As the most prominent peninsula in Costa Rica, the Nicoya Peninsula is home to two of the country's most popular tourist destinations: Guanacaste and Puntarenas. It is one of the best places to go surfing in Costa Rica, and it has a peaceful, hippy attitude that draws many tourists looking for a break from the real world.
There are miles and miles of sandy beaches, cute little surf villages, and amazing adventures like ziplining, scuba diving, fishing, and horseback riding along this section of the Pacific Coast. Did I mention that surfing is incredible? The Nicoya Peninsula is the place to go if you're serious about surfing.
The Nicoya Peninsula
There are only five Blue Zone places worldwide, and the Nicoya Peninsula is one of them. This implies that the people who live there are the healthiest and longest-living in the world.
This 121-kilometer-long strip of land on Costa Rica's Pacific coast is a popular tourist destination due to its pristine environment and relaxed culture.
The provinces of Guanacaste and Puntarenas are known for their excellent waves, laid-back beach communities, and exciting adventure sports like ziplining and ATVing.
Navigation in the Nicoya Peninsula
Most visitors fly into San Jose, Costa Rica's capital and largest city, and then take a short drive to the Nicoya Peninsula. Nonetheless, the distance to the Nicoya Peninsula from Liberia is almost the same. A quick trip from San Jose or Liberia to Tambor Airport can get you to the Nicoya Peninsula in just 30 minutes, and these flights depart many times per day.
When to Go to the Nicoya Peninsula
The dry season (December–April) is ideal for a vacation on the Nicoya Peninsula. Towns see an influx of tourists due to the pleasant climate at this time of year. Naturally, this implies planning is required, especially for lodging.
During the holidays between Christmas and New Year's, it's a good idea to plan and reserve a table at a popular restaurant.
Most surfers agree that May through November, the wet season, are the greatest for hitting the waves on the Nicoya Peninsula. Visiting the Nicoya Peninsula at this time of year also saves you a ton of money.
Popular Tourist Attractions in Nicoya
Montezuma
Montezuma is a Costa Rican town that has yet to become a significant tourist destination. Unlike Santa Teresa, Samara, or even Nosara, which have all been overrun by tourists in recent years, Montezuma has managed to preserve a more traditional, laid-back Costa Rican atmosphere. Because of this, it's a fantastic vacation spot.
Montezuma may be a tiny town, but it's packed with fun activities. Trips to adjacent natural areas and stunning waterfalls are also available.
Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa Beach, where this little coastal hamlet is situated, is well-known among surfers. Thousands of surfers visit it annually. Though famous for its waves, Santa Teresa has much more to offer. Cafes, restaurants, and beach clubs have made it the perfect spot for a relaxing vacation in recent years. In addition, Santa Teresa is packed with fun activities like hiking through protected areas and doing yoga.
Samara
Sámara, a tranquil hamlet on the Nicoya Peninsula, is a popular destination for families looking for a relaxing vacation. I enjoy the peace and security of living here. A lot of people come here to try their hand at surfing.
Because the harbor at Sámara is more sheltered than those at neighboring towns like Nosara and Santa Teresa, the waves here are considerably more manageable. Moreover, Sámara is home to several exciting attractions.
Seeing waterfalls in the highlands is only a short drive from the city; while at sea, you can go snorkeling with marine life or sip cocktails on a sunset cruise. Choosing Sámara is an excellent option.
Nosara
In the last several decades, Nosara has evolved from a sleepy beach hamlet to a busy tourist hub, much less hippie and more bougie. Not everyone can afford a trip to Nosara. Therefore this option isn't good for them.
However, Nosara is a great destination for surfers, kids, couples, groups, and everyone because of its fantastic surf virtually all year round and its safe atmosphere for tourists.
Guiones Beach's world-renowned surf breakers have historically been the primary draw for visitors to Nosara. Guiones has both left and right-hand waves, and the 7-kilometer beach means there's enough for everyone.
Paquera
Located on the southernmost extremity of the Nicoya peninsula, Paquera is well known as the departure point for the ferry to Puntarenas. It's a shame that most visitors to Costa Rica only stop by this quaint town for a few hours because, for its size, it has a surprising number of fantastic things to do. There's something for every kind of tourist in Paquera, from exploring secluded beaches and fishing to taking a day trip to nearby Isla Tortuga.
