Things to See & Do in Las Catalinas

Las Catalinas is on Costa Rica’s Guanacaste coast. It’s near the Pacific Ocean and about an hour from the capital city of San Jose. This new town has many natural attractions, including waterfalls, mountains, ocean views, and recreational facilities.

Whether you’re looking for a thrilling hike in nature, adrenaline pumping activities, or a romantic getaway, you can find it in Las Catalinas.

This town offers the best of both worlds: on one side, you’ll find over 1,000 acres of tropical dry forest with picturesque hills and valleys perfect for extensive hiking and cycling. And on the other, you’ll see two of Costa Rica’s finest beaches, ideal for swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, boogie-boarding, and snorkeling.

Explore one of Costa Rica exclusive communities

This village is home to a rich culture preserved for generations by Las Catalinas homeowners and full-time residents. This community is proud to welcome travelers from all over the world who have come here seeking something unique and authentic.

Enjoy an unforgettable honeymoon

For romance seekers, at Find My Costa Rica we have an immersive romantic experience prepared for you and your loved one, where you can explore the ocean, beaches, and trails, while enjoying stunning views.

Besides its quiet streets and beautiful beaches, Las Catalinas offers a variety of activities that will keep you entertained during your stay. Here, you’ll find endless opportunities for recharging and relaxing.

Experience the outdoor living

With so many open spaces, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor living at Las Catalinas. You can choose from plenty of one day tours that will take you to the tropical forest, hiking, ziplining, stand up paddleboarding, or practicing tropical mountain biking.

Also, you can explore volcanoes, go water rafting, or admire Costa Rica’s yellowstone

Visit the beaches

There are several beautiful beaches within walking distance of the town’s hotels. You can choose from soft sand or hard rock, depending on your preference. Here, you can indulge in activities like going on a catamaran tour, snorkeling, and much more. 

Take a boat tour of the islands

The Catalinas Islands are a group of islands off the coast of Costa Rica. They have some of the best diving and snorkeling in Costa Rica. You can find dive boats departing from Playas del Coco, Tamarindo, or Flamingo.

Go fishing

The fishing in Las Catalinas is world-renowned. You can fish from the beach or from one of the many boats available for hire.

Relax & unwind

At Las Catalinas, you can enjoy various activities to help you achieve your wellness goals. From yoga classes to meditation retreats, there are plenty of ways to find peace and serenity in this tropical paradise.

rafting-costa-rica
Hanging bridges Costa Rica
Costa Rica River Pool
Costa Rica Vacation Packages boat tour
Costa Rica Vacation Packages boat tour

Tips for Visiting Las Catalinas

Here are some valuable tips for visiting Las Catalinas:

How to Get Here

There are many options for getting to Las Catalinas. You can fly into Liberia airport and take a drive to the resort. If you come from Liberia, you will pass through the Monkey Trail. All you have to do is follow the Las Catalinas sign.

If you’re coming from San José, you must go through the northern end of the paved road connecting Playa Brasilito, Playa Potrero, and other points.

As a sustainable beach town, the roads may not be set up to handle increased tourism. This is to minimize the impact on the local wildlife. Additionally, since Las Catalinas is a car-free community, you’ll need to leave your vehicle outside the town and take a short walk to reach the main village.

Where to Stay

Las Catalinas offers a full suite of cozy flats, charming homes, and stunning villas listed as an excellent vacation rental year-round. The town also hosts two small hotels, each with a unique style and amenities. 

Casa Chameleon hotel is a hotel that offers luxury accommodations and striking mountains, beaches, and forest views. Similarly, Santarena Hotel is a luxury hotel defined as a “bohemian pearl.” By many, this is “an elegant oasis where cosmopolitan minds and curious spirits gather and connect.” 

Best Restaurants

In Las Catalinas, Costa Rica, you’ll find restaurants that cater to the finest palate. One of the most popular ones is Casa Chameleon, where you’ll indulge in exquisite Japanese cuisine. Santarena’s Poinciana offers Mediterranean cuisine. If you’re looking for a more casual option, you can visit Limonada or La Taquería.

Want Help Planning a Trip to Las Catalinas, Costa Rica?

Las Catalinas, Costa Rica, is the perfect place for those looking for a more relaxed pace than other areas offer and a perfect place for those who want to explore nature at its finest.

With so much to see around every corner and so many adventures waiting to be had, our goal at Find my Costa Rica is simple: give you an unforgettable experience in Islas Santa Catalina that will leave you feeling refreshed, renewed, and ready for what’s next.

Let us take care of all the details to help you get the perfect vacation!

We’ll make sure that you have everything you need to make your next trip a dream come true.

Contact Find My Costa Rica to get started. Experience this tropical paradise today!

FAQS

1. Is Las Catalinas beach town private?

Las Catalinas beach town is one of the most exclusive communities in the country and most of it is private. Here, you’ll have a magnificent plunge pool exclusively private for guests.

2. What is the weather like in Las Catalinas?

The weather in Las Catalinas tends to be warm during the dry season (mid-November to April) and more humid during the rainy season (May to mid-November). Temperatures can range from 70° to 81° F or 12° to 27°C.

3. Where do you fly to visit Las Catalinas?

If you’re looking for the closest airport to visit the Catalinas Islands, you can take a local flight from Liberia Daniel Oduber Quiros Airport (LIR) and San Jose Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO). There is a taxiway for local flights in Tamarindo.

4. Who owns Las Catalinas?

Las Catalinas is owned by the entrepreneur Charles Brewer. He also owns one of the car-free town’s largest houses.

5. How far is Las Catalinas from San Jose?

Las Catalinas is just an hour-long flight away from San Jose International Airport.

For more details, please get in touch with us at Find My Costa Rica