Guanacaste

Guanacaste enjoys a dry, sunny climate most of the year, making it one of Costa Rica’s most visited regions:

• December–April (Dry Season): Best for beach vacations, outdoor adventures, and clear skies.
• May–August (Green Season): Ideal for lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and great wildlife spotting.
• September–November (Low Season): Great for budget travelers, but expect occasional rain showers.

• Playa Conchal: A stunning beach with crystal-clear water and unique crushed-shell sand.
• Playa Flamingo: A high-end beach town known for white sand and luxury resorts.
• Playa Hermosa: A peaceful beach ideal for families and relaxation.
• Playa Tamarindo: A lively beach town famous for surfing, nightlife, and eco-tours.
• Rincón de la Vieja National Park: A volcanic park with waterfalls, mud pots, and hot springs.
• Santa Rosa National Park: A historic park with incredible biodiversity and secluded beaches.
• Llanos de Cortez Waterfall: One of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfalls, perfect for swimming.
• Palo Verde National Park: A wetland sanctuary home to crocodiles, birds, and monkeys.
• Diamante Eco Adventure Park: Zip-lining, animal encounters, and ATV tours in one place.
• Ostional Wildlife Refuge: A nesting ground for Olive Ridley sea turtles (best from July–December).

• Casado: A classic Costa Rican dish with rice, beans, salad, plantains, and meat.
• Gallo Pinto: Traditional rice and beans, often served for breakfast.
• Olla de Carne: A hearty beef and vegetable stew.
• Tamales: Corn dough wrapped in banana leaves, filled with meat and vegetables.
• Tortilla Aliñada: A thicker, cheesier version of a tortilla unique to Guanacaste.
• Ceviche: Fresh seafood cured in lime juice with onions and peppers.
• Chorreadas: Sweet or savory corn pancakes.
• Pipas Frías: Fresh coconut water straight from the coconut.
• Guaro Sour: A cocktail made with Costa Rica’s national liquor, Cacique Guaro.

• Flights: Arrive at Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, the main gateway to Guanacaste.
• Car Rentals: The best way to explore beaches, national parks, and remote areas.
• Shuttle Services: Shared and private transfers available from Liberia and San José.
• Taxis & Uber: Uber is limited, but taxis are available in major towns.
• Boats & Water Taxis: Used for island excursions, sportfishing, and reaching hidden beaches.

• For U.S. travelers: No visa required for stays up to 90 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
• For international travelers: Check Costa Rica’s visa requirements based on your nationality.
• Departure Tax: Some airlines include this in the ticket price, but if not, expect a small exit fee at the airport.

• Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC), but U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted in tourist areas.
• Credit cards: Accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops.
• ATMs: Available in major towns, dispensing both colones and U.S. dollars.
• Cash: Recommended for small businesses, taxis, and tips.

• Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
• Most signs, menus, and information are available in English.

• Costa Ricans (Ticos) are friendly and welcoming—greet people with “Pura Vida!” (Pure Life).
• Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—most restaurants include a 10% service charge.
• Beachwear is fine on the beach but not in restaurants or shops.
• Respect nature—Costa Rica is a leader in eco-tourism and conservation.
• Do not disturb wildlife—avoid feeding animals or getting too close.

• Restaurants: A 10% service charge is usually included; additional tipping is optional but appreciated.
• Bars: $1–2 per drink or 10–15% of the total bill.
• Hotels: $2–5 per bag for bellhops, $2–5 per night for housekeeping.
• Taxis: Tipping is not expected, but rounding up the fare is common.
• Tour Guides & Excursions: $10–20 per person for great service.

• For peak travel season (December–April): Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels and flights.
• For off-season travel (May–November): Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
• For national park tours and beach excursions: Book at least a few days ahead.

• No COVID-19 test is required for entry, but check for updates before traveling.
• Reef-safe sunscreen is highly recommended to protect Costa Rica’s marine life.
• Some national parks require advance reservations—plan accordingly.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com