Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast

Find World Class Surf in Jaco, visit the National Park in Manuel Antonio and beyond!

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Central Pacific Coast

The Costa Rica Pacific Coast is easily accessible from the capital city of San José. Highway 27 (Ruta 27) allows you to get from the city to the beach in just over an hour. The Central Pacific area is characterized by small coastal villages and several well-developed resort areas. It’s mixed with palm plantations that stretch down the length of the coastline. Also, there are several beach towns that are popular with visitors to the area including Jaco Beach, Esterillos, Manuel Antonio and Dominical–to name a few. Visit the Pacific Coast for an incredible Costa Rica vacation and find great surfing, an abundance of rainforest wildlife and the classic pura vida vibe!

Top Destinations

Manuel Antonio 

Manuel Antonio Beaches Aerial ViewFamilies and couples flock from around the world to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio, home to one of the most popular national parks in the country. Set up a canopy tour, ride ATV’s, go sports fishing or snorkeling and dolphin watching from a catamaran cruise. There is much to see and do in this beautiful area! Manuel Antonio is the most developed beach towns in the area. It offers incredible hotels and resorts, tons of activities. Shopping, restaurants, and nightlife will also help keep you busy during your stay.

Jaco

People Surfing in JacoThe beach town of Jaco is one of the most popular surfing and nightlife destinations in Costa Rica and the Central Pacific. Only 1.5 hours from San Jose, it is easily accessible and full of adventure for the whole family. Relax on the beach, surf, go zip lining and watch for the countless Scarlet Macaws that fly around the area. 

Carara National Park

Carara National ParkThe Carara National Park is famous for being home to crocodiles, Scarlet Macaws, Toucans and Trogans. It is a great birding destination! Carara National Park is a transition zone between dry forest and rainforest so you get to see incredible birds from both types of forest. 

Hermosa Beach

Playa Hermosa SurfingNot to be confused with Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste, Hermosa beach is a fantastic surfing destination. Beginners should steer clear, however. The breaks are intense!

 

 

Nauyaca Waterfalls

Nauyaca WaterfallNauyaca Waterfalls is one of the best ecotourism destinations in the Central Pacific. Ride on horseback to the beautiful waterfalls where you can swim in the natural pools. 

Facts

Central Pacific Tours

parasailing manuel antonioThe Central Pacific tours are great for everyone. You can find adrenaline-pumping adventure tours like zip lining or white water rafting or more relaxing birding and wildlife tours! You can also go on an ATV tour, visit a wildlife sanctuary or soar above the ocean on a parasailing tour. 

 

Central Pacific Weather

Esterillos BeachThe Central Pacific has some of the nicest weather in Costa Rica. From December-April you’ll find spring-like weather conditions all day, every day. From April-November there are usually rain showers in the last afternoon and early evening. 

 

 

Central Pacific Nature

The Best of Birding in Paradise Macaw ScarlettThere’s no shortage of wildlife in the Central Pacific. It’s a popular place to photograph the famous Scarlet Macaws, who always fly in pairs. You’ll also see white face capuchin monkeys trying to steal your snacks, lazy sloths napping, crocodiles soaking up the sun under the Tarcoles bridge and lots of iguanas running around. 

 

Central Pacific Culture

pura vidaIn the Central Pacific the culture is very pura vida and very tourist-y. Because there are so many stellar beaches and lush national parks there are always a great deal of foreigners and locals running around enjoying the incredible destinations. Luckily people are extremely friendly and laid back. Pura vida! 

Getting There

Closest International Airport: Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)

private transfer drivers and busesGetting to the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica is fast an easy. Simply take Highway 27 from San Jose. My Costa Rica can help set us a shuttle, private transfer or rental car! 


