Best Attractions to Explore in Las Catalinas, Costa Rica!

Are you dreaming of a tropical getaway filled with sun-kissed beaches, unspoiled natural beauty, and a charming atmosphere? Las Catalinas, Costa Rica, is your premier destination.

You want guidance from someone who knows the ins and outs of the beautiful destination and can navigate its streets and uncover its hidden treasures. However, with countless travel guides and blogs online, finding reliable information can take time and effort.

At Find My Costa Rica, we understand the frustration of planning the perfect vacation. That’s why, as travel experts, we use our deep-rooted knowledge of Las Catalinas to be your trusted guides.

Keep reading to discover why you should visit Las Catalinas on your next vacation.

Enjoy the natural environment, stunning architecture, and first-class amenities that Las Catalinas has to offer.

What Is So Special About Las Catalinas, Costa Rica?

Las Catalinas is a newly constructed beach town situated along the Guanacaste coast. It emphasizes a balanced lifestyle focused on health, sustainability, and fun.

This vibrant town comprises homes, shops, restaurants, small hotels, plazas, parks, and recreational facilities seamlessly integrated into its breathtaking natural surroundings.

Unlike many destinations, this town is designed for outdoor living, with architecture adapted to make the most of the sunny climate.

Moreover, this is a walkable town. As such, you won’t find motorized vehicles. This allows you to explore on foot without the noise and hassle of traffic.

Las Catalinas Hidden Gems You Need to See

There are countless gems that make Las Catalinas a paradisiac destination, but these are our top picks:

Beaches

Playa Danta

Playa Danta, or Danta Beach, is the main beach. It’s a popular location for surfing, snorkeling, diving, paddle boarding, kayaking, and boogie boarding. On the beach, you can rent all the equipment you need and schedule lessons in these water sports.

Enjoy the view of the Pacific ocean by taking a stroll on Playa Danta.

Playa Dantita

This hidden gem is a gorgeous spot to unwind and enjoy the beauty of this paradise. With its soft sands, clear waters, and magnificent cliffs, Playa Dantita provides a secluded retreat where you can relax, explore tide pools, or soak up the sun in peace.

Spend the day at Playa Dantita and have the entire beach to yourself.

Mountains

Hiking trails

Las Catalinas offers 6 hiking trails for hikers and nature lovers of all levels. The easiest one is Punta Penca, which is 1.3 kilometers long and allows you to enjoy views along Playa Danta and the Las Catalinas Beach Club.

Moving to the western side, moderate trails like Playa Dantita Loop, Punta Guachipelines Loop, and La Cresta Loop offer routes ranging from 2.3 to 4.3 kilometers.

On the other hand, the McHenry Peak Loop is a steep hiking trail that offers a short yet challenging climb. On the east side, you’ll find the El Cielo Loop, the toughest at 12.5 kilometers long with a 200-meter elevation gain.

The hiking trails of Las Catalinas offer an unforgettable outdoor adventure for all!

Mountain biking trails

Las Catalinas is a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts, offering over 22 miles of world-class, single-track trails winding through its stunning landscapes.

These trails are meticulously crafted with sustainability in mind. They feature a moderate grade that offers thrilling rides without exhausting climbs.

Get ready to enjoy breathtaking coastline views and lush foliage. Also, keep your eyes open because you might see native wildlife like monkeys, deer, and exotic birds.

Experience the thrill of mountain biking amidst the stunning landscapes of Las Catalinas.

Exclusive experiences

Las Catalinas Beach Club

At the Las Catalinas Beach Club, you enjoy the best of coastal living. There is a 25-meter lap pool with four swim lanes, an adult lounging pool with plenty of seating and cozy lounge chairs, and an exercise room to help you stay active even on vacation.

If you’re traveling with your family, the kids’ play pool is perfect because it has lifeguards who keep a watchful eye on the children.

Furthermore, you can have delicious meals at the Beach Club restaurant or grab a drink at the cocktail bar. Do you need a venue for a special event? The octagonal pavilion is available for private gatherings!

Las Catalinas Beach Club is a haven of relaxation and recreation for visitors and residents alike.

Celeste Restaurant

Situated on Playa Danta, Celeste Restaurant offers beachfront dining with an emphasis on excellent food. You can have fresh and locally sourced dishes while enjoying a stunning sunset.

