8 Best Places to Live in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, According to Local Real Estate Experts

by Pablo Fernandez

From laid-back surf towns to luxury beach communities and tranquil mountain escapes, here are the best places to live in Guanacaste.

Ask anyone who has spent meaningful time in Guanacaste, and they’ll likely tell you the same thing: there’s something magnetic about this part of Costa Rica. Maybe it’s the rhythm of the Pacific Ocean, the year-round warm climate, or the balance between luxury living and raw natural beauty. For many expats, retirees, investors, entrepreneurs, and remote professionals, Guanacaste represents more than a destination—it’s a lifestyle.

Located along Costa Rica’s north Pacific coast, Guanacaste has evolved dramatically over the last two decades. Once considered a relatively quiet ranching region, it is now home to world-class resorts, international schools, private healthcare, modern infrastructure, and a growing luxury real estate market. Yet despite the growth, much of the region has preserved its authentic charm and “pura vida” atmosphere.

“One of the biggest advantages of Guanacaste is diversity,” says Pablo Fernandez, a real estate advisor with Engel & Völkers Costa Rica specializing in lifestyle and luxury properties throughout the region. “You can live in a vibrant surf town with restaurants and nightlife, or choose a quiet mountain property surrounded by nature and ocean views. There’s truly something for every type of buyer.”

Whether you’re considering relocating full-time, purchasing a second home, or investing in Costa Rica real estate, these are some of the best places to live in Guanacaste.

1. Tamarindo

If there’s one town that put Guanacaste on the international map, it’s Tamarindo. What was once a sleepy surf village has transformed into one of Costa Rica’s most established beach communities, attracting buyers from the United States, Canada, Europe, and Latin America.

“Tamarindo offers the best balance of convenience, international services, and beach lifestyle,” says Pablo. “You have excellent restaurants, private schools, medical clinics, supermarkets, co-working spaces, and a strong expat community—all within minutes of the ocean.”

The town appeals to a wide demographic, from young entrepreneurs and digital nomads to retirees and families. Luxury condominiums, gated communities, ocean-view villas, and investment properties dominate the market, while nearby areas like Langosta and Hacienda Pinilla offer even more exclusivity.

And while Tamarindo has grown significantly, daily life still revolves around sunsets, surf sessions, and outdoor living.

2. Nosara

Nosara has quietly become one of the most desirable wellness and luxury lifestyle destinations in Costa Rica. Known for its yoga retreats, healthy living culture, pristine beaches, and strong environmental consciousness, the town attracts a sophisticated international crowd seeking privacy and authenticity.

“Nosara is unique because it has managed to maintain a low-density, nature-focused atmosphere despite its global popularity,” explains Pablo. “Buyers are typically looking for a deeper connection to nature and community.”

Guiones Beach is the heart of the area, famous for consistent surf, walkability, and boutique businesses. Luxury real estate here often blends modern architecture with tropical design, emphasizing indoor-outdoor living.

The area is especially popular among remote workers, wellness entrepreneurs, families, and investors seeking long-term appreciation in a supply-constrained market.

3. Playa Flamingo

For buyers prioritizing luxury waterfront living, Playa Flamingo remains one of the premier destinations in Guanacaste. The recent development of the world-class Marina Flamingo has elevated the area even further, attracting yacht owners, investors, and affluent international buyers.

“Flamingo has always had incredible natural beauty, but the marina has transformed the area into a true luxury coastal destination,” says Pablo. “You now have a level of infrastructure and sophistication that appeals to high-end buyers looking for a marina lifestyle in Costa Rica.”

The community offers white-sand beaches, upscale condominiums, oceanfront estates, sportfishing, and easy access to neighboring beach towns like Potrero and Brasilito.

Despite the luxury appeal, Flamingo still retains a relaxed coastal energy that distinguishes it from more commercialized resort destinations elsewhere in the world.

4. Playa Avellanas

For those seeking a more laid-back and nature-oriented lifestyle, Playa Avellanas has become one of the hidden gems of Guanacaste. Located south of Tamarindo, the area is known for world-class surf, expansive beaches, and a quieter atmosphere.

“Avellanas attracts buyers who want privacy, nature, and a more authentic Costa Rican feel without being too isolated,” explains Pablo. “It’s especially attractive to people who value wellness, surfing, and outdoor living.”

The area has seen increasing interest from luxury buyers and boutique developers, particularly for ocean-view homes, jungle retreats, and eco-conscious residential projects. Yet strict development patterns and lower density continue to preserve its charm.

Many residents appreciate the balance between tranquility and accessibility, with Tamarindo’s services and Liberia’s international airport still within reach.

5. Sámara

Sámara offers one of the most balanced lifestyles in Guanacaste. The town combines a beautiful swimmable beach, strong local culture, international influence, and a family-friendly environment that appeals to both expats and Costa Rican residents.

“Sámara has a very welcoming and grounded community feel,” says Pablo. “People move there for quality of life. It’s relaxed, walkable, and less driven by luxury tourism than some other beach towns.”

The calm waters make it especially appealing for families and retirees, while nearby activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and yoga support an active outdoor lifestyle.

Real estate options range from affordable condos and hillside homes to luxury ocean-view properties, making Sámara attractive across multiple budget levels.

6. Las Catalinas

Inspired by Mediterranean coastal villages, Las Catalinas offers one of the most unique residential concepts in Costa Rica. This master-planned, car-free beach town emphasizes walkability, architecture, wellness, and community living.

“Las Catalinas appeals to buyers looking for a very curated lifestyle experience,” explains Pablo. “Everything is designed around outdoor living, community interaction, and convenience.”

Residents enjoy hiking and biking trails, boutique hotels, beach clubs, restaurants, and luxury residences overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

The community particularly attracts second-home buyers, retirees, and professionals seeking a sophisticated yet low-maintenance lifestyle.

7. Playas del Coco

For buyers seeking convenience, affordability, and accessibility, Playas del Coco remains one of Guanacaste’s most practical choices. Located just 30 minutes from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, the town has become a hub for both full-time residents and vacation homeowners.

“Coco offers one of the easiest transitions for foreigners moving to Costa Rica,” says Pablo. “It has excellent services, healthcare access, supermarkets, restaurants, and a large international community.”

The area is particularly popular among retirees, boating enthusiasts, and buyers seeking lower entry points compared to luxury markets like Nosara or Flamingo.

Its central location also makes it an ideal base for exploring the rest of Guanacaste.

8. Liberia

While many buyers focus on beach towns, Liberia has emerged as one of the most important residential and economic centers in Guanacaste. Often referred to as the “White City,” Liberia offers a more traditional Costa Rican lifestyle combined with modern infrastructure and growing commercial development.

“Liberia is increasingly attractive for professionals, families, and investors who want year-round practicality,” says Pablo. “You have hospitals, shopping centers, universities, and the international airport, while still being less than an hour from some of Costa Rica’s best beaches.”

The city also benefits from a lower overall cost of living compared to coastal luxury markets, making it attractive for long-term residents and investors alike.

As Guanacaste continues to grow, many industry experts believe Liberia will play an even larger role in the region’s future development.

What makes Guanacaste truly special is that no two communities feel exactly alike. From the surf culture of Tamarindo and Nosara to the luxury marina lifestyle of Flamingo and the family-friendly charm of Sámara, the region offers an extraordinary range of living experiences within a relatively compact area.

And perhaps most importantly, residents consistently point to something beyond real estate: a slower pace of life, connection to nature, and a sense of balance that’s increasingly difficult to find elsewhere.

As Pablo puts it, “People initially come to Guanacaste for the beaches and climate, but they stay because of the lifestyle.”