Papagayo Gulf is located in the North Pacific region of Costa Rica, just 30 minutes away from Oduber International Airport. Dry tropical forests and 12 majestic beaches line up the gulf. Its beaches are blessed by warm crystalline waters, golden sands and sunny weather. In this region you will find the most luxurious resorts of the country, including the exclusive Four Seasons Resort, Occidental group Hotels and Fiesta Premier Hotel among others. Most of the hotels in this area of Papagayo offer impeccable services and fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf.

Papagayo Bay's vast dark and white sand beaches offer the ideal combination of big waves with calm waters.  The region is also covered with dry tropical forest and mangrove vegetation, the signature of Guanacaste's Pacific coast beaches.

Many visitors opt to make this region their home base for their Costa Rica vacation, arriving and departing from Liberia International Airport, located less than 30 minutes away.  Average stays range from five to seven nights.  Day tours to other regions of the country, including Arenal and Monteverde, are available.  The nearest town is Playas del Coco, about 35 minutes away, and the nearest city (50,000 residents) is Liberia, about 45 minutes away.

A vacation in the Papagayo region of Costa Rica is also the ideal end to a multi-region itinerary that starts in the rain or cloud forest regions of Osa, Monteverde, Arenal, or Manuel Antonio.  The Papagayo resorts offer the sun & beach portion of a well-rounded Costa Rica vacation for couples on a honeymoon or romantic escape or families with children of all ages.

Things to Do:
 

The Witch’s Rock

This isolated surf break, only reachable by boat, is world famous. Only serious and experienced surfers may apply! Watching this world-renowned surfing action can be just as entertaining, or continue your boat tour to the secluded shores of Playa Paraíso or explore some of the many offshore islands.  

Fishing

Papagayo’s legendary waters are home to some very large fish including wahoo, tuna, dorado, red snapper, sailfish, roosterfish and the blue marlin. Several charter companies offer half and full day fishing trips including lunch and tackle with prices averaging around $500 and $800 respectively depending on the size of the boat. Enjoy a day of catch and release fishing to the beautiful backdrop of the islands and shoreline of Guanacaste.  

Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is one of the most popular activities in this area. Isla Catalina is a great spot near Playa Ocotal to see huge schools of rays (including the giant manta ray) while scuba diving. There are a few certified companies to guide you in your deep sea adventures.

 Please e-mail us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call us at   US: (850)266-7789 to talk to one of our Costa Rica vacation specialists or to plan a customized Costa Rica travel package that includes a stay in one of the many renowned Papagayo - Ocotal resorts.

Getting There

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