Costa Rica luxury vacations are synonymous all over the world with breathtaking tropical forests and picturesque sandy beaches. Guanacaste is no exception, as it’s often referred to as the golden coast. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to soak up some rays with your family, or sparkling waters to catch some rays, the coastline is sure to have the perfect place for you. Our concierge, Gerardo, has rounded up his top 5 beaches to visit during your stay with us – read on for more details.
Playa Nacascolo
If you’re looking for a true hidden gem during your Costa Rica luxury vacation, Playa Nacascolo is the place to go. As you journey closer to the beach, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the ocean. With gentle waves there’s no risk of hitting a riptide, so it’s a popular spot with young families. Once you’ve taken a dip in the beautifully warm water – or playfully paddled with your little one – you’ll be able to cool off under the shade of a leafy palm tree or two. The surrounding vegetation is teaming with local wildlife, so you’ll often see the likes of white-faced monkeys and coatis within the vicinity. Plus, the beach also hosts a small ranger station with drinking fountains, picnic benches, bathrooms and outdoor showers – meaning you can comfortably stay all day long.
Playa Iguanita
This breathtaking beach boasts incredibly clear waters with small, long waves, making it the ideal choice for those going longboarding. In fact, the water is so clear that you’ll often see little fish dancing in the water close to the shore. Playa Iguanita is also steeped in history, as it was previously used as a salitral by the indigenous people. In the past, locals used to fill their pots with salt water and leave them out to dry in the sun. Once the salt deposits had formed, they would collect them by breaking the pots, leaving thousands of small pottery fragments behind. If you walk along the estuary and look closely enough, you’ll still see a reminder of this ancient tradition today.
Playa Cabuyal
Immerse yourself in complete relaxation at Playa Cabuyal. This picturesque area is a little off the beaten track, so you’ll tend to see less visitors than you would at the likes of Playa Hermosa. An established mangrove forms a unique entrance to the beach, complete with an artificial stone dam that gives it an altogether mystical touch. Once you venture out to the beach itself, the water is incredibly calm. Not only does this mean that you can easily swim in any direction, but you’ll also have a better view of some of the marine wildlife that graces the shores – including everything from manta rays to nesting turtles, depending on the season.
Playa Penca
For those feeling a little more active, Playa Penca is the place to be. Spanning just over a kilometer in distance, it’s famous for its soft blue waters and warm dark sands. Offshore islands protect you from the strength of the ocean, whilst still offering a range of waves for everyone – making it a great choice for trying out a few water sports. Head over to the northern end if you’re just getting to grips with your paddleboard, moving over to the southern end when you’re ready for more of a challenge. Framed by jungle vegetation and large trees, there’s also plenty of canopy shade to use as a refuge from the heat when you need it most.
Playa Avellanas
Love to surf? Playa Avellanas is destined to be your holiday haven. Along this part of the coast, you can expect to be greeted by light sands and rolling turquoise waves that beckon you in with every movement. With seven points, it offers something for all abilities. Families love to explore the shallow rock pools, letting their children make discoveries about the Costa Rican wildlife. Meanwhile, just a few hundred meters away at the river mouth you’ll find expert surfers looking to ride their next wave. It’s there that you’ll find the biggest wave in the area – affectionately known by the locals as ‘Little Hawaii’. Once you’re ready to grab a bite to eat, head over to Lola’s beach bar and restaurant where you can watch the world go by under the dreamy palm trees.
Make the most of your Costa Rica luxury vacation in Papagayo Peninsula, Guanacaste with a relaxing trip to the beach. Our dedicated concierge team is on hand to share their local tips and create personalized itineraries with you – simply get in touch to start planning your next adventure.
