Tamarindo's beaches gained popularity after being featured in the 1994 surf movie "Endless Summer II," and today, the town is home to a bustling nightlife scene and well-regarded restaurants. Driving route for this Saturday??? The Chinchillas and Viscachas of Peru - Enigma Blog Several are packed with a mix of hotels and resorts, some are still pristine and deserted, and others are backed by small fishing villages. My Costa Rica (CostaRica.Org) is a Travel Agency that offers Custom Costa Rica Vacations & Packages Including Hotels, All-Inclusive Resorts and Tours. All-terrain vehicle tours, horseback riding tours and wildlife sanctuaries are also popular to-dos here. Where to you want to go? Despite its importance, Nicoya is still a small and pleasant town. The two beaches, Pochote and Tambor are separated by the Rio Panica. It varies from 19 to 37 miles (60 km) wide and is approximately 75 miles (121 km) long, forming the largest peninsula in the country. Not sure about the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Take a whitewater rafting trip on the Tenorio River or a float trip on the Corobici River. From Liberia drive down the highway to Santa Cruz. There are six main beach towns on the Nicoya Peninsula: Nosara, Samara, Santa Teresa, Malpais, Cayuba, and Montezuma. North from Malpas and Santa Teresa, one can find many beautiful beaches such as Playa Manzanillo, Playa Samara, Playa Caletas and Playa Guiones. The central plaza of the village is edged by many craft shops and artisan stands selling beautiful pieces with indigenous design motifs. The region from Punta Lagarto south to Cabo Blanco is far from deserted, the surf is much too good and beaches too beautiful for that, but it is isolated by . The Best of Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula. Albergue Monte Alto: (Phone: 2659-93-47),dorm-style rooms, ( $15/person inc/entrance to the reserve), Tico restaurants, sugar mill, orchid garden, hiking paths ,guides, 4 km. The vibe here is laid back and the goal is relaxation. Barra Honda National Park ( phone: 2659-1551), located on the road between the Tempisque Bridge and the city of Nicoya, it has natural displays of limestone caves and trails. All rights reserved. 1. With its huge old trees and childrens playground it is a favorite place for meeting and relaxing in the middle of the commercial center. Ok so for Rincon de la Vieja and the things around Liberia - should we plan on spending a night or 2 in Liberia? Our editors will review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. There is also a strong surfing culture thanks to the amazing breaks in Santa Teresa. Playa Carrillo: South of Nosara, Playa Carrillo offers more beach with less people. PROS gorgeous views ultraluxurious rooms top-notch service CONS isolated location left side of the beach is rocky very pricey Resort Green Romantic Service Views Luxurious Retreat Nicoya Peninsula, the largest peninsula in the country, sits just south of the Northern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. . As a comparison, I LOVED the feel of Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean side, and it had the best food/drinks I had during the whole trip. 10. 2. The Nicoya Peninsula is the perfect off-the-beaten-path escape. The abundance of nutrient-rich fruits is a staple of the Nicoya blue zone diet and may explain why the regions cancer rate is the lowest in the country. At Miravalles - stop at Rio Perdido. A single passenger ticket is $ 1.50 (Col 810). Nicoya Peninsula | Guanacaste, Pacific Coast, Wildlife Guanacaste (Spanish pronunciation: [wanakaste]) is a province of Costa Rica located in the northwestern region of the country, along the coast of the Pacific Ocean. Calles 27 & 29, Ave 2, south of Hojancha, inside reserve ( entrance to reserve $2 ). Head to the beach for an unforgettable time with your four-legged friend. However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. I just don't want it to get too expensive between the rental itself, gas, and parking. 4. Playa Samara is the center of activity in Samara thanks to its gentle waves and beachside bars. It is a small animal, about the size of a grapefruit, and has cute mouse-like rounded ears. Paquera, Costa Rica: Authentic Costa Rican Beach Town - MytanFeet Although, Malpais refers to a string of beaches on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula: Malpais, Carmen Beach, Santa Teresa, Hermosa Beach, and Manzanillo Beach. All rights reserved. Eco-tourism is also popular here. The only reason to go to Tamarindo is if you are looking for all-inclusive resorts. The Gulf of Nicoya in the early morning Montezuma: Located on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, Montezuma is a charming coastal town; a favorite with eco-tourists for its affordable hotel accommodations and untamed splendors, like the must-see Montezuma Waterfalls and the gentle cerulean waves at Playa Montezuma. The Pennsula de Nicoya is one of the most readily identifiable regions of Costa Rica jutting into the Pacific nearly doubling the coastline of the northern region. There is some mining of gold in the north. ART: Exhibits of local, regional artists at La Casa de Cultura, located in Down Town Nicoya. These incredible trips