20 Best Things to Do in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is the second largest province in the country by area, yet paradoxically has the lowest population density. As a result, throughout its territory and along its over 600 kilometers (373 miles) of coastline, abundant, luxuriant nature can be found

Beyond its scenic charm, Guanacaste is home to some of the top destinations in Costa Rica, where wildlife, volcanoes, and spectacular marine ecosystems can be observed. Additionally, it has a rather dry climate, so you can fully appreciate each of its areas nearly year-round.

Traveling through the Nicoya Peninsula region of Costa Rica offered an experience I will never forget, and the Guanacaste area was undoubtedly a highlight. I want to provide all the essential details needed to plan your own visit so you can explore this landscape.

This guide is for you if you’re thinking about adventuring through the jungle, visiting paradisiacal coasts, or examining some of the most striking national parks in Costa Rica. Underneath, I’ll reveal the best places to see in Guanacaste and some lodging suggestions for your trip.

1. Tamarindo, an essential place to see in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Tamarindo is considered one of the most frequented areas to explore in Guanacaste, as it contains some of the most scenic beaches in Costa Rica. It is essential to note that this is one of the most crowded places in the province, so it may not be ideal if escaping crowds of visitors is a priority. Even so, there is an abundance of restaurants, nightlife venues, and accommodations for all budgets present.

Tamarindo Beach is one of the most renowned beaches in Guanacaste and has been designated an Ecological Blue Flag Beach. It boasts nearly 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) of white sand with lush greenery, a mountainous setting, perfect surf conditions, and, of course, the iconic palm trees of a tropical paradise.

There are various activities to partake in here, but my favorites include this catamaran tour, which offers stunning coastal perspectives at sunset, and this diving (or snorkeling) expedition that visits the fascinating Catalinas Islands, another prime travel destination in Guanacaste.

There are several coasts near Tamarindo that deserve visiting, so, if you have enough time, I recommend checking out the surrounding regions. One of the best coasts is Playa Conchal, an excellent place to go horseback riding at dusk. Don’t worry; I’ll tell you about the other coasts later.

2. Las Baulas National Marine Park, one of the best places to visit in Guanacaste

Las Baulas National Marine Park is another precious area of Guanacaste province in Costa Rica, right next to Tamarindo. Here, you will not only find protected spaces where you can connect with nature, but you can witness the nesting of the leatherback turtle, one of the most remarkable species of Costa Rican turtles, and one of the largest in the world.

The season for reproduction is from the end of October to mid-February, so if you visit the park during this period, you can participate in a evening activity and behold this amazing natural event. A small trick: on Minas Beach, to the north of the park, you can see even more turtles and take one of the formal tours (they’re somewhat cheaper).

In any case, it’s essential 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 complete silence. Disconnect from your phone and focus on these incredible creatures in their natural habitat; you’ll be happy 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 situated here, so it’s worth taking this boat expedition from Tamarindo to get a closer view of its indigenous and exotic vegetation.

3. Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, a must see in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

The highly renowned Rincón de la Vieja Volcano is one of the most prominent volcanic landmarks in Costa Rica, hence it`s considered a must-see attraction in Guanacaste. It lies within the boundaries of the Rincón de la Vieja National Park, a protected region boasting a network of nature trails guiding visitors to different points of interest, such as hot springs, waterfalls, steaming geysers, and bubbling natural pools.

The park is split into two clearly marked areas: Santa María and Las Pailas, the latter where the trail up the volcano starts. However, presently this trail is closed, owing to increased volcanic activity in recent years. The most recent eruption took place in April 2023, when the volcano ejected materials, vapors, and ash 500 meters (1,640 ft) into the sky.

If the trail is open when you go, you should know that it’s a 16-kilometer (10-mile) round route. Taking into account the extra time to take photographs, relax, and appreciate the views of the Nicoya Peninsula and Lake Cocibolca in Nicaragua, it’ll take you around 8 hours to complete the full circuit.

Even if entry is prohibited at the present time, the park still offers scenic beauty to behold. For instance, in the Las Pailas section, a three-kilometer circular trail leads to volcanic mud pools, hot springs, and a small fiery mountain. Alternative routes take visitors to the gorgeous La Escondida or La Cangreja waterfalls, or closer to the Oropendola cascade.

