Las Catalinas: A Car-Free Coastal Paradise
Discover Las Catalinas: A walkable, sustainable beach town in Costa Rica with stunning beaches, hiking trails, and a vibrant community.
Las Catalinas is a newly constructed, car-free beach town on Costa Rica's Guanacaste coast, designed with New Urbanism principles. It offers a walkable environment with stunning architecture, beautiful beaches like Playa Danta, and a focus on sustainability, health, and community. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, water sports, and local cuisine in this unique tropical destination.
A brief summary to Las Catalinas
- Las Catalinas, Guanacaste Province, CR
Local tips
- Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection, as Las Catalinas enjoys a sunny tropical climate year-round.
- Explore the hiking and biking trails surrounding Las Catalinas to experience the area's natural beauty and spot local wildlife.
- Enjoy the sunset at Playa Danta, the main beach, or indulge in fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants.
- Consider visiting during the shoulder season (November-December or April-May) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Take advantage of the car-free environment by exploring the town on foot and enjoying the pedestrian-friendly atmosphere.
Getting There
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Taxi
From Liberia International Airport (LIR), a taxi is a convenient option to reach Las Catalinas. Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminals. The journey typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours, covering approximately 47 miles (75.6 kilometers). A taxi from Liberia Airport to Las Catalinas costs around $125 - $139. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip.
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Private Shuttle
A pre-booked private shuttle offers a comfortable and direct transfer from Liberia International Airport (LIR) to Las Catalinas. The journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Several companies offer this service, with prices typically around $99. This option provides a hassle-free experience with a dedicated driver.
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Driving
If driving from Liberia International Airport (LIR), exit the airport and take Highway 21 towards Sardinal. Follow the signs to Las Catalinas, heading west towards the coast. The drive is approximately 47 miles (75.6 kilometers) and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Note that while Las Catalinas is car-free within the town, there is a parking area available at the entrance where you can leave your vehicle. Driving yourself will likely incur car rental fees, as well as approximately $5 - $9 in gas.
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Public Transport
For a more budget-friendly option from Liberia, take a bus from Liberia to Potrero. From Potrero, you can then take a taxi for the short remaining distance to Las Catalinas. Bus fares from Liberia to Potrero are typically inexpensive, costing a few dollars. Confirm the taxi fare from Potrero to Las Catalinas before you begin your ride.
Discover more about Las Catalinas
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas
0.4 km
Secluded adults-only luxury with panoramic Pacific views, private plunge pools, and easy access to Costa Rican adventure in Las Catalinas.
Casa Los Monos
4.3 km
Experience tranquility at Casa Los Monos in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica: Lush gardens, beach access, and authentic Costa Rican charm await!
Villa Fugata
4.4 km
Experience cliffside luxury with breathtaking ocean views at Villa Fugata in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica. A serene escape awaits!
360 Splendor del Pacifico Residences
4.4 km
Experience luxurious coastal living with breathtaking ocean views at 360 Splendor del Pacifico Residences in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica.
Villa Bougainvillea 4
4.6 km
Experience luxury at Villa Bougainvillea in Playa Flamingo: stunning views, private pool, and elegant design for an unforgettable Costa Rican getaway.
Presidential Suites Playa Flamingo,Guanacaste Province.Costa Rica
4.6 km
Experience coastal living at Presidential Suites in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica. Ocean views, comfortable condos, and beachside bliss await!
Special Places of Costa Rica - Playa Flamingo
4.6 km
Experience the beauty of Playa Flamingo, a premier destination in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
Amigos Tacos y Beer
4.7 km
Enjoy authentic Mexican flavors and refreshing local beers at this casual Playa Flamingo eatery. Open daily, 11 AM - 9 PM.
Angelina's
4.7 km
Fine dining in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica, with globally-inspired cuisine and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Open-air dining with a view!
Camparino
4.7 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors in a tropical paradise at Camparino Pizzeria Italiana in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica.
