Guanacaste

The Province of Guanacaste in Costa Rica - Amazing Beaches & More!

CostaRica.Org Explore Vacation Options Instituto Costarricense de Turismo

Guanacaste Costa Rica

Guanacaste, Costa Rica is a province located on the Northern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica and it has become the number one Costa Rica vacation destination. With over 400 miles of coast line and surrounded by volcanos like the famous Rincon de la Vieja, Guanacaste is home to world-class Costa Rica vacations destinations, hotels and all-inclusive resorts. It is also easily accessible thanks to the Daniel Oduber International Airport located in Libera, the capital city of Guanacaste. Every year tourists from all over the world flock to Guanacaste to experience the pristine beaches, abundant rainforests and variety of boutique, eco, 5-star and romantic Guanacaste hotels.

Guanacaste is unique in Costa Rica for its dryer, tropical climate. Although Guanacaste does still experience a rainy season, it is still the driest part of the country. That means more time sunbathing on white sandy beaches or adventuring through lush rainforests. The dry tropical climate and proximity to both beaches and mountains make the ideal location for travelers seeking anything from sun and relaxation to mountain adventure to nature and birding tours. In fact, Guanacaste vacation tours are some of the best in the country. Guanacaste’s extraordinary natural diversity, great climate, stunning beaches and vacation tours make it the ideal vacation destination for you and your whole family.

Top Destinations

Tamarindo

costa rica beaches tamarindoGet ready for a beach sunset you will never forget in Tamarindo. Tamarindo is one of the most popular beach towns in Costa Rica. With crystal blue waters and pristine sand, the beach is perfect for surfing, fishing and catamaran tours. In town there are a variety of shops, restaurants and bars to take advantage of. You’ll also find many types of hotels, including luxury all-inclusive and boutique romantic hotels. 

Playa Conchal

Playa Conchal Hotels and BeachPlaya Conchal is truly one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is famous for its white-shelled beach and brilliant, crystal clear waters. Conchal is a great place to get a massage on the beach, go jet skiing, sailing or horseback riding. Playa Conchal is also home to some of the most exclusive and luxurious resorts in Costa Rica including the Westin Playa Conchal Resort. 

Rincon de la Vieja

Rincon de la vieja lodgeIf you’re ready for an adventure, be sure to visit Rincon de la Vieja, a famous volcano and national park one hour from Liberia. Take advantage of one of the many combo tours, which allow you to zip line, repel down waterfalls, hike and relax in thermal hot springs–all in one day! The area is also on the UNESCO World Heritage list because it is so ecologically diverse. Hike or ride horseback through the national park to see jaw-dropping Costa Rican flora and fauna. 

Monteverde National Park

Senda Monteverde SkywalkEco-tourists and birders will fall in love with Monteverde National Park. Monteverde is home the famous Cloud Forests of Costa Rica, which have more species of trees than the USA and more than 400 species of birds. During the day, the foggy and mysterious Cloud Forests will leave you in awe as you hike through it, or over it on Hanging Bridges. At night you can take a guided hike to see the diverse range of wildlife lurking in the darkness. Monteverde is also the best place for an exciting canopy tour. 

Arenal Volcano 

Nayara Springs Resort and Arenal VolcanoThe Arenal Volcano Costa Rica’s most famous volcano. It towers impressively over the small town of La Fortuna and the world’s largest man-made lake, Lake Arenal. The Arenal National Park is perfect for more adventurous travelers. There are endless opportunities to hike, white water raft, zip line, kayak and more. If you’re looking for a more relaxing vacation, not to worry, Arenal is perfect for you too. Geothermally heated hot springs can be found all over the place, as well as the world-famous spa, Nayara Springs Spa & Gardens. 

Nicoya Peninsula

Yoga in NosaraThe Nicoya Peninsula has been labeled one of the five Blue Zones of the world. Here you can visit some stunning beaches like Playa Samara and Nosara. Playa Samara is a laid-back hippie community with a stunning beach line. Here you can also explore the phenomenon of the tropical dry forest. The dry forest is an increasingly rare ecosystem which still provides real value to Costa Rica’s biodiversity. Nosara, on the other hand, is famous for its world class yoga retreats. The Nicoya Peninsula also houses some other treasures like Ostional Wildlife Refuge. Here you can see the sea turtles nesting in the afternoon, and the eggs hatching in the morning! Watching the baby sea turtles make their way to the ocean might be the most moving sight you will ever see!