are sure to inspire romance and relaxation. There are tolls along the highway, so pick up some Costa Rican colones before setting out. Hotel Las Tinajas: (Phone: 2685-50-81), nice & quiet rooms ( $14 v/fan, $20 ale), cable, cold water, near bus station in Nicoya. The wildlife in Southern Nicoya peninsula is common to both ecosystems. Ostional Beach within Ostional National Wildlife Refuge is where the remarkablearribadaor mass sea turtle nesting of olive ridley sea turtles takes place. Stop by the Hidden Garden Art Gallery and check out their rooms of art by Costa Rican artists and other Central American artists -- and no "tourist crap. Barra Honda National Park and Palo Verde National Park are part of the Tempisque Conservation Area. The roads seemed pretty good to me in the areas I was in last time, so maybe it would be a good idea. It's a commercial center so good for shopping and banking and a "cultural immersion" but not much else. In the peak season from May to December females ride in on the high tide, struggle up the beach and excavate nests in the sand in massive numbers. This region offers something for everyone; perhaps thats why its growing faster than any other in Costa Rica. A recent study states that the area around the town of Nicoya ranks among the four regions in the world where people have the highest life expectancies. You can reach the peninsula by car fromSan Jos via Highway Route 27. The waters here are beloved for scuba diving and sportfishing, kayaking, boating, and surfing. Pochote, blessed with rich waters and pristine rivers is a small fishing village. The closest International airport is in Liberia, although it is possible to get there from San Jose as well. The Nicoya Peninsula is a gulf in Guanacaste Costa Rica and its biological diversity, location, and magnificent beaches have made it a top destination in the country. Nearby Puntarenas was once Costa Ricas principal Pacific port. In front of Hospital Anexion de la Nicoya, tico food. Here you can find everything from wonderful nature reserves to world class hotels and beach resorts, quaint rural towns, amazing sunsets, some of the best surfing on Costa Ricas Pacific Coast and even Tico cowboys! Church of Nicoya: Visit the 500-year-old colonial church, Iglesia de San Blas in down town. Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula Travel Guide Fun Fact: Nicoya is one of the world's five "Blue Zones," an area where locals live noticeably longer and healthier lives. http://www.rinconcorobici.com, 13. It seems more expensive to stay there than in other areas nearby. Postal code. Montezuma, with its jungle waterfalls and gentle surf, was the first beach destination out this way to capture any attention. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Playa Montezuma is nothing if not the essence of pura vida. Here youll find incredible surfing, hiking and swimming. Discover the wonders of this limestone cavern: stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, cave grapes, and more. Here you can find everything from wonderful nature reserves, great options for eco-tourism, to world class hotels and beach resorts, quaint rural towns, amazing sunsets, water sports such as surfing, fishing, snorkeling and diving define much of the character of the villages. But I know you are just trying to provide any "things to do" that you can think of! This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. The regular ferry services from Puntarenas across the Golfo de Nicoya make access easier from Juan Santamara International Airport outside the capitol than from the Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport near Liberia. At low tide, travelers can explore and swim in the tide pools. Nicaragua is a unique country full of culture and historical parts. Restaurant Mi Soda: In front of Hospital Anexion de la Nicoya, tico food. Some of the regions beaches have been discovered by surfers who are opening up heretofore hidden sections of gorgeous shoreline. That's about 10 h away. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Punta Islita Executive Course in Guanacaste, Nicoya Peninsula, Costa This is thanks in part to the stunning natural environment around them. Our Favorite Hotels in the Nicoya Peninsula, Explor the Cities in the Area of Nicoya Peninsula. Luxury meets sustainability at these unique ecolodges. We are flying into Liberia and would like to see the different beaches/towns. Driving these dirt roads without air-conditioning and the windows rolled up tight can be extremely unpleasant. Some of the best surfing on Costa Ricas Pacific Coast. Click for a printable map of Playas Tamarindo & Langosta. ( Phone: 2686-46-46), crafts, clothes, historic building, 75m south-east of colonial church in front of Almacen La Revancha, Nicoya, Guanacaste Costa Rica is known for its dry climate. And - so no Tamarindo - I think Samara might be more our speed, but how far is it to the other beaches to the south like Manzanillo and Montezuma? It's so shallow that at low tide the beach becomes a 200 meter . The largest peninsula in the country, the Nicoya Peninsula sits just south of the Northern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica across the Golfo de Nicoya from Puntarenas. The 