Area info

The North Pacific Coast of Costa Rica

This area of Costa Rica, located on the northwest coast of the Nicoya peninsula extends from Playa Carrillo in the south, all the way to Puerto Soley in the north, near the border of Nicaragua. In this area, known as the Gold Coast, you will find many bays, coves and endless pristine white beaches that will take your breath away (click here for aerial and local photos). Imagine floating on the calm waters of Playa Real (Pirate Bay) watching a sunset full of incredible colors as a soft breeze caresses your body and soul.. Yes, that's life on the Costa Rican Riviera!! Sun, Sand and Sea!

Your trip to paradise from San Jose takes less than 4 hours to drive or 45 minutes by commuter airplane (service thru Sansa Airlines or Nature Air / feel free to inquire with our professional travel team regarding travel itineraries and ease of travel throughout Costa Rica). The international airport in Liberia offers you even easier access to the Gold Coast. In less than one hour after landing your private chauffer can deliver you to your Gold Coast destination. You will enjoy experiencing some of the most interesting topography in the world, from thundering water falls and active volcanoes, to thick rain forests and roaring rivers. Take pleasure in varied scenery while exploring typical Costa Rica towns along the way.

By car, you can go north to Liberia and then west pass the Daniel Oduber International Airport toward the town of Filadelfia. From there, go pass Belen to Huacas and onward to the beaches of Langosta, Tamarindo, Playa Grande, Conchal, Brasilito, Flamingo and Potrero. You may also go north toward Liberia as you are heading for the beach areas and resorts of the Four Seasons Resort, Papagayo Bay, Playa Hermosa, Playas de Coco and Ocotal. On the other hand, if you are heading for Nosara, Samara, Carrillo or the surrounding beaches, you should get off the main highway north and cross the Tempisque river over the "Puente de Amistad" or Friendship Bridge (please note it is quicker to drive to Tamarindo and its surrounding beaches via the Friendship Bridge route).  This magnificent structure, built with the help of the Taiwanese government, will cut driving time to the city of Nicoya and the southern Guanacaste beaches. You can also go north from Nicoya to Belen and on to the northern Guanacaste beaches (for detailed driving instructions contact chadfisher@playagrandecostarica.com ).

Activities are plentiful in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Whether it's sailing, diving, sport fishing, swimming, surfing, kayaking, horseback riding, river rafting, canopy touring, bird and wildlife watching, or just plain old sun worshipping while sipping on a tall, cool beverage there is something for everyone. There are also plenty of bars, restaurants, casinos, and a variety of entertainment to keep you busy in the evenings. Don’t just read about how great this area is, come experience it for yourself! Guanacaste boasts the finest weather in all of Costa Rica. There is minimal rain, less humidity and the most sunshine throughout the year. Again, make Guanacaste the best place to be in Costa Rica!
PURA VIDA COSTA RICA

See our map of the region. We serve to better understand the location of the properties we scout for our customers.

Tamarindo / Langosta: Tamarindo is one of the most developed and populated beach towns on the Guanacaste coast line. Known for its affluent international community, fine dining, shopping and exciting night life, Tamarindo is a young and active town full of energy. Every afternoon the people of Tamarindo stop what they’re doing for a few minutes to quietly watch the magnificent array of colors as the sun slowly sinks below the horizon. For many people, Tamarindo is the perfect balance between an active community and a peaceful retreat.

Flamingo / Portrero: The Flamingo / Potrero area is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the serenity of beach side living. In the Flamingo / Potrero area you will find an active retirement community. The residents that live and vacation here enjoy many outdoor activities such as: fishing, playing tennis, snorkeling, yoga and long walks on the white sand beaches of Playa Flamingo, Playa Pencas, Prieta, Sugar Beach and etc. Located within proximity to wonderful turquoise water, snorkeling and beaches, as well as several champion golf courses. There is also a marina and many great restaurants in the area.

Grande: Playa Grande consists of more than 5 kilometers of pristine white sand beach which includes the National Park of Las Baulas. Las Baulas protects the nesting grounds of the Leather Back Sea Turtles. Another beach just north of Grande, but separated by a rocky point out cropping, is pristine Playa Ventana beach, which is truly amazing, especially, the most northern part of Ventanas beach. Playa Carbon just north of Ventana, has unbelievable snorkeling (ask the locals where to go or call me). Besides turtles, surfers and vacationers, all types are found enjoying the sun and the waves at this quiet and serene part of Guanacaste. Playa Grande is not as developed as Tamarindo, but has just enough amenities to make it comfortable for living. Plus, Tamarindo is just a short wade across the estuary during low tide, a five minute boat ride for minimal $ (I believe ~$5) to Hotel Bula Bula in Palm Beach Estates, or you can take a boat ride during high tide for ~$1-2. It is a 15-25 minute drive to Grande depending on which route you choose. Again, if you would like the “insiders view” contact myself at chadfisher@playagrandecostarica.com to allow the professionals at 1st Choice Realty *take quality care of you, your family and friends.