Playa Grande Costa Rica Itinerary 4 Days: Beach, Nature, Surf!

After driving around much of Costa Rica recently, a sandy beach without crowds was the perfect complement to Monteverde and La Fortuna! Our Playa Grande Costa Rica itinerary is a great fit for 4 or so days with all you need to make the most of this beautiful less traveled Pacific Ocean spot. Honestly, this stunning natural beach stretches for miles, and we loved it!

Located within the protected Las Baulas National Marine Park, Playa Grande, Costa Rica, is home to a wealth of wildlife habitats. Close to the hub of Tamarindo town, with loads of great water-based activities from surfing to sailing & fishing, it’s a place to relax and have fun.

Get over to Tamarindo by a daytime taxi boat service or a leisurely drive around the river of about 30 minutes.

This article is an exciting Playa Grande Itinerary for a first visit. We have organized things to do into a fun-packed day-to-day guide to plan a perfect stay.

Where Is Playa Grande?

Playa Grande is located on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, just north of Tamarindo, the largest town in the area called Guanacaste.  

It is located within a Marine National Park, which means that mass development is not permitted. This is why coming here is such a popular choice if you want a beach that is very natural and not spilling over with tourists.

How To Get to Playa Grande

The easiest ways to get here are either to fly or to drive. Private Shuttles also run between main Costa Rican towns like Monteverde and La Fortuna as a 3rd option. There are no train services.

By Plane:

The 2 main airports you will likely choose to fly into are San Jose and Liberia.

• Fly into Daniel Oduber Liberia Airport (LIR). Collect a rental car from the airport and drive directly to Playa Grande.  
• Fly to San Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San Jose, the capital city. Then take a transfer flight over to Tamarindo with Sansa Air, which takes around 50 minutes. This is a good option if you are not interested in driving in Costa Rica.

➡️ Check here for Availability and Prices Of Flights to Costa Rica.

If you prefer not to drive yourself from the airport, prebook a transfer from Liberia Airport to your hotel. Plan on 1 hour and 30 minutes for this journey.

By Road:

Alternatively, if you are planning to visit Playa Grande as part of a longer trip around the country, our Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary has all the details of how to include Playa Grande with time in La Fortuna and Monteverde.

So, if you are driving here, the main route into Tamarindo & Playa Grande from Monteverde will take around 4 hours. You take Ruta 606 from Sana Elena, linking into Route (Highway) 1.

Continue on this route through the town of Filadelphia and follow the signs to Playa Grande. There is also a southern route (see map above), but both take around the same time, as you can see.

Finally, you will drive the last few miles on an unpaved, rough road with some potholes, so it will take you around 30-40  minutes to cover this last short section. (All part of the adventure!)

If you are visiting during the rainy season, expect some flooded areas on unpaved coastal roads and potential delays on main routes too. 

Day 1 – Playa Grande Beach

You will likely have a long day of travel to get to Playa Grande. So, our itinerary for your first day is all about relaxing on this beautiful sandy beach.

Walk On The Beach & Dip Into The Ocean

The walk along Playa Grande beach is simply stunning early in the day.   You may be surprised to find it pretty much deserted other than birds and maybe a few early surfers.  Walk away from the river intersection & Tamarindo to go further up the beach, and you may well see a turtle nest.

Why not take a dip or have a refreshing swim? There are also many shells scattered along the beach here, so if you love shelling, you’re in for a treat.

The sea temperatures here are warm, expect low 80sF, which is very pleasant.

Take A Surf Lesson On Playa Grande

The waves at Playa Grande are some of the best, so whether you are keen to learn to surf or are a more experienced surfer, it’s a great spot.   Book a lesson via your hotel or contact Playa Grande Surf Camp directly.

Surfboards and rashguards are provided; it’s easy to give it a try! You can also rent a board for around $10.

Those 13 years and older are welcome to join adult classes.

Toast A Playa Grande Sunset

After some relaxing in a hammock back at your accommodation, return to the beach for a sundowner cocktail and afterward enjoy dinner in Playa Grande. 

As the beach faces southwest, it’s possible to watch a beautiful sunset most nights.  However, be aware that due to turtle activity, the beach is closed to humans at 6 pm every night, reopening at 6 am!

Top Places to Eat in Playa Grande

To give you a sense of the variety, here are some of the places we enjoyed eating at in Playa Grande. Most are casual. In low season, you don’t need to book, but during busy season call ahead to get a table especially if you’re part of a larger group.

Cafe Mar Azul – is next door to Hotel El Manglar, so if you are staying here, this is a handy breakfast and lunch spot. Their food is freshly made to order.

El Huerto – this is a wonderful restaurant in Playa Grande with a reputation (rightly so) for delicious pizzas. They are huge so be warned! Great service and plenty of options for non pizza fans!

Sugaree’s Bar & Grill – located with The Grateful Dead Hotel, this is a themed bar and restaurant based on the popular California Band.  They have a great menu of food and although a little pricey, it’s delicious.  Most nights you can also enjoy live music at this spot.

Night Market – if you like delving into local fresh street food, head to Playa Grande Night Market on a Wednesday. With live music, stalls, and food, you’ll enjoy a fun and cheap night out. It is held at the Playa Grande Beach Club.

Day 2 – Explore Tamarindo

To get to this lively touristy town, either drive (allow 30 mins) or walk down Playa Grande beach to the river junction.  Once here, you will see small taxi boats moored here. 

Just wave and they will come to you. Jump on the 1-minute boat taxi transfer to Tamarindo town. It will cost you $1-2pp and it’s fast and fun. (The last taxi is at 4pm).

If you drive to Tamarindo, you should be able to find parking on the streets just a block back from the beach (near where Thursday’s Night Market is located).

We haven’t had any issues parking here. However, be prepared to walk a block or two at busier times and during weekends when more local residents come to their beach.

If you want to enjoy brunch or coffee after getting here just find a spot along the beachfront – there are plenty of options.  We loved the fresh fruit smoothies at Witch’s Rock!

Fun Activities in Tamarindo

Did you know that when you’re on the beach in Tamarindo you are in the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge? So be on the lookout for wildlife as you enjoy this vibrant beach which has lots of activities on offer.

Horse Riding on the Beach

You will see horses on the beach ready to take you on a guided ride. It’s a relaxing and unique way to explore life by the shore if you wish.

➡️ Check here for Availability and Prices For Beach Horseback Tours

You can also make your way through other local forest trails or between beaches.

Surfing, Paddleboarding or Sailing Playa Grande

If you didn’t try surfing yesterday, maybe check out the several surf camps in Tamarindo (they are all over the beach) and book yourself in.  

➡️ Check here for Availability and Prices For Surf Lesson Tamarindo

Alternatively, there are multiple water-based activities for all levels of experience including sailing and paddle boarding. Take your pick!

Relaxing Tamarindo Beach Massage

Don’t miss a great massage as you relax on the beach at Tamarindo. It’s great value and we found our massage therapists to be professional and friendly.  

We highly recommend Mey and her team.  Contact them via WhatsApp on +506 8778 4332.

Taramindo Galleries and Shopping

There is no shortage of shopping opportunities in town!

The main boulevard that runs along the beach side has a wide selection of boutiques, art galleries, markets and typical souvenir outlets. 

Good Places to Eat in Tamarindo

Tamarindo has a reputation for being a great place for a night out. You will find a huge selection of cafes, bars, restaurants, and live music venues. There are also fantastic waterfront spots for lunch.

Alternatively, if you prefer a quieter evening, choose a casual restaurant, on the beach and enjoy dinner to the sound of the waves.

Tabu Restaurant – a perfect lunch spot on Tamarindo Beach. As you are right on the sands, sit back and watch surfers, boats, and at the end of the afternoon, a stunning sunset. 

Look out for local wildlife too – we spotted this little squirrel while having lunch here.

Night Market in Tamarindo (Thursdays 5.30-8.30 pm). If you like delving into local fresh street food, then come to the Tamarindo Thursday night market.

With music, stalls, and food, you’ll enjoy a fun and cheap night out.

Green Papaya Taco Bar, Tamarindo – excellent fresh menu with lots of veggie options available. The outdoor seating area is imaginative including bar swings.

Naans and Curries – another highly rated option is this authentic, affordable Indian restaurant.

Day 3 – Discover Nature – Cruises & Turtles

Enjoy a couple of hours on the beach or around your hotel pool this morning. Maybe return for another surf lesson 🙂

Afterward, if you feel energetic, kayak or take to the water on a mangrove cruise tour around Playa Grande and Tamarindo.  

Boat Safari from Playa Grande

Enjoy 2 hours exploring the Tamarindo / Playa Grande estuary lined with mangroves and abundant birds and wildlife.  Look out for crocodiles and howler monkeys too.

Your boat captain also acts as a nature guide and shares interesting information as you sail gently through stunning waterways.

➡️ Check here for Safari Cruise Availability and Prices

Night Time Turtle Conservation Excursion (Oct to Mar)

In the 1990s, Las Baulas National Marine Park was established to protect giant leatherback turtles coming ashore to nest on Playa Grande. 

However, with the pace of development in next-door Tamarindo, the turtles stopped coming to this site although other types can still be seen in smaller numbers.

Taking a Night-time Turtle Tour with an officially qualified guide is a fantastic experience and one we highly recommend during your stay here.

Expect to drive north of Playa Grande to quieter beach areas within the park. Guides will look for turtle activity as you wait. Then, when sighted, you get to observe (from a distance) as they make a nest, lay eggs, and/or make their way back into the ocean.

It’s a bucket list experience to see these amazing turtles in the wild and a reminder of how important it is to help protect their habitat.