Info Flamingo
4.7 km
Explore Playa Flamingo with Info Flamingo: Your ultimate visitor center for local attractions, adventures, and unforgettable experiences in Guanacaste.
Monday Moonlight Market
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Guanacaste at Playa Flamingo's Monday Moonlight Market, with local crafts, food, and music under the stars.
Mariner Inn
4.7 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Mariner Inn, your ideal gateway to Playa Flamingo's beaches and Costa Rican adventures.
Surf Box
4.7 km
Enjoy delicious food with stunning ocean views at Surf Box, a culinary oasis in Playa Flamingo's vibrant Marina.
Cremrica Flamingo
4.7 km
Enjoy a tropical paradise of flavors at Cremrica Flamingo, the ultimate ice cream destination in Playa Flamingo, Guanacaste Province.
Unmissable attractions to see
Danta Beach
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Danta Beach in Guanacaste, a perfect destination for relaxation, adventure, and exploration of Costa Rica's stunning coastline.
Dantita Beach
0.6 km
Experience the stunning beauty and vibrant culture of Dantita Beach in Guanacaste, Costa Rica – a perfect getaway for relaxation and adventure.
Sugar Beach
0.9 km
Discover Sugar Beach, Costa Rica: A secluded paradise with clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and tranquil relaxation.
Playa Prieta
1.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Playa Prieta, a serene beach paradise in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Penca
2.4 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Playa Penca, a hidden beach paradise in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Potrero, Costa Rica
4.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Playa Potrero in Guanacaste, Costa Rica – a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure awaits you at this stunning beach.
Playa Ardilla
4.4 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Playa Ardilla in Guanacaste, Costa Rica – a tranquil beach paradise for relaxation and adventure.
Marina Flamingo
4.6 km
Experience the enchanting Marina Flamingo in Playa Flamingo – where adventure meets relaxation along Costa Rica's stunning coastline.
Playa Flamingo
4.8 km
Experience the beauty and adventure of Playa Flamingo, a stunning beach destination in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Serendipity Charters
4.9 km
Experience the beauty of Costa Rica's coast with Serendipity Charters—your gateway to unforgettable boat tours and marine adventures.
Lazy Lizard Sailing
5.0 km
Discover the beauty of Guanacaste's coastline with Lazy Lizard Sailing - unforgettable boat tours and breathtaking views await you.
Why Not Oceanic Sailing Experience
5.0 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Costa Rica's coastline with Why Not Oceanic Sailing—an unforgettable sailing adventure awaits you!
Flamingo, Costa Rica
5.4 km
Explore the stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich culture of Flamingo, Costa Rica - an unforgettable destination for every traveler.
Scuba Dive Costa Rica - Potrero & Flamingo
5.6 km
Explore the vibrant marine life of Costa Rica at Scuba Dive Costa Rica in Potrero & Flamingo, your gateway to unforgettable underwater adventures.
Pacific Coast Dive Center
5.6 km
Explore the vibrant marine life of Costa Rica at the Pacific Coast Dive Center in Playa Flamingo, offering unforgettable diving and snorkeling experiences.
Essential places to dine
Sentido Norte
0.4 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with stunning views at Sentido Norte in Las Catalinas, Guanacaste.
Nasu Restaurant - Potrero bay beachfront
4.1 km
Experience beachfront dining at Nasu Restaurant in Playa Potrero—where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.
Hemingway's
4.1 km
Discover Hemingway's: A culinary oasis in Surfside offering authentic Costa Rican flavors and exceptional service amidst stunning natural beauty.
Café del Sol
4.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Café del Sol in Potrero – where flavor meets breathtaking views.
The Shack
4.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at The Shack in Potrero - where great food meets unforgettable live music!
La Forketta
4.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Forketta in Potrero - home to exquisite pizzas and warm hospitality amidst breathtaking Guanacaste landscapes.
Restaurants Arenas
4.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurants Arenas in Santa Cruz - a culinary treasure nestled in beautiful Guanacaste.
Restaurant Amberes
4.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurant Amberes in Playa Flamingo – a must-visit dining destination for every traveler.