Gulf of Papagayo

Playa-Flamingo-ViewThe Guanacaste region region is also hone to the Gulf of Papagayo, which covers the northern coastlines. The Gulf of Papagayo boasts some of the finest luxury resorts in Costa Rica. Here you can visit a wide variety of beaches from the party town of Playas del Coco to the serene waters of Playa Panama. Make sure to visit the mysterious Playa Ocotal. The white mists surrounding the beach are said to having healing properties. One beach you cannot miss when visiting the Gulf, is Playa Hermosa. Playa Hermosa is far more peaceful than its neighbor Playas del Coco and definitely lives up to its name ‘beautiful beach’. Playa Flamingo has the powdery white sand and piercing blue waters any tropical beach should have. A lot to choose from!

Facts

Guanacaste Vacation Tours

Guanacaste Tours Horseback Riding BeachDue to its size and location, Guanacaste has tours available for everyone. ATV, canopy, mountain biking,  canyoning and white water rafting are available for adrenaline seekers. Sport fishing is rampant throughout the province, with half and full-day tours. Those looking to relax can find hot springs, yoga resorts, sunset cruises and excellent bird watching tours. 

Guanacaste Weather 

Tamarindo GuanacasteFrom November to April you’ll find dry, tropical weather, perfect for beach hopping and hiking. Daily temperatures average around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season, or “green season” is from May to November. During the rainy season you’ll likely experience short to medium showers during the afternoon. However don’t let the rain scare you away! The vegetation in Guanacaste blossoms during the wet months and the surrounding mountains come alive with color. 

Guanacaste Nature

lo mejor de guanacasteDue to Guanacaste’s dryer climate, instead of a typical rainforest, you’ll find dry tropical forests in Guanacaste. The trees are mostly deciduous trees which lose their leaves during the dry season to preserve water. The dry forests are still incredibly biodiverse and you’ll find a huge variety of plants and wildlife in Guanacaste including monkeys, parrots and pumas. 

The several volcanos surrounding Guanacaste also provide geothermal hot springs, fumaroles and unforgettable views! 

In the southern part of Guanacaste you’ll find an entirely different climate in the Cloud Forests. Found at higher elevations, Cloud Forests are much cooler. The cooler weather slows down the evaporation of rainwater collected, creating a mysterious-looking fog throughout the canopy. 

Guanacaste Culture and History 

Guanacaste Horseback Riding Guanacaste TreeOn July 25th, 1824 the people of Guanacaste voted to become part of Costa Rica and Guanacaste was annexed into Costa Rica from Nicaragua. July 25th is now “Guanacaste Day” and is celebrated every year. Guanacaste was  named from the word quahnacaztlan, the indigenous word for the national tree of Costa Rica, which is found in Guanacaste. The 5,932 square mile region is cattle country and as you explore small towns you’ll find an almost romantic cowboy culture. It’s not unusual to see great herds of cows, rodeos and cowboys throughout the province.

Today Guanacaste culture is heavily influenced by music, traditional dances and corn. Some of the famous dances from Guanacaste include “El Punto Gunacasteco” and “La Cajeta” and most are derived from Andalusian Flamenco. You’ll also find a huge variety of corn-based dishes and drinks in Guanacaste. Stop by local markets in Liberia and Nicoya and try traditional corn tortillas, tamales and bizcochos. 

The Guanacaste Tree

Guanacaste TreeYou’ll know you’re in Guanacaste when you spot the famous Elephant Ear Tree (Guanacaste Tree) everywhere you go. The Elephant Ear Tree was declared the Costa Rica national tree on August 31st, 1959. It is called the Elephant Ear Tree because of the interesting shape of the seeds. The famous Guanacaste Tree’s spherical crown provides shade to animals and coffee plantation workers, improves soil fertility and offers water-resistant wood. You’ll find a lot of furniture made out of the valuable wood. The seeds are also edible and used to feed cattle. 

