The Inside Scoop
Some destinations are discovered. Others are whispered about. Playa Avellanas belongs firmly in the latter category.A most captivating hidden gem; a place where luxury is measured not by crowds or glamour, but by space, serenity, and extraordinary natural beauty
Tucked along Costa Rica’s coveted Gold Coast in Guanacaste, Playa Avellanas offers a rare blend of untouched beauty, laid-back sophistication, and authentic coastal charm. Located just 20 to 30 minutes south of the lively beach town of Tamarindo, this secluded stretch of Pacific shoreline feels worlds away from the crowds, making it a favorite among discerning travelers seeking privacy and tranquility.
What draws visitors to Playa Avellanas is its remarkable sense of space. Miles of golden sand, swaying palms, and pristine coastline create an atmosphere that feels both exclusive and wonderfully unspoiled. Unlike many popular beach destinations, Avellanas remains refreshingly low-key, with boutique retreats, private villas, and open stretches of beach where it is easy to feel as though you’ve discovered your own piece of paradise.
While surfers have long known Avellanas as home to the legendary “Little Hawaii” surf break, the beach’s appeal extends far beyond the waves. Visitors come for sunrise walks along the shore, afternoons spent beneath palm-fringed canopies, horseback rides on the beach, and unforgettable sunsets that transform the Pacific horizon into a canvas of gold, coral, and crimson. The surrounding mangroves and natural landscapes add another layer of beauty, creating a setting that feels both luxurious and deeply connected to nature.
The nearest town, Tamarindo, offers upscale dining, boutique shopping, marinas, and vibrant nightlife, while Avellanas provides a quieter, more refined escape. Together, they offer the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
For travelers seeking the authentic spirit of Costa Rica without sacrificing comfort or exclusivity, Playa Avellanas is one of Guanacaste’s most captivating hidden gems—a place where luxury is measured not by crowds or glamour, but by space, serenity, and extraordinary natural beauty.
Perfect Music Vibes
This mix blends reggae, acoustic surf culture, Latin rhythms, and chilled electronic sounds. The kind of playlist that feels right at home on a terrace overlooking Playa Avellanas with a glass of wine in hand as the sun sets over the Pacific.
Costa Rica Vacation Playlist
Three Little Birds – Bob Marley
The ultimate “everything’s going to be alright” vacation anthem.
Banana Pancakes – Jack Johnson
Perfect for slow mornings with fresh coffee and tropical fruit.
Better Together – Jack Johnson
Easygoing, warm, and made for beach sunsets.
Calma (Remix) – Pedro Capó & Farruko
Tropical Latin rhythms that capture the essence of island life.
Island in the Sun – Weezer
A classic road-trip and beach-day favorite.
Sunset Lover – Petit Biscuit
Ideal for watching the sun disappear into the Pacific.
La Bicicleta – Carlos Vives & a local celebrity
Vibrant, joyful, and full of Latin energy.
Waves (Robin Schulz Remix) – Mr. Probz
A laid-back beach-club vibe for afternoons by the pool.
Come Away With Me – Norah Jones
Smooth and elegant for candlelit dinners or evening cocktails.
Home – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
A feel-good song that captures the spirit of travel and connection.
Bonus Sunset Tracks
- Dreams – Fleetwood Mac
- Ocean Eyes – Billie Eilish
- Feels Like Summer – Childish Gambino
- Lovely Day – Bill Withers
- Firestone – Kygo
Top Vacation Experiences
We’ve curated a selection of Signature Experiences near Playa Avellanas that you might enjoy.
One of the greatest advantages of staying in Playa Avellanas is having access to some of Guanacaste’s most memorable adventures, all within a short drive of your villa.
Luxury Sportfishing Charters
The waters off Guanacaste are renowned for world-class sportfishing. Guests can target sailfish, marlin, yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, roosterfish, and wahoo aboard private charters with experienced local captains.
Recommended operators include Tamarindo Costa Rica Sportfishing, Coyote Sportfishing Tamarindo, and Tamarindo Charter Company. Tamarindo’s location provides quick access to productive offshore waters and year-round fishing opportunities.
Sunset Catamaran Cruises & Snorkeling
For many guests, a sunset sailing excursion becomes the highlight of their Costa Rica vacation. Enjoy open-bar service, snorkeling stops in secluded bays, dolphin sightings, and spectacular Pacific sunsets.
Popular options include Marlin del Rey Catamaran Sailing Tours, Timarouba Catamaran Sailing Tours Tamarindo, and Flamingo Catamaran Adventure – Marina Flamingo Costa Rica.
Mangrove & Wildlife Adventures
The Tamarindo Estuary forms part of Las Baulas National Marine Park and offers a fascinating ecosystem filled with crocodiles, monkeys, iguanas, tropical birds, and mangrove forests.
