whether you are looking for, adventure, relaxation, or both, Playa Tamarindo rewards memorable experiences.
3. Playa Grande
Playa Grande in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is famous for its surf, making it a top destination for expert surfers. You will love the constant and powerful waves that offer challenges. Visitors are not allowed on the beach after sunset as it is part of a national park, but you can spend all day and do surfing.
You will find Playa Grande is less crowded than some other tourist hotspots. Playa Grande is 1 hour and 25 minutes away from Guanacaste Airport. February to October is considered the perfect period to visit. Whether exploring the tide pools or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, Playa Grande is a perfect spot.
4. Playa Flamingo
Playa Flamingo, placed in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a must-visit destination for you if you are looking for a combo of natural beauty and luxury. It is famous for its stunning white sands and crystal-clear blue water.
This beach is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. The crescent-shaped bay provides calm waters which is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, making it easy for you to explore the vibrant marine life. The beach is also a gateway to some of the best deep-sea fishing in Costa Rica.
Playa Flamingo is 1 hour from the Guanacaste Airport. Whether you are an experienced angler or trying it for the first time, the waters off Playa Flamingo offer an exciting challenge with opportunities to catch fish. For a more active experience, you can enjoy activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and diving.
5. Playa Avellanas
Playa Avellanas, referred to as “Little Hawaii,” is a hidden gem in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, a must-visit place. This beach is a heaven for surfers, with its powerful and frequent waves providing challenges for both beginners and experienced surfers.
As you stroll along the sandy shoreline, you will find eye-catching stunning natural beauty that surrounds you. The beach is filled with rich mangroves and offers stunning views that are perfect spots for photography. If you are a nature lover, the beach’s diverse ecosystem, various bird species, and marine life will mesmerize you.
Playa Avellanas is a 1 hour and 30 minute drive from Guanacaste Airport. Whether you want to surf, relax on the sand, or explore the natural surroundings, Playa Avellanas offers a peaceful and beautiful setting.
6. Playa Hermosa
In Guanacaste, Costa Rica Playa Hermosa, is the perfect destination if you are seeking a peaceful and beautiful beach experience. Playa Hermosa justifies its name, which means “Beautiful Beach,” Playa Hermosa offers stunning golden sands and calm, clear waters making it an ideal spot for swimming and relaxing.
If you are traveling with family or prefer a more relaxed beach outing Playa Hermosa is a great choice as there are harmless waves and safe swimming conditions. You can spend your time lounging on the soft sand, taking refreshing dips in the ocean, and exploring the panoramic coastline.
Playa Hermosa is a fantastic spot for water activities as you can try kayaking or snorkeling. Whether you are looking to relax, explore marine life, or enjoy water sports, Playa Hermosa offers a perfect combo of natural beauty and tranquility.
7. Playas del Coco
Playas del Coco in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a perfect destination for you if you are looking for nightlife, adventure, and local culture. This bustling beach town is one of the oldest and most popular beach communities in the region, offering various activities.
When you arrive at Playas del Coco, you will be welcomed by a beautiful crescent-shaped bay with dark sand beaches and calm, warm waters. The beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying a variety of water sports. There are the famous Bat Islands and Catalina Islands, where you can encounter sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish.
Playas del Coco is a prime spot for sport fishing. You can try your hand at catching sailfish, marlin, and other big game fish. If you prefer to stay on land, the town itself offers many options.
As the sun sets, Playas del Coco comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. You will find a range of bars, clubs, and beachfront venues where you can dance the night away or enjoy a relaxed evening with live music and cocktails.
8. Playa Samara
Playa Samara, located in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is the perfect destination if you are seeking a combo of natural beauty, adventure, and local charm. This beautiful beach is filled with swaying palm trees and features a wide, crescent-shaped bay with soft, golden sands.
Samara offers a peaceful atmosphere where you can truly relax. If you are traveling with family or prefer a gentle ocean experience the calm waters of Playa Samara is an ideal spot for you to swim and can enjoy surfing. You can also try snorkeling, or take a kayak out to Isla Chora, where you can beautiful views.
Apart from water activities, you can enjoy horseback riding adventures along the beach or into the nearby hills. If you are a yoga enthusiast you will find several beachfront yoga studios where you can practice. The town of Samara has a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore. Playa Samara is just 2 hours from Guanacaste Airport. Don’t forget to include this charming beach town in your Costa Rican itinerary.
9. Playa San Juanillo
Playa San Juanillo is a hidden gem in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, that you should explore if you are looking for tranquility and natural beauty. This isolated beach is famous for its pristine, white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
One of the most interesting features of Playa San Juanillo is its unique dual bays, separated by a narrow strip of sand. Slightly rougher waves of the southern bay, are perfect for a more adventurous swim and snorkeling, as the clear waters are home to a vibrant array of marine life.
You will be amazed by the colorful fish, coral formations, and other underwater wonders that you can easily explore just a few meters from the shore. The surrounding area of Playa San Juanillo offers rich greenery and stunning trails that you can hike. It is a 2-hour and 10-minute drive from Guanacaste Airport. Playa San Juanillo is a true paradise for nature lovers and those running away from crowds.
10. Playa Pelada
In Guanacaste, Costa Rica Playa Pelada, is an enchanting beach destination that offers you a perfect mix of natural beauty and peaceful ambiance. Playa Pelada features soft white sands, rock formations, and tidal pools.
You can explore these natural pools, watching colorful fish and other sea creatures closely. It is a great place for swimming and wading as well, providing a safe and enjoyable experience. For a bit of adventure, you can take a walk along the beach and discover beautiful spots for a picnic or a quiet moment of reflection.
As the day comes to a close, you will be rewarded with a stunning view of colors as the sun dips below the horizon. The nearby town of Nosara provides convenient access to Playa Pelada and offers a variety of accommodations and dining options.
