Costa Rica's sun-drenched Pacific province — world-class resorts on the Papagayo Peninsula, legendary surf breaks, and the most beautiful beaches in the country.
A legendary open-air restaurant on Avellanas Beach — fresh ceviche, grilled fish, and cold Imperial beers with your feet in the sand. Named after the resident pot-bellied pig.
🌟 Hodophs insider tipCome at lunchtime when the beach is most beautiful. The fish tacos and shrimp ceviche are unmissable. Lola herself (the pig) may wander past your table — she's a celebrity and knows it.
Restaurant
Ginger
Tapas and craft cocktails in Playas del Coco — the most sophisticated dining in Guanacaste's northern beach towns. Asian-influenced small plates and an excellent wine list.
The finest resort in Costa Rica — 850 acres on a private peninsula with two beaches, an Arnold Palmer golf course, and extraordinary Pacific sunset views.
🌟 Hodophs insider tipEven if you're not staying, the El Mercado restaurant is open to day visitors for lunch. The sunset from the infinity pool is one of the great Pacific Coast views. Book the guided snorkelling tour — the marine life in the bay is extraordinary.
Hotel
Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
A beautifully designed Hyatt property on Papagayo Peninsula — three beaches, exceptional jungle-to-ocean views, and a vibrant pool scene.
An extraordinary collection of oceanfront bungalows at Playa Coyote — hand-built from local hardwood, completely off-grid solar power, and one of the most remote beaches in Guanacaste.
🌟 Hodophs insider tipThis is not for everyone — no AC, no WiFi, you reach it by river crossing. But the beach is completely empty, the stars are extraordinary, and the howler monkeys wake you at dawn. One of the most memorable places in Costa Rica.
🎯 Attractions
Attraction
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano
An active volcano in a national park — bubbling mud pools, hot springs, waterfalls, and excellent hiking through dry tropical forest.
Arguably the most beautiful beach in Costa Rica — a crescent of crushed white shells creating extraordinary turquoise water clarity. Located just north of Brasilito.
🌟 Hodophs insider tipPark at Brasilito and walk 15 minutes along the beach — you avoid the resort entrance fees and get the same stunning beach. Arrive before 10am for the clearest water. Bring snorkel gear.