The Guanacaste area of Costa Rica is residence to world-renowned seashores, unbeatable surf, and unforgettable sunsets. Probably the most visited city within the area is undoubtedly Tamarindo – however with the sharp spike in tourism lately, it’s turn out to be more and more tough to take pleasure in a laid-back seaside vacation on this fashionable city in Guanacaste area.
Fortunately, you don’t must journey far to discover a peaceable escape from the hustle and bustle of Tamarindo.
Simply 20kms south of Tamarindo lies a small beachfront neighbourhood of Playa Avellanas Costa Rica – a quaint, up-and-coming space that’s nonetheless unknown to the plenty!
About Playa Avellanas
The seaside in Playa Avellanas is named an attractive seaside vacation spot, but it surely’s nothing just like the bustling streets of Tamarindo.
The Playa Avellanas neighbourhood itself is usually simply ocean, coast, and jungle with some trip leases sprinkled all through. There are not any outlets, solely a handful of eating places, and few vacationers. It’s the right place to unplug and absolutely embrace the “Pura Vida” life-style Costa Rica is so well-known for.
Should you’re flying into San Jose, the capital metropolis, then the least expensive method to get to Playa Avellanas will probably be by bus. It can take about six hours, however it’ll solely price $10. The quickest means is to lease a automotive and drive there, which is able to most likely take 4 and a half hours, site visitors and highway situations allowing. Shuttles are additionally obtainable.
Should you’re going to Playa Avellanas from Liberia Airport, renting a automotive is your best choice, because the drive will solely be about an hour and a half. There are not any direct buses from Liberia Airport, and catching a bus through Santa Cruz will almost triple the time. You can too guide a personal shuttle if you happen to desire to not drive in any respect.
Driving to and round Playa Avellanas
The city of Playa Avellanas is positioned about 19 kilometers (12 miles) from the favored vacation spot of Tamarindo. Lately, the municipality has paved roads within the space, so the path to Playa Avellanas is not grime or gravel. This makes for a way more nice driving expertise, with much less mud and not any want for a 4×4 automobile.
Paving work can be underway in different areas, like Playa Negra, Pinilla, and some different spots within the space. Regardless of the place you might be, nonetheless be looking out for potholes.
Playa Avellanas, Guanacaste
Issues To Do in Playa Avellanas
The principle purpose to go to Playa Avellanas is to take pleasure in some seaside time. Ask any of the locals within the Guanacaste space and plenty of will inform you that Playa Avellanas is their favorite seaside on the Pacific Coast.
Calm down on the Seaside
Attending to Playa Avellanas
The principle entrance to Playa Avellanas is at Lola’s Restaurant, and there’s a devoted parking zone for guests. Playa Avellanas now has stricter entry to the seaside, so guests should park in designated areas. Should you’re utilizing GPS navigation, be sure you use Lola’s as your vacation spot, and you shouldn’t have any downside.
Avellanas Seaside is lengthy, quiet, and barely overcrowded. It’s recognized for nice browsing however can be an ideal place to put out and loosen up. It may get extremely popular within the dry season, so if laying on the sand within the sunshine is your factor, then try our information to the finest time to go to Costa Rica and take advantage of your seaside time!
Once you’d like a chilly beverage, pop over to Lola’s – a restaurant proper on the seaside. Don’t miss the possibility to fulfill their two new pigs, Ava and Ana (the unique pig, Lola, is unfortunately not with us).
And if you happen to’re trying to get a bit extra lively together with your seaside time, you may lease stand-up paddleboards or take surf classes on the Avellanas Surf Faculty or set up a kayaking tour within the close by Estero Venado Junquillal.
Services on the Seaside
There are not any public washrooms, showers, or altering rooms right here. Together with Lola’s, there are a few eating places on the seaside, however no comfort shops so ensure you deliver the whole lot it’s possible you’ll want throughout your go to.
Quiet day on the seaside at Playa Avellanas
Go Browsing
Whether or not you’re a novice or professional, there are alternatives for browsing in Playa Avellanas for any ability set. There’s a purpose it’s referred to as a surfers’ paradise! Inexperienced persons can study throughout non-public or group surf classes on the Avellanas Surf Faculty, whereas seasoned surfers can attempt their hand at Playa Avellanas browsing at a tougher a part of the seaside dubbed Little Hawaii by locals.
To not be missed is the close by seaside Playa Negra, which is legendary for its right-hand barrel-rolling waves.
