Guanacaste Region of Costa Rica

Playa Hermosa Guanacaste

Guanacaste Region of Costa Rica


Hermosa, which means "beautiful" in Spanish, is an aptly named gray-sand beach that perches between two mountains. In fact there are two Playa Hermosas, the other being in the Central Pacific Coast near Jaco. Guanacaste's Playa Hermosa is situated between Playa del Coco and Playa Panama, Hermosa is seldom as crowded as its neighbors. It is a fabulous getaway for those seeking quality relaxation. Most visitors bring a blanket and sunscreen to soak up Guanacaste's burning sun, and due to its calm surf, Hermosa is a favorite for swimmers.


While Hermosa Beach maintains an overall laidback atmosphere, it has grown as an epicenter of ongoing development. The town of Hermosa runs from north to south along its beachfront, becoming more sparsely populated toward the south. Large hotel complexes on the northern end head most construction in the area, while the south retains a more relaxed atmosphere. 

Services in town are abundant, offering excellent shopping, food, bars, and tourist activities. The coast of Hermosa Beach is renowned for its outstanding marine fauna, and visitors can enjoy this ocean life through activities such as snorkeling, sport fishing, and Scuba Diving. Horseback riding along the beach is another great way for people to take in the beautiful surroundings.

Accommodations in Hermosa mostly cater to those seeking mid-range or luxury rooms. However, sparse budget rooms are also available. Hermosa Beach is a short 20-minute drive, along a paved road, from Liberia's Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport.  A car trip or bus ride from San Jose takes approximately five hours along the Inter-American Highway.

A number of national parks lie within a short traveling distance from Hermosa Beach: Rincon de la Vieja National Park (Parque Nacional Rincon de la Vieja), Palo Verde National Park (Parque Nacional Palo Verde), and Santa Rosa National Park (Parque Nacional Santa Rosa). These parks provide a great opportunity to view wildlife and experience a few of Costa Rica's diverse ecosystems.

8d Family Itinerary

Recommended Airport: SJO INTL

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Traveler Comments and Ratings for Playa Hermosa Guanacaste

"I felt safe in this area for sure and no it was not touristy at all. The beach was great, never crowded and not many vendors on the beach. The locals were very friendly and always had a smile for us. We had a very positive experience in Costa Rica and this area Playa Hermosa. I feel the area was represented well and we did not go with any pre-conceived notions of the area. All in all a good time!!! Loved the weather....and the sunsets. " Visited in Mar 2011

"I recommend for all class of persons. And in playa hermosa does not have any places for fun only the beach.  You have to travel to Coco beach for nightlife." Visited in Oct 2010

"This area seems great for families or people who really just want to relax and stay in. There didn't seem to be too many restaurant choices here, or we didn't find them. It was a beautiful area though, so it just depends on what you are looking for in a vacation." Visited in Nov 2010


"We felt very safe in this area. It is not particularly touristy but there are other tourists around. Almost no commercial businesses within a mile or so. I would definitely reccommend this area for perfect sunsets. The locals were very friendly and helpful. Our first experience in Costa Rica will be a cherished memory for the rest of our lives." Visited in Sep 2011

"Lovely little quiet community on the beach." Visited in Feb 2012

"We enjoyed this area and took a sunset snorkel cruise which was a wonderful way to see the beach and the coastline. We loved the restaurant Ginger and the Hotel Playa Hermosa for lunch and arranging excursions." Visited in Dec 2011

"I cannot describe how beautiful Playa Hermosa is at night. " Visited in Mar 2012

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