Map of Costa Rica’s Central PacificCosta Rica Central Pacific Map

Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast - Get Info

Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast Map

Click to Enlarge Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast Map

Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast Vacation Packages

Costa Rica Relocation with Christopher Howard and Stay in Punta Leona

Costa Rica Relocation with Christopher Howard and Stay in Punta Leona

7
SJO
$1500-$2000 p.p.
Costa Rica’s Top Three Destinations

Costa Rica’s Top Three Destinations

SJO
$1500-$2000 p.p.
Luxury Family Getaway with Hacienda AltaGracia

Luxury Family Getaway with Hacienda AltaGracia

7
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Caribbean Dream with Manuel Antonio

Caribbean Dream with Manuel Antonio

12
SJO
$1500-$2000 p.p.
Best of Costa Rica with Peace Lodge (4 Star)

Best of Costa Rica with Peace Lodge (4 Star)

7
SJO
$1000-$1500 p.p.
Perfect Combination with Corcovado

Perfect Combination with Corcovado

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Coast to Coast with Puerto Viejo

Coast to Coast with Puerto Viejo

12
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Birding in Costa Rica’s Eco-Zones

Birding in Costa Rica’s Eco-Zones

11
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Best of Birding in Costa Rica Paradise

Best of Birding in Costa Rica Paradise

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Costa Rica’s Seventh Heaven

Costa Rica’s Seventh Heaven

7
SJO
$1000-$1500 p.p.
Nature Birding Tour

Nature Birding Tour

10
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Pacific & Caribbean Combo

Pacific & Caribbean Combo

10
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Extended Costa Rica Highlights

Extended Costa Rica Highlights

20
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Costa Ballena Exploration

Costa Ballena Exploration

9
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Full Board Birding Trip!

Full Board Birding Trip!

8
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Dancing with Quetzals

Dancing with Quetzals

11
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Away from the Crowds

Away from the Crowds

SJO
$1000-$1500 p.p.

Beaches

Herradura Beach

Herradura Beach

Visiting Herradura Costa Rica Playa Herradura Costa Rica is located in the Central Pacific zone. It is about an hour from ...

Central Pacific Beaches

Central Pacific Beaches

Visiting the Central Pacific Beaches The Central Pacific Costa Rica beaches are a short drive away from the capital city o...

Punta Leona Costa Rica

Punta Leona Costa Rica

Visiting Punta Leona Costa Rica Punta Leona Costa Rica is located on the Central Pacific in the province of Puntarenas. Pu...

Guacalillo Costa Rica

Guacalillo Costa Rica

Visiting Guacalillo Costa Rica The beach of Guacalillo Costa Rica is a relatively unknown destination on the Central Pacif...

Explore Biesanz Beach: Costa Rica’s Hidden Gem of Serenity and Beauty

Explore Biesanz Beach: Costa Rica’s Hidden Gem of Serenity and Beauty

Visiting Playa Biesanz What makes Playa Biesanz in Costa Rica so special? It’s a beautiful unknown quiet corner between Qu...

Beaches in Manuel Antonio: Paradise Found in Costa Rica’s Coastal Gem

Beaches in Manuel Antonio: Paradise Found in Costa Rica’s Coastal Gem

Visiting Manuel Antonio National Park Manuel Antonio Costa Rica is one of our top recommended destinations a great locatio...

Dominical Beach

Dominical Beach

Visiting Dominical Costa Rica Dominical Costa Rica is a friendly surf town on the Central Pacific Coastline, 28 miles sout...

Jaco Beach: Costa Rica’s Hub for Surfing, Nightlife, and Adventure

Jaco Beach: Costa Rica’s Hub for Surfing, Nightlife, and Adventure

Visiting Jacó Costa Rica Beaches Jaco, Costa Rica has been the focal point of the Central Pacific Coast for a couple of de...

Hermosa Beach Near Jaco

Hermosa Beach Near Jaco

Visiting Playa Hermosa Near Jaco Considered as having one of the best surf breaks, the Playa Hermosa on the Central Pacifi...

Esterillos Beach

Esterillos Beach

Visiting Esterillos Costa Rica Playa Esterillos is on the Central Pacific coast in Puntarenas, Costa Rica is one of those ...

Cities

Puntarenas

Puntarenas

Visiting Puntarenas Costa Rica Puntarenas Costa Rica is the largest province and one of the most important tourist destina...

Islands

Damas Island Mangrove

Damas Island Mangrove

Manuel Antonio's Damas Island is home to one of Costa Rica's richest and most vital mangrove forests, providing a unique e...

