Playas del Coco Travel Tips: Getting There, Staying There, and What to Do

For as long as I can remember, New Year’s Eve meant one thing: heading to Playas del Coco with my family. Every year, we’d pack up and spend two weeks in a big beach house right in front of the ocean. Back then, it was a popular spot mostly for Costa Ricans.

Playas del Coco, located in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica, has been through quite a transformation. In the 19th century, this area was famous for the pearls found in its waters. That industry eventually died out, and tourism took its place.

Now, nearly 30 years since my last family trip there, I returned to El Coco in 2025 and couldn’t believe how much had changed. What used to be a mostly Costa Rican crowd now includes visitors from all over the world.

Getting to Playas del Coco

By Car

From Liberia

If you’re flying into Liberia Airport, getting to Playas del Coco is pretty straightforward. The beach is only about 30 minutes away by car. There are two main routes you can take, and both are paved and generally well-maintained.

Now, while the drive sounds quick, don’t let the short distance fool you. Traffic around Liberia area can get pretty heavy, especially during weekends or holidays. What should be a 30-minute drive can sometimes stretch to an hour, depending on the time of the day and season.

From San José

Coming from San José is a longer trip. Playas del Coco is about 240 kilometers from the capital, which usually takes a little over 4 hours by car.

You’ll mostly be driving on well-kept highways — Route 1 (the Interamericana) for a good stretch, then switching to Route 21 and finally Route 151 as you get closer to the beach.

However, traffic can be an issue, in some parts of the route at some times during the day or depending of the season. If possible, start your trip early in the morning to avoid delays.

By public transportation

From San José

If you’re heading to Playas del Coco from San José and don’t want to drive, taking the bus is a good option — just be ready for a longer trip. You’ll need to go to the Pulmitan de Liberia bus terminal, which is located in the Barrio México area of San José. From there, you can catch a direct bus to Playas del Coco.

As of now, there are three daily departures: 8:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 4:00 PM. The ride takes about 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way.

You can buy your tickets right at the terminal, or, if you want to avoid lines or check availability in advance, you can purchase them online at mibus.cr. If you’re traveling during weekends or holidays, it’s a good idea to book your seat in advance

From Liberia

If you’re already in the Guanacaste region, getting to Playas del Coco by bus is much easier and faster. From the Pulmitan terminal in Liberia, you can catch a bus to El Coco every 30 minutes throughout the day.

The ride only takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

Like the San José route, tickets can be bought at the station or online at mibus.cr

Getting Around

Walking

Walking can work well if you’re staying close to the beach or near the center of town. A lot of places like restaurants, bars, and shops are in the same general area, so getting around on foot is manageable. But if your hotel or rental is farther out, walking may not be the best idea. Some roads don’t have sidewalks, and at night, there are areas that aren’t well lit. If you’re planning to go out after dark, it’s safer to use a different form of transportation.

By Car

Driving is probably the most flexible way to get around, especially if you’re staying farther from town or want to explore nearby beaches. The roads are in decent condition, and you’ll get where you need to go quickly. The downside is parking. In some parts of town—especially near the beach or popular restaurants—it’s hard to find a spot, and there aren’t many dedicated parking areas. If you’re driving, be ready to circle around a bit before finding space.

Golf Carts

Renting a golf cart is really popular here, and you’ll see a lot of people using them to get around town. Golf carts are smaller, so they can sometimes squeeze into parking spots that regular cars can’t. Still, even with a cart, parking in the center can be tricky during busy times.

Uber/Didi

Both Uber and DiDi are available in the area, and they work well for short rides around town or even to nearby beaches like Ocotal or Hermosa. Wait times are usually short, and prices are generally fair. It’s a convenient choice, especially if you’re planning a night out or just don’t feel like driving.

Access to the Beach

Getting to the beach in Playas del Coco is pretty simple, and there are several public entrances depending on which part of town you’re in. Some are busier than others, so choosing the right spot can save you some stress—especially if you’re driving.

All these access points are marked clearly on the Tourist Map at the end of this article, so you can choose what works best depending on the time and day you’re planning to visit it.

North Side Entrances

From the main street heading north, there are at least four public access points to the beach. You can park your car near these entrances, and many of them have trees around, which help with shade — a nice bonus when the sun is strong.

