Guanacaste (North Pacific Coast)
We often call our Pacific Northwest the “little California” of Costa Rica. This sunny region boasts numerous beaches and is home to one of the last remaining tropical-dry forests on the planet. The coastline remains relatively untouched, offering boutique accommodations alongside a few larger hotels. You’ll encounter wild parrots, monkeys, sea turtles, and vibrant flora and fauna.
Costa Rica’s Pacific Northwest features diverse terrain, ranging from towering active volcanoes to lush sugarcane fields and from thick lagoons to pristine beaches. This area is home to four of Costa Rica’s most stunning national parks: Guanacaste, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, Santa Rosa, and Miravalles Volcano National Parks.
Guanacaste Beaches
As stated above, there are still many spectacular secluded boutique accommodations. The best part, most people agree, are the bilingual guided adventures. Temperatures are warm, however, the natural wonders are abundant. The ocean water is at body temperature. Some of the most popular beaches are: Ocotal, Coco Beach, Tamarindo, Flamingo. As well as Nosara, Samara, Conchal, Brasilito, Langosta. There is an incredible number of well kept secrets as well. Here is a 90 second video on Guanacaste Adventures:
Some activities for your enjoyment in this area are:
Surf lessons, whitewater rafting, horseback riding and great sport fishing, great diving. Other include zip lines, volcanoes and hot springs with hot mud fumaroles, hiking. Additionally, you might enjoy nature watching at Palo Verde National park, floating at the Corobici river, a sunset sail and much more.
Weather: This is the sunniest part of Costa Rica. Even during our rainy or green season (May through November), sunshine prevails for up to 8 hours every day, and for at least 10 hours during the dry season.
Approximate driving distances to Guanacaste: From San Jose 4 to 5 hours, from Monteverde 4 hours, from Arenal 4 to 5 hours, from Manuel Antonio 5 to 6 hours, from Jaco 4 hours.