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.

• Spanishis 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 recommendedto protect Costa Rica’s marine life.
• Some national parks require advance reservations—plan accordingly.

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