Playa Prieta: A Tranquil Escape in Guanacaste
Discover Playa Prieta: A serene Guanacaste beach with tan sands, calm waters, and lush scenery, perfect for a tranquil escape and local vibes.
Playa Prieta, a hidden gem in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province, offers a serene escape with its tan sands, calm waters, and shady trees, popular among locals seeking a peaceful beach day away from the tourist crowds. It's ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Pacific coast.
A brief summary to Playa Prieta
- Santa Cruz, Guanacaste Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends and holidays tend to be busier with local families.
- Bring your own food, water, and beach essentials, as there are no facilities or vendors directly on Playa Prieta.
- Consider bringing skimboards or boogie boards to enjoy the gentle waves.
- If driving, be aware that the road to the beach includes a steep drop-off; a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season.
- Take necessary precautions to safeguard your belongings, as the parking area is not entirely secure.
Getting There
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Driving
From Potrero, drive north following signs for Playa Prieta. The turnoff from the main road leads to an unpaved dirt road with a steep drop; a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Continue on this road for a short distance until you reach the parking area, approximately 30 meters from the beach. Parking is free, but it's advisable to secure your valuables. There are no tolls on this route. A taxi from Potrero to Playa Prieta would cost approximately $5 - $10.
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Walking
From Playa Penca, there is a walking trail that connects to Playa Prieta. Park at Playa Penca and follow the signs to Playa Prieta. The walk is approximately 1.5km (0.93 miles) and takes about 5-10 minutes. This is a good alternative if you do not have a high-clearance vehicle.
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Public Transport
From Liberia International Airport, take a bus to Terminal Pulmitan Playas Del Coco. From there, you can take a taxi to Playa Prieta. The bus from Liberia to Terminal Pulmitan Playas Del Coco costs $1 - $5 and takes about 45 minutes. The taxi from Terminal Pulmitan Playas Del Coco to Playa Prieta will cost approximately $20 - $30.
Discover more about Playa Prieta
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas
1.2 km
Secluded adults-only luxury with panoramic Pacific views, private plunge pools, and easy access to Costa Rican adventure in Las Catalinas.
Flamingo Adventures
2.6 km
Explore Guanacaste's stunning landscapes with Flamingo Adventures, your premier tour operator for unforgettable eco-tours and thrilling water activities.
360 Splendor del Pacifico Residences
3.4 km
Experience luxurious coastal living with breathtaking ocean views at 360 Splendor del Pacifico Residences in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica.
Casa las Brisas
3.5 km
Discover the ultimate tropical escape at Casa las Brisas, where stunning views and luxury meet the beauty of Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica.
Special Places of Costa Rica - Playa Flamingo
3.5 km
Experience the beauty of Playa Flamingo, a premier destination in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
The Social Scene
3.5 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica through stunning photography at The Social Scene in Guanacaste, where every moment is captured with artistic flair.
Estero Azul
3.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine with stunning ocean views at Estero Azul in Playa Flamingo, Guanacaste.
Presidential Suites Playa Flamingo,Guanacaste Province.Costa Rica
3.5 km
Experience coastal living at Presidential Suites in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica. Ocean views, comfortable condos, and beachside bliss await!
Amigos Tacos y Beer
3.5 km
Enjoy authentic Mexican flavors and refreshing local beers at this casual Playa Flamingo eatery. Open daily, 11 AM - 9 PM.
Colores Del Pacifico
3.5 km
Find personal growth and empowerment at this Playa Flamingo life coaching center, set amidst Costa Rica's stunning Pacific coast.
Villa Bougainvillea 4
3.5 km
Experience luxury at Villa Bougainvillea in Playa Flamingo: stunning views, private pool, and elegant design for an unforgettable Costa Rican getaway.
Info Flamingo
3.6 km
Explore Playa Flamingo with Info Flamingo: Your ultimate visitor center for local attractions, adventures, and unforgettable experiences in Guanacaste.
Surf Box
3.6 km
Enjoy delicious food with stunning ocean views at Surf Box, a culinary oasis in Playa Flamingo's vibrant Marina.
Camparino
3.6 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors in a tropical paradise at Camparino Pizzeria Italiana in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica.
