Hint: Most local surf spots are south of Playa Grande. Further north, the beaches are too rocky and the bays are too sheltered from the swells. To see Tamarindo and Playa Negra immortalized on film, check out the cult classic “Endless Summer II.

Even if you haven’t boarded a board in years, if surfing was once in your blood, the waves will provide a transfusion. This coast offers beach, reef, river mouth and point breaks with many days of offshore winds during the dry season. Optimal surfing conditions occur from December through July.

Ollie’s Point

This famous point break an hour’s boat ride north of Playa del Coco was once a secret military base used to supply arms to the Contras in Nicaragua. It was such a secret base that, during the war, local surfers re-named it for secret commander American Colonel Oliver North. A right break with a friendly long ride, the point is featured in the aforementioned movie, “Endless Summer II”. To get there, it is best to reserve a place on a boat.

Witch’s Rock

One of the most famous beach-breaks in the country, this is a remote spot located in the Santa Rosa National Park. Although it is possible to access with a four-wheel drive vehicle, most people opt to take a boat from Playa del Coco, a much easier option. Camping is permitted, but no facilities exist. If you do decide to rough it on the beach, make sure you pack a mosquito net! Beach access is closed during the rainy season (July - November). Expect very strong offshore winds from December to March.

Playa Grande

This popular spot—about a 30 minute drive from Tamarindo—boasts some great beach breaks. Located north across the Tamarindo estuary, you can also get there by boat followed by an easy stroll along the beach. If driving from the Flamingo/Potrero area, enter on the road to the east through Matapalo. There are accommodations, restaurants and surf camps in Playa Grande

Tamarindo

This is a site widely favored by both beginners and experts. As such, ocean gridlock can sometimes ensue. Here, surfer’s etiquette most definitely applies. If you are not a confident swimmer or have children in tow, the safest waves are in front of Hotel Capitan Suizo. Sometimes there are lifeguards in the more popular areas, but don’t count on them, so you are on your own.

Playa Avellanas

This area is distinguished by quality beach breaks and a notable reef break dubbed “Little Hawaii” just a few minutes walk north along the beach. When the waves are big, this is a prime surfing spot.

Playa Negra

Just south of Playa Avellanas, this is an excellent right reef point break with solid tubular waves. Waves hold up even during large swells.

Heralded worldwide for its conservation concerns, Costa Rica is diligent in its efforts to protect its flora and fauna, thus preserving its bio diversity. The nation has designated over a quarter of its land to National Parks and protected areas with many located on the Gold Coast. Most tour operators offer exciting trips into these spectacular areas. But be prepared. You will most certainly be negotiating some steep inclines and other natural obstacles so wear appropriate shoes and clothing, carry lots of water, pack insect repellent and perhaps most importantly—don’t overdue it! Remember, the heat and humidity of the tropics, can be deterrents to your health! Following, we highlight some of the area’s most popular parks and reserves:

Rincon de la Vieja National Park

This protected forest sits at the mouth of a volcano and is distinguished by bubbling mud pools, natural hot springs, and geothermal steam ascending from beneath the earth. A dramatic nearby waterfall enveloped in lush jungle teems with wildlife, a cacophony of nature providing an aural backdrop to the scenic marvels of the area.

Ostinal Beach - Ridley Turtle Nesting

Most people are awed by the spectacle of turtle nesting, during which time Ridley and Leatherback turtles convene on the protected beach to lay their eggs. As this phenomenon is dictated by lunar phases, be sure to confer with a guide to ascertain exact dates and times. It’s a real drag to make the trip and then trip up because you didn’t confirm nesting activity. Tours generally depart Tamarindo in the afternoon and arrive on Ostinal Beach in time for dinner, which is followed by the Main Event. The package generally includes a bilingual guide, air-conditioned bus and refreshments.

Palo Verde National Park & Boat Tours

A scenic drive through Guanacaste’s beautiful cowboy country (Sabanero) will deposit you on a dock from where you embark on an equally scenic two-hour boat trip on the Tempisque River to Palo Verde National Park. The river, which once served as the main channel on which sugar cane, fruits, beef (and people!) were transported, was crucial to the area’s economy.

It is a great trip for both bird-watching enthusiasts and those who just want to kick back on a tranquil journey that evokes a sense of the golden olden days. As you relax on the river vessel, nature paints a vivid portrait of jungle foliage and tropical birds: egrets, ospreys, flycatchers, kingfishers and many more. Home to more than 300 migratory birds, white-face monkeys, howler monkeys, American crocodiles, and iguanas, a two hour river cruise through Palo Verde National Park should categorically be on your “to do” list when visiting Costa Rica.

