Playa del Coco - Discovering Costa Rica

Travelling to Playa del Coco

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Playa del Coco, a pretty good destination in Costa Rica (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Playa del Coco and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Playa del Coco, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Costa Rica, here's everything to know about Playa del Coco for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Playa del Coco

Playa del Coco is a popular beach destination located in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica. The town has a vibrant and lively atmosphere with lots of restaurants, bars, and shops. The beach itself is suitable for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. The area also offers other outdoor activities such as hiking, zip-lining, and horseback riding. Playa del Coco is a great starting point for exploring other nearby attractions such as the Papagayo Peninsula and Rincon de la Vieja National Park. The town is roughly a 30-minute drive from Liberia International Airport, making it a convenient destination for travelers.

What to visit in Playa del Coco

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions of Playa del Coco (Costa Rica) along with some information: 1. Playa del Coco Beach: This beautiful beach is the main attraction of the area, featuring crystal clear waters, soft sand, and a variety of water sport activities. It is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
2. Coco Island: This island is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling, offering a variety of marine life and vibrant coral reefs for exploration. The island is a protected national park with an incredible biodiversity.
3. Ocotal Beach: This secluded and quiet beach is the perfect spot if you are looking for a peaceful escape with scenic views. It is great for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling.
4. Las Baulas National Marine Park: This park is home to four species of sea turtle and one of the largest nesting sites of leatherback sea turtles in the world. Visitors can take a guided tour to watch the turtles nesting or hatching from their eggs.
5. Catalina Island: Another great spot for diving and snorkeling, Catalina Island is home to a variety of marine life such as sharks, rays, and tropical fish. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the island and its surroundings.
6. Rincon de la Vieja National Park: This park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, zip-lining, and hot springs. It also features a volcano that has been dormant for over a century.
7. Playa Hermosa: This relaxed and secluded beach is great for surfing, with consistent and powerful waves throughout the year. It features a long stretch of soft, black sand and stunning sunsets.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Playa del Coco!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Costa Rica, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Playa del Coco.

When to go on holiday to Playa del Coco

The best time to go on holiday to Playa del Coco in Costa Rica is during the dry season which runs from December to April. The temperatures are warm and rainfall is minimal during this time, which makes it perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities. However, this is also the peak tourist season, which means that you may encounter higher prices and larger crowds. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, the shoulder seasons (May to August and November) can also be a good option. You may experience some rainfall during these months, but it is usually brief and doesn't interfere with outdoor activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Playa del Coco

To get to Playa del Coco (Costa Rica), you should first fly into the Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia, Costa Rica. From there, you can either take a taxi or a shared shuttle which will take approximately 30 to 45 minutes to reach Playa del Coco. Another option would be to rent a car and drive to Playa del Coco, which will take about the same amount of time. It is recommended to book your transportation in advance prior to arriving in Costa Rica to ensure your preferred method of transportation is available.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Playa del Coco, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Playa del Coco

Here are some typical foods of Playa del Coco in Costa Rica: 1. Gallo pinto: A staple dish in Costa Rican cuisine, Gallo pinto is a mix of rice and beans that is often served as a breakfast food. It's typically cooked with onions, peppers, and a variety of spices.
2. Ceviche: A seafood dish made with raw fish that is "cooked" in lime juice. It's typically mixed with onions, cilantro, peppers, and other seasonings. 3. Casado: This dish translates to "married man," and it's essentially a big platter of food that includes rice, black beans, plantains, salad, and your choice of meat (usually chicken, pork, or beef).
4. Tamales: A traditional Latin American dish that consists of masa (a dough made from corn) that's stuffed with meat, vegetables, or cheese. It's wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed.
5. Arroz con camarones: A popular dish in Playa del Coco, arroz con camarones is a rice dish that's cooked with shrimp, green peppers, onions, and garlic. 6. Sopa negra: Literally translated to "black soup," this soup is made with black beans, vegetables, and sometimes beef. It's usually served with a dollop of sour cream on top. 7. Plantain chips: Crunchy and addictive, plantain chips are thin slices of ripe plantains that are fried until crispy. They're often served as a snack or appetizer. I hope this information helps you plan a delicious trip to Playa del Coco!
You can find general info about typical foods in Costa Rica here.

Is Playa del Coco an expensive destination for tourists?

Playa del Coco in Costa Rica can be considered a mid-range destination for tourists. Prices for accommodation vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose, but there are options for budget travelers as well as those looking for upscale options. Food and drinks can also vary in price, with local options being more affordable compared to restaurants catering solely to tourists. Activities such as surfing, diving, and exploring the nearby national parks can add to the overall trip cost. However, with some research and planning, it is definitely possible to enjoy Playa del Coco on a moderate budget.

Where to find accomodation in Playa del Coco

The best areas to find accommodation near Playa del Coco, Costa Rica are Playa Hermosa, Ocotal, and Las Palmas. These areas offer a wide variety of lodging options ranging from luxurious resorts to budget hotels, and are located within a short distance of Playa del Coco. Additionally, they offer easy access to the beach and the surrounding natural attractions, as well as numerous dining and entertainment options.
You can check hotel prices at Playa del Coco here:
Booking.com

Is Playa del Coco a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Playa del Coco is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Costa Rica. Like any other popular tourist destination, visitors should exercise caution and follow common-sense safety measures, such as not leaving valuables unattended on the beach or in public areas, utilizing a hotel safe to store passports and other important documents, and being aware of their surroundings in unfamiliar areas.
While crime can occur in any location, the majority of travelers to Playa del Coco have a safe and enjoyable experience. However, it's always a good idea to stay informed about the latest safety information and travel warnings from reputable sources such as the US State Department or your home country's embassy in Costa Rica.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Costa Rica here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Playa del Coco.

What type of travelers will enjoy Playa del Coco the most?

Playa del Coco in Costa Rica is a versatile destination that caters to a wide range of travelers. The town offers a perfect blend of beach bliss and adventure activities that will appeal to different kinds of visitors. Couples will love the romantic atmosphere, stunning sunsets, and the range of romantic activities available, such as private tours, spa treatments, and sunset dinner dates. Families with children would enjoy the Playa del Coco for its sandy beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and the many family-friendly activities available, such as snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking.
Young people who are looking for fun will enjoy the lively nightlife and many bars, restaurants, and clubs that Playa del Coco has to offer. Overall, Playa del Coco is a great destination that caters to different travel interests and group types.

How to get around Playa del Coco

You can move around Playa del Coco by foot, bicycle, taxi, bus or rental car. Walking and cycling are good options for short distances, while for longer distances, renting a car or taking a taxi might be more convenient. Buses are also available and can take you to other towns on the coast or to the capital, San Jose.

What to see around Playa del Coco

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Playa del Coco: 1. Rincon de la Vieja National Park: This national park is located about 2 hours away from Playa del Coco and is a great place to go hiking, birdwatching, and see volcanic activity. 2. Tamarindo: This beach town is only about 30 minutes away from Playa del Coco and is known for its surfing, shopping, and nightlife. 3. Palo Verde National Park: This is a great place to go birdwatching and see wildlife such as crocodiles, monkeys, and iguanas. It's about 2 hours away from Playa del Coco. 4. Llanos de Cortez Waterfall: This beautiful waterfall is only about 45 minutes away from Playa del Coco and is a great place to take a refreshing swim. 5. Nicaragua: If you're feeling adventurous, you can take a day trip to Nicaragua which is about 3 hours away from Playa del Coco. You can visit the colonial town of Granada or go on a volcano hike.
For every travel information about Costa Rica you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.