Main Entrance by the Soccer Field

One of the most used access points is right off the main street, next to the town’s soccer field. This path leads straight to Parque Amor de Temporada, which opens up right onto the beach. Because it’s the most visible and central entrance, it tends to be crowded.

The last time I went, I was lucky to find a parking spot nearby, but that’s not always the case. If this is your first visit, this entrance is easy to find, but again — don’t expect it to be quiet or empty, especially if you’re going midday.

South Side Access

On the south end of town, there are two access points that connect to a long road running directly along the beach. This side usually has more space for parking, and you can leave your car right in front of the beach. It tends to be less crowded compared to the main entrance, which makes it a better option

Things to Do at Playas del Coco

Visit Playa Tinoco

Playa Tinoco is a small white sand beach located on the south side of Playas del Coco. It’s not the kind of beach you just stumble upon—you have to know where to go and when to go. But if you’re up for a short walk and don’t mind checking tide times, it can be worth the effort.

To get there, you’ll want to park your car near Restaurant Matapalo. From that point, it’s about a 400-meter walk, and most of it is over volcanic rock. It’s not the easiest path, so I highly recommend wearing water shoes or hiking sandals.

It’s important to plan your visit during low tide. That’s the only time you can safely reach the beach, since the path becomes difficult or blocked when the tide rises. Checking the tide schedule ahead of time will save you a lot of trouble.

The beach itself is quiet, with very calm water and hardly any waves. When I visited, I was the only person there, which was a nice change from the busier main beach. There are no facilities, so bring water, sunscreen, and maybe a small cooler if you plan to stay for a while.

Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is one of the most popular activities in Playas del Coco. The town is close to several well-known dive spots like Murciélago Island, Catalinas Island, Monkey Head and Punta Argentina (Pelonas and Montosa Islands). Because the dive sites are so close, it’s easy to plan half-day or full-day trips from El Coco.

There are many dive companies in town that offer everything from beginner classes to trips for certified divers. Most of them include the gear, boat ride, and a guide. You’ll find places right in the center of town, and many of them are walking distance from the beach. If you’re new to diving, there are also options to try a discovery dive without having to get certified first.

It’s a good idea to compare a few shops before booking—some offer packages or discounts if you’re doing multiple dives. You can also ask about the weather and water visibility, since those conditions can affect the overall experience. Whether you’re a beginner or have been diving for years, there are plenty of spots around Playas del Coco worth checking out.

Nightlife

Playas del Coco has always had a reputation for being a party spot, and that’s still true today. I remember going there as a kid during New Year’s vacations, and my older cousins would get all dressed up to hit the discos and bars while the rest of us stayed back at the beach house. Back then, it was a big deal. And while the discotheques aren’t around anymore, the nightlife is still very much alive — just in a slightly different way.

Now, the party scene mostly revolves around bars. There are quite a few to choose from, and each one has its own vibe. Some places have live music, others offer karaoke nights, or DJs. Some places are right by the beach, while others are a few blocks inland, but all are easy to reach if you’re staying near the center of town.

Another spot that gets pretty lively at night is the Amor de Temporada Park, right in front of the beach. It’s not an official venue, but it often turns into a party scene. Groups of friends and families bring speakers, coolers with drinks, and even grills. It’s very relaxed and social, with people enjoying music, food, and the ocean breeze. It’s one of those places where the night just unfolds naturally. If you’re looking for a more casual night out, that’s a good place to go.

Boat Tour

One thing you’ll notice right away in Playas del Coco is how common boat tours are. Just by sitting on the beach for a few minutes, you’ll probably see a few groups heading out to sea — some on catamarans, others on small fishing boats or even larger yachts. These tours are available daily and cover a mix of activities, depending on what you’re looking for.

You can join a tour for fishing, snorkeling, or just to watch the sunset. Some tours include snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear. Others are more basic and let you bring your own stuff. No matter what kind of trip you go for, it’s always better to book in advance during high season.

Downwind Foiling

During my recent visit to Playas del Coco, one of the activities I saw pretty often was downwind foiling. It’s definitely grown in popularity over the years, and what caught my eye the most were the downwind sessions.