Getting There

Closest International Airport: Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR)

Travelling to Costa Rica LiberiaThanks to the 2012 expansion of the the Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia, getting to Guanacaste is easier than ever. Several airlines in the US and Canada fly directly to Liberia. Flights to Liberia, Costa Rica can be found on Air Canada, WestJet, American United Delta, and Alaska airlines, among others. Tourists traveling from Europe to Liberia can also choose TUI airlines. 

Once you’ve landed in Costa Rica, getting to your hotel is fast and easy with private transfers, shuttles or rental cars. Talk to our expert Travel Agents today to arrange your Guanacaste vacation! 

Guanacaste - Get Info

Guanacaste Map

Click to Enlarge Guanacaste Map

Guanacaste Vacation Packages

Best of Guanacaste – All Inclusive

Best of Guanacaste – All Inclusive

LIR
$1000-$1500 p.p.
Pampered in Papagayo Package

Pampered in Papagayo Package

Less than $1000 p.p.
In Perfect Harmony

In Perfect Harmony

7
LIR
$1000-$1500 p.p.
Perfect Playa Conchal

Perfect Playa Conchal

LIR
Less than $1000 p.p.
Active Family Adventure – Family Vacation to Costa Rica

Active Family Adventure – Family Vacation to Costa Rica

7
SJO
Less than $1000 p.p.
Extended Costa Rica Highlights

Extended Costa Rica Highlights

20
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Fishing Adventure Package

Fishing Adventure Package

5
LIR
More than $2000 p.p.
Romantic Beach Getaway

Romantic Beach Getaway

LIR
$1000-$1500 p.p.
Unforgettable Costa Rica

Unforgettable Costa Rica

7
SJO
Less than $1000 p.p.
Best of Costa Rica – All Inclusive

Best of Costa Rica – All Inclusive

LIR
$1000-$1500 p.p.

Beaches

Playa Grande

Playa Grande

Visiting Playa Grande Located just north of Tamarindo in Guanacaste, is the charming beach community of Playa Grande. Play...

Bahia Salinas

Bahia Salinas

Visiting Bahia Salinas Bahia Salinas is part of the of the Guanacaste province and has one unique feature. It is blessed w...

Tamarindo

Tamarindo

Visiting Tamarindo Beach Tamarindo is located in the Guanacaste Province along the Pacific Coast and is one the most popul...

Playa Flamingo

Playa Flamingo

Visiting Playa Flamingo Costa Rica beaches are infamously beautiful, but Playa Flamingo is the kind of beach that stars in...

Playa Conchal

Playa Conchal

Visiting Playa Conchal We tend to choose our beaches based on what activities they offer or what culinary treats they are ...

Playa Hermosa Costa Rica

Playa Hermosa Costa Rica

Visiting Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica Playa Hermosa is one fo the most beautiful beaches in the Gulf of Papagayo as part of t...

Playa Ocotal

Playa Ocotal

Visiting Playa Ocotal Playa Ocotal is located at the entrance of the beautiful and highly developed Gulf of Papagayo in th...

Playa Potrero Costa Rica

Playa Potrero Costa Rica

Visiting Potrero Located in Guanacaste, on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, just south of Playa Flamingo and Marina. Playa...

Langosta Beach

Langosta Beach

Visiting Playa Langosta, Guanacaste Playa Langosta is located in the northern Pacific province of Guanacaste just south of...

Playa Junquillal

Playa Junquillal

Visiting Playa Junquillal The magic of Costa Rica is most apparent in how you can find completely different worlds even wi...

Avellanas Beach

Avellanas Beach

Visiting Playa Avellanas The little town of Playa Avellanas in Guanacaste consists mainly of hotels and cabins, a few rest...

Playa Negra

Playa Negra

Visiting Playa Negra Guanacaste Located in the Northern Costa Rica Guanacaste province, Playa Negra Costa Rica enjoys the ...

Playa Panama

Playa Panama

Visiting Playa Panama Playa Panama is one of the more secluded and serene beaches of Guanacaste. This beach is located in ...