The Santa María section is approximately half an hour away by automobile and features hot springs, the Santa María mansion, cold water pools, and a waterfall in the Enchanted Forest.

If you have a confined schedule or hope to better arrange your visit, this full-day tour features selection up in numerous regions of Guanacaste and requires you to the ideal sites in the recreation area.

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 serenity 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.

This small village of five thousand residents lacks paved streets, so the dirt paths become muddy during rainy weather. You`ll need a four-wheel drive vehicle to access them, but travel isn`t too difficult.

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 explain shortly. But initially, 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 prime spot for surfers. If you’re willing to take a lesson or practice your abilities, you’ll find good waves here throughout the year. To me, it appeared like one of the most beautiful areas in Guanacaste, where the locals are friendly, and the spirit is strong.

5. Ostional Wildlife Refuge, one of the most important protected spaces to visit in Guanacaste

If you love animals or appreciate nature, the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge is one of the optimum places to visit in Guanacaste. In addition to its dreamlike scenery, it’s famed for representing the planet’s biggest nesting site for the olive ridley turtle. If you’re really fortunate, you’ll also spot leatherback and green turtles.

This coastal region contains four beaches – Nosara, Ostional, Pelada, and Guiones – spanning roughly 15 kilometers of shoreline. The refuge also envelops large inland estuaries and mangrove wetlands as well as 3 nautical miles of sheltered marine area. Notably, Playa Ostional is the sole beach globally permitted to commercially harvest and sell sea turtle eggs, as massive numbers of nesting turtles frequently destroy preexisting clutches.

High season for exploring coincides with July through December when the aquatic creatures make their appearance. On approximately three or four nights every month, over one hundred seventy thousand turtles come ashore to nest their eggs, a natural sight astonishing to behold. Those visits falling outside this period need not feel discouraged! Watching the eggs break open, and perhaps a few stragglers still with nesting ahead, remains worthwhile sights.

It’s crucial to note that you require a qualified guide to accompany you since access to the beach is closed to safeguard 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 visitors should plan to see on their itinerary. Although it has attracted national tourists for some time, in 2013, it was deemed the second most beautiful beach in Central America. Since then, it has emerged as a very popular destination among global travelers.

The picturesque town of Sámara is home to small shops, eateries, and bars. It also features a white sand beach with a family-friendly atmosphere and gentle surf, making it ideal for travelers with young children. Here, one can enjoy a tranquil swim or exciting surf lessons.

Another prominent characteristic of Sámara Beach is its lovely coral reef, particularly the area surrounding Chora Island. There are kayak excursions that can take you there so you can explore the depths of the sea. I also really enjoy this tour, which incorporates a dolphin watching activity, 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 laying eggs, I recommend this evening tour.

7. Liberia, the capital city of Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Liberia is another popular destination in Guanacaste since many travelers arrive by air at its airport or use the town as a base while touring other tourist sites in the province. I believe there are several interesting attractions in the area worth exploring, although I suggest lodging in some of the better beach towns.

Of course, if one has time available, it does no harm to become acquainted with “The White City”. Here, one will find a great blend of traditional and modern architecture and several shopping centers. I recommend getting lost in the streets of its historic district, specifically Calle Real, where lime-painted adobe and mud houses characteristic of the area can be found, giving them that signature white color.

Although these constructions have been restored to protect the city’s cultural personality, they still have their initial interior courtyards and the renowned “doors of the sun”, a type of double doorway that makes the most of natural light.

I also propose exploring the Guanacaste Museum to gain more knowledge about the local history and culture. This building once served as a prison, but these days, it’s filled with art by local and national artists. All these attractions make Liberia one of the primary cities to visit in Costa Rica.

8. Barra Honda National Park, a unique thing to see in Guanacaste

Exploring Barra Honda National Park presents a unique experience in Guanacaste, since it alone in the nation hosts an intricate underground cave system. Until quite recently, Cerro Barra Honda was believed to be a volcano, as experts thought the noise of emerging bats originated from geothermal activity.

However, in the 1960s, researchers found around 40 completely undamaged caves throughout the park, even though they’ve investigated just 19 of them. These caves formed due to the persistent rushing of water wearing away the mostly calcium carbonate rock. As the water came into contact with the rock, this mineral dissolved and shaped these amazing underground spaces.

