Things to do in Guanacaste Coast
Discover the best attractions and experiences Guanacaste Coast has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the region's enduring landmarks that reveal Guanacaste's colonial and local heritage.
Catedral Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes (Liberia)
A historic cathedral and central landmark in Liberia that reflects Guanacaste's heritage.
Iglesia de Santa Cruz
Iconic wooden church representing the traditional religious architecture of Guanacaste.
La Plaza Central de Nicoya
Historic town square surrounded by colonial-era buildings and markets.
Museums
Delve into the local culture and history through small regional collections.
Museo de Guanacaste (Liberia)
Museum detailing the region's history, culture, and natural heritage.
Casa de la Cultura Nicoya
Cultural center with rotating exhibits and community events.
Religious Monuments
Visit enduring places of worship that anchor local communities.
Iglesia de Santa Cruz
A historic wooden church that stands as a symbol of local faith and tradition.
Iglesia de Nicoya
Centuries-old parish church in the historic Nicoya area.
National & Theme Parks
Wilderness and wildlife-filled escapes along the coast and nearby interiors.
Santa Rosa National Park
One of Costa Rica's oldest protected areas with coastal ecosystems and wildlife.
Ostional Wildlife Refuge
Famous nesting grounds for olive ridley sea turtles and a wildlife-watching hotspot.
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
Volcanic landscapes with hikes, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna (a bit inland but accessible from the coast).
Neighborhoods
Characterful coastal towns and areas where you can wander, surf, and dine locally.
Tamarindo
Vibrant beach town known for surfing, sunsets, and a lively beachfront scene.
Nosara
Laid-back surfer town with a strong yoga and nature-forward vibe.
Playa Flamingo
Upscale beach area with white-sand beaches and calm waters.
Gulf of Papagayo
Resort-friendly coastline with coves, beaches, and covetable views.
Free Things to Do
Experience the coast with no admission fees while enjoying nature and sunsets.
Sunset walk on Tamarindo Beach
Stroll the shore as the sky paints itself in pinks and oranges.
Turtle watching at Ostional Beach (seasonal)
Observe sea turtles nesting during peak season from the beach.
Birdwatching along Ostional estuary
Spot shorebirds and mangrove species along the estuary paths.
Gastronomy
Taste classic Costa Rican fare and fresh seafood with a Guanacaste twist.
Gallo Pinto
A hearty rice-and-beans mix served with eggs or meat.
Casado
A traditional Costa Rican plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and protein.
Pescado frito with patacones
Crispy fried fish served with twice-fried green plantain slices.
Ceviche fresco
Fresh raw fish marinated with lime, onions, and cilantro.
Nightlife
After sunset, the coast comes alive with music, bars, and beachfront ambiance.
Sunset cocktails on Tamarindo Beach
Sip a drink as the sun sinks behind the Pacific horizon.
Beachfront live music in Tamarindo
Enjoy evenings of local bands and rhythmic sounds along the sand.
Entertainment
Water adventures, boat trips, and unique coastal experiences.
Catamaran sunset cruise (Tamarindo)
Relax on a boat cruise with views of the coastline at dusk.
Ziplining near Tamarindo
Soar through forest canopies with aerial views of the coast.
Dolphin watching from Flamingo
Join a morning boat ride in hopes of spotting dolphins.
Sports
Seasonal sport experiences from surfing to paddling.
Surfing lessons in Tamarindo
Learn or improve surfing on one of Costa Rica's top waves.
Stand-up paddleboarding in Playa Flamingo
Glide over calm water with a view of the coast.
Kayaking the Tempisque River estuary
Paddle through mangroves and spot wildlife along the estuary.
Off the Track
Less-touristy experiences to connect with the coast and its ecosystems.
Bioluminescent kayaking near Ostional
Kayak under glowing coastal plankton on moonlit nights.
Mangrove birdwatching in Nosara
Guided walks to spot herons, kingfishers, and egrets.