Welcome to Playa Grande Costa Rica, a small, quiet, nature-paced nook preserved among the busier beaches of Guanacaste. Located between the lively towns of Tamarindo and Flamingo, this particular surf town preserves its serene flavor while still having access to the amenities of nearby larger communities.
Location, transportation and layout
Playa Grande is located in the Guanacaste province by the Pacific Coast just one hour drive away from Costa Rica’s international airport at Liberia. Shuttles and bus services are offered daily but we recommend having a private vehicle, not only to get there but also to move around once you’ve settled in. The community is small and its shops and stores, scattered. This is because Playa Grande’s main attraction is nature itself, for a more bubbly social lifestyle with restaurants, markets, bars and parties you should explore the nearby towns of Tamarindo or Flamingo, for which having a car may come in handy too! Though local taxis can drive you from place to place, it will always be more comfortable to have your own set of wheels. For staying in town though, there is also a bicycle rental option that can be fun for people that find delight in the small tropical town dynamic.
Las Baulas National Marine Park
As part of Las Baulas National Marine Park, Playa Grande is guarded to respect nature’s rhythm. Home to an abundance of species with an amazing variety of species on the ocean side but also on the land where you’ll find howler monkeys, various bird species and more. The place’s intimate connection with nature makes it ideal for all of those who like to rise and rest with the sunlight and seek some peace and quiet while remaining close to the action.
Grande Salvaje – Sustainable Home In Playa Grande
If this environment sounds like something you would enjoy then you shouldn’t miss on our Costa Rica real estate for expats opportunities. Grande Salvaje is a home designed to coexist and integrate respectfully with nature. It has 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, 2 garages and a pool. Located within a gated community with security & video surveillance.
Activities
Surf: Playa Grande Costa Rica could stand as a synonym for dream surf destination. Its tide is constant and regular, delivering perfect waves 24/7 year round. With warm waters and an extensive coastline, the beach welcomes surfers of all levels. If you are a beginner or a first-time surfer, we would recommend getting some lessons from some of the many local schools and instructors, this would help break the ice and face an ocean that can seem intimidating – it will also give you the confidence to keep practicing on your own and become part of the local spirit while keeping you safe.
Kayak up the Matapalo Estuary: The division line between Playa Grande and Tamarindo is courtesy of an estuary that may be crossed by foot when the tide is low but would be dangerous, if not impossible, with high tide. There are usually boats that can cross you from side to side for a small fee if wanted because, high waters are not the only obstacle, but crocodiles are often seen in the area! Going on a kayak tour up the estuary can be a fun opportunity to observe some of the local wildlife.
Tours: Playa Grande is no exception to the amount of thrilling experiences available in most of the country, particularly in the Guanacaste area. You name it, you got it.
- Hiking: Within Las Baulas National Marine Park or close by in Rincón de la Vieja, Guanacaste is packed with one-of-a-kind hiking opportunities
- Horseback riding: Choose between beach, estuary or off-road trails.
- Ziplining: There are several tours within an hour of Playa Grande, come face to face with Costa Rica’s wildlife in a unique, adrenaline-filled, jungle experience.
- White water rafting: With different passages that vary in difficulty, you get to see Costa Rica from an exclusive point of view.
- Diving: Explore the hidden face of Costa Rica’s paradisiacal beaches in an under-the-water diving expedition.
- ATV tour: Discover landscapes that would be otherwise inaccessible!
- Sportfishing: High season from May to October, Playa Grande is close by to world-class offshore fishing.
- Sailing: Luxury sightseeing at its finest, just lay back and enjoy the cocktails and tasty food while smoothly sailing along the Pacific Coast.
- Snorkeling: From free diving to hired tours, get a glimpse of Costa Rica’s underwater magic.
Trusting that your interest in Playa Grande is naturally growing, here’s another jewel among our Costa Rica real estate for expats, a 4 bedroom, 4 bathrooms luxury home in the gated community of Las Ventanas, fully furnished, with AC and a pool for your comfort.
Beaches
Playa Grande’s entire coastline is framed exclusively with vegetation, no bars or local restaurants, no music nor buzz vibing in the back, just you, the sand, the ocean and the sun. It is a quiet natural habitat ideal for peaceful relaxation. If you’re eager for some more social action however, remember Tamarindo is just one estuary-crossing away to one side of Playa Grande. On the other end, you have walking access to Playa Ventanas, a smaller, bay-shaped beach limited by a huge rock named Dante’s Rock. There’s a specific spot in Ventanas where Dante and the coast rock wall create a certain window effect through which you can see Tamarindo, which is supposedly how it got its name. Secluded, silent and stunning, if you plan on spending the day, keep in mind that you should bring everything you might need with you.
One more stop away you can find Playa Carbón. To get there, you can either keep walking to the other end of Playa Ventanas until you reach a passage with uneven rocks you should have no problem crossing if the tide is low. If the tide is high or you simply rather have a small over-the-hill adventure, there is a short, easy-to-walk trail that can lead you there too. Playa Carbón is notable for its black sand, probably the darkest in the country! And is a no-miss if you are in Playa Grande and want to spice things up a bit. Tip: take plenty of sunscreen or a beach umbrella if you happen to have one since there is no shade on the beach.
Last but not least, Casa Tree House is a 4 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom residence located in the gated community of Las Ventanas. This inviting home seamlessly merges luxurious living with the natural beauty of its surroundings.
In a nutshell, Playa Grande Costa Rica is worthy of your attention. Whether you’re just visiting or considering a full relocation, its untouched local charm, smooth-vibing atmosphere and practical location make it a jewel among Guanacaste’s communities. Don’t miss out!