The depths of the caverns extend from a few meters to nearly 800 meters (2,625 ft). Inside, you’ll find remarkable rock architectures, such as stalactites and stalagmites. Currently, visiting the Terciopelo Cave is possible, which demands descending a 17-meter (55-foot) ladder!

If you decide to embark on this thrilling expedition, you must pre-book an excursion. This experience lasts approximately 4-5 hours and incorporates your permit granting entrance to the park, all protection equipment needed, and a guiding expert. In my view, it stands among the most fascinating activities available in Guanacaste.

9. Playa Flamingo, one of the best tourist destinations in Guanacaste

Unlike other tourist sites in Guanacaste,Playa Flamingo is a township where you can find a refined and stylish atmosphere. Far from the nightlife and attractions drawing visitors, this place provides tranquility and some of the most luxurious hotels.

Scattered amidst the surrounding mangrove woodland and green hills, you’ll find small shops and charming boutiques. However, you’ll also encounter many tourists, so this isn`t the best place if you want to immerse yourself in authentic local Tico culture.

This location is certainly worth visiting despite the splendour of nature visible here. During sunset, the pink glow spreading over the beach reveals why this place is named Flamingo Beach. For travelling couples, I suggest embarking on this romantic catamaran trip at dusk. There is also a private dolphin viewing tour, a great option that can be enjoyed as a family.

Finally, Playa Flamingo is one of the prime locations in Guanacaste for practicing sport fishing, and over 40 world records have been set here. Thanks to its proximity to deep waters and bays sheltered from strong currents, it’s possible to catch various 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 noteworthy location in Guanacaste should not pass up. With its 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) coastline and stunning surroundings, Playa Hermosa is one of the most popular spots for travelers searching for a tranquil seaside getaway.

Despite its popularity, the beach is rarely crowded. The sands may not be as distinctly 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.

One of the optimal ways to explore this region is by joining the catamaran cruise and snorkeling tour, which allows you to appreciate the abundant marine life while enjoying scenic views from the coastline.

Surrounded by lush tropical rainforests, Playa Hermosa is also a good place to use as your home base while visiting other popular destinations in Guanacaste, such as the Llanos del Cortez Waterfall, the Miravalles Volcano, and additional beaches and national parks. So, keep it in mind if you’re seeking lodging in Costa Rica.

11. Playa del Coco, a relaxing place to visit in Guanacaste

Playa del Coco is located near Playa Hermosa, making it another appealing attraction for visitors to Guanacaste. Situated only 20 minutes from the Liberia airport, this area offers a convenient place to spend a few days. In fact, it`s one of the most popular spots for families as there are various activities and services available here.

Playa del Coco is popular among both locals and visitors, thanks to its relaxing atmosphere and wide selection of accommodation for all budget levels.

If you’re in the temper for a casual activity, this boat sunset voyage is perfect. For something more thrilling, there are horseback rides on the beach, snorkeling sessions, kayaking adventures, sport fishing, and more. At last, the lively night ambiance is also worth examining, 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 found in the the Gulf of Papagayo, where you’ll discover two of the finest places for diving in Costa Rica: the Bad Islands and the Catalina Islands. These tropical islands surrounded by strong currents nonetheless offer experienced divers the chance to explore the well-protected ecosystem at an reasonable cost.

For example, the Bat Islands harbor bull sharks measuring up to 6 meters (19.6 ft) long. They generally live in the deep waters surrounding Santa Rosa National Park, one of the few locations in Guanacaste where they can be readily found.

The Catalina Islands are home to various types of marine life such as sharks, sea turtles, eels, and extensive schools of fish. However, the giant pacific manta rays, the largest species of this grouping, are the stars of the exhibition.

This excursion for qualified divers is an excellent way to intimately view these aquatic animals. The trip leaves from Playa Hermosa or Playa del Coco and comprises two dives in the Malpais Islands, the Catalina Islands, or another location, subject to your skillset.

Additionally, there is this alternative tour from Playa Flamingo to the Catalina Islands, but you must be certified to participate. If you’re not, think about selecting one of the snorkeling trips or an introductory diving tour.

Not far from the Gulf of Papagayo, Tamarindo offers this experience that incorporates two underwater explorations in the Catalina Islands. This voyage is also reserved for certified scuba divers, but if time allows, you can take this diving course to obtain certification. Otherwise, there is this snorkeling trip to the Catalina Islands or this introductory diving course.

