5 Unforgettable Things to Do in Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Guanacaste is one of Costa Rica’s most cherished provinces and for good reason. With sun-drenched beaches, vibrant culture, and a strong connection to local traditions, it's the perfect destination for travelers seeking more than just stunning views. Whether you’re here for relaxation, adventure, or authentic experiences, this northwestern gem has something for everyone.
Here are five unforgettable things to do in Guanacaste, including a stop at one of the region’s most unique and delicious experiences: Blue Valley Chocolate.
1. Explore the Beaches of Playa Conchal and Playa Flamingo
No trip to Guanacaste is complete without time spent on its iconic beaches. Playa Conchal, with its crushed seashell sand and turquoise waters, is often ranked among Costa Rica’s most beautiful. Just a short drive away, Playa Flamingo offers calm waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or watching the sun dip below the horizon.
Whether you're a couple looking for a romantic getaway or a family eager for shallow water play, the beaches of Guanacaste deliver postcard-perfect scenes every time.
Tip: Visit in the early morning for peaceful solitude or late afternoon for incredible sunsets.
2. Visit Blue Valley Chocolate for a Full Bean-to-Bar Cacao Experience
For something immersive, flavorful, and truly local, head to Blue Valley Chocolate in Brasilito. Tucked among the hills and native trees, this is not just a chocolate shop, it’s an entire cacao journey from farm to bar.
Here’s what makes it unforgettable:
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Factory Visits: See how fresh cacao is turned into pure, ethical chocolate using traditional and modern techniques.
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Hands-On Workshops: Learn to roast, grind, and mold your own chocolate, immersing in Costa Rica’s ancient culture.
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Tastings: Sample single-origin dark chocolate, sipping cacao tea as you walk among the trees.
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Family-Friendly Experiences: Perfect for curious kids and chocolate-loving adults alike.
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Seasonal Campaigns & Holidays: Special events like Easter egg hunts, Valentine's truffle workshops, and festive Christmas treats bring the magic of cacao to life.
Blue Valley operates in a small-batch, ethical, and sustainable way to connect you to the land, the process, and the people of Guanacaste. Plus, it makes a great half-day excursion that pairs beautifully with nearby beaches or waterfalls.
📍 Just 10 minutes from Playa Conchal and Flamingo.
3. Discover the Rio Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park
If vibrant colors and natural wonder are your thing, don’t miss Rio Celeste, a bright blue river and waterfall tucked in the cloud forest of Tenorio Volcano National Park.
The hike to the falls takes about an hour, weaving through lush rainforest alive with wildlife. The vivid turquoise hue of the water is the result of a natural chemical reaction between volcanic minerals and river waters, a phenomenon that feels downright magical.
Bring: Hiking shoes, a waterproof jacket, and your camera. You won’t want to forget this view.
4. Experience a Traditional Guanacastecan Rodeo or Fiesta
If you’re lucky enough to be in Guanacaste during fiesta season (typically November to April), you’ll catch a glimpse of the region’s deeply rooted cowboy culture. Rodeos, horse parades (called topes), live music, and artisan food markets bring local towns to life in a swirl of color and rhythm.
These events are more than entertainment, they’re proud celebrations of sabanero heritage, where families and travelers come together to eat, dance, and honor generations of ranching tradition, a big part of Costa Rica’s roots.
Pro tip: Grab a plate of arroz con pollo or tamales from a roadside stand and soak in the vibe.
5. Take a Sunset Catamaran Tour in Tamarindo or Potrero Bay
Guanacaste’s Pacific Coast was made for sunsets and there’s no better way to enjoy them than aboard a catamaran. Set sail from Tamarindo or Potrero Bay, where tours offer snorkeling, paddleboarding, and dolphin watching during the day, capped off with a golden-hour sail home.
Many tours include snacks, drinks, and even a chance to spot humpback whales (depending on the season).
Whether you're with a group of friends or enjoying a romantic evening for two, this is a essential Costa Rican experience.
Why Guanacaste Is More Than a Beach Destination
Yes, the beaches are beautiful, but Guanacaste is also a place to connect with nature, culture, and community. From the ancient practice of cacao-making to the local rodeo dances passed down through generations, every activity offers a window into Costa Rica’s rich identity.
When you visit, don’t just pass through. Taste it. Learn it. Dance with it. And, of course, savor the chocolate while you're here.
