Discover the Serenity of Playa Carrillo
Experience the untouched beauty of Playa Carrillo in Guanacaste, Costa Rica—a serene beach paradise perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Nestled in the heart of Guanacaste Province, Playa Carrillo is a hidden gem renowned for its pristine beaches and tranquil atmosphere. This idyllic location offers tourists a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle, featuring soft golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palm trees. Whether you're looking to unwind on the beach, immerse yourself in local culture, or explore vibrant marine life, Playa Carrillo promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
A brief summary to Playa Carrillo
- Guanacaste Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for stunning sunrises and sunsets.
- Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated, as the sun can be intense.
- Explore the nearby town for local cuisine and artisan shops.
- Consider renting a kayak to explore the coastline and enjoy the scenery from the water.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from the Santa Rosa National Park area, start by heading south on Route 1 (Interamericana). Continue on Route 1 for approximately 20 kilometers. Keep an eye out for the signs for Playa Carrillo. When you approach the town of Samara, take the exit toward Samara/Playa Carrillo. Follow the road to the west for about 5 kilometers until you reach Playa Carrillo. Parking is available near the beach, and there may be a small fee for parking.
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Public Transportation
To reach Playa Carrillo using public transportation, you can take a bus from the nearby town of Liberia. Board the bus heading to Samara, which usually departs from the Liberia bus terminal. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you arrive in Samara, transfer to a local bus that goes to Playa Carrillo. This will take an additional 20-30 minutes. Be sure to ask the bus driver to let you know when you reach Playa Carrillo. The bus fare from Liberia to Samara is typically around $5, and the fare for the local bus to Playa Carrillo is about $1.
Discover more about Playa Carrillo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Punta Islita, Autograph Collection
10.2 km
Experience luxury and nature at Punta Islita, Autograph Collection, a breathtaking hillside hotel with stunning Pacific Ocean views.
Reserva Natural Monte Alto
18.5 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
28.8 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
48.3 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
54.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, a sanctuary of biodiversity with stunning landscapes and rich wildlife in Costa Rica's Puntarenas Province.
Playa Avellanas
54.8 km
Experience the natural beauty and vibrant surf culture of Playa Avellanas, a stunning beach destination in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Blue Tide Tours
55.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica with Blue Tide Tours—your gateway to unforgettable adventures and natural wonders.
Ballena Bay
56.7 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant marine life at Ballena Bay, a coastal paradise in Costa Rica perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Black Stallion Eco Park & Estates
56.7 km
Explore the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife of Black Stallion Eco Park & Estates, a top destination for eco-adventures in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
56.8 km
Discover luxury and adventure at JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa, where breathtaking ocean views and world-class amenities await your arrival.
Tamarindo Park
60.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Tamarindo Park, a lush gated community in Guanacaste, where nature meets relaxation in the heart of Costa Rica.
Tamarindo Moonlight Night Market
60.4 km
Discover the vibrant Tamarindo Moonlight Night Market, a cultural gem offering delicious food, unique crafts, and lively entertainment in the heart of Costa Rica.
El Moro Tamarindo
60.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at El Moro Tamarindo, where luxury meets the vibrant spirit of Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province.
Wonder Away - Costa Rica
60.4 km
Explore the beauty of Costa Rica with Wonder Away, your expert travel agency in Tamarindo, offering personalized itineraries for unforgettable adventures.
Little Lucha
60.4 km
Discover the best tacos in Tamarindo at Little Lucha, where fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors create a culinary experience that tantalizes your taste buds.
Unmissable attractions to see
Carrillo Beach
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Carrillo Beach, a hidden coastal paradise in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Punto Playa Carrillo
1.0 km
Punto Playa Carrillo: A serene beach paradise in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where golden sands and tranquil waters meet stunning sunsets.
Playa Puerto Carrillo
1.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant marine life of Playa Puerto Carrillo, a stunning beach destination in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province.
Tides of Samara
2.0 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
2.6 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
2.9 km
Experience the charm of Samara Beach, an enchanting coastal paradise in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where sun, sea, and adventure await.
Bahía Sámara
3.4 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant marine life of Bahía Sámara, a perfect Costa Rican getaway for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Sámara
3.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation at Playa Sámara, a captivating beach destination in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province.
Playa Camaronal
5.3 km
Discover the untouched beauty of Playa Camaronal, a tranquil beach in Guanacaste Province perfect for relaxation, adventure, and wildlife encounters.
Playa Izquierda
5.5 km
Discover the stunning trails and serene beaches of Playa Izquierda, a hidden gem in Guanacaste Province, perfect for hiking and relaxation.
Playa Buena Vista
7.2 km
Experience the breathtaking sunsets and tranquil beauty of Playa Buena Vista, a hidden gem on Costa Rica's stunning Guanacaste coast.
Buenavista Beach
7.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Buenavista Beach in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where golden sands meet azure waters for an unforgettable escape.
Punta Buena Vista
8.3 km
Explore Punta Buena Vista, a stunning national forest in Guanacaste Province, known for its breathtaking beaches and diverse wildlife.
Barrigona Beach
9.2 km
Discover the pristine beauty of Barrigona Beach in Guanacaste, Costa Rica – a tranquil paradise perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Barrigona
9.3 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Playa Barrigona, a serene Costa Rican beach perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst nature's splendor.
Essential places to dine
Bocatio
1.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bocatio in Guanacaste - where delicious flavors meet breathtaking surroundings.