I also saw some downwind boards available for rent directly on the beach. Prices started at around $45, depending on how long you wanted to use the board. The downwind rental was to the north of the beach. If you’re interested in trying it, it’s easy to walk up, ask a few questions, and rent the gear on the spot.

Walk and Enjoy the Beach

One of the simplest ways to enjoy Playas del Coco is just walking along the beach. The shoreline stretches for almost 3 kilometers from one end to the other, which makes it a solid option for a beach walk. If you’re thinking about walking, the best times are early in the morning or later in the afternoon—ideally after 2 p.m. The sun in Guanacaste can be intense, and it’s easy to get sunburned or overheated if you’re out during peak hours.

Another place worth walking through is Amor de Temporada Park. It’s located right by the main beach entrance and has a few extras like a dock, showers, and playgrounds for kids. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors, that come out to relax or hang out with friends and family.

If you’re not up for a long walk, you can always look for a good shady spot under the trees and just take it easy. There are plenty of them along the beach. Or, if you prefer a bit more comfort, you can rent beach chairs — usually available near the park area. Some places will even include umbrellas if you get there early enough.

And of course, don’t forget to enjoy the water. Since Playas del Coco is in a bay, the waves are usually gentle, making it safe for swimming most of the time. Still, it’s always smart to check the conditions. I’ve seen years where the sea looked flat and calm, and others when it had rougher swells. Even on my last visit, there were moments when the waves picked up for a while before settling down again.

Visit Nearby Beaches

One of the things I like most about staying in Playas del Coco is how easy it is to explore other beaches in the area. If you have a car and a few extra days, there are several beaches nearby that are worth checking out. Each one has a slightly different vibe, and some are just a short drive away.

Playa Hermosa

This beach is just 15 minutes north of Playas del Coco. It’s smaller and generally has fewer people around. I’ve stopped by here on a couple of afternoons and it’s good if you’re looking for something a bit more laid back. Parking is easy, and there are some beachfront spots to grab food or drinks.

Playa Calzón de Pobre

Also about 15 minutes away, Calzón de Pobre is on the peninsula between Coco and Hermosa. It’s a white sand beach, but you’ll need to walk around 600 meters from where you park. The path can be a bit rocky, so wear decent shoes. There aren’t any shops or vendors, so take water, snacks, and anything else you need.

Playa Penca

Playa Penca is close to Calzón de Pobre and also has white sand. The Waldorf Astoria hotel is currently being built nearby, but they’ve opened a public path so people can still access the beach. It’s quiet, clean, and good for a couple of hours of swimming and relaxing.

Playa Buena

Located in Bahía Culebra, Playa Buena is about 20 minutes from Playas del Coco. After parking, there’s a short 300-meter walk to get to the beach. It’s another spot that doesn’t have services right on the beach, so plan ahead. It’s a solid choice if you want to spend a few hours away from crowds.

Playa Panamá

This is one of the longest beaches in Culebra Bay, stretching over 2.3 kilometers. The beach has calm waters and several estuaries. The water here isn’t crystal clear due to natural sediment, but it’s still good for walking, relaxing, or spending time with family. It’s about 20 minutes by car from Playas del Coco

Playa Ocotal

Playa Ocotal is south of Playas del Coco and only about 10 minutes away by car. It’s a dark sand beach that’s popular for snorkeling. If you go during low tide, you might even see natural tide pools form near the rocks, which is something I’ve always found pretty interesting.

Playa Pez Vela

Just past Ocotal, you’ll find Playa Pez Vela — around 15 minutes from Playas del Coco. It’s a small and quiet beach, and not as visited as the others. On the way, there’s a nice viewpoint overlooking Gulf of Papagayo, so make sure to stop there for a quick photo or just to enjoy the view.

Stay and Sleep

When it comes to choosing where to stay in Playas del Coco, it helps to understand how the town is laid out. You can basically divide it into two main areas: north and south. Each one has its own style, and the kind of experience you’re looking for might help you decide where to book.

The northern side of El Coco is the most tourist-friendly. This area has the largest number of hotels, vacation rentals, restaurants, bars, and stores. It’s close to the main beach entrance and the central part of town, so you’re within walking distance of just about everything — the beach, nightlife, shops, and tour operators. If you want convenience and don’t plan to drive around much, this side is a good choice.