Mariner Inn
3.6 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Mariner Inn, your ideal gateway to Playa Flamingo's beaches and Costa Rican adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sugar Beach
0.8 km
Discover Sugar Beach, Costa Rica: A secluded paradise with clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and tranquil relaxation.
Playa Penca
0.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Playa Penca, a stunning beach in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure alike.
Punta Potrero
1.3 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Punta Potrero, a serene park in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Danta Beach
1.5 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Danta Beach in Guanacaste Province, a perfect escape for sun and surf lovers.
Las Catalinas
1.7 km
Explore Las Catalinas: A tropical paradise in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica, where stunning beaches and lush landscapes await your discovery.
Potrero Bay
2.0 km
Experience the tranquil allure of Potrero Bay, a coastal paradise in Costa Rica known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.
Playa Dantita
2.2 km
Experience the tranquility of Playa Dantita, a hidden beach gem in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure seekers.
Dantita Beach
2.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Dantita Beach in Costa Rica, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable tropical escape.
Playa Potrero, Costa Rica
2.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Playa Potrero in Costa Rica, where stunning sunsets and serene waters create the perfect beach getaway.
Potrero Atv tours
2.5 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Guanacaste Province with thrilling ATV tours in Potrero, Costa Rica, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Playa Potrero
2.7 km
Experience the tranquil charm of Playa Potrero, a hidden beach gem in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Ardilla
3.3 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Playa Ardilla in Guanacaste, Costa Rica – a tranquil beach paradise for relaxation and adventure.
Ocean Life CR Tours
3.4 km
Discover the enchanting marine life of Costa Rica with Ocean Life CR Tours in Playa Flamingo – a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Marina Flamingo
3.5 km
Explore Marina Flamingo, a beautiful marina in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, offering dining, shopping, and exciting water activities in a stunning coastal setting.
Serendipity Charters
3.6 km
Experience unforgettable sailing adventures with Serendipity Charters at Flamingo Marina, Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica.
Essential places to dine
Sentido Norte
1.2 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with stunning views at Sentido Norte in Las Catalinas, Guanacaste.
Nasu Restaurant - Potrero bay beachfront
2.5 km
Experience beachfront dining at Nasu Restaurant in Playa Potrero—where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.
Hemingway's
2.6 km
Discover Hemingway's: A culinary oasis in Surfside offering authentic Costa Rican flavors and exceptional service amidst stunning natural beauty.
Café del Sol
2.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Café del Sol in Potrero – where flavor meets breathtaking views.
The Shack
2.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at The Shack in Potrero - where great food meets unforgettable live music!
La Forketta
2.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Forketta in Potrero - home to exquisite pizzas and warm hospitality amidst breathtaking Guanacaste landscapes.
Restaurants Arenas
2.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurants Arenas in Santa Cruz - a culinary treasure nestled in beautiful Guanacaste.
The Beach House Bar and Restaurant
3.4 km
Experience mouthwatering local cuisine with stunning ocean views at The Beach House Bar and Restaurant in Playa Potrero.
Matias Restaurant
3.5 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Matias Restaurant in Flamingo – where fresh ingredients meet stunning views.
Restaurant Amberes
3.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurant Amberes in Playa Flamingo – a must-visit dining destination for every traveler.
Restaurante Pleamar
3.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Pleamar in Playa Flamingo - where every meal comes with stunning ocean views.
Hazel's Steak & Seafood
3.6 km
Discover Hazel's Steak & Seafood in Flamingo: A culinary haven offering fresh seafood and prime steaks with breathtaking ocean views.
Palmeras Flamingo
3.6 km
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Bar y Restaurante La Cabaña
3.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Bar y Restaurante La Cabaña in Playa Flamingo - where fresh ingredients meet vibrant flavors.
Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe
3.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe nestled in Margaritaville Beach Resort - where every meal is a celebration.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bahía Art Shop
2.7 km
Explore Bahía Art Shop in Potrero for unique souvenirs and locally crafted treasures that capture the spirit of Guanacaste.
Terracosta Boutique
3.5 km
Explore Terracosta Boutique for stylish beach and formal wear in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica - perfect for elevating your vacation wardrobe.
