The Nicoya Peninsula

The Nicoya Peninsula is a dry tropical zone with some of Costa Rica’s best beaches, such as Tamarindo. While there are a few sprawling resort hotels large stretches of largely unspoilt coastline still exist. For those seeking privacy and a feeling of isolation, the areas of Nosara and Malpaís to the south are still mostly untouched. Here one can find some enticing small hotels and explore the coastal hills on horseback.

Our preferred accommodation

Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort

Beach hotel - Papagayo Peninsula
A stunning low rise resort surrounded by forest and nestled between two white sand beaches at Culebra Bay. Facilities include two infinity pools, one for families, with views of the bay and one for adults only, with views to the mountains. There are three restaurants serving international and local cuisine.
Bahia del Sol

Beach hotel - Playa Potrero
A small, low-key property on Potrero beach. This quiet bay has one of the safest beaches of the Pacific coast with its calm waters suitable for swimming. There is an outdoor pool, hot tub and also a spa offering a variety of treatments. The grill restaurant specialises in Italian-inspired dishes, there is also a beachfront tapas bar and the Café del Sol - a bakery, café and bar in one.
Casa Chameleon Las Catalinas

Beach hotel - Las Catalinas
A chic hotel perched on a hill above Las Catalinas, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The hotel's infinity pool, restaurant and bar are all sunset-facing.
El Mangroove

Beach hotel - Playa Panama
A chic beach-front hotel overlooking Papagayo Bay that offers barefoot luxury with personalised service. This boutique hotel was designed by one of Costa Rica's most iconic architects, Ronald Zurcher and features a large pool, gym and spa. There are two restaurants, Matiss and Makoko, with unique menus that are inspried by local cuisine.
Flor Blanca

Beach hotel - Santa Teresa, Malpais
A beautiful and tranquil beachfront hotel with a large pool and stylish restaurant. Perfect for honeymooners, the villas are surrounded by lush forest and the two nearest the beach have lovely ocean views.
Hotel Cala Luna

Resort - Just outside Tamarindo
Small, intimate hotel on the outskirts of Tamarindo, a fishing village of about 1000 inhabitants. There is a wild, beautiful beach about 100 yards away, and we would usually recommend a hire car in order to explore the area and for easy access to the village with its beach, restaurants and bars.
Hotel Capitan Suizo

Beach hotel - Just outside Tamarindo
Bungalows are set in tropical gardens with direct access to the beach, a 10 minute walk from Tamarindo, a fishing village of about 1000 inhabitants. Large pool and restaurant area and informal, relaxed atmosphere.
Isla Chiquita

Beach hotel - Gulf of Nicoya
A comfortable glamping hotel on a small island in the Gulf of Nicoya. Small thatched huts housing the hotel's common areas are spread across the grounds, which stretch along the beach and forest. There is an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, bar, wellness centre and spa.