To many, Guanacaste is a synonym of fun in the sun. There is no doubt that Costa Rica’s largest province has some of the most breathtaking beaches on the planet. Although very close to the coast, this region keeps some of the most incredible natural and cultural secrets of the country.

Most beaches in this region can be easily accesses and offer all types of accommodations from the extremely luxurious to a backpacker’s budget type of place. Whatever your type of place is, Guanacaste’s white, gray and black sand beaches will definitely provide the rest and flavorful fun you are dreaming about right now.

From the tip of the Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve (the first National Park created in Costa Rica), located on the Nicoya Peninsula, to the frontier town of Peñas Blancas, right on the border with Nicaragua, this region is the perfect territory to hike, kayak, swim, fly on a zip line, rappel, visit volcanoes and hot water springs, horseback ride, mountain bike and discover the remains of Spanish Colonialism.

Everyday the power of our planet Earth is on display in the Miravalles, Tenorio and Rincón de la Vieja national parks. The last is home to spectacular geysers and blue color sulfur lagoons.

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The dry tropical forests of this area are good learning classrooms for those interested in observation of native flora and fauna. The Santa Rosa National Park is home to a large variety of mammal species such as white tailed deer, monkeys, wild hogs, jaguars and sloths.

Below sea level

The deep blue color of the northern pacific ocean is without a doubt a temptation for scuba diving fans, as well as those who love water sports, surfing, sailing or simply taking a refreshing dip in the sea after sunbathing all morning.

Marine ecosystems are also part of the natural menu this region has to offer. Several national parks, like the Marino Las Baulas National Park are one of the reasons Costa Ricans speak of Guanacaste with great pride. Thanks to governmental and civil conservation efforts, every year thousands of sea turtles travel around the globe to nest on the white sand beaches of this park. Amongst the turtle species that lay their eggs on Costa Rican beaches is the prehistoric Leatherback Turtle, the largest sea turtle known to mankind.

With the exception of a few schedule and visitor quantity regulations, most parks and nature refuges can be visited any time of the year. You will definitely be able to enjoy spending an entire day on a practically deserted beach or maybe even camping in a breathtaking bay like Junquillal, located north of Cuajiniquil Port.