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Costa Rica Region

Guanacaste

Pacific Gold Coast

SurfersBeach loversLuxury seekersWater sports enthusiasts

About Guanacaste

Costa Rica's driest province offers a different side of the country - golden savannas, volcanic peaks, and a coastline studded with pristine beaches. From world-class surf breaks to dry tropical forest, Guanacaste combines beach luxury with unique ecosystems found nowhere else.

Highlights

  • World-class surf beaches
  • Dry tropical forest - unique ecosystem
  • Rincón de la Vieja volcano and hot springs
  • Pristine beaches: Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa
  • Excellent diving and snorkeling

Wildlife to Spot

Howler MonkeysWhite-tailed DeerScarlet MacawsOlive Ridley Sea TurtlesIguanas

Best Time to Visit

December to April for sunny skies. Surf is year-round with different breaks for different seasons.

Getting There

Fly directly to Liberia (LIR) airport, with easy access to beaches.

Plan Your Guanacaste Trip
Where to Stay

Curated Eco-Lodges

View All Partners
Boutique Hotel$$$$

Lagarta Lodge

Hilltop eco-lodge overlooking Nosara with private wildlife reserve. Sustainable luxury meets yoga culture.

Private reserveYoga platformRiver and ocean viewsSustainable design
CST CertifiedWildlife Sanctuary
Luxury Eco-Lodge$$$$$

Andaz Costa Rica

Luxury resort at Peninsula Papagayo with two beaches, golf, and multiple dining options in a protected peninsula.

Two beachesChampionship golfMultiple restaurantsSpa sanctuary
Green Globe
Things to Do

Experiences in Guanacaste

Rincón de la Vieja Adventure

Volcano hike, hot springs, mud baths, and optional tubing or ziplines.

Full dayModerate

Surf Lessons & Tour

Learn to surf or improve your skills with local instructors at world-class breaks.

2-3 hoursModerate

Sea Turtle Night Tour

Witness olive ridley turtles nesting (seasonal) at protected beaches.

3 hours (night)Easy

Palo Verde Wetlands Safari

Boat tour through one of Central America's most important wetlands for birdwatching.

Half dayEasy
Sample Itinerary

Guanacaste Beach & Volcano

Combine beach luxury with volcanic adventure.

4 Days
Guanacaste

This is a sample itinerary to inspire your journey. Our experts can customize every detail based on your interests, pace, and travel style.

Customize This Itinerary
1

Beach Arrival

  • •Fly into Liberia
  • •Transfer to beach resort
  • •Sunset beach walk
2

Volcano Adventure

  • •Rincón de la Vieja hike
  • •Volcanic hot springs
  • •Mud baths
  • •Return to beach
3

Ocean Day

  • •Morning surf or snorkel
  • •Beach relaxation
  • •Catamaran sunset sail
4

Departure

  • •Morning yoga
  • •Beach breakfast
  • •Transfer to airport

Ready to Experience Guanacaste?

Let our Costa Rica specialists help you plan the perfect itinerary based on your interests, timeline, and travel style.

Start Planning Your Trip