Highlights

Surfing

Playa Negra has long been known for its world-famous surf break. Memorialized in the famous surfing film Endless Summer ii, the break at Playa Negra has legendary right-hand barrels and consistent swells throughout the year. For years before the movie, Playa Negra Costa Rica had been renowned as an off the beaten path spot. Perfect for locals and surf aficionados from around the world. The crystal-clear waters as well as the plenitude of aquatic life, makes the area a great spot for indulging your surfing fantasies or nature vacation!  Playa Negra is also in proximity to several other famous Guanacaste surf spots including Playa Avellana, Playa Junquillal, Playa Langosta, Witch’s Rock and Tamarindo.

Adventure and water sports

Besides the world class surfing, there are so many other things to do and see in the immediate area.  Snorkeling excursions are very popular. But offshore and inshore fishing trips can also be arranged. Snapper, Mahi-Mahi, and Tuna are frequent catches for anglers in the area, as well as Sailfish. ATV, horseback riding and mountain biking adventures can be enjoyed.

National Parks

You also don’t have to travel very far to experience the National Parks. They allow for great hiking and animal/bird observation.  Visitors to the area can also find great zip line adventures, yoga experiences and many other things to do while enjoying the tranquility of the Playa Negra beach area. The National Parks of Palo Verde and Barra Honda are within day trip distance. Palo Verde is famous for its wetlands and boat tours where you can spot many different species of birds. In Barra Honda you can explore the stunning caves as well as the tropical dry forest surrounding it.

Tips

Visit between December and May: This is the Costa Rica dry season when you can benefit from the long, sunny days. That being said, Guanacaste has the least amount of rainfall during the rainy season and there will also be less tourists crowding the beaches. Bring sunblock! The province of Guanacaste is known for its fierce sun.

Visit nearby beaches: The beaches of Playa Avallanas, Playa Langosta, Tamarindo and Playa Grande are all within the same area. If you are here for surfing, you can also travel a bit further north to Witches Rock at Playa Naranjo – a very remote beach with legendary waves. If you want to surf but are a beginner, check out Tamarindo for some classes before enjoying the world class surf at Playa Negra.

Mix it up: Other than beaches, you can also visit a nearby national park like Barra Honda and Palo Verde and even travel a bit more south to explore the Nicoya Peninsula.

Getting there

Closest International Airport: Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR)

Playa Negra has become safer and easier to get to than ever before. Repairs to the dirt roads and the recent building of new bridges and culverts have made the infrastructure more accessible. Playa Negra is around 83 kilometers south Liberia airport. You can rent a car or travel by shuttle, either shared or private. If you want, you can even take advantage of the domestic airport in Tamarindo and go only a couple of kilometers further south to Playa Negra.

Dining

Small restaurants and shops have popped up in the downtown area, and there is an active, small beach community including art galleries, small markets and everything that you might need while vacationing in the area. All while still maintaining the feel of a small, local beach community. For high quality local cuisine as well as delicious seafood, book a table at HiR Fine Dining. For the night when you favor a more international flavor, pay a visit to Villa Deveena.

Where to stay

Hotel Playa Negra is a gorgeous finca with 1000 acres of land. You will stay at your own private bungalow with palm leaf roofs. The restaurant and bar are right on the beach and serve international cuisine as well as traditional food. For those slow days, you can indulge in the spa and get a relaxing massage, or participate in Yoga classes.