Matapalo Guanacaste
Matapalo is a small town in the Guanacaste region, near the Pacific Coast. It is a 10-minute drive from beaches along the Tamarindo Bay, like Playa Grande and Playa Ventanas. From Matapalo it takes 15 minutes to drive to Las Baulas National Marine Park. Matapalo has a few stores and small park.
Beaches in Guanacaste are famous for their deep blue and turquoise waters. Some of these beaches offer good surfing conditions. Las Baulas National Marine Park also has an impressive coastline which is lined with mangrove forests – this area serves as a destination for nature tours and kayaking voyages.
Leatherback sea turtles use Las Baulas National Marine Park's beaches as a nesting ground, and during the nesting season visitors can come here to see these endangered animals. From March to October they lay eggs, and at certain points during this period it is possible to see baby sea turtles emerging from their eggs and making their way to the ocean.
Matapalo Guanacaste itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Matapalo Guanacaste itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
Tropical Inspiration for Two
When was the last time you swam in a waterfall; closed your eyes amidst a beach's golden sunlight; or saw animals in their natural habitat? Why, on your next vacation, of course.
Experiences in Matapalo Guanacaste
Explore hand-picked Matapalo Guanacaste tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Diamante Horseback Riding Tour
Discovery Pass
Adventure Pass
Buena Vista Mega Combo Adventure
Sensoria Tour
Half Day Fun at the Ocean
Guanacaste Scuba Diving Playas del Coco
Nature Pass
Barra Honda Caves (Spelunking)
Early Morning Bird Watching Tour - Guanacaste
Tenorio River Rafting Class III/IV
Tenorio Volcano and Rio Celeste Hike
Diamante ATV Tour
Cultural Experience Pass
Congo Horseback Riding
Where to stay in Matapalo Guanacaste
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Matapalo Guanacaste accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Real Voices, Real Benefits
We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list, it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