3-hour tour begins with a 62 ft (19 m) descent into the interior of the cave. In the charming little village of Guaitil you can watch how traditional Chorotega pottery is being crafted. There are several famous surf breaks and beaches, and protected spots perfect for a mellow swim or snorkel. Things to Do in Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula More notable highlights include the pristine, palm-studded Playa Carrillo, Rincn de la Vieja National Park and Costa Rica's first national park, Santa Rosa. During the heart of the pandemic, the region became the center of the country of sorts, as much of the capital drained out and moved to the beach, as did a flood of foreigners that made it their semi-permanent home. Visit El Viejo Wetlands and take a boat tour through Palo Verde National Park http://www.elviejowetlands.com/. It boasts one of the oldest churches in Costa Rica. The ideal place for some much needed rest and relaxation, the Nicoya Peninsula today, is home to one of the most beautiful 18-hole golf courses situated in Tambor that lies on the southern coast. Playa Montezuma Playa Montezuma is nothing if not the essence of 'pura vida.' Here you'll find incredible surfing, hiking and swimming. Elsewhere In Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula Bahia Salinas The large windswept bay at the very top of Costa Rica's Pacific coast is the second-windiest area in the country, after Lake Arenal . Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. To the east, you'll admire volcanoes comprising the Cordillera de Guanacaste. Has anyone driven from Samara to Mal Pais? 50201. Home ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-68558760', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Rio Celeste. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. You can take your pick of different yoga disciplines. ( Phone: 2686-61-48), next to Restaurant Nicoya, homemade baked goods, sandwiches, pizza, art gallery. Vacation rentals in Punta Cuchillos, Paquera - Airbnb Swells arrive on the west facing shores after building over thousands of miles of nearly uninterrupted ocean creating a surfing mecca. Visit Las Pumas Wildlife Rescue Center in Canas where you can see all sorts of animals, including big cats. The Nicoya Peninsula extends from Costa Rica's northwestern tip and skirts the Pacific. Home to some of the most isolated and beautiful beaches, this rugged peninsula is one of the most popular tourist destinations, especially for those looking to have some fun in the sun. You can check more information and rates about this tours here: Punta Cuchillos, Santa Teresa Bioluminescent Kayak Tour The beach here is extensive, but is rocky and can be a challenge for swimmers. From Guanacaste drive Jicaral Naranjo Paquera. Our favorite is Malpas, as there is little to do here but surf or lounge on the beach. Dust from dirt roads blankets the trees in many areas, and the vistas are far from tropical. From the Tempisque Bridge or from Puerto Humo, 25 km from Nicoya, you can make boat tours on the Rio Tempisque passing by crocodiles and colonies of water birds. Liberia and Nicoya Peninsula - Nicoya Forum - Tripadvisor The peninsula offers a variety of ecosystems with every opportunity to view nature: monkeys, coatis, sloths, marine turtles, parrots, countless species of birds, iguanas, dolphins, marlins, and manta rays are just a few of the marvelous creatures here to discover. Updates? You can always take a taxi from the border. 15. Hotels in Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula | Fodor's Travel The Nicoya Peninsula is still largely undeveloped and home to some of Costa Ricas most beautiful beaches. The province is a transition zone between a tropical rain forest and dry forest, which you will see represented in the flora and fauna. This is also Costa Ricas driest region. Actually IN Liberia, there isn't really anything to do. It will take approximately four or five hours to reach Tamarindo and another two to arrive at Nosara. Attention: Budget travelers will find plenty of dorm space, communal kitchens, cold water showers, and bulletin boards with notices offering cheap rentals, ride shares and used surf boards for sale. Cabinas Rios Tempisque: (Phone: 2686-66-50), modern comfy rooms ( $50), cable, a/c, fans, fridge, pool, Jacuzzi, garden, on highway north of Nicoya. The town bustled and hummed with commerce, fishermen, coffee brokers, and a weekend rush of urban dwellers enjoying some sun and fun at one of the closest beaches to San Jos. Only one of the caves, Terciopelo Cave, is available to the public. Malpais and Santa Teresa are two little beach towns. Nicoya is the major town of the peninsula and the cultural center of the province of Guanacaste. Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. This church presents many interesting old artifacts and relics and after the visit to the church you may simply relax at the Central Park of the city. From Puntarenas take the car and passenger ferry to Paquera The northwestern province's dry, sunny savannas contrast the misty cloud-covered rainforests found in other parts of the country. Punta Islita, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Sights in Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula | Fodor's Travel The Nicoya Peninsula is separated from the mainland of Costa Rica by the Gulf of Nicoya and the Tempisque estuary. Rincn de la Vieja National Park . http://www.riostropicales.com/index.php/adventure-travel/whitewater-rafting/cucaracho-river, Get answers to your questions about Nicoya. Take a hike through the park and see all kinds of animals including Howler Monkeys, Coatis, Coyotes and many different kinds of birds. Visit the town of Guatil where you can see authentic Chorotega pottery being made. Blue Zones are established based on the life expectancy of the people. Separated from the Guanacaste plains in the north by the Gulf of Nicoya, the Nicoya Peninsula is an isolated paradise and water wonderland of eco-epic proportions. This church presents many interesting old artifacts and relics and after the visit to the church you may simply relax at the Central Park of the city. Go to Llanos del Cortes waterfall. Travelers can also hike in the nearby Cabo Blanco Nature Reserveon the southernmost tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. Find a large variety of birds and just an endless array of biodiversity. Easy access to the new international airport outside Liberia makes this an ideal destination for travelers who mainly seek relaxation, and are happy with an introduction to a few highlights of the natural wonders of Costa Rica. Our Bioluminescent Kayak Tour Experience However, they are just as stunning, varied, and rewarding. Saludos.. Alamo can arrange a (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Costa Ricas Central Valley is home to the capital of San Jos and the Juan Santamara International Airport. Any thoughts? The Case of the Puzzling Peruvian Puquios Finally Solved - iExplore We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. south of Hojancha, inside reserve ( entrance to reserve $2 ). Visiting Cabo Blanco Natural Reserve The Cabo Blanco Natural Reserve sits at the very tip of theNicoya Peninsulaand was Costa Ricas Southern Zone is where youll find the tallest mountains, pristine cloud forest areas, and a virtually unexplored paradise. Caf Daniela: ( Phone: 2686-61-48), next to Restaurant Nicoya, homemade baked goods, sandwiches, pizza, art gallery. Here you can find everything from wonderful nature reserves, great options for eco-tourism, to world class hotels and beach resorts, quaint rural towns, amazing sunsets, water sports such as surfing, fishing, snorkeling and diving define much of the character of the villages. It is the center for commercial cattle in the province of Guanacaste. You can see a lot of the old part of the colonial age including the cobblestone streets and old forts. Know your airline's carry-on luggage size restrictions before you fly. South of Nicoya, in the mountains near the village of Hojancha you can make eco-tours through the forest of the Monte Alto Nature Reserve with its huge array of orchids. Despite its popularity, Malpais is almost never crowded, making it easy to find a secluded spot for sunbathing. For an adventure, check outMontezuma Waterfallsouth of the town. The base of the peninsula lies in the arid Guanacaste lowlands, but in the central and southern parts a range of mountains rises abruptly to more than 3,000 feet (900 metres). Some of its most popular beaches include Playa Grande and Playa Negra. Very Americanized and developed and expensive. Casa del Sol & La Luna: ( Phone: 2686-46-46), crafts, clothes, historic building, 75m south-east of colonial church in front of Almacen La Revancha . Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). There are often monkeys in the trees overhead. Also - should we spend any time in Tamarindo? Recent visitors said Playa Santa Teresa was a surfers paradise and the surrounding town catered to young people. The road is little traveled and only few people live in this area. The long beach disperses some of the crowds that gather on the weekends for a relatively calm and laid-back beach experience. However, during the rainy season from April to November most of the roads can get quite impassable due to rivers washing them out. The Nicoya Peninsula is famous for its relaxed, laid-back vibe and is considered one of the worlds five Blue Zones. Visiting Puerto Caldera Puerto Caldera is port city in the Puntarenas province of Costa Rica. We've rounded up the best sights in Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula so you don't miss a thing. Nicoya, the principal townas well as the other main villages on the peninsulais linked by highway to Liberia, capital of Guanacaste province. Bioluminescent Kayak Tour - Bioluminescence Tour in Costa Rica The rainy season starts later and ends earlier, and overall its more dependably sunny here than in other parts of the country. The peninsula extends 140 km to the south where the landscape progressively becomes more moist and hilly. Kayaking, snorkeling, and sport fishing are also popular off Samara Beach due to its calm waters. You will be amazed at the wildlife and all the biodiversity. Separated from the mainland by the Tempisque estuary and the Gulf of Nicoya, Nicoya is home to some of the most immaculate and spectacular beaches in Costa Rica including Santa Teresa, Malpais and Montezuma.