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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.
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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

Las Catalinas, nestled in the Guanacaste Province of Costa Rica, is a unique coastal town that redefines the concept of a tropical getaway. Founded in 2006, this private resort was designed with the principles of New Urbanism, creating a compact, car-free, and fully walkable environment that encourages human connection and interaction with nature. The town's architecture draws inspiration from colonial Latin American towns and Mediterranean coastal villages, featuring cobblestone streets, villas with shady overhangs, and open public esplanades. This design fosters a sense of community and allows residents and visitors to seamlessly mingle with the natural world. Motorized vehicles are prohibited in the central area, enhancing the pedestrian experience and creating a safer, more relaxed atmosphere. Surrounded by 1,000 acres of tropical dry forest, Las Catalinas offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Playa Danta, the main beach, is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and simply enjoying the sun and sand. The town also boasts restaurants, shops, hotels, and recreational facilities, all integrated into the breathtaking natural surroundings. Las Catalinas is more than just a resort; it's a place where sustainability, health, and community are prioritized. Visitors are encouraged to embrace a car-free lifestyle, explore the natural environment, and connect with others in this charming and unique destination.

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