Playa Papagayo, Costa Rica

Widely known for its dry tropical climate and majestic beaches, Papagayo’s proximity to Daniel Oduber International Airport makes the area very suitable for those wanting to maximize their vacation time by cutting down on travel time. Weddings and honeymoons are very popular in this area. Constant warm weather, mild waters, and beautiful scenery do not disappoint those arriving fresh off the plane to enjoy their getaway.

Landscape: Beaches, Tropical Dry Forest
Attractions: Popular honeymoon destination with mostly all-inclusive resorts
Activities: All-Inclusive Resorts, Sailboat Sunset Tours, Secluded Beaches
Caters to: Couples/Honeymooners, Luxury Travelers

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Traditionally known as a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers, Papagayo has become a premier destination for golfers as well, and now offers a unique relaxed charm for those interested in relaxation and tourist fun. Papagayo’s beaches rank well by the international standards for quality in regards to water quality, sand texture, scenic views and limited presense of mosquitos and other pests. If visitors want to stray from their spot on the stunning beaches or all-inclusive indulgences, tours to every corner of the country are available at any of the local hotels.

Only thirty minutes from the international airport in Liberia, Papagayo teems with natural beauty. In general people refer to the area as “Papagayo” but may call it the Gulf of Papagayo or the Peninsula Papagayo, usually according to whether they’re fans of the water based fun or the land based fun. No matter which you prefer, you’ll have plenty to choose from in Papagayo.

How to get there:

From San Jose: Take the Autopista del Sol or the Interamerican Highway from San Jose to Caldera and turn left after Puntarenas. Follow the road signs to the Friendship Bridge (Puente de la Amistad in Spanish) and cross it. Make your way to the town of Liberia (follow the signs). Turn left at the main intersection there, driving towards Santa Cruz and going south past Daniel Oduber Airport. When you get to a giant hardware store called Do-It-Center, turn right and stay on this road for approximately 26 kilometers, until you reach Papagayo Peninsula.

Fun facts:

Papagayo consists of 12 public beaches where you can find lots of great resorts and wildlife coexisting together.

This place is also known around Costa Rica for being a good example of good environmental practices. The water is tested regularly for purity, beaches are kept clean, and hotels are held to high environmental standards.

Here you will find the largest concentration of shorebirds of Central America there is also the Palo Verde National Park and the historic Santa Rosa National Park.

You will not need a rental car to visit the Papagayo area as taxis are readily available and can easily be arranged through your hotel.