Rivers

Tarcoles

Tarcoles

The Crocodile Bridge As you are driving toward the Costa Rica Central Pacific, make sure to stop by the Tarcoles River Bri...

Savegre River

Savegre River

Apart from getting your adrenaline levels high, you are going to meet the true wilderness of Costa Rica.

National Parks

Carara National Park

Carara National Park

Visiting Carara National Park Carara National Park is located near the Tarcoles River in the Central Pacific. It was estab...

Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast Hotels

La Mansion Inn

La Mansion Inn

5
2
From: $125 - $200
Hotel Si Como No

Hotel Si Como No

4
5
From: $200 - $300
Hotel El Parador

Hotel El Parador

4
5
From: $200 - $300
Croc’s Resort & Casino

Croc’s Resort & Casino

5
From: Over $300
Hotel Balcon del Mar

Hotel Balcon del Mar

3
From: Under $125
Cerro Lodge

Cerro Lodge

4
From: $125 - $200
Gaia Hotel and Reserve

Gaia Hotel and Reserve

5
4
From: $200 - $300
Hotel Punta Leona

Hotel Punta Leona

3
4
From: Under $125
Hotel San Bada

Hotel San Bada

4
5
From: $200 - $300
Hotel Villa Caletas

Hotel Villa Caletas

4
5
From: $200 - $300
Arenas Del Mar

Arenas Del Mar

5
5
From: $200 - $300
Hotel La Mariposa

Hotel La Mariposa

4
From: $125 - $200
Los Suenos Marriott

Los Suenos Marriott

4
2
From: $125 - $200
Costa Paraiso

Costa Paraiso

3
From: Under $125
Hotel Costa Verde

Hotel Costa Verde

3
2
From: $125 - $200
Hotel Playa Espadilla

Hotel Playa Espadilla

3
3
From: $125 - $200
Espadilla Gardens

Espadilla Gardens

3
From: $200 - $300
Club del Mar

Club del Mar

4
2
From: $200 - $300
Hacienda Barú Lodge

Hacienda Barú Lodge

3
5
From: Under $125
Kura Design Villas

Kura Design Villas

5
From: Over $300
Rafiki Safari Lodge

Rafiki Safari Lodge

3
From: $125 - $200
Makanda by the Sea

Makanda by the Sea

5
From: Over $300
Santa Juana Lodge

Santa Juana Lodge

3
5
From: $125 - $200
Alma Del Pacifico

Alma Del Pacifico

4
From: Under $125
Rancho Pacifico

Rancho Pacifico

4
From: $200 - $300
Las Nubes Resort

Las Nubes Resort

4
5
From: $125 - $200
Terraza del Pacifico

Terraza del Pacifico

3
3
From: Under $125
Tulemar Resort

Tulemar Resort

5
From: $200 - $300
Hotel Cuna Del Angel

Hotel Cuna Del Angel

4
5
From: Over $300
Hotel Clandestino Beach Resort

Hotel Clandestino Beach Resort

4
From: $125 - $200
Hotel Cristal Ballena

Hotel Cristal Ballena

4
4
From: Under $125
Hotel Shana

Hotel Shana

5
From: $200 - $300
Plaza Yara

Plaza Yara

3
From: Under $125
Oceano Hotel

Oceano Hotel

5
From: Over $300
Lookout Playa Tortuga

Lookout Playa Tortuga

3
From: Under $125
Hotel El Castillo

Hotel El Castillo

4
From: $125 - $200
Macaw Lodge

Macaw Lodge

4
From: $125 - $200
Hotel Karahe

Hotel Karahe

3
From: $125 - $200
Oxygen Jungle Villas

Oxygen Jungle Villas

4
From: $125 - $200
Villas Rio Mar

Villas Rio Mar

3
4
From: Under $125

Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast Tours

Parasailing Tour Costa Rica Adventure

Parasailing Tour Costa Rica Adventure

From: $75 - $100
Catamaran Adventure Tour with Planet Dolphin

Catamaran Adventure Tour with Planet Dolphin

Surf Lesson with MASS (Manuel Antonio Surf School and Camp)

