Visit Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Curated By
Chelsea Reherman
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Adventure Travel
All-Inclusive Travel
Couples Travel
Costa Rica
Shopping
Local Culture
Coastal
Curator’s statement
Guanacaste is often referred to as the "sunshine state" of Costa Rica. Located in the northern region of Costa Rica and lined with beautiful beaches that look out over the Pacific Ocean, this region is one of the country's sunniest spots. Guanacaste is home to great surfing, a variety of animals, several national parks and even a few volcanoes. Guanacaste is a perfect destination for any traveler looking to visit this amazing country.
The Fora Difference
Book with Chelsea to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
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Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
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Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Costa Rica
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Things to do in Costa Rica
Beaches
Playa Conchal, Tamarindo, Playas del Coco, Playa Grande, Playa Avellanas and Papagayo. Pro tip - visit Avellanas for an off-the-beaten path beach that you will fall in love with.
Tours
Take a day trip to Arenal Volcano - famous for its hot springs and waterfall hikes. It's an easy day trip. Want something more laid back? Visit a coffee plantation to learn about one of Costa Rica's biggest exports: coffee beans!
Go ziplining ! So many places offer fun zipline opportunities.
Visit any of the national parks nearby your accommodations. There's lots of parks that you can visit depending on what you're hoping to see...turtles, monkeys, sloths, you name it!
Water Activities
Rent a catamaran for a sunset sail, book some surf lessons, jet skis, snorkeling, deep sea fishing and so much more.
Go golfing at one of the many beautiful golf courses.
Day Trips
Arenal Volcano
Monteverde
Places to eat & drink in Costa Rica
When you visit Playa Avellanas, stop by Lola's for some delicious food and drinks right on the beach. Also look for Lolita, the free roaming pig — she's the official mascot of Lola's.
El Mercadito in Tamarindo is a fun market with lots of different options to choose from so it's sure to please everyone!
If you're visiting Playa Grande, stop at Taco Star for some delicious tacos. Grab coffee and cinnamon rolls from Guayoyo Coffee House at Playas del Coco. Get tapas and sip wine at Numu Taproom also at Playas del Coco.
Need to Know
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Experience the Emerald Coast of Nicaragua.
Travel Advisor
Chelsea Reherman
Get in touch with Chelsea
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Costa Rica.