Arenal Volcano National Park

Your late afternoon might be spent soaking in hot pools of volcanically heated waters and enjoying an unobstructed view of the erupting Arenal Volcano. Later, over dinner, relish the Technicolor spectacle of molten lava dancing down the side of the active volcano. On your return, we suggest that you stop at the famous artisan village of Guatil where the Chorotega Indians maintain the pottery tradition of their Pre-Columbian ancestors in crafting their distinctive and prized ceramics.

Santa Rosa National Park

Perched near the Nicaragua border, this tropical dry forest boasts remnants of a storied past. Santa Rosa, an old fort which is now a national monument, marks the spot where Juan Santa Maria of Costa Rica stopped William Walker’s army from invading.

During high season (November through April) virtually every town in Guanacaste plays host to a fiesta. These celebrations are vital to the local culture and provide panoramic insight into the customs and rituals of Costa Rican society.

Marvel at the local cowboys who proudly display their horses. Cheer on the bull-riders who courageously (or perhaps foolishly!) defy injury—or worse.

If you like to be in parades, you can experience the fete as more than just a voyeur. Kicking off all fiestas is an event known as a tope during which you can ride alongside the resident horsemen in the welcome parade. The pre-parade socializing, where participants and their guests gear up for the impending revelry, is almost as fun as the grandstanding itself. Also gives you a chance to more closely interact with the local community.

To partake, you must register and rent a horse, which we recommend that you arrange in advance. Be sure to reconfirm several days before the tope. But be forewarned that a reservation is sometimes not a reservation until payment is rendered.

Donning cowboy gear and fancy riding is not a prerequisite, but getting into the spirit is part of the fun. Grab a big ole Ten Gallon and gallop off into the sunset (or sunshine, as the case may be!). Make certain that you are sporting long pants, though. Could be a long, chafing ride otherwise! Bring your shorts for later if you’d like.

Hint: Drinking too much beer at the tope before riding under the hot sun to the fiesta will likely induce lethargy and a whopping headache. Better to pace yourself if you hope to last the festival’s duration. You might grab a quick cat nap before the bull-riding events or enjoy a regenerating meal.

Hint: Know what you’re saying and say what you mean! Beware of potential language faux pas! To wit: Invited to address the assembly, an “Invitatado Special” participant intended to express “en espanol”: “It is an honor to be here.” Instead, in faltering Spanish, she unwittingly informed the astounded crowd that “the place smelled.” Initially met with stunned silence, the locals soon recognized that this was just another unintentional “gringo” language faux pas!

Bull Riding serves as the fiesta’s main event. It spotlights the daring (and sometimes reckless) antics of the local male population who attempt to hang on as the bull valiantly tries to dislodge them. Although you can view the through the slats or from atop a rickety wooden fence, the best sightlines for the Bull riding event is from the stands. A cheap ticket can be purchased from the small ticket booth usually located by the stairs leading up to the bleachers.

Monkey Park

The Monkey Park serves as a refuge for endangered species and injured animals who fell victim to poachers and irresponsible owners. Here you can see the local animals that we very recently running wild in the area. It is very interesting to see the paca, spider and howler monkeys, white nosed coati, aguti, and toucans up close.

Located near Huacas in Portegolpe, it was opened in 2000 under the charitable auspices of the Ferrin family, the Center is legally registered under the MINAE (Ministry of the Environment) and supervised by the Area de Conservacion Tempisque.

Africa Mia

Visitors will make a three hour tour in a safari car while expert guides will put them in contact with this fascinating species. A nice walk on hanging bridges will also allow the visitors to watch these animals in their new habitat. In the short term, the project will also have a butterfly farm, tennis courts, an aviary, and in addition they are planning to build a hotel and a restaurant.

Costa Rica is world famous for excellent bird watching opportunities in protected areas of the country. Birds can be observed in rainforests, cloudforests, and dry tropical forests. The number of identified species is approaching 900. The best approach for maximum enjoyment is to visit a variety of environments with trained guides.

Cañon de la Vieja Lodge

Twenty minutes from the Liberia International Airport, this cozy lodge sits at the foot of the active Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. Set in verdant grounds accented by colorful gardens, the hotel features 34 standard rooms with private baths, hot water and air conditioning and offers breathtaking vistas of the canyon and pools of the Colorado River.

Buena Vista Lodge - Adventure Center

Start the day by driving through the Guanacaste countryside to the province capital of Liberia. Then hike up the foothills of a volcano where waiting horses will ferry you through a nature trail that leads to the famous hot springs and bubbling mud pots created by underground volcanic activity. After lunch, take an exhilarating jungle canopy tour or trek into the surrounding jungles where the sights and sounds of exotic tropical birds (particularly toucans) and other forest species will further lull you into serenity. Follow the setting sun back to your welcoming room.

