Guanacaste Province, north-west Pacific coast · Costa Rica
Golden surf beaches, dry-forest wildlife and sunsets on Costa Rica's sunniest coast.
Photo: Jarle Naustvik · CC BY 2.0
Guanacaste is the sunniest and driest region of Costa Rica, with a long Pacific coast of beaches, rocky headlands and rolling dry forest. Tamarindo, once a sleepy fishing village, is now the main resort, with surf schools, restaurants and nightlife, while quieter beaches are within easy reach.
Surfing is the big draw, with consistent waves for beginners at Tamarindo and tougher breaks at Playa Grande and Playa Negra. Playa Conchal, a beach of crushed shells, and Flamingo and Brasilito are good for swimming and relaxing. From October to February, leatherback turtles nest at Las Baulas National Marine Park.
Inland, you can take horse rides, zipline over the forest or visit hot springs and waterfalls at Rincon de la Vieja. The dry season, from December to April, is hot and sunny, while the green season brings daily rain and fewer tourists.
Why visit
Tamarindo offers dependable sun, surf and sunsets.
Waves for all levels.
Over the Pacific.
Lively scene.
Monkeys, turtles and birds.
Close to Liberia airport.
Main attractions
Beaches and activities line the coast.
The main beach with surf and restaurants.
Tip Walk at sunset.
Crushed-shell sand and clear water.
Tip Great for snorkelling.
A surf and turtle nesting beach.
Tip Visit with a guide at night.
Protects leatherback turtles.
Tip Book a guided tour.
A pretty bay with calm water.
Tip Take a boat tour.
A surf beach with a relaxed vibe.
Tip Quiet in the week.
Things to do
Surf, swim and explore.
At Tamarindo.
Tip Book a morning class.
Clear shallows.
Tip Bring your own gear.
Seasonal.
Tip Go with a guide.
A catamaran trip.
Tip Book ahead.
Early morning.
Tip Choose a reputable stable.
Day trip inland.
Tip Start early.
Local food
Fresh fish and international dining.
Raw fish.
Where to try it Beach bars.
Local catch.
Where to try it Beach restaurants.
Rice and beans.
Where to try it Breakfast.
Plate of the day.
Where to try it Sodas.
Cold.
Where to try it Beach stands.
Accommodation
Tamarindo has plenty of choice.
Transport
Fly to Liberia.
Taxis and shuttles.
When to go
Dry season is hot and sunny, perfect for the beach.
Dry and hot.
Green season starts.
Wetter but surf improves.
Drying out.
Worth planning around: September and October, the wettest.
Itinerary
Surf and sun.
Settle
Lessons
Snorkelling
Day trip
Travel tips
Tips.
FAQ
Yes.
Three to five days.
December to April.
Higher than inland.
Yes.
With common sense.
Keep exploring
Places that pair well with Tamarindo and Guanacaste, whether you have a few spare days or are building a longer route.
Guanacaste Province, north-west Costa Rica, Costa Rica
A national park around an active volcano, with fumaroles, waterfalls, hot springs, canopy tours and horseback rides.
Don't miss Soaking in a volcanic stream after a morning on the waterfall trail.
Explore Destination — Rincon de la ViejaPuntarenas Province, Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
A rugged southern Nicoya coast with Santa Teresa, Malpais, Montezuma, waterfalls and some of the best surf in Costa Rica.
Don't miss Surfing at sunrise, then eating fresh fish on the sand.
Explore Destination — Santa Teresa and the Nicoya PeninsulaAlajuela Province, northern Costa Rica, Costa Rica
An adventure hub at the foot of Arenal Volcano, with La Fortuna Waterfall, natural hot springs, hanging bridges, Lake Arenal and wildlife.
Don't miss Soaking in a warm river as the Arenal volcano towers overhead.
Explore Destination — Arenal and La FortunaRead next
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