13. Miravalles Volcano, another tourist attraction in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

The highest mountain in the volcanic mountain range of the Guanacaste province, measuring around 6,653 feet tall, is the Miravalles Volcano. While it is possible to reach the summit with a guide if in good physical shape, there are other activities available in the surrounding national park. Most visitors come to experience the relaxing and healing properties of the hot springs located near the dormant volcano.

Keep in mind that reaching this location may require some effort since the path is primarily unpaved and bumpy. Furthermore, if substantial rain has fallen, you`ll want a 4wd vehicle to drive. Of course, should you prefer not to take the risk, this excursion is one of the prime attractions in Guanacaste.

During the excursion, you’ll traverse a pathway to diverse geysers, sulfur rivers, and fumaroles emitting volcanic gas. The thermal energy produced here is utilized to generate electricity that provides illumination to the entire province of Guanacaste. This experience also incorporates an equine ride through the amazing landscapes, followed by time to soak in the warm springs or volcanic mud baths.

Finally, the Tenorio Volcano National Park ( /) is located relatively close to the Miravalles Volcano, so if you’re exploring this area independently, you can add this national park to your itinerary. The park, home to a lush forest and diverse wildlife, is also where you can hike to the Río Celeste Waterfall ( /post/101006/) and see its vibrant turquoise waters firsthand.

14. Nicoya, one of the most traditional places to visit in Guanacaste

Nicoya is a small municipality where one can discover more regarding the ethnic traditions, customs, and cultural heritage of Costa Rica. If you are en route to one of the beach destinations, I suggest making a brief stop here on your way back.

One of the significant religious structures 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 artifacts and hosts live musical performances.

Of course, it’s also pleasant to simply immerse yourself in Nicoya’s streets and observe the locals’ everyday lives. During our trip, we visited Las Guayabitas Market, an outdoor venue selling indigenous products like pujagua corn, pipianes, cherries, andchilotes. If you’re up for it, you can make the 40-minute ascent up to Cerro de la Cruz.

15. Visit the Río Negro Hot Springs, a fun thing to do in Guanacaste

If you enjoyed the hot springs of the Miravalles Volcano, the Río Negro Hot Springs is another place worth exploring in Guanacaste. It is very near to the Rincón de la Vieja National Park and offers rejuvenating and therapeutic qualities so you can fully relax.

The hot springs that I enjoy most are surrounded by a beautiful tropical rainforest. A series of suspended footbridges lead into the pools, creating a postcard-worthy scene. The waters in these pools are said to contain advantageous minerals, so don`t miss the chance to indulge in a mud bath at this natural spa. While heated by volcanic activity below, the temperature doesn`t become too warm.

To reach this destination, you are able to drive your rental vehicle in Costa Rica from Tamarindo, which requires around 2 hours. The area has dressing rooms, restrooms, and lockers to securely keep your belongings. Just be sure to obtain your entry pass ahead of time!

16. Santa Rosa National Park, an interesting thing to see in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

If you still possess some energy left for additional 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, pleasant beaches, wildlife, and scenic trails.

The most popular beach here is Playa Naranjo, which is frequented by experienced surfers and only accessible by boat. This is where you can see Witch Rock, one of the oldest rock formations in the country, estimated to be over 130 million years old.

Alternatively, Nancite Beach is one of the few nesting sites worldwide for the critically endangered ridley turtle species. Access to this area is only permitted for biologists and students with a special pass.

In addition to its natural wonders, this park was also the location of the Battle of Hacienda Santa Rosa, where a group of Costa Rican volunteers confronted an invading American force. If you want to learn more regarding this historical event, you can examine the military exhibits, photographs, and memorabilia at La Casona Historical Museum.

Finally, if you prefer a guided route of this area, I recommend visiting the excursion we took part in. It allowed us to explore the park and learn about the interesting city of Liberia in an informative way.

17. Palo Verde National Park, a place you cannot miss in Guanacaste

Palo Verde National Park epitomizes another amazing location to visit in Guanacaste, particularly if you adore nature and want to view some native wildlife of Costa Rica. Unlike other protected areas in the country, this park is home to roughly 15 diverse natural communities, although 50% of the park comprises wetlands.

