How far south on the Nicoya Peninsula could we drive for a day trip and realistically make it back before dark? Is Tamirindo about as far as we should go? My husband wants to travel further south to see Hotel Flor Blanca, but I'm thinking that this might be too far for a day trip. Any experienced travelers in this area? Thanks!

The only Hotel Flor Blanca I know is in Manuel Antonio. Here in Costa Rica we laugh sometimes at the same names everywhere. If that be the one, Manuel Antonio is a long way from where you will be.

Tamarindo is only about 1 hour or so from Sugar Beach. You can venture further down the beaches but may need to go into Nicoya before heading back out.... bumby roads lots of the time but beautiful beaches to explore.

hopabout

Hotel Flor Blanca is in Malpais on the Nicoya Pen.

Hi Cheryl (Suzie from VT here),
They are referring to the luxury hotel Flor Blanca in Mal Pais on the Nicoya Peninsula. Are you back in the country (CR) now?

Hi cesca,
Tamarindo is an excellent day trip (or half day) from Sugar Beach. It will take you about 45 min. to drive there. You could even drive on down to the town of Nicoya, then west to Playa Samara. You could be there in 2.5-3 hours, perhaps a little less. A long day trip! But if you got an early start, you could spend 4-6 hours there.

As you now know, Hotel Flor Blanca is in MalPais and you are looking at 10-12 hours roundtrip just driving time! It does take some time to navigate to the far south end of the peninsula, although to look at the map, you wouldn't think it!

Sorry ! There is indeed a Flor Blanca in M.A. !!

Thanks for all of your help and ideas. We're leaving tomorrow, and I'll post a trip report when we return. Seems like there's a lot of interest in Sugar Beach lately. Don't think we'll make it to Flor Blanca, although my husband would like to stay there on our next trip. Anyone stayed there recently?