Eat at Lola’s
On the subject of can’t-miss spots within the Avellanas space, Lola’s Restaurant tops the record. The beachfront restaurant is an actual establishment in Playa Avellana with contemporary native meals and a laid-back ambiance.
Lola’s has been round for twenty-four years, serving up a menu of smoothies, seafood, tacos, and fabulous cocktails. They’re rooted as a native browsing hangout on a seaside dotted with hammocks and canopy-lined loungers. It’s the right spot to seize a drink after a day on the water or settle in for a few of Costa Rica’s finest bites.
What’s extra, Lola’s Restaurant celebrates the area people and has a dedication to sustainable, eco-friendly eating. They’ve eradicated all single-use containers and are working towards being utterly off-grid by means of photo voltaic power. All whereas hiring native and supporting neighborhood teams and environmental initiatives. Lola’s is a real Avellanas staple!
Group lunch at Lola’s
Go Stand-Up Paddleboarding
If browsing appears a bit too difficult or you might be within the temper for one thing totally different, stand-up paddleboarding in Playa Avellanas gives the chance to discover the ocean or estuaries at your individual tempo and burn a number of energy if you are at it! Boards will be rented by means of Pargos Adventures or from one of many native tour suppliers beneath.
Playa Negra SUP Wave Riders
Playa Negra SUP Wave Riders provide paddle classes inside the Playa Avellanas and Playa Negra areas. Select from group or non-public classes, or join a guided SUP tour by means of the flat waters of the estuary and river mouth. Or, if you happen to’re feeling adventurous, hit the ocean waves and have a crack at SUP browsing.
Pininos Adventures
From kayaking to snorkelling, a tour with Pininos Adventures is a superb addition to any Playa Avellanas journey. They provide boat excursions and surf classes and nice combo excursions mixing ATV adventures with crusing or browsing.
Prepared for SUP!
Discover by Kayak
The estuaries and ocean talked about above are straightforward to discover by single or double kayak. You’ll be able to loosen up the day away within the close by Estero Venado Junquillalas you take pleasure in a kayaking tour by means of waters the place you may even see crocodiles, monkeys, and a wide range of birds.
Observe Costa Rican Wildlife
Even if you happen to aren’t on a kayak, you may all the time view wildlife on foot. Distinctive birds, howler monkeys, and large iguanas are virtually unfazed by guests who respect their house.
Howler monkey
Take pleasure in Out of doors Adventures
Should you’re up for some outside adventuring, this space’s obtained some superior choices along with these talked about above!
Horseback Using
There’s nothing extra picturesque than a horseback trip on the seaside at sundown. When it’s low tide and the seaside is peaceable and calm, it’s a great method to spend a night. Strive a 2 hour horseback trip with Guti Excursions for USD $70.
Zip Lining
Ziplining is one in every of Costa Rica’s prime actions and Playa Avellana is a superb place to do it. We suggest Pinilla’s cover tour by means of the jungle with 8 zip traces and a tarzan swing. It’s a lot enjoyable to cruise by means of the rainforest excessive above the bushes!
ATVing
There are many trails to discover within the Avellanas and Tamarindo space. Hop on an ATV and blast by means of the jungle to uncover distant locations you may’t attain on foot.
Canyon Excursions
Pininos Adventures gives an eight-hour canyon journey by means of the Rincon de la Vieja foothills if you happen to’re searching for pleasure. You’ll get to discover the cover by means of mountain climbing and rappelling, rafting down the Rio Colorado, horseback driving, and enjoyable within the sizzling springs.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking down the coast boasts gorgeous views with a contact of adrenaline. Trails round Playa Langosta and Playa Junquillal provide reasonable and difficult rides for any bike owner.
Apply Yoga
After the entire outside actions to expertise, it’s possible you’ll be in want of a little bit of zen. Begin your day by working towards yoga, or take a number of days of respite at Peace Retreat or Playa Negra Yoga. Meditating and stretching – whether or not it’s on the seaside or within the studio – will certainly calm your thoughts.
Along with studios, you may be part of a yoga class at an eco-lodge or a resort. Many eco-lodges have indoor and outside shalas for company to make use of throughout their keep.
Native favorite Lola’s additionally gives yoga lessons on their higher deck. Benefit from the peaceable views overlooking Avellanas Seaside with Raja Yoga on Tuesdays and Thursdays and Yin Yoga on Sundays. Courses run from 8 AM to 9:30 AM and price $15 to drop-in or $80 for 10 lessons.
