Are you seeking an unforgettable tropical escape with adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation? Las Catalinas is the perfect destination.
But with so many options available, planning your itinerary can feel overwhelming. After all, you want to make the most of your time in this breathtaking beach town.
At Find My Costa Rica, we’re travel experts who know everything there’s to know about most Costa Rican destinations. We’re here to help you, and with our expert advice and insider tips, we’ll ensure your visit is nothing short of amazing.
Let us show you the best things to do in Las Catalinas, Costa Rica, to make your vacation a dream come true.
What Makes Las Catalinas a Special Place to Visit?
Las Catalinas offers a combination of natural beauty and tranquility. The town is surrounded by lush forests and stunning ocean views, providing a serene escape from everyday life.
There are many outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Here, you can go surfing, paddleboarding, hiking, or exploring scenic trails. Additionally, it’s a car-free town that celebrates the beauty of simple living and sustainable practices.
Top 10 Things to Do During Your Stay in Las Catalinas
Exploring Las Catalinas? Take a look at some of the top things you can do during your vacation:
#1 Explore the beaches
Las Catalinas is home to beautiful beaches like Playa Danta and Playa Dantita. Playa Danta, the main beach in the area, attracts adventurers and water sports enthusiasts alike because of the possibility to practice surfing, snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and boogie boarding.
Meanwhile, for a more secluded and intimate beach day, you can take a short hike to Playa Dantita, a smaller but stunning beach tucked away in the rainforest. It offers tranquility and solitude amidst the breathtaking scenery.
#2 Have fun with outdoor adventures
Hiking
Hiking in Las Catalinas offers a thrilling way to experience the town’s breathtaking landscapes. With six trails to choose from, ranging in difficulty and length, it’s easy to find the perfect one for you.
Check out Punta Penca, a 1.3-kilometer trail along Playa Danta, and the Las Catalinas Beach Club for a relaxed coastal stroll. On the west side, moderate trails like Playa Dantita Loop, Punta Guachipelines Loop, and La Cresta Loop provide a bit more challenge, ranging from 2.3 to 4.3 kilometers.
If you’re up for a more challenging climb, tackle the McHenry Peak Loop for panoramic views from the summit. Or, for a real challenge, take on El Cielo Loop on the east side, a 12.5-kilometer trail with a 200-meter elevation.
Mountain biking
If you’re a mountain biker, you’ll likely find paradise in Las Catalinas. The town has over 22 miles of world-class, sustainably built, single-track trails that offer a moderate-grade ride.
While riding, you can see the surrounding foliage and might have the opportunity to spot native wildlife, including monkeys, deer, and birds.
Horseback riding
Experience an unforgettable horseback riding excursion through the scenic landscapes of La Estancia and Sugar Beach. Led by experienced guides, the journey begins with a ride along the hillside of Vivero La Estancia, providing panoramic views of the untouched tropical dry forests and an ocean viewpoint.
#3 Enjoy water sports
Snorkeling & scuba diving
Snorkeling and scuba diving are must-do activities because of the clear waters and diverse marine life here.
For one, snorkeling along the coastline reveals colorful fish and coral reefs in shallow waters, offering a close-up view of underwater beauty. On the other hand, scuba diving takes you deeper, where you can discover rocky formations, caves, and diverse marine species like turtles and sharks.
Sailboat
Sailing is a fantastic way to enjoy the coastal scenery and ocean waters. At Find My Costa Rica, we take you along the stunning Gold Coast of Costa Rica with our Sunset Catamaran Sailing and Snorkeling in Guanacaste. We pass by beautiful bays, white sandy beaches, and lush jungles. Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, and maybe even a whale!
We’ll take a break in a peaceful bay where you can swim, snorkel, or stroll along the deserted beach.
While you enjoy the water, our friendly crew will prepare a delicious feast, including chicken or pasta salad, fresh fruit, chips, salsa, guacamole, and homemade chocolate chip cookies.
