Guanacaste & North Pacific

★★ Playa Tamarindo

Tamarindo was once a sleepy fishing village — today it is Costa Rica's most touristy beach town. The main street is lined with restaurants, surf shops, boutiques, and bars. Some love the energy, others find it too developed. What is undisputed: The surf conditions are consistently good (beach break, ideal for beginners), the sunsets spectacular, and the infrastructure perfect.

From Tamarindo, tours to Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas start — one of the most important nesting sites for the leatherback turtle worldwide (season: October–March). Guided night tour: 35 USD.

★★ Playa Conchal

One of the most unusual beaches in Costa Rica: Instead of sand, the beach consists of millions of tiny, crushed shell fragments that shimmer white to pink in the sun. The water is turquoise and calm — perfect for snorkeling. Accessible on foot from Brasilito (20 min) or by boat.

★★ Playa Flamingo

The most exclusive beach in Guanacaste: white sand (the only truly white sand beach on the Pacific), calm water, a marina, and upscale hotels. Fewer backpackers, more families and couples. Ideal as a quiet base for excursions in the region.

★ Playa Grande

Directly north of Tamarindo — but a world apart. Playa Grande is part of the Las Baulas National Park and therefore remains largely undeveloped. Strong waves for experienced surfers, miles of empty beach, and at night the leatherback turtles come ashore. A contrast program to bustling Tamarindo.

Papagayo Peninsula — Pure Luxury

The Papagayo Peninsula in the far northwest is Costa Rica's #1 luxury destination: Here stand the Four Seasons, the Andaz, and Planet Hollywood. Exclusive beaches, golf courses, and spa resorts in a dry, sunny landscape. The beaches (Playa Nacascolo, Playa Panama) are, however, also publicly accessible — Costa Rica guarantees free access to all beaches.

Dining in Guanacaste

Mar y Sol · Tamarindo — Right on the beach, feet in the sand. Ceviche, fresh fish, cocktails. The "Ceviche Mixto" with shrimp, octopus, and fish is sensational. 7,000–14,000 CRC.

El Huerto · Tamarindo — Vegetarian/vegan with a view of the sunset. The "Buddha Bowl" and the smoothies are excellent. 5,000–10,000 CRC.

Dragonfly Bar & Grill · Tamarindo — Upscale fusion cuisine in a tropical setting. The "Coconut Shrimp" and "Mahi-Mahi in Passion Fruit Sauce" are legendary. 12,000–20,000 CRC. Reservation required!