Playa Prieta: A Tranquil Escape in Guanacaste
Discover Playa Prieta in Guanacaste: A serene escape with black and white sands, perfect for relaxation and authentic Costa Rican vibes.
Playa Prieta, also known as "Dark Beach" due to its black and white sand, is a serene and secluded beach located in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica. This hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat away from crowded tourist spots, making it a favorite among locals. With calm waters, shady trees, and a relaxed atmosphere, it's the perfect place to unwind and experience the true meaning of 'pura vida'.
A brief summary to Playa Prieta
- Santa Cruz, Guanacaste Province, CR
Local tips
- Bring your own supplies, as there are no restaurants or rental facilities available at the beach.
- Visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds, as the beach is popular with locals on weekends and holidays.
- A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season (May to November), due to the unpaved access road.
- Take necessary precautions to safeguard your belongings, as petty theft can occur in the parking area.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby beaches like Playa Potrero, Playa Flamingo, or Playa Penca for a fuller experience of the region.
Getting There
-
Car
From Liberia International Airport (LIR), the drive to Playa Prieta is approximately one hour. Head south on Route 21 towards Huacas, then follow the signs to Potrero. Once in Potrero, Playa Prieta is a short drive north; look for a small sign that says “Playa Prieta, drive carefully. Villas Estival” on the left. Turn left onto the unpaved road leading to the beach. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season. Free parking is available in a small lot about 30 meters from the beach. There are no parking fees.
-
Taxi
From the Liberia International Airport (LIR), taxis are readily available. A taxi to Playa Prieta will take approximately one hour. Official airport taxis charge a flat government rate. The estimated taxi fare is between ₡36,648 Costa Rican Colones, but can vary. It is advisable to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
-
Public Transport
From Liberia, take a bus towards Playas del Coco. Get off at the Guardia Liberia stop. From there, you will need to take a taxi to Playa Prieta. The bus from Liberia to Playas del Coco costs $1-5 USD. The taxi from Guardia Liberia to Playa Prieta will cost extra.
Discover more about Playa Prieta
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas
1.2 km
Secluded adults-only luxury with panoramic Pacific views, private plunge pools, and easy access to Costa Rican adventure in Las Catalinas.
360 Splendor del Pacifico Residences
3.4 km
Experience luxurious coastal living with breathtaking ocean views at 360 Splendor del Pacifico Residences in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica.
Special Places of Costa Rica - Playa Flamingo
3.5 km
Experience the beauty of Playa Flamingo, a premier destination in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
Estero Azul
3.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine with stunning ocean views at Estero Azul in Playa Flamingo, Guanacaste.
Presidential Suites Playa Flamingo,Guanacaste Province.Costa Rica
3.5 km
Experience coastal living at Presidential Suites in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica. Ocean views, comfortable condos, and beachside bliss await!
Amigos Tacos y Beer
3.5 km
Enjoy authentic Mexican flavors and refreshing local beers at this casual Playa Flamingo eatery. Open daily, 11 AM - 9 PM.
Colores Del Pacifico
3.5 km
Find personal growth and empowerment at this Playa Flamingo life coaching center, set amidst Costa Rica's stunning Pacific coast.
Villa Bougainvillea 4
3.5 km
Experience luxury at Villa Bougainvillea in Playa Flamingo: stunning views, private pool, and elegant design for an unforgettable Costa Rican getaway.
Info Flamingo
3.6 km
Explore Playa Flamingo with Info Flamingo: Your ultimate visitor center for local attractions, adventures, and unforgettable experiences in Guanacaste.
Surf Box
3.6 km
Enjoy delicious food with stunning ocean views at Surf Box, a culinary oasis in Playa Flamingo's vibrant Marina.
Camparino
3.6 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors in a tropical paradise at Camparino Pizzeria Italiana in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica.
Mariner Inn
3.6 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Mariner Inn, your ideal gateway to Playa Flamingo's beaches and Costa Rican adventures.
Angelina's
3.6 km
Fine dining in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica, with globally-inspired cuisine and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Open-air dining with a view!
Casa Los Monos
3.6 km
Experience tranquility at Casa Los Monos in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica: Lush gardens, beach access, and authentic Costa Rican charm await!
Cremrica Flamingo
3.6 km
Enjoy a tropical paradise of flavors at Cremrica Flamingo, the ultimate ice cream destination in Playa Flamingo, Guanacaste Province.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sugar Beach
0.8 km
Discover Sugar Beach, Costa Rica: A secluded paradise with clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and tranquil relaxation.
Playa Penca
0.8 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Playa Penca, a hidden beach paradise in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Danta Beach
1.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Danta Beach in Guanacaste, a perfect destination for relaxation, adventure, and exploration of Costa Rica's stunning coastline.
Las Catalinas
1.7 km
Explore Las Catalinas: A tropical paradise in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica, where stunning beaches and lush landscapes await your discovery.
Dantita Beach
2.2 km
Experience the stunning beauty and vibrant culture of Dantita Beach in Guanacaste, Costa Rica – a perfect getaway for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Potrero, Costa Rica
2.5 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
3.3 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Playa Ardilla in Guanacaste, Costa Rica – a tranquil beach paradise for relaxation and adventure.
Marina Flamingo
3.5 km
Experience the enchanting Marina Flamingo in Playa Flamingo – where adventure meets relaxation along Costa Rica's stunning coastline.
Serendipity Charters
3.6 km
Experience the beauty of Costa Rica's coast with Serendipity Charters—your gateway to unforgettable boat tours and marine adventures.
Lazy Lizard Sailing
3.7 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
3.7 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Costa Rica's coastline with Why Not Oceanic Sailing—an unforgettable sailing adventure awaits you!
