Playas del Coco
Visitors seeking sun, beautiful beaches, and a lively environment will find paradise in the bustling beach town of El Coco, which is situated in the province of Guanacaste on Costa Rica’s lovely Pacific coast. Visit El Coco and allow it to captivate your senses with its beauty and adventure.
Explore Playas del Coco
Discover the breathtaking scenery and warm hospitality of Playas del Coco
Top Travel Experiences
El Coco offers a wide variety of travel opportunities that will undoubtedly enhance your vacation. Immerse yourself in Coco’s easygoing charm and limitless opportunities for fun.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling
Sport Fishing
Sport Fishing
Sailing
Sailing
Playas del Coco Image Gallery





Playas del Coco Map
About Playas del Coco
Fun Facts & Information
- Playas del Coco is recognized for its exciting nightlife, with a wide variety of pubs, clubs, and eateries providing entertainment, live music, and a buzzing ambiance.
- Thanks to its magnificent natural environment of lush forests and mangroves, Coco provides opportunities to observe wildlife such as monkeys, iguanas, sloths and various species of birds.
- The Fiestas de Papagayo in December, which features parades, traditional dances, and cultural celebrations, is just one of the exciting festivals that Coco hosts all throughout the year.
- Visitors can easily access El Coco because of its ideal location which is only a 30-minute drive from Liberia International Airport.
- El Coco's reputation as a prominent sportfishing spot appeals to anglers or anyone interested in experiencing the thrill of trying to catch world-class fish.
- Divers may explore a variety of marine life and underwater caves at some of Costa Rica's top diving locations, which are accessible from Playas del Coco.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Coco is renowned for its dedication to the environment and eco-friendly practices. Using reusable water bottles and following the Leave No Trace philosophy to protect the environment is highly appreciated here.
- Like any tourist destination, it is best to follow normal safety precautions. Be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded places.
- Bring light and breathable clothing as the tropical climate in Playas del Coco is constant throughout the year. Important items like sunscreen, hats, and bug spray should not be overlooked.
What Makes Playas del Coco Unique?
Playas del Coco has Costa Rican culture and charm, local vibe, and ease of access. The Coco area is only 30 minutes from Liberia Airport, making it one of the most conveniently located coastal destinations in Costa Rica. Locals, expats, and international visitors enjoy the walking distance to its main street, with local restaurants with craft beer in garden bars, and nice bay views.
Tour companies have the best snorkeling, scuba diving, and marine wildlife tours year round, including to the Bat Islands and seeing manta rays and white tipped reef sharks in close proximity. Playas del Coco, Costa Rica also is close to many popular beaches, with easy access and excellent fishing all around. Even though Playa Coco feels like a small fishing village, it also has great nightlife. From listening to live music near the main beach to hanging out at poolside bars, many restaurants turn into fun late-night hangouts after dark.
Stay in Playas del Coco
- Condos
- Mountain View
- Condos
- Mountain View
- Condos
- Ocean View
- Homes
- Luxury
- Mountain View
- Ocean View
- Homes
- Garden View
- Mountain View
Travel Tips for Visiting Playas del Coco
The dry season (December to April) is the most popular time to visit, with perfect sunny conditions to rent golf carts and cruise around. The rainy season (May to November) is still incredible, with lighter crowds and lots of green. It’s also a great time to relax in nearby hot springs or enjoy mud baths, or just focus on yourself in a fitness center or beach club in this former fishing village.
Nearby Liberia Airport has plenty of rental cars and shuttle services. Taxis and private drivers are available to explore nearby beaches like Playa Hermosa and other beaches in Guanacaste, or even to the Central Valley and San Jose. U.S. dollars and credit cards are accepted in many places, but you should carry some cash. It’s safe, but always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Sunscreen, bug spray, and lightweight clothing are crucial.
Playas del Coco Travel Inspiration
Visit hidden waterfalls
Visit hidden waterfalls
Explore the Papagayo Gulf
Explore the Papagayo Gulf
Admire local art
Admire local art
Land adventures
Land adventures
Wildlife encounters
Wildlife encounters
Explore hiking trails
Explore hiking trails
Aquatic adventures
Aquatic adventures
Learn about the chocolate process
Learn about the chocolate process
FAQs
Common Questions
About Playas Del Coco
The closest airport is Liberia International Airport (LIR), just 30 minutes away by car or shuttle. Many foreigners rent a car or book private transportation for convenience.
Yes, the calm waters at Playa Coco are safe and excellent for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and other water activities year-round.
Playas del Coco is considered a safe destination, especially for tourists. Just follow normal safety procedures, like not leaving valuables unattended and being careful at night.
Coco has grocery stores, banks, pharmacies, healthcare clinics, rental agencies, and several restaurants and shops, all within easy reach of most accommodations.
Travel Articles About Playas Del Coco
Ready to plan your trip to Costa Rica? Read through our wide selection of blog posts to discover everything Playas del Coco has to offer—from the local culture to the best things to do during your vacation!