This ecosystem contains over 750 plant species, many types 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.

While exploring the park on foot is an option, I believe booking a half-day boat trip along the Tempisque River is a better choice. It includes pick-up from different points in Guanacaste and allows you to comfortably observe the native wildlife and access other areas that are only reachable by boat.

18. Llanos del Cortez Waterfall, an incredible place to visit in Guanacaste

You likewise can’t depart the province of Guanacaste without visiting the Llanos de Cortez Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica. It’s close to the city of Bagaces, 30 minutes from Liberia and next to Palo Verde, making it a good escape if you’re residing in the city.

This 13-meter (43-foot) waterfall is enveloped by a kind of white sand beach where you can dry off and sunbathe after swimming.

If transportation is unavailable, this full-day experience from Tamarindo is a good option. In addition to the Llanos de Cortez Waterfall, it also visits 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

National Park of Guanacaste is one of the most illustrative protected areas in the country, covering 79,000 hectares, and is among the largest biological reserves worldwide. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 due to its incomparable biodiversity, which includes 140 types of mammals, over 300 species of birds, amphibians, reptiles, and more than 10,000 kinds of insects.

The park`s vast area has led to dividing it into three distinct sections. The initial part is the Maritza sector, which incorporates the Orosí volcano and its environs. The ecosystem here consists of a dry to humid woodland containing waterfalls, ravines, and a wonderful diversity of bird species.

The Pitilla sector, conversely, 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 offers hiking trails that enable visitors to reach the summit of the Cacao volcano and explore the lush rainforest vegetation located at its 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 a visit to El Farallón. It may be less well-known than other locations on the list, but I assure you that checking it out allows one to feel as if traveling back in time, if willing to journey there.

The massive Farallon monument has held a Historical-Architectural Heritage of Costa Rica designation since 1998 and represents the largest archaeological site in the country situated on private property. Religious rituals dedicated to the Sun (Sua) and the Moon (Chía) were supposedly carried out here by one of the indigenous tribes originally inhabiting the area, the Corobicies.

The engravings on the Farallon wall are truly astounding and were designed using a technique called channeling, which consisted of generating grooves in the rock with sharp instruments. 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 purchase a $10 ticket to visit.

Where to stay in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Below, you’ll find some consideration regarding lodging 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 lodging and atmosphere sought. If recommendations must be limited to five, these are deemed most suitable:

• The Occidental Papagayo ( https://www.booking.com/hotel/cr/occidental-grand-papagayo.en-gb.html?aid=1478706&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2): Situated near Playa Hermosa and Playa Panamá in the Gulf of Papagayo region, this is one of Costa Rica`s premier hotels. Guests must be at least 18 years old, and in addition to luxurious pool and outdoor hot tub areas, an all-inclusive package is available.

• Occidental Tamarindo: As one of the most renowned all-inclusive lodgings in Costa Rica, this resort boasts an outdoor pool, a jacuzzi, a tennis court, and varied entertainment choices like dance classes. Its rooms are simple and offer stunning ocean views.

• Tamarindo Sunshine: For economical travel, I suggest lodging in among the apartments in Costa Rica, particularly in Tamarindo. These apartments lie just 100 meters from the shore and accommodate 2 guests, making them perfect for a Costa Rica honeymoon. Each unit includes an outdoor patio or terrace permitting scenic views of the surrounding region, also an equipped kitchen enabling meal preparation.

• Hotel Bosque del Mar Playa Hermosa: This high-end resort in Costa Rica will help you spend your vacation in comfort. Its sizable rooms feature sitting areas and spacious balconies opening onto wonderful views, and the complex offers top-notch dining choices blending international cuisine with local flavors. It’s in the charming Playa Hermosa.

• Playa Grande Surfing Camp: Finally, this is one of the prime hostels in Costa Rica, featuring a common kitchen and a restaurant. It’s just meters away from Playa Grande and has various lodging choices, such as 6-bed dormitories, private double rooms, and an outdoor treehouse.

Map of Guanacaste, Costa Rica

To wrap up, this map incorporates all the places to visit in Guanacaste to assist you in planning your itinerary. I also advise consulting our guide to Guanacaste beaches and our map of Costa Rica, which provide additional ideas on where to dine, 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!