A gaggle of beaches, sands of seashells & a witch’s rock
Guanacaste is one of the most visited destinations in Costa Rica. The vast northern conservation area holds the enviable UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves its dry forest habitats and shelters its endangered or rare plants and animal species. Guanacaste is an ecotourist’s wonderland, from its white sand beaches, stretching shoreline, multiple entryways into its ten national parks and three volcanos set within the Guanacaste mountains. But it is the beaches of Guanacaste that draw people back year after year. Warm and dry climate, white-shelled sand, glistening blue water and all the activities that go with them. After a jungle journey, have some sun and a swim and a relaxing massage on the beach before joining the vibrant nightlife and delicious food. And those sunsets…
Popular Destinations
Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park
Rincon de la Vieja National Park was created to protect its volcano and rare tropical dry forest. The park is set on a climate transition zone, causing the Caribbean side of the volcano to be covered with lush rainforest and the Pacific side covered with tropical dry forests. The park has an opulent range of biodiversity and it’s big; it holds two volcanos, 32 rivers and streams and a stunning array of forest vegetation. Some of the best hiking in Costa Rica is found among the park’s dry and cloud forests, waterfalls, and a rich tropical environment. So naturally, there is world of wildlife, reptiles and bird species in the park to entertain ecotourists, wildlife lovers and photographers looking for a rich day in the jungle. Bring your camera.
Try this
· Ride horseback with the authentic cowboys of Guanacaste at the foot of Rincon de la Vieja
Santo Rosa National Park
Santa Rosa National Park was designated in 1972 to preserve its ecological diversity. The Park holds 2% of the earth’s biodiversity and has some of the last dry forest in the world. Its dense tropical jungle is a favorite spot for hikers, birders and nature lovers alike. Some of the more challenging trails can be reached only by 4x4s, so planning is important if you want to travel deep into the park. There are several beautiful beaches in the park, for sunning and watersports, and some and where the turtles come to nest yearly, often in thousands in a single night. The Park’s Playa Naranjo is one of the best surfing beaches in the country that produces nice breaks for all levels of surfers. Some of the world’s best surfers can be seen at the Witch’s Rock, which juts out of ocean and obliges waves break both to the left and right.
Try this
· Make a stop at Hacienda La Casona, where Costa Rica achieved its independence for Nicaragua in 1856
Beaches of the Golden Coast
Ask any visitor what compelled them to visit Guanacaste and they will most likely answer ‘the beaches.’ And they will be right. Guanacaste beaches are nothing short of perfect. The days are filled with sun and fun, and the sunsets will make you grateful to have been at just that spot to see a sunset that will never happen again. Sprawling along the long golden coast, lie three of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches, Playas Tamarindo, Flamingo and Conchal. They all are made for surfing, sailing fishing, catamaran tours, horseback riding and more, but each has its unique style of Guanacaste beauty and grace. The shores of Guanacaste are lined with accommodations in every category, with the top five hotels in Costa Rica, all with unforgettable views. Honestly, you may never want to leave – it’s always summer in Guanacaste.
Try this
· Whether you’re a golfer or not, play an ocean view round on one of Guanacaste’s champion golf courses. It’s humbling.
Playa Tamarindo
Once a languid surf and fishing village, Tamarindo has become one of Costa Rica’s most modern and popular destinations – but it hasn’t lost its soul in the process. Its traditional fiestas, colorful horse parades and traditional music and dancing fuse seamlessly with the bustling, lively atmosphere of today’s Tamarindo. And the beaches are perfect. There is every water and jungle activity available in Tamarindo, but it’s hard to beat the calm and gentle breeze sweeping over the crystal blue waters of the beach.
Playa Conchal
Tucked away its own private cove, Playa Conchal is one of the most striking beaches along the Guanacaste coast. It is a top destination for those seeking a calm, remote day at the shore. Its sand is made of small, crushed shells that contrast with the calm, aquamarine water. Highlights at Conchal, other than walking the length of the beach with your toes in the sand, are a waterskiing trip for lunch in Brasalito Beach, a snorkeling fish safari and a soothing massage under the shade on the beach. Among all of the sand and water revelries, there is always a sloth to be seen hanging from a shady tree or a monkey as curious to see you as you are to see them.
Playa Flamingo
This impossibly beautiful beach is one of Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast treasures. Its crescent-shaped shoreline is awash with turquoise ocean breaking on white sand beaches. While there is a seemingly endless selection of activities, combing the Playa Flamingo coast searching for its secluded beaches and hidden lagoons is a wonderful way to spend a day, or many days. The Flamingo village center is elegantly situated on the hill rising from the beach and is lined with sophisticated boutiques, restaurants and bars. End the day with a sunset catamaran cruise with a glass of chilled champagne, or two.