11. Playa Panama
In nestled in Guanacaste, Costa Rica Playa Panama, is a pristine beach destination that offers you a tranquil and picturesque escape. Playa Panama provides a calm environment perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
One of the unique features of Playa Panama is its peaceful atmosphere and uncrowded shores. Playa Panama offers a quieter and more isolated experience, here you can unwind on the beach, soak up the sun, and take strolls along the shoreline without the hustle of larger tourist crowds.
It is a great spot for swimming and wading. Families with children will appreciate the calm sea conditions, providing a safe and enjoyable beach experience for all ages. You can also explore the nearby tide pools, where you may discover fascinating marine life and colorful sea creatures during low tide.
Playa Panama offers a peaceful and scenic retreat away from the crowds. Playa Panama is 30 minutes from the airport. Plan your visit to this beautiful beach and discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Costa Rica’s Playa Panama.
12. Playa Mina
Playa Mina, located in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a hidden gem that offers a serene and isolated beach experience. This beautiful beach is characterized by its soft white sands, clear waters, and stunning natural surroundings, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and enjoying the unspoiled beauty of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
Playa Mina remains untouched, preserving its natural charm and tranquility. It allows you to unwind, sunbathe, and take relaxed walks along the shoreline. It is also ideal for swimming and other water activities. Families with children will find it safe and enjoyable for a day of beach activities.
Nature lovers will delight in Playa Mina’s surrounding scenery, which includes rich greenery and tropical vegetation. You can take a hike along the beach or explore nearby trails to observe local wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Playa Mina offers amenities are limited compared to more developed beaches. It’s advisable to bring your snacks, drinks, and beach essentials for a comfortable day by the sea. Playa Mina is 1 hour and 30 minutes from Guanacaste Airport. Playa Mina provides a quiet and scenic escape in Guanacaste.
13. Playa Danta and Dantita
In Guanacaste, Costa Rica Playa Danta and Playa Dantita, offer a unique and charming beach experience characterized by their natural beauty and calm atmosphere.
Playa Danta is the largest of the two beaches, featuring calm, clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It is a safe and enjoyable beach for families with children, allowing for plenty of fun in the sun. You can also explore the rocky outcrops and tide pools, offering opportunities to observe marine life and discover hidden treasures.
Both Playa Danta and Playa Dantita are surrounded by rich tropical vegetation and offer beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. You can explore the nearby trails and hiking paths that wind through the hillsides, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy panoramic vistas of the coastline.
They are 1 hour from Guanacaste Airport. Whether you visit one or both of these beautiful beaches, you’re sure to experience the charm and natural splendor that Las Catalinas has to offer.
14. Playa Cabuyal
Playa Cabuyal, situated in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a peaceful and lesser-known beach that offers an isolated and tranquil escape. It is famous for its untouched natural beauty, Playa Cabuyal features soft golden sands, clear waters, and a peaceful ambiance.
Playa Cabuyal makes an excellent spot for swimming and wading, particularly enjoyable for families with children. You can also explore the coastline and discover rocky outcrops, and tidal pools. It offers opportunities to observe marine life and interesting rock formations.
If you are a nature enthusiast you will love Playa Cabuyal’s surrounding scenery, which includes rich coastal vegetation and delightful vistas of the Pacific Ocean. The beach is also a great place for birdwatching and wildlife observation, with a variety of bird species and occasional sightings of marine creatures such as dolphins and sea turtles.
While amenities at Playa Cabuyal are limited, nearby towns like Playas del Coco offer options for accommodations, dining, and supplies. It is advisable to bring your snacks, drinks, and beach essentials for a comfortable day.
From Guanacaste Airport Playa Cabuyal is a 40-minute drive. If you are looking for a quiet and isolated beach experience off the beaten path, Playa Cabuyal offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
15. Playa Iguanita
Playa Iguanita, situated in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a hidden gem that offers an unspoiled and isolated beach experience surrounded by natural beauty. This small and intimate beach is known for its soft sands, clear waters, and calm atmosphere. These qualities make it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration away from the crowds.
Playa Iguanita is suitable for swimming and snorkeling, especially during periods of low tide. The beach’s isolated location also makes it a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife observation. You will see various bird species and sea turtles during certain times of the year.
While amenities at Playa Iguanita are limited, it is advisable to bring your snacks, drinks, and beach essentials for a comfortable day. Playa Iguanita provides a peaceful and natural retreat in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where you can swim, explore, relax, and reconnect with nature.
Hotels and Restaurants in Guanacaste
5-star hotels
- The Westin reserva conchal
- Planet Hollywood Costa Rica
- W Costa Rica
- Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
- Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica
4-star hotels
- Jardin del eden boutique hotel
- Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rich
- Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica
- Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas
- Blue River Resort & Hot Springs
3-star hotels
If you are planning a vacation to Costa Rica and searching for the best beaches checkout our blog for more information. Each of these beaches offers something unique and gives an unforgettable experience. If you are planning a solo trip or with your family you will have several options for fun activities, water activities, relaxation, and exploration.
FAQs
Which country is Guanacaste in?
Guanacaste (Spanish pronunciation: [ɡwanaˈkaste]) is a province of Costa Rica located in the northwestern region of the country, along the coast of the Pacific Ocean.
Why is Guanacaste famous?
Growing in popularity, the region’s “Gold Coast” boasts a variety of beautiful beaches and rich culture. Guanacaste Costa Rica’s dry, flat plains merge with tropical dry forests to create landscapes akin to the American “wild west” and African savannas.
Is Guanacaste expensive?
The cost of living is variable in Guanacaste depending on your lifestyle. Most expats in the region say they can live well on around $2,000 per month. Many find ways to live for less, and likewise, some spend much more.
