The Surroundings 

Guanacaste, The Cradle That Nurtures Playa Hermosa and Villas Sol

The country's Northern Pacific Coast, comprising the Province of Guanacaste and the Peninsula of Nicoya, is a region of Costa Rica where high levels of tourism arrivals mingle with traditions and typical elements, characteristic of the Guanacaste province.

The region has a strong influence in Costa Rican history, beginning in the colonial period. Geologically, the region harbors some of the oldest formations in the country, and important extensions of dry tropical forest, most of which is in regeneration. In the summer time, the deciduous trees loose their foliage creating a very diverse landscape, almost dessert-like, in the months of November through May, usually temperature is 82- 94 Fº

In the months of June through October temperature are 70-91 Fº, the rivers recover their flow these forests flourish into diverse tonalities of green.

Some of the region's protected areas possess worldwide importance for the protection of wildlife species and constitute observation areas of great interest. This is the case of the Baula Turtle, in Playa Grande the avi-fauna in the lagoons of Palo Verde National Park; and the nesting of the Lora Turtle in the Nancite and Ostional beaches. National parks such as Volcán Rincón de la Vieja also offer unique sites with their hot mud pools and fumaroles in constant activity.

With its many beaches, the North Pacific constitutes one of Costa Rica 's most important tourism areas and some of the best places to practice golf and sport fishing, combined with natural setting and a myriad of small quaint properties. Marine currents that dredge nutrients from the ocean's depths, facilitate the existence of a rich marine biodiversity, favoring the abundance of species like the swordfish, the marlin and the dorado. Near the city of Liberia one of the main access points to the different attractions of Guanacaste, stands Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia (LIR) which offers direct international access to the region. The International American highway, in excellent condition also communicates this city with the country's capital.

Guanacaste's beaches, full of sun and activity, offer all types of outdoor activities, including surfing, kayaking, swimming, diving, snorkeling and horseback riding. Some of these beaches are true tourist centers, such is the case of Tamarindo and El Coco, while others are characterized by their remoteness. All however, seem to be made just for sports and beach lovers. 

The Beach

Playa Hermosa is an exotic gray sand beach with a calm bay and relaxed atmosphere, yet 30 minutes away from world class surfing. The beach received the “Blue Flag” award by the Costa Rican Institute of Tourism (ICT) due to its cleanliness, quality, and due to the conservation of its natural resources set forth by the community of Playa Hermosa. This beach is also reknown as one of Costa Rica’s best places for skim boarding, diving, kite surfing, and snorkeling.

Ride our shuttle to the beach and enjoy a soothing cocktail while your kids play in the sand or take a swim in the peaceful waters of the Pacific Ocean. The Resort provides chaise lounges for the comfort of its guests.

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Local Dining

Ginger: Asian/Mediterranean type food (Playa Hermosa) 

“Tapas style tasty eats await – Great Martini list too – A cross between P.F. Chang´s & Roy’s” (5pm – 10pm Tuesday – Sunday)

* Voted Guanacaste's Top Restaurant in 2007 & 2008

Reservations: 2672-0041

 

Four Seasons Resort: Lunch & dinner (Papagayo Peninsula)

“Five Star – A must taste & see” – Sorry, golf only for guests

Reservations: 2696-0000 (You must call 24 hours ahead)

 

Oku Sushi Bar: Japanese & Seafood (Coco Beach)

“Great sushi bar and seafood in Coco Beach” (5pm-10pm Tuesday thru Sunday)

Reservations: 2670-0153

 

La Dolce Vita:  Italian Lunch & Dinner (Coco Beach)

"Exquisite Italian Cuisine!"

Reservations: 2670-1384

 

Picante – Pez vela: Lunch & dinner (Ocotal Beach)

“Located at the end of the road but well worth the drive – delicious tropical dinning by the sea” (Daily 10am – 10pm)

Reservations: 2670-0901

 

Father Rooster: On the beach, lunch & dinner (Ocotal Beach)

“Feet in the sand at this beach bar – Try a Tica Linda Margarita, kick back & relax”

Reservations: 2670-1246

 

Papagayo Steak House: Dinner (Coco Beach)

"Best Steak in Town!"

Reservations: 2670-0605

 

La Finisterra: Lunch & Dinner (Playa Hermosa)

"Great International Food, Service and Ambiance. Best Mahi Ceviche in Town!"

Reservations: 2672-0227

 

Villa del Sueno: Lunch & Dinner (Playa Hermosa)

"Great French Cuisine and Romantic Ambiance. Great for Couples!"

Reservations: 2672-0026

Lagunas Catfish Farm: Lunch & Dinner (Sardinal)

"Great Louisiana Style Food - Angus Burgers, Catfish Wraps and All American Sunday Brunches are the top attractions at Lagunas!"

Reservations: 2667-0142

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Nightlife

Upper Deck Sports Bar: Best sports bar in Guanacaste (Playa Hermosa)

"Classic American Food, Music and Sports All Night Long"

 

La Vida Loca: Beachfront Bar (Coco Beach)

"Live Music and American Style Drinks & Eats. A Classic Ex-Pat Hangout"

 

Lizard Lounge: Best bar in town (Coco Beach)

“The hot spot in town…great music, drinks, and pura vida atmosphere”

 

Tragos: Beach Martini Bar (Coco Beach)

"The newest bar in town! Tragos is a Costa Rican style Martini Bar in the entrance of Coco. A great option to warm up before a long night of partying in town!"

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Casino

Coco Bay Casino: Rummy, Caribbean Stud Poker, Slot Machines, Black Jack, Poker and Roulette (Coco Beach)

Reservations: 2670-0494

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Local Activities

Bill Beard´s Diving Safaris: Diving Tours (Playa Hermosa)

“Dive experts in Costa Rica since 1974!”

Site: www.billbeardcostarica.com / Reservations: (954) 453-5044

 

Witch’s Rock Canopy Tour: Canopy Tours (Papagayo)

“A great experience!”

Reservations: 2666-7546

 

Roca Bruja Surf Operation: Witch’s Rock & Ollie´s Point Sea & Land Tours (Coco Beach)

“World class surfing with excellent local service!”

Site: www.costaricasurftrips.com / Reservations: 2670-1020

 

Hacienda Pinilla Golf Club: Beach Resort & Residential Community (Pinilla)

“World Class 18-hole Golf Course”

Site: www.haciendapinilla.com / Reservations: 2680-7121