Ambling along the beach not providing enough of an adrenalin rush? Want to get somewhere faster than your legs will carry you? Can’t walk on water? Well, no problem. The northern Pacific coast offers a variety of transportation options for roads, sand, sea, dirt and tarmac…

Scooters
Motorcycles
ATV’s
Kayaks
Horses
Snorkeling equipment
Surfboards
Boogie boards
Bicycles

The power and beauty of the land combined with the fun of off-road driving, jungle exploration, knowledgeable and friendly guides and beautiful beaches is appealing to many “rugged” visitors. The natural vibes emanating from the hidden waterfalls and swimming holes, nature hiking, hidden beach coves, and the outlying towns can present a decidedly “non-touristy” adventure. At night, while listening to the sounds of the jungle, the energy can evolve into unique personal conversation.

You should be certain that vehicles are fully certified and equipped with CB radios, binoculars, specialized lighting systems, coolers, magnifying glasses, field guides, shovels and of course, machetes! Guides may actually from the towns along the way and are experts on the local flora and fauna, and show you the stunning backcountry - close up and personal.

Get involved with a five-hour morning excursion or a three-day custom off road safari trip. If you want to get out into nature and feel the power of the land and appreciate tasteful, smaller hotels, good food and wine, then you are ready to experience an off-road adventure.

What to bring? Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera and clothes/shoes that can (and will) get dirty.

Renowned as a golfing mecca, the northern Pacific coast possesses some of the world’s best courses in a magnificent natural setting. You may not be Tiger Woods, but the local residents (howler monkeys, parrots and macaws, among others) will cheer you on nonetheless as you putt your stuff.

Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course

This 6,800 meter masterpiece ranks as one of the best championship golf courses in Central America. Designer Mike Young is also responsible for many of the finest courses in the southern United States. The course also features a great restaurant and The El Corral Turn House pro shop.

Web address: www.haciendapinilla.com

Garr de Leon Golf Course at Paradisus Playa Conchal

A Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed course, this 18-hole par 72 course lies majestically between the rolling mountains to the East and the Pacific Ocean to the West. A true championship test for those in pursuit of the ultimate eco-golf experience, its unique tropical setting provides a spectacular backdrop for an unforgettable round of golf. Mercurial seasonal breezes provide an additional, but rewarding, challenge. Needless to say, the Gold Coast’s animal kingdom is hovering nearby.

Web address: www.paradisusplayaconchal.com

Diria Hotel Driving Range

Map Coordinates:

Location: On the road entering the Tamarindo airport

An average water temperature of about 80 degrees Fahrenheit makes exploring the kaleidoscopic undersea universe a most delightful pursuit. With variable visibility ranging from 30% to an unmatched 100%, the area’s colorful and diverse marine life is offset by a network of cliffs, passages and tunnels. Most favorable diving and snorkeling conditions coincide with rainy season—between May and October, with November’s usually calm climate distinguishing it as possibly the best month of all.

The folks at E! Entertainment got “Wild On” (when the popular show docked in Costa Rica several years ago) and boarded for a sunset cruise party around the coastline. For most people setting sail at sunset, it’s about romancing, relaxing and observing aquatic activity. From December to March, humpback, pilot and sperm whales join the dolphins, jumping manta rays and giant turtles who regularly navigate these waters.

Launching in the late afternoon, most cruises glide through the Pacific Ocean as offshore breezes commingle with the popular, classical and ambient strains of Jimmy Buffet, Mozart and Enya. Fresh fruit and snacks are served with wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverages as the pastel hues of a setting sun skip across the brilliant blues of a majestic sea.

Sport fishing is big sport on the northern Pacific coast. Inhabiting the region’s warm coastal waters are blue, black and striped marlin, sailfish, tuna, and mahi-mahi. October is considered peak month for marlin angling, but the season can run through May and sometimes begins in September. Sailfish are generally patrolling the deep from mid December until the end of April, at which time they migrate north. Check with the locals to see what’s happening under the sea.

Take part in one of Costa Rica’s signature activities – a zip-line canopy tour. There are a number of locations and complexities to be experienced. Hang free in the treetops as you glide through a forest under the watchful eye of your guides/operators. Some include pickup from different spots on the beach, or combine the experience with an ATV adventure.

Centro Pan-Americano de Idiomas

(3 campuses - Flamingo has a CPI campus on the northern Pacific coast.

The CPI method emphasizes conversation and provides the students the opportunity to speak Spanish from their first moment in class. We tailor our programs to the academic goals of the student. The professors are open to teaching survival skills and grammatical structures which are most important to students.  Mastering difficult concepts is facilitated by the small class size
(Average of 2 students, 4 maximum).

Classes are taught in 5-day series, 4 hours per day. The conversations are guided by the professors and are supplemented by oral and written exercises as well as other activities in which the students can practice what they have learned. CPI's programs are designed for students of different levels (beginner, intermediate, and advanced) with time periods of 2, 4, 6, 8 or more weeks".

The 4, 6, and 8 week programs are complete, structured courses and are directed toward the specific needs of the students. The 2 week beginner program is a course in "survival" Spanish.