Known for its pristine beaches, a holiday to Costa Rica wouldn't be complete without a visit to the North Pacific coast. This area is almost entirely made up of the provinces of Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula. Here palm fringed beaches, unparalleled Pacific coast sunsets and exceptional surf reign. The weather is typically less humid here than elsewhere in the country. There are some extremely stylish places to stay, a great range of boutique hideaways and remote eco lodges. Choose from beach towns such as Tamarindo, romantic beach hideways like Punta Islita, or unspoiled stretches between Nosara and Sámara on the Nicoya Peninsula.
Home to the largest and last remaining tropical dry forest in Central America, inland Guanacaste has much to offer visitors. As well as its unique tropical dry forests, geysers, old haciendas, cattle ranches, and sabaneros (the Costa Rican version of cowboys); the region is notable for its unique history (independent from Costa Rica until 1824) and full of folklore and traditions. With four volcanoes including Rincon de la Vieja (from which the national park takes its name), Orosi, Santa Maria and Miravalles; explore bubbling mud pools, fresh water volcanic lagoons and therapeutic sulphur hot springs.
Discover this region on horseback, flying through tree top canopies on a zipline or on some excellent hiking trails. Some of the best surfing can be found in the Northern Pacific, a whole host of stunning beaches provide a multitude of surfing hotspots. This northern region is ideal for a relaxing end to a holiday or can be activity packed for those still seeking further adventure.
Read more about Guanacaste, Nicoya & Pacific Coast Beaches
