Beach-hop the Gold Coast
Discover beaches from lively Playa del Coco to tranquil Conchal, Flamingo and Avellanas.
Guanacaste
Guanacaste
22+ tours available
Overview
Golden beaches and cowboy country
Guanacaste is Costa Rica’s sun-drenched northwest: a string of golden Pacific beaches backed by dry tropical forest, volcanoes and proud sabanero (cowboy) culture. With its own international airport in Liberia, it is the easiest gateway to a classic beach-and-adventure holiday.
Highlights
- Golden Pacific beaches
- Rincón de la Vieja Volcano
- Ziplines and adventure parks
- Traditional sabanero culture
- Liberia international airport
Guanacaste
Watch the experience
Things to do
Explore Rincón de la Vieja
Hike past bubbling mud pots, fumaroles and waterfalls on the slopes of an active volcano.
Zipline over the ocean
Soar through dry forest canopy on adventure circuits with Pacific views.
Sail on a catamaran
Cruise the coast with snorkelling, paddleboarding and sunset views off the beaches.
Experience sabanero culture
Visit working ranches to see horsemanship, folk music and traditional Guanacaste cuisine.
Soak in volcanic hot springs
Relax in mineral springs and mud baths heated by the region’s volcanoes.
Best time to visit
December to April is reliably hot and dry — peak beach weather. The green season turns the dry forest lush and is quieter and greener.
Getting there
Fly directly into Liberia (LIR) international airport, just 30–90 minutes from most beaches, or drive about 4 hours from San José.
Travel tip
Guanacaste is the hottest, driest region in the country — hydrate constantly and plan active tours for the cooler morning hours.
GuanacastePlan your trip to Guanacaste
Tell us your dates and travel style, and our team will craft a custom itinerary for this destination.
Quote Trip