As a mom and travel blogger, I understand how important it is to plan a family vacation that is both fun and appropriate for young children. In this post, I’m excited to share my 7-day family vacation itinerary for discovering the best of Guanacaste. The itinerary I’m suggesting is perfect for families who want to explore the natural beauty and adventure of this incredible region of Costa Rica. Most of my suggestions are within the same areas to minimize the long drives and can be modified to fit your family. So, let’s get started!
Arriving To Guanacaste, Costa Rica
First things first, you have to arrive in Costa Rica. Here are some of the options for flying into Costa Rica:
- Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO): In San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, SJO is the country’s largest and busiest airport. It serves as a hub for domestic and international flights and is the most common entry point for travelers to Costa Rica.
- Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (LIR): Located in Liberia, the capital of Guanacaste, LIR is the second-largest airport in Costa Rica and serves as a gateway to the Pacific coast. It’s popular for travelers visiting tourist destinations such as Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, and the Papagayo Peninsula.
- Tobías Bolaños International Airport (SYQ): Located in Pavas, a suburb of San Jose, SYQ is a smaller airport primarily serving domestic flights and private jets.
- Limon International Airport (LIO): Located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, LIO serves as a gateway to popular tourist destinations such as Puerto Viejo and Cahuita.
- Quepos La Managua Airport (XQP): Located in Quepos, a small town on the central Pacific coast, XQP is a smaller airport primarily as a gateway to the popular tourist destination of Manuel Antonio National Park.
Depending on your itinerary and budget, you may fly into one of these airports and then arrange for ground transportation or local flights to your final destination in Costa Rica. It’s important to remember that each airport has advantages and disadvantages, such as proximity to your final destination, flight availability, and ticket prices.
Because my focus for this post is the Pacific coast of Guanacaste, I recommend flying into Liberia Airport, which is 1 hour away from Tamarindo.
Day 1: Welcome to Costa Rica!
Arrive at the airport and transfer to your hotel or Airbnb.
On the way to your lodging from the airport, you’ll pass through several small towns, including Liberia, the capital of Guanacaste. You’ll also see the stunning Guanacaste mountain range in the distance, home to several national parks and wildlife reserves.
Once you arrive and unpack, take a relaxing walk on the beach to start your vacation and get your kids acclimated to the beautiful scenery. I would begin exploring the walkable town of Tamarindo beach, known for its white sand, calm waters, and excellent surf conditions, making it a popular spot for families and surfers. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes along the beachfront where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink.
If you arrive on a Thursday, check out the Tamarindo night market and enjoy live music while you shop for gifts to bring back to your friends and family.
Family Vacation Day 2: Surfing and Wildlife Tour
Start your first full day with a surfing lesson at Tamarindo Beach, one of the best surfing spots in the region. My family and I highly recommend SALT Surf School and plan on taking all our family and friends that visit for a surf lesson. It is an unforgettable experience the whole family will enjoy. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner; the instructors are patient and experienced.
After lunch, head to Las Baulas National Marine Park for a wildlife tour where you can spot monkeys, iguanas, and possibly even a leatherback sea turtle! Note: Turtle nesting season begins on October 20 and ends on February 15.
Family Vacation Day 3: Adventure and Wildlife in Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Rincon de la Vieja National Park is located in the northwestern part of Guanacaste, approximately 1.5 hours away from Tamarindo. The park is home to various ecosystems, including rainforests, dry forests, hot springs, and waterfalls. It is an ideal destination for families who want to experience adventure and wildlife in a natural setting.
We purchased our package in person and chose to do the tour without a guide, but if your goal is to learn and see wildlife, you may prefer a tour guide. You can modify your tour package on how adventurous your family is; some tours include several zip lines, suspension bridges, and a Tarzan swing that will pump your adrenaline.
The hike through the rainforest to see the park’s famous bubbling mud pots and hot springs is short and sweet. The kids will love seeing the geothermal activity up close and even have a chance to dip in the hot springs and cool river! After, you’ll enjoy lunch (buffet style) of typical Costa Rican cuisine at a local restaurant in the park.
Rincon de la Vieja National Park is a must-see destination in Guanacaste, and this day trip will be a fantastic experience for you and your family.
Family Vacation Day 4: Beach Day at Playa Conchal
After two days of adventure and exploration, it’s time to relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Guanacaste. Today, you’ll head to Playa Conchal, one of the region’s most picturesque and tranquil beaches. Perfect for families with young children.
Playa Conchal is located about 30 minutes south of Tamarindo and is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand of tiny seashells. The beach is surrounded by lush green hills and palm trees, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
While at the beach, you can take a short walk to the nearby mangroves and explore the natural wonders of this unique ecosystem. The kids will love seeing the crabs, fish, and other wildlife that call the mangroves home.
Family Vacation Day 5: Waterfall Hike and Sunset Cruise
Enjoy this day’s scenic waterfall hike and a sunset catamaran sunset cruise.
In the morning, you’ll head to one of Guanacaste’s beautiful waterfalls, Llanos de Cortez waterfall near Liberia. The hike is suitable for families with young children and provides an opportunity to see the natural beauty of Costa Rica.
As you hike through the lush forest, your guide will point out flora and fauna of the area. Once you reach the waterfall, you can take a refreshing dip in the pool below and take some great family photos.
You’ll head to the beach late afternoon for a sunset catamaran cruise. This is a great way to relax and enjoy the stunning Guanacaste coastline. The catamaran will take you along the coast, and you’ll have a chance to see the beautiful beaches, rocky cliffs, and perhaps even some marine life like dolphins or whales, and as the sun sets, you’ll have a spectacular view.
Overall, the waterfall hike and sunset catamaran cruise combine adventure, nature, and relaxation that your family will love.
Family Vacation Day 6: Beach Day in Las Catalinas Dinner at Gracia
Today, you’ll spend the day at one of Guanacaste’s most picturesque towns, Las Catalinas. Explore the beautiful community and grab some breakfast at Pots & Bowls. Afterward, I recommend packing a picnic lunch and heading to one of my favorite beaches in Guanacaste, Dantita Beach.
Dantita beach has two points of access. If it’s low tide, you can walk across the rocks from Playa Danta. If it’s not high tide or you’re in the mood to get your workout, you can walk up and around the peninsula. The best part about the hike is that you get stunning views of Las Catalinas, Playa Danta, and Playa Dantita. You may also run into some scaly friends on the way.
After a lovely day at the beach, I recommend visiting Gracia for dinner, with the best views, an incredible infinity pool, and a playground for families with young children. The restaurant is located inside the gated community of Mar Vista, in the hills between Brasilito and Flamingo.
Day 7: Departure, with an optional exploration if leaving on a later flight
On your final day in Guanacaste, you’ll say goodbye to this beautiful province and head to the airport for your departure. However, if your flight is scheduled for later in the day, you might have some extra time to explore the charming city of Liberia.
Liberia is known as the “White City” because of the white gravel of the surrounding soil. You can explore the historic center, visit the local market, and learn more about the region’s cultural heritage at the Guanacaste Museum.
When it’s time to head to the airport, leave with plenty of time to spare. Liberia International Airport is located approximately 20 minutes from the city center. As always, check your flight schedule and any travel advisories.
Pura Vida!
Overall, your 7-day family vacation in Guanacaste has been filled with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. I hope that you find my suggested itinerary helpful and that it serves as a guide to discovering some of the best of this beautiful province and will inspire you to come back to explore more of Costa Rica soon!
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