Matias Restaurant
4.7 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Matias Restaurant in Flamingo – where fresh ingredients meet stunning views.
Palmeras Flamingo
4.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Palmeras Flamingo, where every meal celebrates local flavors amidst breathtaking beach views.
Hazel's Steak & Seafood
4.7 km
Discover Hazel's Steak & Seafood in Flamingo: A culinary haven offering fresh seafood and prime steaks with breathtaking ocean views.
Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe
4.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe nestled in Margaritaville Beach Resort - where every meal is a celebration.
The Beach House Bar and Restaurant
4.8 km
Experience mouthwatering local cuisine with stunning ocean views at The Beach House Bar and Restaurant in Playa Potrero.
Banana Wind Cafe
4.8 km
Experience delightful dining at Banana Wind Cafe in Playa Flamingo - where local flavors meet stunning ocean views.
Restaurante Pleamar
4.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Pleamar in Playa Flamingo - where every meal comes with stunning ocean views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bahía Art Shop
4.3 km
Explore Bahía Art Shop in Potrero for unique souvenirs and locally crafted treasures that capture the spirit of Guanacaste.
ROSTYROFO
4.6 km
Explore RostyRofo in Playa Flamingo for a unique shopping experience filled with local crafts and international brands in a vibrant setting.
Terracosta Boutique
4.6 km
Explore Terracosta Boutique for stylish beach and formal wear in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica - perfect for elevating your vacation wardrobe.
Pura Vida Ride
4.7 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
4.7 km
Explore CR Marine Supply in Playa Flamingo for top-notch marine gear and unique local products, enhancing your Costa Rican adventure.
Déntico Flamingo
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Déntico Flamingo, a unique store in Playa Flamingo offering handmade crafts and memorable souvenirs.
Britt Cafe and Bakery
4.7 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.
NALU bagel & café flamingo
4.7 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Nalu Bagel & Café in Flamingo, where fresh bagels meet artisanal coffee in a cozy atmosphere.
Massai Automart Playa Flamingo
4.7 km
Explore Massai Automart Playa Flamingo, your one-stop destination for fresh local produce, unique Costa Rican snacks, and essential supplies in Playa Flamingo.
Farmacia La Plaza Flamingo
4.7 km
Explore Playa Flamingo with confidence, knowing Farmacia La Plaza Flamingo is your trusted pharmacy for health and wellness needs.
Super Flamingo
4.7 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.
Morena Handmade Swim
4.7 km
Explore Morena Handmade Swim in Playa Flamingo for unique, handcrafted women's beachwear that embodies the essence of Costa Rica's coastal lifestyle.
Chicho's Cigars
4.7 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
4.7 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.
Pura Vira Ride
4.7 km
Unleash your adventurous spirit at Pura Vira Ride in Playa Flamingo, where thrilling experiences and stunning coastal views await.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Whiskey Howler beach bar and grill
4.2 km
Experience the best of beachside dining at The Whiskey Howler, where American cuisine meets fresh sushi in a stunning coastal setting.
Donna Maria
4.9 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
6.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Monkey's Bar/Restaurant in Guanacaste, a unique grill perfect for beachside dining.
Lounge 24
6.6 km
Discover the serene ambiance of Lounge 24, your ideal retreat in Matapalo, Guanacaste for relaxation and refreshing drinks.
Chicos Bar
11.2 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
12.3 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
12.5 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
12.6 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
12.7 km
Discover the culinary delights of The Garden Bar in Playa del Coco, where fresh flavors and a relaxing atmosphere await.
Zarpe
13.1 km
Discover Zarpe, the ultimate cocktail bar in Playa del Coco, offering unique drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for every occasion.
Pacífico Beach Club
13.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and stunning ocean views at Pacífico Beach Club, a premier bar and restaurant in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Bar Makai
16.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bar Makai in Playa Hermosa, where refreshing drinks and stunning views create unforgettable moments.
Chop House
19.8 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
20.6 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
21.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at El Be - Tamarindo Beach Club, a must-visit restaurant in Costa Rica.