Volunteer
There are a few volunteer alternatives within the space that we extremely suggest trying out. The Peace Retreat yoga middle has nice choices for anybody staying within the space a bit longer. And if you happen to’re visiting throughout turtle hatching season, you may be part of the native group, Asociación Vida Verdiazul which screens the eggs and assist them to hatch!
Child turtles making their method to the ocean in Costa Rica
Go to La Esquina de Avellanas
This plaza began as a household mission with the aim of offering the neighborhood with a gathering place. Conveniently positioned a number of hundred metres again from Playa Avellanas, La Esquina options 5 meals truck-style eating places, outlets, and enjoyable lessons in yoga, dance, barre, and extra.
The amphitheatre hosts dwell music and theatre performances, film showings, and different cultural occasions by and for the neighborhood.
Discover Close by Seashores
Past Little Hawaii, the encircling seashores of Playa Avellana are a few of our favourites. Just some kilometres away from Playa Avellanas you’ll discover Playa Negra, a stellar browsing seaside recognized for its look in a well-liked surf documentary, “Infinite Summer season.”
These searching for a good quieter seaside expertise can benefit from the close by Playa Lagartillo, positioned between Playa Avellanas and Playa Negra. This hidden seaside is primarily visited by locals, which makes it really feel like an unique getaway spot.
The surf right here is non-existent, however the seaside is ideal for swimming and enjoyable! Playa Lagartillo is the place we are likely to spend most of our free time whereas staying on this space. Take into account this our little unique tip!
On the seaside in Playa Lagartillo
Go to the Group Middle
La Esquina de Avellanas began as a household mission, and has advanced into the area people middle. There are 5 eating places and an out of doors meals courtroom. There are a selection of lessons, workshops, and cultural occasions hosted there. There are three domestically owned outlets and 5 artisan kiosks. It’s a protected, family-friendly, and enjoyable method to spend a while between bigger occasions.
Day Journeys from Playa Avellanas
San Juanillo Seaside
To get a real style of Costa Rica’s pura vida, head 1.5 hours south to San Juanillo Seaside. It’s finest to reach at excessive tide when the waves are calm and the water is gently rolling onto the shore. It’s one in every of our favorite seashores for swimming and grabbing a chew within the city middle.
San Juanillo seaside, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Playa Ostional for Arribada
The Ostional Wildlife Refuge at Playa Ostional is a tremendous place to see “arribada,” or sea turtle nesting when staying in Playa Avellana. It’s finest to go to within the wet season with main arribadas taking place from August-November. It’s a really particular expertise that solely occurs on a number of seashores around the globe.
Playa Ostional throughout “Arribada”, Guanacaste
Turtles arrival throughout “Arribada” on Ostional Seaside
Nosara
Should you’re in quest of world-class waves, Nosara is the final surfer’s paradise. The small ex-pat neighborhood is positioned 2 hours south of Avellanas and is a laid-back city with gorgeous seashores. In Nosara, surf situations are stellar and yoga lessons are aplenty. It’s removed from the vacationer hustle and bustle and surrounded by pristine nature.
Nosara Seaside
Playa Conchal
Playa Conchal will get its title from the thousands and thousands of crushed-up concha’s (shells) that cowl the lengthy seaside. It’s an idyllic place to splash round within the crystal clear water and benefit from the calm seas. It’s additionally a terrific place to go snorkelling or attempt scuba diving. Simply be sure you go to on a weekday if you wish to keep away from the crowds.
Playa Conchal, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Rincon de la Vieja
For an extended day journey stuffed with mountaineering and waterfalls, journey to Rincon de la Vieja Nationwide Park. The big park is called for its resident volcano that’s surrounded by mud swimming pools and sizzling springs. It’s a 2-3 hour journey from Playa Avellana however the serene panorama is effectively definitely worth the drive.
Rincon de la Vieja Nationwide Park
Go to Tamarindo
Should you select to remain in Playa Avellanas, you can even simply pop over to Tamarindo for a day journey. Since it’s the vacationer hub of Guanacaste, there may be loads to do there to maintain you busy all day. No matter whether or not you wish to store, study water sports activities, drink, or unwind in a spa – Tamarindo’s obtained you coated.
We suggest soaking within the views of the golden North Pacific on the various boat excursions from Tamarindo. In Explicit, the Marlin del Rey Sundown Crusing and Snorkeling Tour is a implausible method to spend a day. You’ll take pleasure in a day of swimming and snorkelling with drinks and snacks because the solar units.