Playas del Coco

Playas del Coco

Visiting Playas del Coco The small but far from sleepy town of Playas del Coco is located in the Gulf of Papagayo. Costa R...

Cities

Liberia

Liberia

Visiting Liberia, Capital of Guanacaste The city of Liberia, the charming capital of Guanacaste is often used as the jumpi...

Volcanoes

Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano

Visiting the Arenal Volcano  The Arenal Volcano is one of our top recommended destinations and one of the most visited pla...

Rincon de la Vieja

Rincon de la Vieja

Visiting Rincon de la Vieja When planning a vacation to Costa Rica, it is difficult to decide which activities to choose. ...

National Parks

Palo Verde National Park

Palo Verde National Park

Visiting Palo Verde National Park Palo Verde National Park is located on the banks of the Tempisque River, in the Nicoya P...

Barra Honda National Park

Barra Honda National Park

Visiting Barra Honda National Park When we think about Costa Rica, the first things that come to mind are beaches, jungles...

Santa Rosa National Park

Santa Rosa National Park

Visiting Santa Rosa National Park Santa Rosa is one of Costa Rica’s first National Parks. This has effectively prese...

Guanacaste Hotels

JW Marriott Resort & Spa

JW Marriott Resort & Spa

5
From: $125 - $200
El Mangroove

El Mangroove

5
From: Over $300
El Jardin del Eden

El Jardin del Eden

4
From: $125 - $200
Planet Hollywood

Planet Hollywood

5
5
From: Over $300
Occidental Tamarindo

Occidental Tamarindo

4
4
From: $200 - $300
Canyon de la Vieja Lodge

Canyon de la Vieja Lodge

3
From: Under $125
Blue River Resort & Hot Springs

Blue River Resort & Hot Springs

3
1
From: Under $125
Borinquen Resort

Borinquen Resort

4
2
From: $200 - $300
Los Altos de Eros

Los Altos de Eros

5
From: Over $300
Margaritaville Beach Resort

Margaritaville Beach Resort

4
4
From: $200 - $300
Tamarindo Diria

Tamarindo Diria

4
From: $200 - $300
Hacienda Guachipelin

Hacienda Guachipelin

3
3
From: $125 - $200
Azul Ocean Club

Azul Ocean Club

5
From: $200 - $300
Westin Golf Resort & Spa

Westin Golf Resort & Spa

5
5
From: Over $300
Esplendor

Esplendor

5
From: $125 - $200
Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas

Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas

5
From: Over $300
Hotel Pasatiempo

Hotel Pasatiempo

3
From: Under $125
Buena Vista del Rincon

Buena Vista del Rincon

3
4
From: $125 - $200
Hotel Sugar Beach

Hotel Sugar Beach

3
4
From: $125 - $200
Dreams Las Mareas

Dreams Las Mareas

5
From: Over $300
Hotel Bahia del Sol

Hotel Bahia del Sol

4
4
From: $125 - $200
W Costa Rica

W Costa Rica

5
From: Over $300
Hotel Capitan Suizo

Hotel Capitan Suizo

4
5
From: $200 - $300
Rio Perdido

Rio Perdido

4
From: $125 - $200
Paradise Flamingo Beach Hotel & Casino

Paradise Flamingo Beach Hotel & Casino

4
From: $125 - $200
Hilton Garden Inn

Hilton Garden Inn

4
3
From: Under $125
Hotel & Villas Cala Luna

Hotel & Villas Cala Luna

4
From: $200 - $300
Rancho Humo Estancia

Rancho Humo Estancia

3
From: $125 - $200

Guanacaste Tours

Buena Vista Day Experience

Buena Vista Day Experience

Palo Verde National Park Boat Tour

Palo Verde National Park Boat Tour

From: $75 - $100
River Rafting on Rio Tenorio with RCR Rafting

River Rafting on Rio Tenorio with RCR Rafting

River Rafting on Rio Tenorio with Desafio

River Rafting on Rio Tenorio with Desafio

Hiking in Rincon de la Vieja National Park & Oropendula Waterfall with Hacienda Guachipelin

Hiking in Rincon de la Vieja National Park & Oropendula Waterfall with Hacienda Guachipelin