Day 4 – Adventures & Relaxation

Snorkeling (or Scuba Diving) at Catalina Islands

If you love snorkeling or scuba diving, book yourself on an adventure a few miles offshore.

Exploring the underwater world off Guanacaste on a half-day snorkeling or scuba diving trip to the Catalina Islands is a must. The waters here are teeming with marine life, including rays, turtles, and colorful fish.

It doesn’t matter if you are not experienced in snorkeling. Guides will assist you and all equipment is provided by the tour operator.

Sunset Cruise From Playa Grande

Wind down with a relaxing sunset sailboat cruise along the coast. Many tours offer the chance to enjoy lunch while you take in the stunning views of the coastline.

You get on a small boat and transfer to a larger sailboat moored just offshore.

➡️Check prices and availability for sunset cruises.

And there is the bonus of possible dolphin sightings and other wildlife encounters around these beautiful waters.

Spa Afternoon in Playa Grande

Maybe life on the ocean isn’t for you, so why not unwind with a relaxing spa treatment? Several resorts and hotels in Playa Grande offer luxurious spa services, such as beachfront massages, facials, and body scrubs. 

El Manglar Hotel runs yoga classes a few times a week.  Check locally for the timings during your stay in Playa Grande.

Love Food? Take A Local Cooking Class

If you enjoy cooking and learning about different flavours around the world, here’s a great activity to check out while in Playa Grande.

Consider booking a cooking class to experiment with local ingredients and create a traditional Costa Rican meal. Cook and enjoy a 3-course meal.

➡️ Check Cooking Class Availability and Prices.

Full-Day Adventure Trips From Playa Grande

If you have more time or would like to swap out any of the above activities, it is possible to book a day tour to other parts of Costa Rica.  

Here are a couple of Costa Rica classics that we suggest if you are not visiting La Fortuna or Monteverde where similar activities are available. If you plan to visit these please read our articles:

3 Days in La Fortuna Itinerary – packed full of hikes, waterfalls, sloth sightings, and Lake Arenal activities.

Zip-Lining and Canopy Tour

Several tour operators offer zip-lining experiences that take you soaring above the treetops, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the lush forest and possible glimpses of wildlife below.

Marvel At Rincon De La Vieja Volcano

Volcanoes are dotted across Costa Rica and are fascinating to visit. We particularly love Poas Volcano and of course, Arenal (La Fortuna) which we include in our Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary.

However, if you are not able to visit these destinations or are looking for new adventures, consider this Day Trip to Rincon de la Vieja National Park. 

The park is home to an active volcano, hot springs, mud baths, and waterfalls. It’s a fantastic place for hiking and exploring unique geothermal features, making it a perfect option for nature lovers.

➡️Check availability and prices for Rincon de La Vieja National Park Trip.

Where To Stay In Playa Grande

This is a small town located within a Marine National Park. As a result, accommodation options tend to be low-key, relaxing and so you won’t find big resorts here!

What you will find are some small authentic hotels and resorts along with private homes that you can rent via VRBO for a larger group.

📍 Palm Beach Inn 

If you enjoy a smaller beach hotel with limited facilities (no restaurants on site), check out Palm Beach Inn.  Their rooms are well equipped with blenders (buy some fruit and make a morning smoothie). The concierge will help organize activities and tours.

📍El Manglar Hotel – a quiet, casual hotel tucked away in Playa Grande with a private pathway to the beach. Book a larger room with a balcony, seating, and kitchen facilities as standard rooms are cramped with limited storage.

There is no on-site restaurant but there are a couple of great options next door to use which are convenient. Concierge on site. 

📍 ONDA Adults Only – 1 minute from the beach, this hotel offers a range of rooms and is a great option for groups as they have some rooms for 4 and even 6 people.  

📍Villa Kalei – 1.4 miles from Playa Grande Beach. There are 4 villas to choose from in beautiful grounds.

Another option is to rent a house for your family group. Check availability and prices on the VBRo App for listings in Playa Grande.

If you prefer larger hotels, these are plentiful in Tamarindo both with beach front facilities and several further inland with a quieter vibe. Explore Beach Hotels in Tamarindo.

FAQ

Costa Rica is a top global travel destination. With the expansion of Liberia Airport, nearby Pacific Coast and the lure of Blue Zone Nicoya Peninsula this area has opened up.

Want More Pacific Coast Vibes?

In our view, Playa Grande reflects the natural beauty of the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. Its sweeping sandy beaches and lack of built-up seafront infrastructure are a real plus to help you unwind. 

Why not check out the similar vibe in coastal Sayulita, on Mexico’s Pacific shores. Our itinerary has all you need to get ready for 3 days in town or at a nearby secluded resort.

Playa Grande- Making It Happen!

If it’s helpful to planning your trip to this beautiful part of Costa Rica here are our top recommended resources. We use these ourselves again and again, otherwise we wouldn’t suggest them to you!

For more great travel planning tools check our full list for more tips and ideas.