ROSTYROFO
3.5 km
Explore RostyRofo in Playa Flamingo for a unique shopping experience filled with local crafts and international brands in a vibrant setting.
Pura Vida Ride
3.5 km
Unleash your adventurous spirit at Pura Vida Ride, the premier outdoor sports store in Guanacaste for unforgettable water and land excursions.
CR Marine Supply
3.5 km
Explore CR Marine Supply in Playa Flamingo for top-notch marine gear and unique local products, enhancing your Costa Rican adventure.
Britt Cafe and Bakery
3.5 km
Discover Britt Cafe and Bakery in Playa Flamingo, a cozy coffee shop offering rich coffee and delicious pastries in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning Guanacaste region.
Morena Handmade Swim
3.5 km
Explore Morena Handmade Swim in Playa Flamingo for unique, handcrafted women's beachwear that embodies the essence of Costa Rica's coastal lifestyle.
Pura Vira Ride
3.5 km
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Bodega75
3.5 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Bodega75, the go-to grocery store in Playa Flamingo for fresh produce and local specialties.
Massai Automart Playa Flamingo
3.6 km
Explore Massai Automart Playa Flamingo, your one-stop destination for fresh local produce, unique Costa Rican snacks, and essential supplies in Playa Flamingo.
Super Flamingo
3.6 km
Explore Super Flamingo in Playa Flamingo for a diverse range of local and international products, perfect for all your travel needs in Costa Rica.
Déntico Flamingo
3.6 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Déntico Flamingo, a unique store in Playa Flamingo offering handmade crafts and memorable souvenirs.
NALU bagel & café flamingo
3.6 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Nalu Bagel & Café in Flamingo, where fresh bagels meet artisanal coffee in a cozy atmosphere.
Chicho's Cigars
3.6 km
Experience the finest hand-rolled cigars at Chicho's Cigars in Playa Flamingo, where expert staff and tropical vibes create the ultimate smoking sanctuary.
Pan de Azucar Flamingo, ice cream shop
3.6 km
Experience the tropical bliss of Pan de Azucar Flamingo, a must-visit ice cream shop in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica, renowned for its delightful flavors.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Whiskey Howler beach bar and grill
2.6 km
Experience the best of beachside dining at The Whiskey Howler, where American cuisine meets fresh sushi in a stunning coastal setting.
Donna Maria
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Donna Maria, the ideal bar in Playa Flamingo for cocktails, local flavors, and unforgettable sunsets.
Monkey's Bar/Restaurant
7.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Monkey's Bar/Restaurant in Guanacaste, a unique grill perfect for beachside dining.
Lounge 24
7.3 km
Discover the serene ambiance of Lounge 24, your ideal retreat in Matapalo, Guanacaste for relaxation and refreshing drinks.
Chicos Bar
11.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Chicos Bar, a top grill destination in Coco, perfect for food lovers and social butterflies.
Bar Flipper
12.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Flipper in Coco, Costa Rica, where delicious food and drinks meet a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Bar El Ancla
12.7 km
Experience the vibrant coastal life at Bar El Ancla, a beachfront bar in Coco, Guanacaste, perfect for relaxing with drinks and local cuisine.
Tortuga Bar
12.8 km
Discover Tortuga Bar in Coco, Costa Rica - a lively grill bar offering delicious cuisine and stunning coastal views for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Garden Bar
12.9 km
Discover the culinary delights of The Garden Bar in Playa del Coco, where fresh flavors and a relaxing atmosphere await.
Zarpe
13.3 km
Discover Zarpe, the ultimate cocktail bar in Playa del Coco, offering unique drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for every occasion.
Pacífico Beach Club
13.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and stunning ocean views at Pacífico Beach Club, a premier bar and restaurant in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Bar Makai
16.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bar Makai in Playa Hermosa, where refreshing drinks and stunning views create unforgettable moments.
Chop House
18.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Chop House in Tamarindo, a must-visit for gourmet burgers, tapas, and a lively sports bar experience.
Volcano Brewing Company
19.6 km
Discover the heart of craft brewing at Volcano Brewing Company in Tamarindo, where local flavors and vibrant atmosphere meet.
El Be - Tamarindo Beach Club
20.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at El Be - Tamarindo Beach Club, a must-visit restaurant in Costa Rica.