Hiking in Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Las Pailas Trail with Hacienda Guachipelin

Hiking in Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Las Pailas Trail with Hacienda Guachipelin

Adventure Pass with Hacienda Guachipelin

Adventure Pass with Hacienda Guachipelin

One Day Nature Pass with Hacienda Guachipelin

One Day Nature Pass with Hacienda Guachipelin

Borinquen Adventure Day (Horseback Riding, Zip Lines & Hot Springs) with Jacamar

Borinquen Adventure Day (Horseback Riding, Zip Lines & Hot Springs) with Jacamar

Borinquen Adventure Day (ATV, Horseback Riding, Zip Lines & Hot Springs) with Jacamar

Borinquen Adventure Day (ATV, Horseback Riding, Zip Lines & Hot Springs) with Jacamar

Buena Vista Mega Combo Adventure with Jacamar

Buena Vista Mega Combo Adventure with Jacamar

Rancho Humo Tour Wetlands Experience

Rancho Humo Tour Wetlands Experience

From: Over $100
Canopy Tour Papagayo with Jacamar

Canopy Tour Papagayo with Jacamar

Early Birdwatching Tour with Jacamar

Early Birdwatching Tour with Jacamar

Horseback Riding Tour with Jacamar

Horseback Riding Tour with Jacamar

One Day Adventure Combo at Hacienda Guachipelin with Jacamar

One Day Adventure Combo at Hacienda Guachipelin with Jacamar

One Day Nature Combo at Hacienda Guachipelin with Jacamar

One Day Nature Combo at Hacienda Guachipelin with Jacamar

ATV Tour Adventure with Jacamar

ATV Tour Adventure with Jacamar

Palo Verde National Park Boat Tour with Jacamar

Palo Verde National Park Boat Tour with Jacamar

Safari Float Tour on Corobicí River with Jacamar

Safari Float Tour on Corobicí River with Jacamar

Surf Lesson at Tamarindo Beach with Jacamar

Surf Lesson at Tamarindo Beach with Jacamar

Pacific Green Turtle Nesting Tour at Night with Jacamar

Pacific Green Turtle Nesting Tour at Night with Jacamar

Rincon de la Vieja Waterfall Hike with Jacamar

Rincon de la Vieja Waterfall Hike with Jacamar

Rincón de la Vieja National Park Guided Hike & Liberia City Tour with Jacamar

Rincón de la Vieja National Park Guided Hike & Liberia City Tour with Jacamar

Santa Rosa National Park & Liberia City Tour with Jacamar

Santa Rosa National Park & Liberia City Tour with Jacamar

Tamarindo Mangrove & Estuary Tour on Kayaks with Jacamar

Tamarindo Mangrove & Estuary Tour on Kayaks with Jacamar

Tamarindo Mangrove & Estuary Tour by Boat with Jacamar

Tamarindo Mangrove & Estuary Tour by Boat with Jacamar

Waterfalls Summer Day with Jacamar

Waterfalls Summer Day with Jacamar

ATV Golden Coast Tour with Arenas Adventures

ATV Golden Coast Tour with Arenas Adventures

Diamante Eco Adventure Park

Diamante Eco Adventure Park

From: $75 - $100
Sportfishing Angelica IV 29′ Feet Boat

Sportfishing Angelica IV 29′ Feet Boat

From: Over $100
Rio Ora Kayak Tour

Rio Ora Kayak Tour

From: $75 - $100
ATV Tour Azul Ocean Club

ATV Tour Azul Ocean Club

Kayak Snorkeling in Tamarindo with Arenas Adventures

Kayak Snorkeling in Tamarindo with Arenas Adventures

Surf Lesson with Arenas Adventures

Surf Lesson with Arenas Adventures

Discovery Pass with Diamante Eco Adventure Park

Discovery Pass with Diamante Eco Adventure Park

Sportfishing Angelica IV 29′ Feet Sportfisher

Sportfishing Angelica IV 29′ Feet Sportfisher

Sportfishing Bernacle II 36′ Feet Ocean Boat

Sportfishing Bernacle II 36′ Feet Ocean Boat

Adventure Pass with Diamante Eco Adventure Park

Adventure Pass with Diamante Eco Adventure Park

Sportfishing BrindisiToo 50′ Feet Bertram Boat

Sportfishing BrindisiToo 50′ Feet Bertram Boat

Sportfishing Bushwacker 42′ Feet Bertram Boat

Sportfishing Bushwacker 42′ Feet Bertram Boat

Sportfishing Circle Hooker 29′ Feet Pursuit Boat

Sportfishing Circle Hooker 29′ Feet Pursuit Boat

ATV Tour with Diamante Eco Adventure Park

ATV Tour with Diamante Eco Adventure Park

Sportfishing Navigator 32′ Feet Gamefisherman Boat