Some options of the north side are:

• Villa de Sol Hotel: This hotel is located in the northern part of Coco Beach. Its rooms are surrounded by gardens, and it’s just a three-minute walk from the beach.
• Anika Boutique Suites: This is a small boutique hotel, but with a very good location both to the sea and to the town center.
• Hotel Good Life: It is a small, new hotel surrounded by a garden, 5 minutes from the town center.
• Breeze Private Condos: Also called Pacifico, it is one of the luxury options in Coco. With large pools, gardens, tennis courts, beach club and close to the town center
• Hotel M&M Beach House: Small and modest hotel on the seafront, near Amor de Temporada Park and the main street.

On the other hand, the southern part of town is more residential and quieter. It’s also known for being a traditional fishing area. While it doesn’t have as many options for tourists, you can still find some small hotels, cabins, and rental homes, especially if you look around in advance. There are also a few local restaurants here, often with more home-style food and a more laid-back vibe.

Some options of the south side:

• Villas Vilar: Small villas located on the south side of Coco, 700 meters from the main street and 500 meters from the beach.
• Casa Aire: It’s a cozy complex with different types of accommodations. Booking is available through Airbnb.

Where to Eat

One thing you definitely won’t struggle with in Playas del Coco is finding food. Whether you’re craving Costa Rican classics, seafood, pizza, or something more international, there’s a solid variety of restaurants to choose from. Some are casual, some are a bit more upscale, but most are relaxed and beach-town friendly.

Some good options on the North side:

• Nikkei: It’s an Asian fusion restaurant. I highly recommend the bowls and ramen, everything is delicious, and the price comparison is very good.
• La Dolce Vita: Italian restaurant in the Pueblito Sur shopping center. It offers a variety of pizzas and pastas, all with fresh ingredients. The pizza was delicious.
• Heladeria El Coco: It’s a gelato shop. It offers several fruit flavors that are very popular in Costa Rica, such as passion fruit and mango.
• Rambutan Restaurante: This is the restaurant of the M&M Hotel, located across from the beach. Its menu is simple, but the food is delicious and the prices are reasonable.

Options on the South Side:

• La Caveja: Italian restaurant, located on the south side of Coco. It has a very Italian decor and is quite famous for its pizzas.
• Taco Rosado: It’s not a Mexican restaurant, and while it does have tacos and burritos as main dishes, it also offers other options. The breakfast burritos are delicious.
• Bar Restaurant Matapalo: This is a typical village bar right across from the beach. Its menu features traditional food. If you want to experience the local atmosphere, this is the place.

Tips for Visiting Playas del Coco

• Avoid the Midday Sun: Guanacaste gets hot. Try to plan beach walks, hikes, or town exploring early in the morning or after 2 p.m.

• Bring Water Shoes: If you plan to visit Playa Tinoco or explore rocky areas, water shoes are a smart choice.

• Keep Cash Handy: While most places in Coco accept credit and debit cards, smaller shops, some beach vendors, and local sodas may only take cash. Colones (CRC) are the local currency, but many places also accept U.S. dollars

• Lock Your Car and Don’t Leave Valuables: Coco is generally safe, but like any tourist area, petty theft can happen. Always lock your vehicle and avoid leaving bags, phones, or wallets inside — especially if you’re parked near the beach.

• Be Prepared During Rainy Season: During the rainy months, El Coco can have issues with flooding. Some streets flood quickly, especially after heavy afternoon rains, and in some cases, buildings—particularly in older lodgings—can also have water problems. If you’re planning to visit during this time, check recent weather conditions and read reviews of your accommodation to make sure it handles the rain well.

• Get there early for parking: During weekends and holidays, parking near the beach fills up fast—especially at the main entrance by the soccer field and Amor de Temporada Park. If you want a decent spot without driving in circles, try to arrive early

• Avoid walking on the beach at night: While Playas del Coco is generally a safe place, most of the beach is not well lit after dark. Only the section in front of Amor de Temporada Park has some lighting. The rest of the beach is very dark, and it’s better not to be there alone. If you’re out at night, stick to well-lit areas and walk with others.

Playas del Coco Tourist Map