There are additionally loads of alternatives for browsing, SUPing, fishing, and kayaking. Simply remember that whereas the seashores are stunning, they’re a lot busier than Playa Avellana.
Or, if you happen to’re trying to keep on land, spend a while exploring Tamarindo’s city middle. There are many distinctive outlets promoting handmade items and even pure natural merchandise. Be sure you cease by the various nice eating places like Inexperienced Papaya Taco Bar or pop into the open-air Mercadito De Tamarindo (Tamarindo Market).
Tamarindo from above
Different actions to do in Playa Avellanas, Guanacaste
The place To Eat in Playa Avellanas
There are a selection of nice eating places sprinkled all through Playa Avellanas/Playa Negra space, so we promise, you’ll by no means go hungry if staying on this space. These are a few of our favourites!
- Kon-Tiki Pizza: This restaurant has superior drinks, superior pizza, and superior house owners. Max has been associates with the household that owns this restaurant since he was 5 years previous! Strive their specialty Pizza n’ Love – you received’t be dissatisfied!
- Cafe Playa Negra (Leche de Tigre): They provide “Pura Vida Fusion” dishes – combining Peruvian and Costa Rican delicacies. All of their meals is extraordinarily contemporary and distinctive!
- Villa Deveena: One of many extra elegant restaurant choices within the space, however isn’t too stuffy. The meals is French-inspired, the service is nice, and the ambiance is class!
- Il Rustico: Should you love pizza and Italian meals, Il Rustico will take excellent care of you. They’re reasonably priced, with some nice vegan and vegetarian choices!
- La Vida Buena: They’ve obtained a various menu – and rave evaluations on the whole lot from the pizza to the seafood! They even ship to your quiet nights in!
- Resort Playa Negra: Even if you happen to aren’t a visitor of the lodge, it’s best to undoubtedly cease by for a meal on the onsite restaurant. They’ve obtained conventional dishes, mild and hearty choices, and a scrumptious drink menu!
- Gregorio’s: A standard Costa Rican restaurant proper within the coronary heart of Playa Avellanas. You’ll be able to head there for dinner, drinks, pool and darts.
- Jalapenos Taco Grill: Though it’s a bit off the crushed observe, that is one place you’re not going to wish to miss. The service is top-notch, and the meals will blow your thoughts!
- Cafe Corazón: Positioned in Los Pargos, this cafe is a superb place to gas up if you go to Playa Negra. Corazón serves their very personal sustainably grown espresso, cold-pressed juices, paninis, and extra. The espresso right here is great, and the beans are freshly roasted onsite.
- Mycelium:Uncover Mycelium, Chef Kamu’s culinary gem in Playa Negra, Costa Rica. A fusion of Asian flavors defies the norm, providing a refreshing various to the same old coastal delicacies. Amidst Guanacaste’s magnificence, Mycelium beckons with its inviting ambiance and creative dishes. A must-visit vacation spot for these craving a singular gastronomic journey.
Our favorite dish on the native restaurant “Vida Buena” in Playa Avellanas, Costa Rica
The place to Keep in Playa Avellanas
Whether or not you’re searching for motels or a trip rental, Playa Avellana has a great deal of nice lodging choices. Listed below are a number of of our prime picks.
Cabinas Las Olas: Surrounded by mangrove forest and strolling distance to the seaside, Cabinas La Olas is a superb residence base. The lodge has peaceable rooms and an on-site restaurant, bar, and surf store. Rooms begin at USD $115 per evening.
SoulShine: This cozy Mediterranean-style resort is a Costa Rican oasis. The grounds at SoulShine are surrounded by lush gardens with an attractive outside pool. There are solely 7 rooms for the utmost rest and tranquility. Charges begin at USD $147 per evening.
Mikado Pure Lodge: Nestled among the many bushes, Mikado Pure Lodge gives 6 non-public bungalows and a luxe infinity pool. Personal terraces and enormous home windows boast panoramic views that really feel such as you’re in a treehouse. There’s additionally a personal chef for rent on-site with rooms beginning at USD $279 per evening.
Little Hawaii Avellanas: Little Hawaii Avellanas is only a quick stroll from the seaside, and gives a swimming pool, parking, Wi-Fi, and sports activities actions. Pricing begins at USD$128 for a cushty, easy-going keep.