Among the most well-known and sought-after areas to live in Costa Rica is the province of Guanacaste, located in the northwestern region of the country. It is one of seven provinces and borders both the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Nicoya.
Costa Rica is celebrated for its exceptional natural beauty, which is highlighted by its diverse climates. The country has no fewer than seven main climatic zones, along with numerous microclimates.
Coastal Guanacaste is renowned for its many spectacular beaches, scenic landscapes of rolling hills and volcanoes, and its laid-back coastal lifestyle. It is the driest and sunniest region of Costa Rica, with a climate primarily divided into two seasons:
- The Dry Season (December–April): This season offers almost guaranteed sunshine daily, with air temperatures ranging from 27°C to 35°C (80–95°F) and water temperatures from 25°C to 30°C (77–86°F), averaging around 27°C (81°F) year-round. Guanacaste also boasts the lowest humidity and the highest number of sunny days in the country, with some areas experiencing up to 300 days of sunshine annually.
- The Green Season (April/May–November): This season brings a gradual increase in rainfall, with the wettest months being September and October. Temperatures drop slightly, and the landscape becomes lush and vibrant again. Most mornings remain sunny and beautiful, with afternoon thunderstorms and occasional evening rain. Except for September and October—which can be quite gray and rainy for extended periods—the Green Season is a magnificent time to enjoy Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
Beyond its favorable climate, many people choose to live in Coastal Guanacaste for its accessibility. Beach towns such as Tamarindo, Playa Grande, and Flamingo are easily reachable from the capital, San José, via well-paved roads or regional flights through the Tamarindo Airport. Moreover, the Liberia International Airport is just 1.5 hours away from most coastal communities, offering consistent international flights to major cities in North America, South America, and Europe.
Access to quality education is another reason families choose to settle in this region. Several international and private schools offer bilingual education and pathways to international university programs. Families appreciate the opportunity to provide their children with a high-quality education while enjoying a desirable lifestyle. (More information on local schools is available here.)
Healthcare and medical services are among the best in the country. Numerous public and private clinics are located nearby, and the proximity to the hospital in Liberia ensures access to quality care when needed. You’ll also find a variety of specialists in the area, with most medical tests and services available close to home. Your health is further supported by the region’s active yet relaxed lifestyle, favorable climate, and access to clean, wholesome food.
Living in Guanacaste also offers an incredible lifestyle, with daily access to world-class surfing, diving, mountain biking, tennis, golf, hiking on volcanic trails, or horseback riding on the beach at sunset. Local beach towns feature a wide variety of international cuisine, grocery stores, shopping, nightlife, and community events. (Learn more about local activities here.)
Year-round, you’ll enjoy the unmatched beauty of Costa Rica’s nature—its rich biodiversity, tropical landscapes, white sand beaches, and deep blue Pacific waters—which will inspire you daily and remind you of the importance of preservation.
Within our area of expertise, you’ll find a wide variety of towns and communities, each offering a unique environment, level of accessibility, amenities, and lifestyle options. There is truly something for everyone. A great way to begin your home search in Guanacaste is to spend time here and explore the local communities in person.
For now, here’s a preview of some of the best places to live on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, in beautiful Guanacaste.