Celeste Restaurant is the perfect place for a casual meal, a romantic dinner, or a special celebration.

Sunset Sail

Every Wednesday from 2 pm to 6 pm, Las Catalinas invites guests to a thrilling Sunset Sail. You can snorkel in calm waters, kayak along breathtaking coastlines, and paddleboard under the warm tropical sun.

Grab your swimsuit and sunscreen and sail off into the magic of Las Catalinas!

Plan Your Trip to Las Catalinas with Find My Costa Rica!

Las Catalinas offers premier and diverse experiences, allowing you to enjoy the best outdoor adventures, dining experiences, and moments of relaxation.

At Find My Costa Rica, we use our expertise and insider knowledge to help you craft a personalized itinerary tailored to your preferences in this spectacular town.

Contact Find My Costa Rica today, and let us help you plan the perfect getaway. Turn your dream vacation into a reality!

FAQ

1. What are the best things to do in Las Catalinas?

The best things to do in Las Catalinas are to relax on fantastic beaches, explore scenic hiking trails, snorkel in deep waters, and try delicious cuisine at local restaurants. Additionally, shopping at Las Catalinas Collection allows you to find handmade crafts, artisanal goods, and souvenirs.

2. Where can you stay in Las Catalinas?

You can stay in boutique hotels, luxury villas, and charming rental homes, all designed to provide a comfortable and memorable stay amidst the natural beauty of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.

3. How do you get to Las Catalinas, Costa Rica?

Getting to Las Catalinas is easy because it’s located approximately 45 minutes from Liberia International Airport (LIR). As such, you can easily rent a car or arrange private transportation from the airport to Las Catalinas.

4. Is Las Catalinas suitable for family vacations?

Yes, Las Catalinas is suitable for family vacations. It has beautiful beaches, safe swimming areas, and various outdoor activities for all ages. You’ll enjoy quality time together in a beautiful and relaxed setting.

Where we Ate (and loved) in Tamarindo 

Tamarindo’s culinary scene was a standout. A few of our favorite spots included:

  • Pangas Beach Club – perfect for dinner with your toes in the sand
  • Mercadito de Tamarindo – trendy food court with something for everyone
  • Green Papagayo Taco Bar or Little Lucha Taqueria – Street Tacos with lively  atmosphere
  • Dragonfly Bar & Grill – seasonal menus and a refined but welcoming atmosphere
  • El Chiringuito (Beach Bar) – relaxed beachfront lunch spot with fresh seafood and cold drinks – Great for sunset 
  • The Roof – Pizzeria with  breathtaking view of the whole town and ocean views. Great for sunset
  • Nogui’s: Beachfront classic serving up a mix of Costa Rican favorites and international fare. Known for its laid-back vibe, ocean views,.
  • Noi or Costa Juice is great for fresh local juices  and breakfasts. Costa Juice has air conditioning so nice for a quick stop on a hot afternoon or morning to cool off inside witha cold tropical juice.  
child drinking coconut on tamarindo beach

Is Tamarindo Safe for Travelers?

Tamarindo is a vibrant beach town with something for everyone—from rowdy surf nights to relaxing family vacations. Its mix of visitors includes solo adventurers, backpackers, surfers, and plenty of families and couples.

While the overall vibe is welcoming and safe, it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings, especially after dark. The town’s nightlife is centered around the main bar strip, which gets particularly busy from Thursday through Sunday. If you’re traveling with children or prefer a calmer scene, consider avoiding those areas late at night.

Keep your personal items close, don’t leave valuables in your car, and never leave belongings unattended on the beach—even for a quick swim. Holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter (Semana Santa) bring in larger crowds and, unfortunately, a higher risk of theft. Be extra cautious during these peak times to keep your things safe.

Tamarindo remains a favorite destination for travelers of all ages—but like any popular tourist town, a little awareness goes a long way in ensuring a smooth, enjoyable trip.

Overall vibe? Tamarindo is lively, walkable, and full of charm. It strikes a great balance between laid-back beach life and plenty of activity—perfect for couples, families, or groups looking for a flexible coastal base with great access to excursions, dining, and wellness all wrapped up in a lively  beach  town.

Need help planning Tamarindo itineraries?

We offer custom packages that combine beach time, surf, diving, adventure, and top-rated stays.

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