At Coastal Realty & Property Management, we’ve been providing Playa Hermosa real estate services since 2006, so we thought we’d share some advice for friends looking to visit for the first time.
Second and third-time visitors might enjoy these thoughts as well, because there’s so much going on that is easy to miss.
Getting to Our Playa Hermosa Vacation Rentals
Playa Hermosa Costa Rica is located very close to the Liberia International Airport and just north of Playa del Coco.
Vacation rentals in Playa del Coco have access to Playa Hermosa amenities as long as you have a vehicle.
If you would like us to manage your property, please see our Playa Hermosa Property Management services.
With tons of direct flights from both North America and Europe, you have two choices to fly into the country:
Daniel Oduber International Airport – Liberia
This airport is located about 30 drive to Playa Hermosa and you can optionally take the route passing through Playa del Coco if you want to get a feel for the little town and restaurants there. The drive is picturesque, with many Guanacaste sugar cane plantations visible as well as local town squares and soccer fields along the way.
Juan Santamaria International Airport – San Jose
This airport is about a 4-hour drive from Playa Hermosa The drive will take you through the mountain range that runs the length of Central America though regional capital of Liberia. It’s also quite scenic and there are plenty of restaurants and pitstops along the way.
If you’re flying to San Jose and don’t intend to rent a car, you can also catch up a commuter flight (propeller plane) from San Jose to the Liberia airport on Sansa and then catch a tour bus or taxi.
Do I Need a Visa if I’m Choosing Playa Hermosa Vacation Rentals?
For quick stays, you don’t need a visa prior to arrival. You’ll be issued a tourist visa by the immigration desk at either airport. You’ll need:
- Your passport (and be sure it isn’t about to expire)
- A return ticket (print a copy of your e-ticket that clearly shows your return flight date)
- The name of your accommodations. For us, either the name of the house or the name of the Playa Hermosa condo complex will suffice.
Do I Need to Rent a Car to Get to My Playa Hermosa Vacation Rental?
We do recommend a rental car if heading to Playa Hermosa. Our Hermosa vacation rentals are all walkable to the beach, grocery stores, restaurants, shops, etc. For additional guests, we’re happy to help you reserve an airport shuttle from either airport that will take you directly to your property and return you as well.
That said, there are lots of national parks and other fun day trips where you might want a car.
If you are renting a car and cannot drive a manual transmission, be sure to consult with your rental car company. Many vehicles in Costa Rica have manual transmissions.
What Are Some Top Activities While at a Playa Hermosa Vacation Rental?
You’ve probably heard amazing things about Costa Rica and Playa Hermosa is one of the top destinations in the country. Why do so many people choose to vacation in Playa Hermosa?
The weather is amazing all year round for one thing.
Playa Hermosa
The name of the town is literally “beautiful beach.” Going to the beach is fantastic. You’ll find plenty of sand and a sandy bottom at Playa Hermosa. Where you see volcanic rock outcroppings, you’ll spot all kinds of critters in the tide pools.
You can bring your own towel and sunbathe anywhere. All Costa Rica beaches are public. You can also get a day pass for one of the private beach clubs if you want cocktail service and snacks.
Surfing
Yep. Costa Rica is surfing paradise. While Playa Hermosa itself is sheltered, you are not far at all from Witch’s Rock and Ollie’s Point. Ask for help in booking a day trip by boat. Surfboard rentals can be found easily as well.
If you have a car, you can drive to surfing beaches including Playa Grande, Little Hawaii at Playa Avellanas, and Playa Negra as well.
Nature
Amazing animals are all over the place in Tamarindo and may even be on the property at your vacation rental.
- Iguanas – Gorgeous iguanas of many colors can be found on the ground and in the trees throughout the area.
- Howler Monkeys – They migrate in packs throughout the area. It’s easy to know when they’re near due to their distinctive howl.
- Leatherback Turtles – During the season, the endangered Leatherback nests at Playa Grande. You must be on a guided tour to be on Playa Grande at night during the season.
