Guanacaste, the Pacific Marvel of Costa Rica

Guanacaste is one of the most extensive provinces of Costa Rica in the North Pacific Coast. With an extension of 28417 square kilometers, Guanacaste is the second largest province and the second less populated in the country; this condition contributes to preserving the impressive sceneries of vast flatness and its distinctive tropical dry forest.
 
The Daniel Oduber International Airport is the second international airport in the country.  It is located in Liberia, Guanacaste’s main canton and city situated 40 minutes from the Papagayo Peninsula, Hermosa Beach and Coco’s Beach.
Costa Rica enjoys two seasons during the year:  the Green Season (Rainy Season) between May and November and the Golden Season (the Dry Season) between December and April. The climate in Guanacaste is dry and arid in the summer or dry season; in general it is sunny and hot, with an average temperature of 29°C.

The region of Guanacaste offers a wide range of tours and natural attractions such as national parks, beaches, adventure activities, surfing, boutique hotels and deluxe resorts.

Guanacaste beaches

Guanacaste is divided into different regions with some of Costa Rica’s sunniest and more popular beaches that are a great attraction for visitors, among them: Tamarindo, Grande and Avellanas beaches, that have made this area an important surfing spot.  Another activity is diving departing from Playas del Coco, Ocotal and Flamingo Beach to observe the rich marine life in this zone.  Santa Catalinas Islands conform the most attractive spot for diving.

The coast of Guanacaste is ideal for outdoor weddings or as a honeymoon destination since it features an excellent tropical climate and sunsets, daydream evenings and boutique hotels with a luxurious and unique ambience. The hotels of the zone offer the option to celebrate private ceremony in front of the sea or to enjoy the amenities and luxury of a couple’s trip to Costa Rica.

Sport fishing is a valued activity in Guanacaste, considered a prime destination for sport fishing.  There are many operators so that you can take a tour or rent your own boat.   Game fish in Guanacaste includes:  Sailfish, Marlin, Yellow fin Tuna, Dorado, and Wahoo.

Luxury Resorts

Among the many accommodation offers in Guanacaste, there are exclusive resorts featuring signature golf courses and world-class spa centers. Paradisus Playa Conchal Resort and JW Marriott Guanacaste have a signature 18-hole course, located at the seashore.
Hacienda Pinilla Golf Resort, at some kilometers from Tamarindo Beach, has spectacular 7,500 yards, 72 par and 18-hole course, surrounded by exuberant forest and considered among the best of the country. Other excellent courses are Four Seasons Resort, Golfo de Papagayo and  Tamarindo Diria Beach and Golf Resort, in Tamarindo.

Paradisus Playa Conchal All Suite & Golf Resort
Tamarindo Diriá Golf Resort
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica
JW Marriott Guanacaste

National Parks

The National Parks and private reserves in Guanacaste are where eco-adventure takes place. The Rincon de la Vieja National Park is named after its volcano that reaches 1916 meters above sea level; this park hosts a wide diversity of flora and fauna.  In this park, there is found the biggest wild population of the purple “guaria”, an orchid species that represents the national flower. Other of its attractions are Las Pailas and Las Hornillas with their thermal waters, mud pools, and the steam geyser.  The tours of Buena Vista and Tizate Wellness Hot Springs and Spa are very appealing for those in search of resting and adventure amidst the Guanacaste natural wonders.

Palo Verde National Park has an extension of 16804 Hs comprising around 15 habitats that host a large array of bird species, which is the most important in Central America.  The half-day tour to this park is a must for all those visiting Guanacaste.

Exciting Tours

Río Colorado Rafting offers thrill and excitement, an experience that grants pure enjoyment while running down the river through the canyon.  The Witch Rock Canopy is a thrilling experience full of adrenaline; visitors should not loose the opportunity to feel the fresh air, when gliding through the treetops from tree to tree.  Hiking, fishing, and horseback riding are among the series of activities that provide lighter sensations.

Guanacaste ultimate getaway

The most luxurious beaches and all-inclusive resorts are located in Guanacaste making it a privileged destination. Among those properties there are: the Four Seasons Resort at Papagayo Peninsula, Hacienda Pinilla Golf Resort, Paradisus Playa Conchal Resort and the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa to open on December 2008.

During the last years, Guanacaste has reached significant infrastructure development and real estate investment level; these innovations together with the recent establishment of luxurious properties give Guanacaste a high value and worldwide recognition as a destination.