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The northern Guanacaste shoreline looks out over the expansive Gulf of Papagayo (Golfo de Papagayo), the setting for Costa Rica's premier luxury resorts and most sought after
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beaches. Immersed in stunning natural beauty, it is no wonder that the gulf is experiencing an unprecedented boom in the construction of all inclusive resort complexes.
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From Ocotal to Culebra Bay, resorts are popping up along the coast line, particularly at Coco, Hermosa and Panamá beaches, as well as Culebra Bay, the site of Costa Rica’s most premier resorts.
Surrounded by unspoiled dry tropical forest and dazzling topography, the Gulf of Papagayo is the ideal setting for nature lovers and beachgoers seeking to plunge themselves into the national parks of Guanacaste, or simply kickback and relax along one of Papagayo’s world-class beaches. The nation’s new Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia provides seamless travel to the Guanacaste region, while paved roads facilitate the rest of the journey to the Pacific coast and the Gulf of Papagayo.
From birding in the region’s dry tropical forests to exploring the volcanic landscape of the Guanacaste Mountains, northwest Guanacaste has it all. In close proximity to the gulf are a number of national parks, including Santa Rosa, Marino las Baulas, Guanacaste, and Rincón de la Vieja, which provide visitors opportunities to explore the natural inland terrain.
Of course, the Gulf of Papagayo is most famous for its beaches. Here, the sun shines throughout the day, heating the white-sand coast and the immaculate aquamarine sea. Tropical trees sway in the breeze at the edge of the beach, providing shade from the burning sun, while the warm gulf waters beckon visitors to take a dip in the calm water.
Accommodations range from all inclusive resort complexes to small intimate hotels and bed and breakfasts. Budget travelers will find their options sparse, as the Gulf of Papagayo mostly caters to visitors seeking mid-range and luxury accommodations.
Comments
"Felt very safe. Went for a few jogs outside of our hotel in the morning. "
Jan 2012
"Did a Palo Verde boat tour which was very nice and included an authentic lunch"
Jun 2012
"I think because of the weather (rainy) and the time of year, the area was pretty lightly attended. But it was perfect for us!"
Oct 2011
"We stayed at the Hilton Papagayo which was beautiful and very friendly to all tourists. It is very spread out so did not feel crowded."
Aug 2011
These suggested travel routes combine logistically compatible places and match common traveler interests.
Arenal
2
days
Rainforest, Volcano, Waterfall
Papagayo Gulf
4
days
Beach
Monteverde
2
days
Cloud Forest, Waterfall
Bajos del Toro
2
days
Cloud Forest
Arenal
3
days
Rainforest, Volcano, Waterfall
Papagayo Gulf
3
days
Beach
"This provided a good balance to spending the first half of our trip in the rainforest. We're able to relax quite a bit. It amazing how much hotter the Papagayo gulf is than Arenal at that time of the year!"
Feb 2012