Paradise Found: The Serenity of Playa Islita
Discover the serene beauty of Playa Islita in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica's hidden paradise for relaxation and adventure.
Nestled in the stunning Guanacaste Province, Playa Islita is a hidden gem that offers an idyllic beach experience. With golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and lush surroundings, it's a perfect escape for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure alike. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, try water sports, or explore the vibrant local culture, Playa Islita promises an unforgettable getaway.
A brief summary to Playa Islita
- Guanacaste Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the best lighting for photography.
- Bring snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant underwater life just off the beach.
- Try local seafood dishes at beachside restaurants for an authentic taste of Costa Rica.
- Check for seasonal whale watching opportunities along the coast, typically from August to October.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start on Route 21 towards Nicoya. Continue on Route 21 until you reach the intersection with Route 150. Turn onto Route 150 and follow the signs towards Playa Islita. After about 18 km, you will reach a junction with signs for Playa Islita. Turn right and continue for approximately 5 km until you arrive at the beach. Note that the road can be bumpy in some areas, so drive cautiously.
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Public Transportation
To reach Playa Islita via public transportation, take a bus from Nicoya to Samara. The bus departs regularly from the Nicoya bus station. After arriving in Samara, you will need to transfer to a local bus that goes to Playa Islita, which may only run a few times a day. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance. The cost for the bus from Nicoya to Samara is approximately $1.50, and the fare for the local bus to Playa Islita is around $1.
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Taxi or Ride-share
For a more direct route, consider taking a taxi or using a ride-share app. From Nicoya, the taxi fare to Playa Islita can range from $30 to $50 depending on the time of day and demand. This option is ideal if you're traveling in a group, as it can be split among passengers. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Discover more about Playa Islita
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Punta Islita, Autograph Collection
0.5 km
Experience luxury and nature at Punta Islita, Autograph Collection, a breathtaking hillside hotel with stunning Pacific Ocean views.
Reserva Natural Monte Alto
17.7 km
Discover the breathtaking biodiversity and serene landscapes of Reserva Natural Monte Alto, a must-visit nature preserve in Costa Rica.
Cristo Redentor. Cerro La Cruz. Nicoya
31.5 km
Discover the stunning views and spiritual significance of Cristo Redentor at Cerro La Cruz, a must-see attraction in the heart of Guanacaste Province.
Casa Chameleon at Mal Pais
39.2 km
Discover the ultimate luxury escape at Casa Chameleon in Mal Pais, where stunning ocean views and upscale amenities await your arrival.
Reserva Natural Cabo Blanco
44.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, a sanctuary of biodiversity with stunning landscapes and rich wildlife in Costa Rica's Puntarenas Province.
Blue Tide Tours
44.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica with Blue Tide Tours—your gateway to unforgettable adventures and natural wonders.
Ballena Bay
46.4 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant marine life at Ballena Bay, a coastal paradise in Costa Rica perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Bernabela Ramos Park
49.5 km
Explore Bernabela Ramos Park in Santa Cruz, Guanacaste—a tranquil park featuring lush landscapes, perfect for relaxation and family outings in Costa Rica.
Tortuga Island Tour
56.1 km
Discover the beauty of Tortuga Island, Costa Rica, with its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and unforgettable adventures for every traveler.
El Faro de Puntarenas
61.8 km
Experience Costa Rica's maritime heritage at El Faro de Puntarenas, a historic lighthouse offering stunning ocean views and local culture.
Nuestro lugar especial
61.9 km
Experience the serene beauty and fishing charm of Nuestro Lugar Especial, a hidden gem on the Puntarenas coastline, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Puntarenas Excursions
62.5 km
Explore the best of Puntarenas with Puntarenas Excursions, your go-to tourist information center for unforgettable experiences in Costa Rica's coastal paradise.
Paseo de los Turistas
63.2 km
Experience the stunning Paseo de los Turistas in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, where natural beauty meets vibrant culture along the picturesque coastline.
Parque Mora y Cañas
63.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Parque Mora y Cañas, a serene park in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Monumento a Juan Rafael Mora y José María Cañas
63.4 km
Discover the Monumento a Juan Rafael Mora y José María Cañas, a historical landmark in Puntarenas celebrating Costa Rica's rich heritage and vibrant culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Playa La Islita
0.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Playa La Islita, a hidden gem in Guanacaste Province, where golden sands meet azure waters.