Playa Flamingo
3.8 km
Experience the beauty and adventure of Playa Flamingo, a stunning beach destination in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Pacific Coast Dive Center
4.2 km
Explore the vibrant marine life of Costa Rica at the Pacific Coast Dive Center in Playa Flamingo, offering unforgettable diving and snorkeling experiences.
Scuba Dive Costa Rica - Potrero & Flamingo
4.2 km
Explore the vibrant marine life of Costa Rica at Scuba Dive Costa Rica in Potrero & Flamingo, your gateway to unforgettable underwater adventures.
Flamingo, Costa Rica
4.3 km
Explore the stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich culture of Flamingo, Costa Rica - an unforgettable destination for every traveler.
Essential places to dine
Sentido Norte
1.2 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with stunning views at Sentido Norte in Las Catalinas, Guanacaste.
Nasu Restaurant - Potrero bay beachfront
2.5 km
Experience beachfront dining at Nasu Restaurant in Playa Potrero—where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.
Hemingway's
2.6 km
Discover Hemingway's: A culinary oasis in Surfside offering authentic Costa Rican flavors and exceptional service amidst stunning natural beauty.
Café del Sol
2.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Café del Sol in Potrero – where flavor meets breathtaking views.
The Shack
2.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at The Shack in Potrero - where great food meets unforgettable live music!
La Forketta
2.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Forketta in Potrero - home to exquisite pizzas and warm hospitality amidst breathtaking Guanacaste landscapes.
Restaurants Arenas
2.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurants Arenas in Santa Cruz - a culinary treasure nestled in beautiful Guanacaste.
The Beach House Bar and Restaurant
3.4 km
Experience mouthwatering local cuisine with stunning ocean views at The Beach House Bar and Restaurant in Playa Potrero.
Matias Restaurant
3.5 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Matias Restaurant in Flamingo – where fresh ingredients meet stunning views.
Restaurant Amberes
3.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurant Amberes in Playa Flamingo – a must-visit dining destination for every traveler.
Restaurante Pleamar
3.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Pleamar in Playa Flamingo - where every meal comes with stunning ocean views.
Hazel's Steak & Seafood
3.6 km
Discover Hazel's Steak & Seafood in Flamingo: A culinary haven offering fresh seafood and prime steaks with breathtaking ocean views.
Palmeras Flamingo
3.6 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Palmeras Flamingo, where every meal celebrates local flavors amidst breathtaking beach views.
Bar y Restaurante La Cabaña
3.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Bar y Restaurante La Cabaña in Playa Flamingo - where fresh ingredients meet vibrant flavors.
Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe
3.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe nestled in Margaritaville Beach Resort - where every meal is a celebration.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bahía Art Shop
2.7 km
Explore Bahía Art Shop in Potrero for unique souvenirs and locally crafted treasures that capture the spirit of Guanacaste.
Terracosta Boutique
3.5 km
Explore Terracosta Boutique for stylish beach and formal wear in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica - perfect for elevating your vacation wardrobe.
ROSTYROFO
3.5 km
Explore RostyRofo in Playa Flamingo for a unique shopping experience filled with local crafts and international brands in a vibrant setting.
Pura Vida Ride
3.5 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
3.5 km
Explore CR Marine Supply in Playa Flamingo for top-notch marine gear and unique local products, enhancing your Costa Rican adventure.
Britt Cafe and Bakery
3.5 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.
Morena Handmade Swim
3.5 km
Explore Morena Handmade Swim in Playa Flamingo for unique, handcrafted women's beachwear that embodies the essence of Costa Rica's coastal lifestyle.
Pura Vira Ride
3.5 km
Unleash your adventurous spirit at Pura Vira Ride in Playa Flamingo, where thrilling experiences and stunning coastal views await.
Bodega75
3.5 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Bodega75, the go-to grocery store in Playa Flamingo for fresh produce and local specialties.
Massai Automart Playa Flamingo
3.6 km
Explore Massai Automart Playa Flamingo, your one-stop destination for fresh local produce, unique Costa Rican snacks, and essential supplies in Playa Flamingo.
Super Flamingo
3.6 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.
Déntico Flamingo
3.6 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Déntico Flamingo, a unique store in Playa Flamingo offering handmade crafts and memorable souvenirs.
NALU bagel & café flamingo
3.6 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Nalu Bagel & Café in Flamingo, where fresh bagels meet artisanal coffee in a cozy atmosphere.
Chicho's Cigars
3.6 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
3.6 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Whiskey Howler beach bar and grill
2.6 km
Experience the best of beachside dining at The Whiskey Howler, where American cuisine meets fresh sushi in a stunning coastal setting.
Donna Maria
3.5 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
7.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Monkey's Bar/Restaurant in Guanacaste, a unique grill perfect for beachside dining.
Lounge 24
7.3 km
Discover the serene ambiance of Lounge 24, your ideal retreat in Matapalo, Guanacaste for relaxation and refreshing drinks.
Chicos Bar
11.4 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
12.4 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
12.7 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
12.8 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
12.9 km
Discover the culinary delights of The Garden Bar in Playa del Coco, where fresh flavors and a relaxing atmosphere await.
Zarpe
13.3 km
Discover Zarpe, the ultimate cocktail bar in Playa del Coco, offering unique drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for every occasion.
Pacífico Beach Club
13.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and stunning ocean views at Pacífico Beach Club, a premier bar and restaurant in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Bar Makai
16.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bar Makai in Playa Hermosa, where refreshing drinks and stunning views create unforgettable moments.
Chop House
18.8 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
19.6 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
20.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at El Be - Tamarindo Beach Club, a must-visit restaurant in Costa Rica.