As the sun sets, we’ll set sail on the Marlin Del Rey Sailing Catamarans, and you can listen to the waves while admiring the beautiful colors in the sky. Come on this fantastic trip with us!
#4 Experience fine cuisine
In Las Catalinas, experiencing fine cuisine is an essential part of the experience. The options seem endless, with many restaurants, cocktail bars, cafes, and bakeries. Papagayo Brew House, Celeste Restaurant, Ponciana, Sentido Norte, and Coquelicot are some of the top culinary destinations you need to try.
#5 Take a yoga class
Taking a yoga class offers the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate body and mind against stunning ocean views and tropical landscapes.
You can start the day with a yoga session with waves in the background. Here, you can practice Hatha, Kundalini, Yin, Vinyasa, and Restorative yoga. As you move through the poses, you’ll feel connected to the natural beauty around you.
#6 Go shopping
While exploring the town, you’ll find various shops offering clothing, accessories, furniture, and home decor.
For those searching for beachwear and trendy accessories, look no further than Las Catalinas Collection. Here, you’ll find a curated selection of stylish options to elevate your wardrobe and beach essentials.
Next door to Santarena Hotel, Chunches Consignment offers a unique shopping experience with luxury clothing and household items available for consignment.
D-Aquí Design Studio showcases handmade furniture, kitchenware, linens, and other furnishings, perfect for adding a touch of Costa Rican charm to your home. Each piece is crafted with care, offering both functionality and style.
#7 Unwind at the beach club
Fully equipped for fun, fitness, and recreation, the Beach Club has impressive amenities like a 25-meter lap pool, kids’ play pool, exercise room, and an octagonal pavilion for special occasions. This place has everything you need for a memorable day by the sea.
#8 Enjoy a day at the spa
Treat yourself to a massage and enjoy some relaxation in this coastal haven. Skilled therapists are ready to help you relax with a variety of massage options, including lymphatic, Thai, or energy healing.
#9 Take a cooking class
A cooking class is an excellent way to learn about Costa Rican cuisine and culture. Various options are available, including at-home sessions and special events like holiday-themed classes. You’ll gain useful skills and recipes to enjoy.
#10 Explore the town
This charming town welcomes you with car-free streets designed for pedestrians. Passages lead to picturesque plazas and breathtaking ocean views, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of our surroundings. Along the way, you’ll encounter friendly locals and visitors from around the globe.
Plan Your Dream Vacation in Las Catalinas!
Las Catalinas offers unforgettable experiences for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.
As you plan your dream vacation to this coastal town, let Find My Costa Rica be your guide. With our expertise and local knowledge, we can tailor your itinerary to ensure you make the most of your time in this paradisiac destination.
Contact Find My Costa Rica and let us turn your vacation dreams into reality. Plan your escape now!
FAQ
1. When is the best time to visit Las Catalinas?
The best time to visit Las Catalinas is during the dry season (December to April) because there are more sunny days, warm temperatures, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as beach-going, hiking, and exploring the town. However, this destination can be enjoyed year-round.
2. Are Las Catalinas a family-friendly vacation spot?
Yes! Las Catalinas is a family-friendly vacation spot. It is a car-free town with a safe and welcoming atmosphere and various activities suitable for all ages. Everyone in your family will have something to do here.
3. How many days are enough in Las Catalinas?
A 3-5 day visit is enough time to experience the town’s offerings. It’s the perfect time to explore beaches, participate in outdoor activities, or dine at different restaurants.
4. How do you get to Las Catalinas, Costa Rica?
Getting to Las Catalinas is easy. The town is approximately 45 minutes from Liberia International Airport (LIR) and 2.5 hours from San Jose International Airport (SJO).
As such, the most convenient way to reach Las Catalinas is by flying into one of these airports and then arranging ground transportation to the town. Moreover, you can rent a car or hire a private shuttle service.
