Tranquil and temperate stretches of golden beaches
Wide stretches of golden solitary beaches, wildlife reserves jostling with exotic nature, a dry consistent climate, great surfing spots, and an ultra-easy-going atmosphere are the collective traits of Costa Rica‘s northern Pacific coastline. There are plenty of ways to fill your time here on your family escape to the Guanacaste Coast, whether you’re keen on delving into the spectacular natural beauty or slowing the pace on the beachfront.
Nicknamed the ‘Gold Coast’ for all the reasons above, this region stretches all the way from the Nicaragua border south, eventually becoming the Nicoya Peninsula with the vibrant and principal coastal town of Tamarindo more or less dividing the two. The area is teeming with wildlife, offering sanctuary to a diverse array of creatures, from jewel-toned birds and playful monkeys to elusive pumas and prehistoric-looking iguanas. Your time here can be filled with truly memorable Guanacaste wildlife experiences.
The dry, steady warm weather of the Guanacaste makes it ideal for relaxing on white-sand beaches, discovering the wildlife of the nearby Rincón de la Vieja National Park, living it up on the trendy Conchal beach, and reveling in the idyllic seclusion of Playa Potrero. And the Nicoya Peninsula, recognised as one of the world’s Blue Zones, is well worth a visit for its small town vibe, beautiful beaches, surfing and diving.
Highlights
Spend time soaking up the sun on beaches like Playa Conchal, Playa Flamingo and Tamarindo
A variety of luxurious boutique hotels and high-end resorts ensure you a most enjoyable home from home
Be on the look-out for remarkable wildlife including pumas, iguanas and a wealth of bird-life
For beaches that looks they're straight off a postcard and adventurous activities in the jungle, the Guanacaste Coast is a great place to soak up Costa Rica's 'pura vida' vibe.

Delfina Russo
Travel Designer
Luxury accommodation in The Guanacaste Coast
Why book with Jacada?

Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

Responsible travel
Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.
Trip Inspiration
Discover more of Costa Rica

Arenal
The omnipresent Arenal Volcano towers over the region, contrasting against sheer blue skies or framed by verdant jungle foliage as you glance up from your activities. Enjoy hikes, zip lines, hot springs and much more.
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Corcovado and Osa Peninsula
Osa enjoys an exceptional wealth of biodiversity, from primary rainforests to sandy coastline. Remote and exciting, this is one of the best places for wildlife encounters in Costa Rica.
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Dominical
A sleepy surf village with great access to the national park and various stunning beaches. Learn to ride the big waves or sit back and relax in nature watching fiery sunsets.
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Manuel Antonio
One of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations, and for good reason. A marine reserve protecting an idyllic coastline and important, verdant rainforests. Spot dolphins, whales, howler monkeys and kingfishers.
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Nicoya Peninsula
Tangled stone cliffs and winding mangroves greet the rugged, beautiful coastline of the Nicoya Peninsula. A natural paradise with a focus on sustainability and respecting the precious environment.
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Pacuare Reserve
Exhilarating and remote, get off the beaten track here with white water rafting, vast areas of primary, virgin rainforest and masses of wildlife. Stay at sustainable, luxury lodges in this stunning riverside location.
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Puerto Viejo
Located on the southern Caribbean coastline there’s plenty to do here. Visit Gandoca-Manzanillo Refuge for wildlife, surf the big waves on Salsa Brava beach or find the calmer waters and beach bars at Limon.
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Rio Celeste
Over 100 kilometres from San Jose, truly off the beaten track. Many habitats converge here attracting hundreds of bird species. Float on the azure blue river and meet with the Maleku Indigenous Tribe.
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San Jose
A cosmopolitan city with some worthwhile highlights to explore. The colonial quarters of the city are vibrant and filled with smells of food stalls and ground coffee.
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The Central Cloud Forests
Elevated, tropical evergreen forests, misty and humid, transport you to a magical paradise. Hike to waterfalls among almost luminous green lichen and moss punctuated, with pink tropical orchids.
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The Coffee Valley
Fertile volcanic soil and a tropical climate make Costa Rica one of the best places in the world for growing delicious coffee beans. Learn about the culture connected with the land and enjoy hiking, horseback riding and more.
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Tortuguero
Explore this region on foot or by boat, discovering its many lagoons, canals and rivers. With 11 different habitats attracting a diverse range of wildlife species, including turtles, this is a great place for nature lovers.
Discover moreMeet your Latin America team
When to visit
The dry season runs from mid November to April, and most areas are dry, warm and sunny. Occasional blustery winds blow during January and February bringing the temperature down. During the wet season, from May to mid November, expect afternoon rains and sunny mornings.

Caribbean coast
May–November

Sea turtle nesting
May–November

Pacific Coast for winter sun
December–April

Birdwatching
Year round
Costa Rica Travel Guides
Plan your trip to The Guanacaste Coast
Whatever you want from your adventure in The Guanacaste Coast, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.


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When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.
If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.