kerrymcashman

We plan to be in Guanacasta for 4 nights after visiting Arenal and Monteverde. Any suggestions for the best beaches/towns to stay at? We leave out of Liberia and don't want a huge drive on our last day. I'm not interested in Tamerindo, sounds too built up and touristy for me.

We are hoping to snorkel if possible.

Thanks

costaricavibes

I think the Coco area is good for snorkeling. It is also a bit touristy but not nearly as crazy as Tamarindo. There are a lot of "secret" beaches in the Coco area which would be perfect. I run a Costa Rica budget travel blog. Heres a link to the Coco page so you can check out what you can do in that area and feel free to message me if you have more questions as you plan https://www.costaricavibes.com/desti...laya-del-coco/

RAC

We found Playa Hermosa to be a really good option--about 30 minutes from the airport, lovely beach and coastal views, manageable size, good balance of being low-key but having enough services, good restaurants, and it can be a base for exploring Rincon de la Vieja , Santa Rose, Palo Verde etc.

kerrymcashman

Thanks I'll check our the Coco area and Playa Hermosa.

broder

I am also planning a trip with children 9 to 13. trying to decide on a guanacasta beach area. I am close to deciding on Playa Hermosa. But Playa Flamingo has also be suggested. Is there an anvantage to one or the other?

justineparis

Playa Flamingo is lovely.. small place.. large beach.. not too touristy.. 4-5 restaurants is about it.. a small convenience store.. a small mall with 4-5 shops.. very laid back.. lots of expats live in the area..

Anyone wanting to snorkel in on the west coast needs to know the snorkeling from the beach is not great.. you 'll want to take a boat out for better snorkeling.

plambers

playa ocotal is lovely and very calm

broder

We are going at the end of July, therefore I have been assuming the Guanacasta area will have better weather than Manual Antonio, Am i right?

volcanogirl

Yes, the Manuel Antonio area is beautiful but tends to be rainy in July. They call it the green season. Guanacaste tends to be drier than MA.