Matapalo Beach: A Guanacaste Gem
Discover serenity on Guanacaste's hidden coast; Matapalo Beach offers tranquil beauty, wildlife, and stunning sunsets.
Matapalo Beach, nestled in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province, offers a serene escape with its gray sandy shores and tranquil atmosphere. Known for its natural beauty and wildlife, it's a haven for those seeking relaxation and connection with nature.
A brief summary to Matapalo Beach
- Guanacaste Province, CR
Local tips
- Bring sunscreen and water; the sun can be intense, and hydration is key for a comfortable beach day.
- Consider visiting during the shoulder season for a chance to have the beach almost entirely to yourself.
- Stay until sunset; Matapalo is known for its breathtaking sunsets.
- Pack insect repellent, especially if planning to stay until dusk, to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
Getting There
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Car
From Liberia International Airport (LIR), take Route 21 towards La Cruz. Then, take Route 160 and follow the signs to Matapalo Beach. The drive is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Parking is available near the beach entrance. Note: Some locations in Playa Matapalo may require a 4x4 vehicle.
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Taxi
From Liberia, a taxi to Matapalo Beach will take approximately 1 hour. Confirm the fare before starting your journey; it should cost around ₡28,887.04 - ₡35,000. Note: Uber is becoming more popular in Costa Rica, but it is not available everywhere.
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Public Transport
From Liberia, take a bus to La Cruz. From La Cruz, take a taxi or local bus to Matapalo Beach. Bus schedules may vary; check the latest timetables. The total cost for the bus rides is typically around $3-$5.
Discover more about Matapalo Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bahia Pez Vela Beach Resort
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Pelicano SportFishing & WaterSports
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Catholic church of Playas del Coco
6.6 km
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Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas
6.6 km
Secluded adults-only luxury with panoramic Pacific views, private plunge pools, and easy access to Costa Rican adventure in Las Catalinas.
Kuna Vela Sailing Tours
6.7 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty with Kuna Vela Sailing Tours: Snorkeling, sunsets, and unforgettable memories on the Gulf of Papagayo.
Papagayo Gulf Sport Fishing - North Pacific Tours
9.5 km
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Hermosa Heights
9.9 km
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Estero Azul
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Colores Del Pacifico
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360 Splendor del Pacifico Residences
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Casa Los Monos
10.7 km
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Special Places of Costa Rica - Playa Flamingo
10.7 km
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Presidential Suites Playa Flamingo,Guanacaste Province.Costa Rica
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Villa Fugata
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Amigos Tacos y Beer
10.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Alan on the beach
0.4 km
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Diamante Eco Adventure Park
1.4 km
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Ocotal Beach
3.9 km
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Del Coco Beach
6.4 km
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Las Catalinas
6.4 km
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Danta Beach
6.5 km
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Dantita Beach
6.6 km
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Summer Salt Dive Center
6.7 km
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Sugar Beach
6.7 km
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Playa Prieta
7.2 km
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Playa Penca
7.9 km
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Calzon de Pobre Beach
8.3 km
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Playa Potrero, Costa Rica
9.4 km
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Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica
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Playa Hermosa
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Essential places to dine
Father Rooster's
3.9 km
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The Lookout Restaurant
6.4 km
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Tandoor Indian Restaurant El Coco
6.6 km
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Sentido Norte
6.7 km
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Numu Taproom and Bistro by Chef Nicolas Devenelle
6.9 km
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Soda Mediterranea
7.3 km
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Restaurante Mar Azul
7.7 km
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Hotel Restaurant Villa del Sueño
9.3 km
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La Forketta
9.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Forketta in Potrero - home to exquisite pizzas and warm hospitality amidst breathtaking Guanacaste landscapes.
Nasu Restaurant - Potrero bay beachfront
9.4 km
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The Shack
9.4 km
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Café del Sol
9.4 km
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Hemingway's
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Restaurants Arenas
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La Casita Del Marisco
10.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Britt Shop
0.8 km
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Britt Shop Diamante Eco Adventure Park
1.4 km
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Souvenirs Sussy
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Aquamarina Souvenirs / DCT Tours & Info
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Tafa Souvenir and Indigenous Gallery Art
6.8 km
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Bahía Art Shop
9.4 km
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Mini-Mart
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Britt Shop - Villa Sol
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ROSTYROFO
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Terracosta Boutique
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Pura Vida Ride
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CR Marine Supply
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Britt Cafe and Bakery
10.8 km
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Morena Handmade Swim
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Pura Vira Ride
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Monkey's Bar/Restaurant
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Lounge 24
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Chicos Bar
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Bar Flipper
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Bar El Ancla
6.7 km
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Tortuga Bar
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The Garden Bar
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Zarpe
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Pacífico Beach Club
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The Whiskey Howler beach bar and grill
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Bar Makai
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Donna Maria
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Boss Sports Bar
23.5 km
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Chop House
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Volcano Brewing Company
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Pachas Discoteque
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Moonflower Spa and Salon
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Pura Vida Show
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Family Club Lounge
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Bar Imperial
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Night Club Garden
24.3 km
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The Alley
27.5 km
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Tasty VIP & Local Experiences
27.5 km
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Lotus Night Club
27.5 km
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LUV
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Parque Nacional Santa Rosa
34.7 km
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Zona Astro
35.5 km
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THERMODINAMICA A/C Y REFRIGERACIÓN
35.7 km
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Centro de Eventos¡Aquí me quedo !
35.8 km
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Mojitos club
35.8 km
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