Playa Corozalito
2.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Playa Corozalito, a hidden beach gem in Guanacaste Province, perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.
Playa Camaronal
5.0 km
Discover the untouched beauty of Playa Camaronal, a tranquil beach in Guanacaste Province perfect for relaxation, adventure, and wildlife encounters.
Cerro Platanillo
9.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Cerro Platanillo, a stunning mountain peak in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
Playa Puerto Carrillo
9.1 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant marine life of Playa Puerto Carrillo, a stunning beach destination in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province.
Punto Playa Carrillo
9.3 km
Punto Playa Carrillo: A serene beach paradise in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where golden sands and tranquil waters meet stunning sunsets.
Carrillo Beach
10.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Carrillo Beach, a hidden coastal paradise in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Carrillo
10.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Playa Carrillo, a hidden gem in Guanacaste Province, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking sunsets.
Tides of Samara
12.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Tides of Samara, a stunning beach in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, offering relaxation and adventure for every traveler.
Isla Chora
12.5 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty and tranquility of Isla Chora, a hidden gem in Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure in nature.
Samara Beach
13.2 km
Experience the charm of Samara Beach, an enchanting coastal paradise in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where sun, sea, and adventure await.
Bahía Sámara
13.7 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant marine life of Bahía Sámara, a perfect Costa Rican getaway for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Sámara
14.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation at Playa Sámara, a captivating beach destination in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province.
Cerros de Buena Vista
14.5 km
Discover the breathtaking views and diverse wildlife at Cerros de Buena Vista, a must-visit mountain peak in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica.
Playa Izquierda
15.8 km
Discover the stunning trails and serene beaches of Playa Izquierda, a hidden gem in Guanacaste Province, perfect for hiking and relaxation.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante Kimbute
0.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Kimbute in Punta Islita, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Bocatio
11.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bocatio in Guanacaste - where delicious flavors meet breathtaking surroundings.
Gusto Beach Restaurant Pizzeria
14.1 km
Experience exquisite flavors at Gusto Beach Restaurant Pizzeria in Sámara – where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views.
La Cocina de Nury
14.2 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine at La Cocina de Nury in Guanacaste - where every dish tells a story.
El Lagarto Steak House & Seafood
14.3 km
Experience the best of Costa Rican cuisine at El Lagarto Steak House & Seafood with stunning ocean views and delicious dishes.
L'Ulivo Restaurant
14.5 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at L'Ulivo Restaurant in Sámara - where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante El Coyote
18.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante El Coyote in Guanacaste Province - where every dish tells a story.
Ceviche Doña Sonia
19.6 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Ceviche Doña Sonia, where fresh seafood meets local culinary traditions in Nicoya.
Las Cascadas
22.1 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Las Cascadas in Guanacaste – where hospitality meets delicious cuisine.
Sabor de la Montaña
23.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Sabor de la Montaña in Zaragoza - where breathtaking views meet delicious dining.
Palo de Jamaica Restaurant
24.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Palo de Jamaica Restaurant, where local flavors meet exceptional hospitality in beautiful Guanacaste.
La cuchara del buen sabor
24.9 km
Experience the authentic taste of Costa Rica at La Cuchara del Buen Sabor - where every dish tells a story.
Bar y restaurante mi tierra
29.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Bar y Restaurante Mi Tierra in Nicoya, where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante y Marisqueria El Fondo Marino
29.1 km
Discover the authentic taste of Costa Rica at Restaurante y Marisqueria El Fondo Marino in beautiful Guanacaste.
Soda La Palmera
29.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palmera in beautiful Guanacaste Province.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Super Estrada
6.3 km
Discover the charm of Super Estrada in Guanacaste, where local flavors and vibrant shopping come together in a delightful experience.
Super Rio Ora
6.6 km
Explore the vibrant Super Rio Ora in Puerto Carrillo for fresh local products and essentials to enhance your Costa Rican adventure.
Tienda Acuña Aviles
6.8 km
Explore Tienda Acuña Aviles, a vibrant shopping mall in Santa Marta de, Guanacaste, where local culture and artisanal goods await every tourist.
