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Las Catalinas

Las Catalinas is an incredible beach town in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Set on the Pacific Ocean, it has a vibe all of its own. Its focus on sustainability and community, along with amazing food, nature, water sports, and overall feel of pura vida, make Las Catalinas a must-stay location in Costa Rica. If you’re looking for peace mixed with adventure and a sense of reconnecting to the planet, this little beach town is your ticket.
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The Las Catalinas location on the Guanacaste coast is perfect for any visit. From vacation rentals with plunge pools to dinners at a romantic restaurant, fun and relaxation are at your fingertips – day and night. Whether you’re paddle boarding, zip lining, boogie boarding, horseback riding, snorkeling, hiking the trails nearby, or you prefer just sitting on the beach in the sun, Las Catalinas, Costa Rica has it all.

Boogie Boarding

Boogie Boarding

Delight yourself with this fun and exciting aquatic activity thanks to the consistent waves and the warm crystalline waters of the beaches in Las Catalinas.

Scuba Diving

Scuba Diving

Grab your gear and prepare to discover the stunning marine ecosystem of this beautiful region through this thrilling underwater experience.
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Las Catalinas Image Gallery

Why Visit Las Catalinas?

#1

A Car-Free Coastal Town

Unlike most coastal resorts or bustling cities, Las Catalinas is completely car free. That’s right – no traffic, no honking horns, just stone walkways and pedestrian paths that wind through colorful buildings, boutique shops and leafy parks. You’ll feel safer, more relaxed and totally immersed in the moment.

#2

Stunning Beaches & Ocean Views

Las Catalinas is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. Playa Danta and Playa Dantita are pristine, calm, and framed by forested hills. These beaches have clear water, incredible ocean views, and some of the best sunsets you’ll ever witness. It’s paradise, plain and simple.

You can easily spend the whole day enjoying the beach, from sunrise walks to sunset cocktails. The tranquil setting makes it easy to unwind and reconnect with nature, whether you’re floating in the waves or lounging with a book.

#3

Outdoor Adventures at Every Turn

Adventure is never far in Las Catalinas. Whether you’re tackling mountain biking trails, kayaking, hiking through the dry forest, or exploring the sea, the surrounding area invites you to stay active. The town is a gateway to countless popular activities, making it a favorite for travelers who love the outdoors.

Families and solo travelers alike will appreciate the safe, open access to both land and water-based excursions – every path leads to a new discovery.

#4

Built with Sustainability in Mind

The layout of Las Catalinas reflects careful environmental planning. Buildings are perched high on hillsides to avoid disrupting natural drainage. The architecture encourages passive cooling while native landscaping preserves biodiversity. Even the pool water is filtered using eco-friendly systems. Sustainability isn’t a trend here – it’s a foundation.

This attention to detail creates a harmonious balance between community life and the natural environment, proving that it’s possible to build with care and conscience.

Planning Your Trip to Las Catalinas

#1

Getting Here

The nearest hub is Liberia Airport, about a 1-hour drive from Las Catalinas. You can book a private shuttle or rent a car for the journey. Some visitors also fly into San José, but that’s a longer trip – about 4.5 hours by car.

Flying into Liberia Airport is your best bet for convenience and fewer transfers, especially if you’re traveling with kids or prefer a smoother arrival.

#2

Navigating the Town

Once you arrive, you’ll quickly see the benefits of a car-free environment. Everything in town is within walking distance. Whether you’re headed to the beach, a café, the Beach Club, or your rental, it’s all steps away. If you stay at our home rentals, you’re often centrally located and immersed in the community.

#3

Weather

Dry season runs from November through April, with clear skies and warm temperatures. Rainy season spans May to October, when afternoon showers are common. Both seasons offer something special – sun-drenched days or lush green landscapes.

Just remember to pack accordingly and plan indoor activities during the afternoon in the rainy months.

#4

Currency

Costa Rican colón is the official currency, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards work almost everywhere in the town, but it’s smart to carry a little cash for tips or small shops.

#5

Time Zone

Las Catalinas, like the rest of Costa Rica operates on Central Standard Time (CST) year-round – no daylight saving time here!
#6

Language

Spanish is the national language, but you’ll find most locals and service providers in Las Catalinas speak English. Learning a few Spanish phrases will go a long way and make your stay more meaningful.
map

Las Catalinas Map

quick facts

About Las Catalinas

Fun Facts & Information

Things To Keep In Mind

stay

Stay In Las Catalinas

inspiration

Las Catalinas Travel Inspiration

Activate your aquatic fun mode

Activate your aquatic fun mode

Enjoy the different water sports that can be practiced in Las Catalinas, from kayaking to diving and everything in between.

Get ready for a wild tan

Get ready for a wild tan

Bring sunscreen, and get ready for a gorgeous complexion. The sun will be your friend as soon as you get to Las Catalinas, whether you choose to relax on one of the area's stunning beaches, explore the town, or engage in any sport you will get fantastic skin coloring in the blink of an eye.

Walk around town

Walk around town

Make the best of the pedestrian emphasis of Las Catalinas to explore its inviting streets, plazas and buildings that were created for the enjoyment of its visitors.

Breathe in the good air, breathe out the bad air

Breathe in the good air, breathe out the bad air

Enjoy the luxury of strolling through the numerous, secluded routes that have been specifically created to let you marvel at the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding tropical trees.

Pamper your palate

Pamper your palate

Take advantage of every opportunity to enjoy delicious food while you are in Las Catalinas, anything from gelato, to amazing coffee, international or local dishes will keep you longing for more.

Have a beachside picnic

Have a beachside picnic

Grab some delicious snacks or takeout from any of the spectacular restaurants or grocery shops in town and enjoy them under a palm tree while gazing out at the ocean.

Buy unique local products

Buy unique local products

Find locally produced goods such as clothing, handcrafted jewelry, artisanal ceramics, art and more in the town's shopping district.

Sunset on water

Sunset on water

Take pleasure in sipping a cocktail on a catamaran while you admire the colors of the sky at sunset.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions
About Las Catalinas

From Liberia Airport, it’s about 1 hour by car. Book a shuttle in advance, or rent a car for added flexibility.

Absolutely. The walkable layout of the town and sense of community – not to mention the food at the restaurants, all of the the fun activities, and the friendly vibe make it well worth the visit.

Yes, some rentals and hotels are pet-friendly, but always check the policy before booking.

From Liberia International Airport, it is about 47 miles, but the roads are a bit slow. It is approximately 155 miles from San Jose International Airport (SJO) to Las Catalinas.

Las Catalinas fountain
articles

Travel Articles About Las Catalinas

Ready to plan your trip to Las Catalinas? Read through our wide selection of blog posts to discover everything this hidden gem has to offer—from the town’s unique story and culture, to the best things to do in the area!

If you have ever wondered if there is a place in Costa Rica that combines spectacular architecture and ecological sustainability, you can rest assured that there is, and it is called Las Catalinas. Las Catalinas development Costa Rica is one of a kind new beach town situated in the middle of two beautiful Pacific Ocean beaches, Playa Danta and Playa Dantita. Surrounded by a tropical dry forest in the province of Guanacaste and wonderful panoramic ocean views, this place offers a surreal experience.
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Las Catalinas is a beach town in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, that offers fabulous dining, shopping, hotels, and plenty of fun activities to enjoy the stunning natural scenery. If you plan to spend some time in Las Catalinas during your trip to Costa Rica, discover all the best things to do in Las Catalinas, Costa Rica, to make your vacation memorable and fun.
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