Papagayo Peninsula: Best Things To Do & Where To Stay

Things To Do on The Papagayo Peninsula

Explore Beaches, Bays, and Inlets

The little inlets and coves that line the emerald-green waters of the Pacific make the views here particularly stunning. While many of Guanacaste’s beaches are coveted by surfers, those on the Gulf of Papagayo are protected, making them great for families with children. All of Costa Rica’s beaches are public, but because the Peninsula is gated the beaches here are more secluded. Relax on the peninsula’s stunning beaches, such as Playa Nacascolo, Playa Prieta, and Playa Blanca. Enjoy soft sands, turquoise waters, and secluded coves perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

On Culebra Bay, within the Gulf of Papagayo, is Marina Papagayo, the first and currently only luxury marina in Costa Rica. Built with an environmentally-conscious blueprint, the little marina blends seamlessly with the vibrant bays and inlets of the gulf.

Beach Activities

Papagayo Peninsula beaches are safe, private, and generally calm. The year-round warm waters surrounding the Papagayo Peninsula are ideal for those who love to spend time on the beach. There are a plethora of activities to pursue while spending time in the sand: kayaking, fishing, scuba, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and more. The calm waters around the peninsula are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking, allowing you to explore hidden beaches and coastal caves.

Expert Recommendation: Explore the local beaches on the peninsula by kayak. We recommend checking out Playa Nacascolo, voted one of 2014’s most beautiful beaches by Travel & Leisure. You can borrow a kayak and snorkel equipment from your hotel. And don’t forget to have them pack you a picnic!

Indulge in Luxury Resorts & Spas

The Papagayo Peninsula is home to some of Costa Rica’s most luxurious resorts and spas, offering an exquisite blend of tropical serenity and world-class hospitality. Nestled along pristine beaches and lush hillsides, resorts like the Four Seasons and Andaz Papagayo provide lavish accommodations, infinity pools with ocean views, and exclusive access to championship golf courses and private beaches. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments inspired by natural elements, from volcanic mud wraps to rainforest aromatherapy massages, all set against breathtaking coastal landscapes.

Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Sail along the coastline on a luxury catamaran, enjoy a cocktail, and watch the sun dip into the Pacific Ocean while dolphins play in the waves.

Sport Fishing

Sportfishing from the Papagayo Peninsula offers an exceptional experience for anglers of all levels, with the region’s rich waters teeming with a variety of fish species. Known for its prime location in the Gulf of Papagayo, the peninsula provides access to both inshore and offshore fishing opportunities. Fishermen can target species such as marlin, sailfish, tuna, dorado, and snapper, while coastal waters are home to roosterfish and snook. Local charter boats, staffed with experienced captains and crew, offer half-day and full-day trips tailored to fishing preferences.

Ziplining & Canopy Tours

Experience an adrenaline rush by gliding through the treetops at nearby adventure parks like Diamante Eco Adventure Park. Diamante’s nearly one-mile-long Superman-style zipline ride features dual lines so you can share the adventure with a loved one, soaring side by side.

Explore Rincon de la Vieja National Park

Take a day trip to this volcanic park to hike through lush forests, see bubbling mud pots, soak in hot springs, and even go horseback riding or tubing down the rivers. Rincón de la Vieja National Park is renowned for its exceptional hiking trails, which offer a combination of beautiful weather, diverse flora and fauna, and stunning panoramic views. Hikers can explore volcanic features like boiling mud pools and fumaroles while benefiting from the expertise of knowledgeable guides.

Go Wildlife Watching

The Papagayo Peninsula is rich in biodiversity, offering diverse wildlife on land and in the sea. In the tropical dry forest, you can spot howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, iguanas, coatis, and exotic birds. The nearby waters are teeming with marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and various fish species. The peninsula is home to rich biodiversity, making it ideal for nature lovers.

Golfing Arnold Palmer Golf Course

Golfing on the Papagayo Peninsula offers an unparalleled experience, blending world-class course design with breathtaking ocean and jungle views. The premier course, designed by Arnold Palmer, seamlessly integrates the region’s natural beauty, featuring rolling fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and strategic bunkers that challenge golfers of all skill levels.

When To Visit The Papagayo Peninsula

The best time to visit the Papagayo Peninsula is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This period offers sunny, warm weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities like beach lounging, water sports, and sport fishing. The dry season also provides clear skies and calm waters, perfect for exploring the coastline or heading out on a boat tour. However, for those who prefer fewer crowds and a more serene experience, the green season (May to October) is still a good option, although there’s more rainfall. Rain tends to come in short bursts, typically in the afternoon, and the lush greenery during this time can be quite beautiful.

How To Get To Papagayo Peninsula

Papagayo Peninsula and the nearby Bay of Papagayo is less than a 1-hour drive from the Liberia International Airport making it a quick and easy transfer to your hotel and the beach. El Mangroove Hotel, on the Bay of Papagayo, is located just 20 minutes from the Liberia International Airport.