Surf Lesson with MASS (Manuel Antonio Surf School and Camp)

Jungle Tubing Savegre River

Jungle Tubing Savegre River

From: Under $50
Manuel Antonio National Park tour with Tucanes Tours

Manuel Antonio National Park tour with Tucanes Tours

Savegre River White Water Rafting with Tucanes Tours

Savegre River White Water Rafting with Tucanes Tours

Horseback Riding Tour with Tucanes Tours

Horseback Riding Tour with Tucanes Tours

Damas Island Estuary Mangrove Tour with Tucanes Tours

Damas Island Estuary Mangrove Tour with Tucanes Tours

Santa Juana Rural Mountain Adventure Tour

Santa Juana Rural Mountain Adventure Tour

From: $75 - $100
Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling with Tucanes Tours

Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling with Tucanes Tours

Kids Saving the Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary Tour

Kids Saving the Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary Tour

Horseback Riding in Mulguri with San Bada

Horseback Riding in Mulguri with San Bada

Santa Juana Rural Mountain Adventure Tour with Si Como No

Santa Juana Rural Mountain Adventure Tour with Si Como No

ATV Rainforest Adventure in Manuel Antonio

ATV Rainforest Adventure in Manuel Antonio

From: $75 - $100
Canopy Tour with Canopy Safari

Canopy Tour with Canopy Safari

Coast Jet Ski – Manuel Antonio Adventure

Coast Jet Ski – Manuel Antonio Adventure

From: Over $100
Tortuga Island Cruise with Calypso

Tortuga Island Cruise with Calypso

Canopy & ATV Tours at Safari Adventures

Canopy & ATV Tours at Safari Adventures

From: $50 - $75
Manuel Antonio National Park Tour with Expediciones Tropicales

Manuel Antonio National Park Tour with Expediciones Tropicales

Scuba Diving Tour Costa Rica Adventure

Scuba Diving Tour Costa Rica Adventure

From: $75 - $100
Manuel Antonio National Park Tour

Manuel Antonio National Park Tour

From: Under $50
Kids Saving the Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary

Kids Saving the Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary

From: Under $50
Costa Rica Regions and Destinations Map

Southern Zone

Why Visit?

Costa Rica’s Southern Zone is where you’ll find the tallest mountains, pristine cloud forest areas, and a virtually unexplored paradise. Find a large variety of birds and just an endless array of biodiversity.  


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Central Valley

Why Visit?

Costa Rica’s Central Valley is home to the capital of San José and the Juan Santamaría International Airport. Steeped in History & Culture, many people use the capital as the jumping off point for their vacations.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Northern Zone

Why Visit?

Costa Rica’s Northern Zone is home to the country’s most famous Volcano and Cloud Forest Areas.

You will be amazed at the wildlife and all the biodiversity.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Osa Peninsula

Why Visit?

The Osa Peninsula is truly an unexplored paradise and a must see for nature lovers. If you are looking to get off the beaten path and explore – this is the spot for you.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Guanacaste

Why Visit?

Guanacaste is home to Costa Rica’s most popular beach destinations and all-inclusive resorts. If you are looking for a beach vacation, this is your destination for sun, sand, and surf.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Nicoya Peninsula

Why Visit?

The Nicoya Peninsula is still largely undeveloped and home to some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches. Known for it’s laid back surfer vibe and boutique beach resorts.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Central Pacific

Why Visit?

Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast is home to some of the closest beaches from the capital of San José, which are easily accessible from the highway.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Caribbean

Why Visit?

Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast is a rich cultural area offering a laid back tropical atmosphere. Experience what Tico Time truly is on this Afro-Caribbean influenced area.


Things to Do

Top Destinations

Nicaragua

Why Visit?

Nicaragua is a unique country full of culture and historical parts. You can see a lot of the old part of the colonial age including the cobblestone streets and old forts.


Top Destinations

Panama

Why Visit?

Panama is a totally different level of destination. It has so much to offer. You can experience history and modern architecture all in one in Panama City with skyscrapers and the old part of the city.


Top Destinations

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