Gusto Beach Restaurant Pizzeria
3.8 km
Experience exquisite flavors at Gusto Beach Restaurant Pizzeria in Sámara – where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views.
El Lagarto Steak House & Seafood
4.0 km
Experience the best of Costa Rican cuisine at El Lagarto Steak House & Seafood with stunning ocean views and delicious dishes.
L'Ulivo Restaurant
4.2 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at L'Ulivo Restaurant in Sámara - where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante El Coyote
8.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante El Coyote in Guanacaste Province - where every dish tells a story.
Ceviche Doña Sonia
9.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Ceviche Doña Sonia, where fresh seafood meets local culinary traditions in Nicoya.
Restaurante Kimbute
10.6 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Kimbute in Punta Islita, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Sabor de la Montaña
14.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Sabor de la Montaña in Zaragoza - where breathtaking views meet delicious dining.
Las Cascadas
17.0 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Las Cascadas in Guanacaste – where hospitality meets delicious cuisine.
El Manglar Restaurant
20.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Manglar Restaurant in Guanacaste—where every dish is made from fresh local ingredients.
La cuchara del buen sabor
20.7 km
Experience the authentic taste of Costa Rica at La Cuchara del Buen Sabor - where every dish tells a story.
Bombi's
21.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Bombi's in Nosara - where every bite tells a story.
La Cocina de Nury
23.4 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine at La Cocina de Nury in Guanacaste - where every dish tells a story.
Palo de Jamaica Restaurant
23.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Palo de Jamaica Restaurant, where local flavors meet exceptional hospitality in beautiful Guanacaste.
Bernina Artisan Food
27.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Bernina Artisan Food in Nicoya - where local ingredients meet artisanal cooking.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rumbo Shop Azura Beach Resort
1.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Rumbo Shop Azura Beach Resort, a delightful shopping destination in Guanacaste.
Moonstone vintage
3.9 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
4.0 km
Discover unique local crafts and souvenirs at Del Mar Boutique, Sámara's enchanting gift shop filled with Costa Rican artistry.
Super Rio Ora
4.2 km
Explore the vibrant Super Rio Ora in Puerto Carrillo for fresh local products and essentials to enhance your Costa Rican adventure.
Super Estrada
4.9 km
Discover the charm of Super Estrada in Guanacaste, where local flavors and vibrant shopping come together in a delightful experience.
Tienda Acuña Aviles
7.8 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
15.4 km
Discover unique handmade crafts at Isis Indigo Blue in Nandayure, showcasing local artistry and the spirit of Costa Rica.
Plastimex Nicoya
18.0 km
Explore Plastimex Nicoya, a vibrant home goods store in Guanacaste, offering unique local crafts and essential items that embody Costa Rican culture.
Supermercado y Licorera Ruta del Sol
18.9 km
Discover convenience and local charm at Supermercado y Licorera Ruta del Sol in Bejuco, your essential stop for all travel needs.
Incognitum
19.0 km
Discover the art of fitted furniture at Incognitum in Nicoya, where craftsmanship meets Costa Rican culture.
MAGIC Boutique Nosara
20.5 km
Explore fashion and craftsmanship at MAGIC Boutique Nosara, where local artistry meets contemporary style in a vibrant coastal setting.
Jenstones Gallery
20.5 km
Discover a blend of exquisite jewelry and local art at Jenstones Gallery in Playa Guiones, a must-visit for culture and craft lovers.
Love Nosara
20.6 km
Experience the vibrant fashion scene at Love Nosara, where unique styles meet the laid-back spirit of Costa Rica's beautiful coastline.
NaturArte
20.8 km
Explore the vibrant world of Costa Rican art at NaturArte, a charming paintings store in Hojancha, Guanacaste Province.
WLDFLWRS
21.2 km
Discover the exquisite charm of WLDFLWRS, a boutique in Nosara offering unique, high-quality crafts and local artistry that captures the spirit of Costa Rica.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Microbar Samara
3.9 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Microbar Samara, a vibrant bar in Guanacaste Province, where locals and tourists unite for unforgettable moments.
Heritage Bar in Mercadito Samara
4.1 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
6.1 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Bar Vista Verde in Sámara with stunning sunsets, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere.
Batsu Resto Bar
10.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Batsu Resto Bar, a local favorite for food and drinks in Guanacaste's beautiful landscapes.
Garza Beach Lounge
16.9 km
Experience the best of coastal dining at Garza Beach Lounge, where fresh local cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views in Guanacaste.
Bar y Restaurante El Manantial
18.0 km
Experience the rich flavors of Guanacaste at Bar y Restaurante El Manantial, a charming grill in the heart of Nicoya Peninsula.
Bar La Conga
18.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and tropical flavors at Bar La Conga, a must-visit bar in the heart of Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Rolling Waves Coffee & Cocktails
21.0 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
21.1 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
21.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Jungle Cocktail Bar in Nosara, where delicious cocktails meet lush tropical surroundings.
Macho's Bar
22.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful grilled dishes at Macho's Bar in Hojancha, Costa Rica, a perfect spot for food lovers.
Henrys Bar
23.5 km
Discover Henry's Bar in Porvenir, a vibrant oasis in Guanacaste, where refreshing drinks and local culture meet stunning coastal views.
Bar El Sayol
30.3 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.
Bar restaurante los ranchitos
30.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Bar Restaurante Los Ranchitos, a must-visit bar in Nicoya for an authentic dining experience.
Bar Caballo Blanco
30.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local culture at Bar Caballo Blanco, a must-visit bar in the heart of Santa Lucía, Guanacaste.
