Guanacaste Hotels

Unveil the Coastal Paradise: Guanacaste's Enchantment Awaits

Nestled along the stunning Pacific coast, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. With its golden sands, such as Playa Guiones and Playa Tamarindo, visitors can bask in sun-soaked relaxation or ride the waves in vibrant surf towns. The region boasts breathtaking ocean views and lush landscapes, perfect for exploring national parks like Rincon de la Vieja. Immerse yourself in the local culture, savor delicious cuisine, and enjoy adventurous activities, from zip-lining to snorkeling. Guanacaste is the ultimate destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. For the best hotel rates in Guanacaste, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Guanacaste

Some of the best places to stay in Guanacaste are Tamarindo, Sardinal and Cabo Velas. Guanacaste offers stunning beaches and vibrant culture, making it a fantastic vacation spot. Tamarindo is ideal for first-time visitors, with its lively atmosphere, surf-friendly waves, and numerous dining options. Sardinal provides a more tranquil experience, while Cabo Velas features luxurious beach resorts and beautiful landscapes. Accommodations range from budget-friendly hotels to upscale luxury resorts, with options like modern beachfront properties and cozy boutique hotels, ensuring something for every traveler’s taste and budget. Here are some of the best hotels in Guanacaste that our travelers love:

1. TamarindoOpens in a new window: Tamarindo is a vibrant beach town known for its stunning beaches and lively atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for romance and adventure seekers. With attractions like Tamarindo Beach and Grande Beach, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, surfing, and beachside dining. The area also features the Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course for sports enthusiasts. For accommodations, consider JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and SpaOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star resort offering beach access and adventure sports. Another great option is Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel that also provides direct beach access and various adventure activities like surfing and ziplining. Finally, Los Altos de Eros Boutique Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window, another 4.0-star hotel, combines beach access with natural hot springs, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration.
2. SardinalOpens in a new window: Sardinal is a charming coastal area that boasts beautiful beaches such as Coco Beach and Playa Hermosa, making it ideal for beach lovers. This destination is perfect for families and adventure seekers alike. Secrets Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusiveOpens in a new window is a top choice here, being a 4.5-star all-inclusive resort that provides unlimited food and drinks, along with beach access. El Mangroove Papagayo, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window, another 4.5-star hotel, focuses on family-friendly activities and features amenities for children, ensuring a fun vacation. For luxury travelers, Luxury Coco VillasOpens in a new window offers a 4.5-star experience with pet-friendly accommodations, making it easy to enjoy the beach with your furry friends.
3. Cabo VelasOpens in a new window: Cabo Velas is an exquisite destination characterized by its stunning beaches like Tamarindo Beach and Flamingo Beach, ideal for romantic getaways. With its focus on beach and adventure themes, this area is perfect for couples and families. W Costa Rica - Reserva ConchalOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star resort, provides direct beach access and a variety of adventure activities such as kayaking and hiking, making it suitable for families. The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & SpaOpens in a new window is a fantastic all-inclusive option, offering unlimited dining and entertainment while being close to the beach. Lastly, Casa Chameleon Hotel Las Catalinas - Adults OnlyOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, is perfect for adventure enthusiasts, featuring various activities like snorkeling and hiking for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Things to do in Guanacaste for first time

Guanacaste enchants travelers with its stunning beaches and vibrant sea, perfect for surfing at Playa Tamarindo and Playa Guiones. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and exhilarating catamaran tours in the Gulf of Nicoya, making it a paradise for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. Here are some of the top things to do in Guanacaste:

• Visit Cabo Velas: Cabo Velas is a hidden gem that perfectly encapsulates the serenity of Costa Rica's tropical environment. Here, you can indulge in a round of golf at one of the beautifully designed courses while enjoying views of lush greenery and the ocean. For the thrill-seekers, ziplining through the rainforest offers an exhilarating experience, letting you soar above the vibrant wildlife. Guided tours are available to explore the region's rich biodiversity, while the pristine beaches provide a perfect spot for relaxation. The secluded atmosphere makes Cabo Velas an ideal retreat for those looking to unwind amidst nature.
• Visit Sardinal: Sardinal is a picturesque coastal town that invites visitors to immerse themselves in its serene environment. The lush landscape and scenic views create an idyllic backdrop for a relaxing getaway. Spend your days enjoying a round of golf at local courses or exploring the famous nightlife along Ocotal Beach Road and Papagayo Peninsula. The area is known for its charming bars and restaurants, offering a taste of local culture and delicious cuisine. Sardinal's tranquil ambiance allows visitors to recharge while enjoying the beauty of nature.
• Visit Tamarindo: Tamarindo is a vibrant beach town renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and surf culture. Here, you can catch some waves and enjoy surfing lessons suitable for all skill levels. The stunning sunsets over the Pacific Coast are a must-see, perfect for a romantic evening or a peaceful moment of reflection. Nature enthusiasts can explore the surrounding wildlife, with opportunities for camping and boating in the nearby estuaries. Tamarindo truly offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a favorite destination for travelers seeking both excitement and tranquility.

5 tips to find a great Guanacaste hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Guanacaste on a budget is from September to November, when hotel prices drop significantly. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least 8 months in advance to secure the most affordable rates. To fully appreciate the area's main attractions, plan for a stay of at least 3-4 days. Guanacaste is renowned for its stunning beaches and beautiful coastline, making it a great value for money destination for those seeking an unforgettable getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for great last-minute deals to Guanacaste? Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find enticing hotel discounts as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging these offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you save on your dream getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Guanacaste.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the heart of major cities in Guanacaste can provide unparalleled convenience, as it places you right next to popular attractions and vibrant local culture. However, this prime location often comes with a higher price tag. In contrast, accommodations in smaller towns and rural areas are more likely to be affordable, allowing travelers to enjoy their stay without breaking the bank. While hotels located outside the city center may tend to be cheaper, they could require additional travel time to reach key sites. Ultimately, balancing comfort and cost is essential when planning your visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Guanacaste and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Guanacaste

Here are some top-rated dishes in Guanacaste, Costa Rica:

• Gallo Pinto: This traditional Costa Rican dish of rice and beans is a breakfast staple in Guanacaste. Often seasoned with cilantro and served with eggs, it reflects the region's agricultural roots and is commonly enjoyed with a side of fried plantains, making it a hearty and flavorful start to the day.
• Casado: A delightful plate that showcases the essence of Costa Rican cuisine, the Casado features rice, beans, salad, and a choice of protein like grilled chicken or fish. Each element is served separately, allowing you to customize your meal while experiencing the rich flavors of local produce.
• Ceviche: Freshly caught fish marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions, cilantro, and tomatoes, ceviche is a refreshing dish perfect for enjoying along the coast. It embodies the vibrant culinary culture of Guanacaste and is often served with tortilla chips, making it a popular choice at beachfront restaurants.

Best time to go to Guanacaste

Guanacaste has a varied climate due to its size, so the best time to visit depends on the region and your preferences for weather and crowds. January, March, and July are the peak travel months in Guanacaste, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with dry to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, August, October, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.