Isis Indigo Blue
8.6 km
Discover unique handmade crafts at Isis Indigo Blue in Nandayure, showcasing local artistry and the spirit of Costa Rica.
Supermercado y Licorera Ruta del Sol
8.6 km
Discover convenience and local charm at Supermercado y Licorera Ruta del Sol in Bejuco, your essential stop for all travel needs.
Rumbo Shop Azura Beach Resort
11.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Rumbo Shop Azura Beach Resort, a delightful shopping destination in Guanacaste.
Plastimex Nicoya
12.8 km
Explore Plastimex Nicoya, a vibrant home goods store in Guanacaste, offering unique local crafts and essential items that embody Costa Rican culture.
Moonstone vintage
14.2 km
Discover unique treasures and sustainable shopping at Moonstone Vintage, Sámara's charming second-hand store in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Del Mar Boutique / Art’s & Crafts Store
14.3 km
Discover unique local crafts and souvenirs at Del Mar Boutique, Sámara's enchanting gift shop filled with Costa Rican artistry.
Pulperia la maravilla
14.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and local culture of Costa Rica at Pulperia la maravilla, a must-visit store in Nandayure, Guanacaste.
NaturArte
20.9 km
Explore the vibrant world of Costa Rican art at NaturArte, a charming paintings store in Hojancha, Guanacaste Province.
Incognitum
22.1 km
Discover the art of fitted furniture at Incognitum in Nicoya, where craftsmanship meets Costa Rican culture.
Súper Melanie
22.6 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Súper Melanie, the charming grocery store in Hojancha with fresh produce and local delights.
Ciclo Framex
22.7 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Ciclo Framex in Hojancha, Guanacaste, where local culture meets delightful retail therapy.
Musmanni Hojancha
22.8 km
Experience the best of Costa Rican pastries at Musmanni Hojancha, where every bite is a delicious journey into local flavors and traditions.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar La Conga
8.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and tropical flavors at Bar La Conga, a must-visit bar in the heart of Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Bar y Restaurante El Manantial
12.8 km
Experience the rich flavors of Guanacaste at Bar y Restaurante El Manantial, a charming grill in the heart of Nicoya Peninsula.
Microbar Samara
14.2 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Microbar Samara, a vibrant bar in Guanacaste Province, where locals and tourists unite for unforgettable moments.
Henrys Bar
14.2 km
Discover Henry's Bar in Porvenir, a vibrant oasis in Guanacaste, where refreshing drinks and local culture meet stunning coastal views.
Heritage Bar in Mercadito Samara
14.5 km
Experience the best of tropical relaxation at Heritage Bar in Samara. Enjoy refreshing cocktails, friendly service, and vibrant atmosphere in paradise.
Bar Vista Verde
15.5 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Bar Vista Verde in Sámara with stunning sunsets, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere.
Batsu Resto Bar
20.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Batsu Resto Bar, a local favorite for food and drinks in Guanacaste's beautiful landscapes.
Macho's Bar
22.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful grilled dishes at Macho's Bar in Hojancha, Costa Rica, a perfect spot for food lovers.
Bar El Sayol
24.2 km
Discover Bar El Sayol: your go-to bar in Nicoya for tropical cocktails and live music, where the essence of Costa Rican nightlife comes alive.
Garza Beach Lounge
27.2 km
Experience the best of coastal dining at Garza Beach Lounge, where fresh local cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views in Guanacaste.
Bar restaurante Momentos
29.1 km
Experience the lively spirit and local flavors at Bar Restaurante Momentos in Guanacaste, a must-visit bar for every traveler.
Rolling Waves Coffee & Cocktails
31.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of artisanal coffee and creative cocktails at Rolling Waves in Nosara, Costa Rica, a tropical paradise for every traveler.
Howler's Beach Lounge
31.3 km
Discover Howler's Beach Lounge: A vibrant cocktail bar and taco restaurant near North Guiones Beach, perfect for relaxation and delicious flavors.
Jungle cocktail bar
31.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Jungle Cocktail Bar in Nosara, where delicious cocktails meet lush tropical surroundings.
Bar restaurante los ranchitos
32.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Bar Restaurante Los Ranchitos, a must-visit bar in Nicoya for an authentic dining experience.