Sportfishing Navigator 32′ Feet Gamefisherman Boat

Sunset Sailing and Snorkeling Cruise Tamarindo

Sunset Sailing and Snorkeling Cruise Tamarindo

From: $75 - $100
Sportfishing Scorpion 58′ Feet Bertram Boat

Sportfishing Scorpion 58′ Feet Bertram Boat

Sportfishing Wetass II 31′ Feet Boat

Sportfishing Wetass II 31′ Feet Boat

Horseback Riding with Diamante Eco Adventure Park

Horseback Riding with Diamante Eco Adventure Park

Sunset Sailing and Snorkeling Cruise with Panache Sailing

Sunset Sailing and Snorkeling Cruise with Panache Sailing

Sunset Sailing and Snorkeling Cruise in Papagayo with Marlin del Rey

Sunset Sailing and Snorkeling Cruise in Papagayo with Marlin del Rey

Sunset Sailing and Snorkeling Cruise in Tamarindo with Marlin del Rey

Sunset Sailing and Snorkeling Cruise in Tamarindo with Marlin del Rey

Zip Line & Tarzan Swing by Horseback Riding with Blue River Resort

Zip Line & Tarzan Swing by Horseback Riding with Blue River Resort

ATV Mountain Trip Tamarindo

ATV Mountain Trip Tamarindo

From: $75 - $100
Costa Rica Regions and Destinations Map

Southern Zone

Why Visit?

Costa Rica’s Southern Zone is where you’ll find the tallest mountains, pristine cloud forest areas, and a virtually unexplored paradise. Find a large variety of birds and just an endless array of biodiversity.  


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Central Valley

Why Visit?

Costa Rica’s Central Valley is home to the capital of San José and the Juan Santamaría International Airport. Steeped in History & Culture, many people use the capital as the jumping off point for their vacations.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Northern Zone

Why Visit?

Costa Rica’s Northern Zone is home to the country’s most famous Volcano and Cloud Forest Areas.

You will be amazed at the wildlife and all the biodiversity.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Osa Peninsula

Why Visit?

The Osa Peninsula is truly an unexplored paradise and a must see for nature lovers. If you are looking to get off the beaten path and explore – this is the spot for you.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Guanacaste

Why Visit?

Guanacaste is home to Costa Rica’s most popular beach destinations and all-inclusive resorts. If you are looking for a beach vacation, this is your destination for sun, sand, and surf.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Nicoya Peninsula

Why Visit?

The Nicoya Peninsula is still largely undeveloped and home to some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches. Known for it’s laid back surfer vibe and boutique beach resorts.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Central Pacific

Why Visit?

Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast is home to some of the closest beaches from the capital of San José, which are easily accessible from the highway.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Caribbean

Why Visit?

Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast is a rich cultural area offering a laid back tropical atmosphere. Experience what Tico Time truly is on this Afro-Caribbean influenced area.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Nicaragua

Why Visit?

Nicaragua is a unique country full of culture and historical parts. You can see a lot of the old part of the colonial age including the cobblestone streets and old forts.


Top Destinations

Panama

Why Visit?

Panama is a totally different level of destination. It has so much to offer. You can experience history and modern architecture all in one in Panama City with skyscrapers and the old part of the city.


Top Destinations

© Copyright 2004-2021 all rights reserved. My Costa Rica (CostaRica.Org) is a Travel Agency that offers Custom Costa Rica Vacations & Packages Including Hotels, All-Inclusive Resorts and Tours.
Read our Privacy Policy - Sitemap.