- Tropical Birds – You’ll find all kinds of birds in the area including Hummingbirds, Mot Mots, which have distinctive tails, and various parrot species. The local equivalent of a Blue Jay is also ever-present and may beg for crackers if you’re eating outside.
- Whales & Dolphins – You’ll see Dolphins in the surf and larger whale species may spout further out in Tamarindo Bay when they’re around.
Dining
Playa Hermosa has a number of restaurants, but is a bit sleepy overall. Nearby Playa del Coco has more nightlife and additional restaurants.
If you plan to make a day/evening trip to cultural hub, Tamarindo, check out our Top 10 Tamarindo Costa Rica Restaurants of 2023 article for some tips.
In Playa Hermosa, you’ll find:
La Casita del Marisco: One of the best seafood restaurants in town.
Address: Guanacaste Province, Playa Hermosa
AquaSport: Perfect spot for cocktails. Vegetarian options available.
Address: Beachfront, Guanacaste Province, Playa Hermosa, 50503
Pescado Loco Bar And Resturant: Family owned restaurant, food is cooked fresh.
Address: Guanacaste Province, Playa Hermosa,
Bar Restaurante El Velero: Great views — don’t miss Taco Thursday!
Address: Bar Restaurante El Velero, Guanacaste Province, Playa Hermosa
Verde Smart Eating: if you are looking for healthy options, you can’t miss this place
Address: Verde Smart Eating, Centro Comercial Hermosa del Mar, Playa Hermosa
You’ll also find amazing fresh fruits and vegetables at the local restaurants and supermarkets:
Cantaloupe (Melon)
Watermelon
Beats (Beets)
Blackberries
Strawberries
Avocados (Avocado)
When chefs from France, Brazil, Argentina, Israel, Spain, USA, Canada, and many other locations use those ingredients, you get amazing results!
Shopping
Similar to restaurants, Playa Hermosa and Playa del Coco are home to artists and clothing designers from around the world.
You’ll find interesting swimsuits and dresses.
Multiple art galleries offer both local and international paintings and sculptures.
You’ll also find street vendors selling clay pottery from nearby Guatil.
What’s Included in Our Playa Hermosa Vacation Rentals?
Vacation rentals are a great option for visitors looking for more space, privacy, relaxation, and the ability to cook and eat.
Full Kitchens & Dining Areas
Our Langosta vacation rentals generally have full kitchens. Ovens, microwaves, and refrigerators are found in all rentals. Dishwashers are present in most units. Check the individual property description or just ask. We’re happy to talk you through what each property offers.
You’ll find simpler setups in smaller condominiums and our larger homes have some amazing kitchens.
We keep kitchens stocked with cookware, utensils, and serving ware, and we keep all appliances working.
Pools
Most of our single-family homes have private swimming pools.
Condominiums have access to shared swimming pools.
Grills & BBQs
Most of our single-family home vacation rentals have outdoor grills and outdoor dining areas. Larger homes have full outdoor kitchens.
Condominiums generally have access to a shared outdoor grill.
Linens & Towels
All properties come with ample linens and towels. Sheets and towels will be swapped and beds made during maid service.
We ask that you bring your beach towels.
Washers & Dryers
All homes and most condos have private washers and dryers. Where an in-unit washer/dryer is not available, the condo complex has shared units or there is a walkable laundromat. Check the individual property description or just ask. We’re happy to talk you through what each property offers.
Toilet Paper, Cleaning Supplies, etc.
Our properties are stocked with ample paper towels, toilet paper, dish soap, dishwasher soap, and laundry detergent if applicable.
TV, Cable & Internet
Playa Hermosa internet is generally plenty fast for routine work and streaming Netflix, etc. Keep in mind that the entire area has one central line bringing both internet and power into the area, so outages occur more frequently than at your home.
Our properties have cable, TV, and private wifi. You’ll be given the password as part of check-in.
Concierge Service
Our management includes our concierge desk. We’re happy to help you with reservations, delivered groceries, arranging tours, arranging massages, in-unit cooking, Spanish lessons, and many other amenities and activities. Just ask.
We also offer: