Playa Naranjo - Discovering Costa Rica

Travelling to Playa Naranjo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Playa Naranjo, 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 Naranjo 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 Naranjo, 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 Naranjo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Playa Naranjo

Playa Naranjo is a small coastal town located on the Nicoya Peninsula in the province of Puntarenas, Costa Rica. It is a secluded and quiet beach with picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by lush vegetation. Playa Naranjo is also home to the Tortuga Island, which is a popular destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water-based activities. The town has a few restaurants and hotels to accommodate tourists and is accessible by car and boat. It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

What to visit in Playa Naranjo

Here are some tourist attractions in Playa Naranjo, Costa Rica along with some information: 1. Barra Honda National Park: This park is famous for its spectacular limestone caves and incredible rock formations. Visitors can take guided tours of the caves and explore the underground world. The park also offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing.
2. Palo Verde National Park: This park is home to a diverse range of habitats including wetlands, forests, and dry tropical forests. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the wetlands and observe the wildlife, including crocodiles, monkeys, and a wide variety of bird species.
3. Playa Naranjo: This beautiful sandy beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The crystal clear waters and calm waves make it a great destination for families and beginners who want to learn how to surf.
4. Guayabo Island Biological Reserve: This reserve is located just offshore from Playa Naranjo and is known for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the reefs and see marine species such as sea turtles, octopuses, and rays.
5. River Tempisque: This river is one of the largest in Costa Rica and flows through Palo Verde National Park. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the river and observe the wildlife, including crocodiles, monkeys, and a variety of bird species.
6. Santa Rosa National Park: This park is located a short distance from Playa Naranjo and is famous for its unique dry forest ecosystems. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by car and see wildlife such as jaguars, armadillos, and coatis, as well as a variety of bird species.
I hope this information helps you to plan your trip to Playa Naranjo!
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.

When to go on holiday to Playa Naranjo

The best time to visit Playa Naranjo in Costa Rica is from December to April, which is the dry season. During this time, you can expect sunny days with little rainfall, making it a great time to explore the beaches and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife watching. However, keep in mind that it can be more crowded during this time, and prices for accommodations and activities may be higher. If you prefer a less crowded and less expensive time to visit, the rainy season from May to November is also an option, though you should expect more rain and potentially some closures of certain outdoor activities.

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

How to get to Playa Naranjo

The best way to get to Playa Naranjo, Costa Rica is to fly into the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the Puntarenas ferry terminal. The ferry ride across the Gulf of Nicoya takes about an hour and a half and arrives in Paquera. From Paquera, you can take a local bus or taxi to Playa Naranjo. Keep in mind that the ferry schedule may vary depending on the season, so it's a good idea to check ahead of time.
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 Naranjo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Playa Naranjo

Playa Naranjo is located in the Puntarenas province of Costa Rica, which is known for its plentiful seafood and tropical fruits. Here are some typical foods of the area: 1. Gallo Pinto: This is a traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish made with rice, beans, and spices. It is usually accompanied by eggs, fried plantains, and a cup of coffee.
2. Ceviche: This is a popular seafood dish made with fresh raw fish, shrimp, or conch marinated in lime juice and mixed with diced onions, peppers, and cilantro.
3. Arroz con Mariscos: This is a flavorful rice dish made with a mix of shellfish (shrimp, mussels, clams, and/or squid) cooked with onions, peppers, garlic, and tomato sauce.
4. Casado: This is a typical Costa Rican lunch dish consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat (chicken, beef, or fish).
5. Chifrijo: This is a tasty snack made with a layer of rice and beans topped with chopped pork, diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. It is usually served with tortilla chips.
6. Rondon: This is a traditional coconut-based soup with a mix of seafood and root vegetables including yucca, taro, and plantains.
7. Tres Leches Cake: This is a delicious dessert made with three types of milk (condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream) soaked into a sponge cake and topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
8. Pipa Fria: This is a refreshing drink made from coconut water, which is a popular tropical fruit in the area. It is usually sold by beach vendors, where they chop off the top of the coconut and put a straw in it.
You can find general info about typical foods in Costa Rica here.

Is Playa Naranjo an expensive destination for tourists?

Playa Naranjo in Costa Rica is known to be a more remote and less developed destination, which can contribute to a slightly higher cost for tourists. However, the cost of accommodations, activities, and food can vary widely based on preferences and choices. Overall, it can be considered a medium to high-priced destination compared to other tourist hotspots in Costa Rica. It is recommended to research and compare prices from different providers to find the best deals for your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Playa Naranjo

If you are planning to visit Playa Naranjo in Costa Rica, the best area to find accommodation would be in the nearby town of Puntarenas. This town is located on the Pacific coast and is only a short drive away from Playa Naranjo. There are several accommodation options in Puntarenas, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. Other nearby towns that you may want to consider for accommodation include San Ramon and Monteverde. These towns are a bit farther away, but they offer beautiful views and are a great option if you are looking for a more secluded and peaceful place to stay during your trip.
You can check hotel prices at Playa Naranjo here:
Booking.com

Is Playa Naranjo a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Playa Naranjo in Costa Rica is typically considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety. It's recommended to avoid walking alone at night, keep valuables in a secure location, and be aware of your surroundings. Additionally, it's always a good idea to follow the advice of local authorities and travel experts.
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 Naranjo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Playa Naranjo the most?

Playa Naranjo in Costa Rica is a great destination for all types of travelers. The beach is known for its stunning natural beauty and secluded location, making it a perfect place for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Young people looking for fun in the sun will also enjoy the many water activities available, such as snorkeling and surfing.
Families can also have a great time here as there are many family-friendly activities in the area, including nature walks, horseback riding, and beachcombing. Additionally, there are several restaurants nearby that offer delicious local cuisine, which would be a great way to experience the local culture. Overall, Playa Naranjo is a wonderful destination for anyone looking for a relaxing and fun-filled vacation in Costa Rica.

How to get around Playa Naranjo

The best way to move around Playa Naranjo in Costa Rica is by hiring a private car or 4x4 vehicle, as public transportation options are limited in the area. Alternatively, visitors can also rent bicycles or motorbikes to explore the nearby beaches and attractions. Additionally, taxis and shuttle services can be arranged with local tour companies or accommodations.

What to see around Playa Naranjo

Here are some nice places that you can visit in a day trip from Playa Naranjo: 1. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: Known for its extraordinary biodiversity and the famous Sky Walk bridge that provides a stunning view of the forest.
2. Arenal Volcano National Park: Home to the Arenal Volcano and a range of activities including hiking, zip-lining, hot springs and more.
3. Tortuga Island: A popular day trip destination, known for its white sand beaches, clear blue water, and fantastic opportunities for snorkeling.
4. Palo Verde National Park: This park has a fascinating wildlife which includes crocodiles, monkeys, and exotic birds among others.
5. Santa Teresa Beach: Known as a surfers' paradise, Santa Teresa Beach is famous for its white sand beaches and incredible waves.
6. La Fortuna Waterfall: A stunning waterfall located in the Arenal Volcano National Park, with a 70-meter drop and surrounded by lush vegetation.
7. Rincon de la Vieja National Park: Famous for its hiking trails, hot springs, mud baths and waterfalls.
These are some of the best places for a day trip from Playa Naranjo in Costa Rica, and each of them has its own unique features and attractions.
For every travel information about Costa Rica you can click here.

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