Guests can explore by boat or kayak with experienced naturalist guides through Tamarindo Estuary Tours – Mangrove Tours – Chelonia Tours, Tamarindo Estuary Tours, or Howler Monkey Mangrove – Tamarindo Kayak Tour Experience.
Horseback Riding Along the Coast
Experience Playa Avellanas from a different perspective with a guided horseback ride through tropical forests, ranchlands, and along the beach at sunset.
Mirador Equestrian offers highly regarded rides near Avellanas, including private excursions and sunset experiences.
Wellness & Rejuvenation
Guanacaste’s natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for wellness-focused travel. Guests can enjoy yoga, meditation, spa therapies, sound healing, and transformational retreats.
Nearby options include Ruhani Wellness Centre in the Pinilla area and Rythmia Life Advancement Center near Playa Avellanas. For guests seeking a more intimate experience, many private instructors and wellness practitioners can also be arranged directly at your villa.
Surf Costa Rica’s Legendary Waves
Playa Avellanas is affectionately known as “Little Hawaii” for its powerful and consistent surf breaks. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or taking your first lesson, the area offers some of the best waves on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. Private instruction and board rentals are readily available throughout the beach community.
Bars, Venues, & Views
We’ve named some places that deliver great cocktails, memorable settings, sunset views, and authentic Costa Rican atmosphere. These are the places guests are most likely to talk about long after they return home!
For a Vaaraway guest guide we are focusing on places that deliver great cocktails, memorable settings, sunset views, and authentic Costa Rican atmosphere. These are the places guests are most likely to talk about long after they return home.
Sunset & Cocktail Favorites
Sunset Lounge Tamarindo is a hidden gem that has quickly become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. Tucked away behind Handlebar, this intimate lounge is known for inventive craft cocktails and a more sophisticated atmosphere than many of Tamarindo’s beach bars. Reddit travelers frequently describe it as one of the best cocktail experiences in town.
For guests seeking a chic beach-club experience, this is the place to spend an afternoon transitioning into sunset. Expect ocean views, stylish loungers, tropical cocktails, and a relaxed luxury vibe right on the sand.
Best Views in Tamarindo
The Roof Restaurant is one of Tamarindo’s best-kept secrets for sunset. Perched above town, it offers panoramic ocean views, live music on many evenings, and front-row seats to some of Guanacaste’s most spectacular sunsets.
If you’re looking for a rooftop destination that combines cocktails, live entertainment, DJs, and sunset views, then the Crazy Monkey Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is well worth a visit. It’s more polished than a typical beach bar and particularly lively on Friday evenings.
For Live Music
Not technically a bar, but one of Tamarindo’s most atmospheric evening venues. Guests love the lush tropical garden setting, handcrafted cocktails, and occasional live music performances.
A quintessential beachfront hangout where guests can sip cocktails with their feet in the sand while enjoying sunset views and regular live music performances.
Something a Little Bit Different!
One of the most unique drinking experiences in the region. Specializing in tequila, mezcal, and agave spirits, this elevated lounge sits above the beach and regularly hosts tastings, cocktail events, and live entertainment. Perfect for guests looking beyond the typical rum punch.
For a Vibrant Night Out
Chiquita’s Tamarindo is known for its lively atmosphere, handcrafted cocktails, and energetic evenings. It’s a fun stop after dinner when guests want to experience Tamarindo’s social scene without committing to a full nightclub experience.
Vaaraway Concierge Pick
Sunset cocktails at The Roof → dinner at Dragonfly → after-dinner agave tasting at CATA Agave Bar.
This evening’s suggestion captures the best of Tamarindo’s sophisticated side while preserving the relaxed coastal atmosphere that makes Guanacaste so appealing.
Love to Eat
We’ve curated a mix of iconic beachfront experiences, elevated dining, local favorites, and memorable breakfast spots. This selection reflects the places discerning travelers are most likely to enjoy during a stay in Playa Avellanas and nearby Tamarindo.
MANTA Restaurante, Bar y Arte
Sunset cocktails and sophisticated beachfront dining in a stylish oceanfront restaurant where art, cuisine, and spectacular sunsets come together. Expect fresh seafood, creative cocktails, and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of Avellanas.
Lola’s
Possibly the most iconic restaurant in Avellanas. Guests come for the toes-in-the-sand setting and a casual beachfront lunch of fresh seafood, tropical smoothies. You’ll love it enough to return for the legendary sunsets. It’s a quintessential Costa Rica beach experience.
El Puente | Restaurant | 🇨🇷 Traditional & Authentic
When it’s time for authentic Costa Rican cuisine, then check out El Puente. A hidden gem offering traditional Costa Rican flavors in a welcoming setting. Ideal for guests wanting to experience local culture beyond the beach clubs.
Pangas Tamarindo
Romantic waterfront location! Nestled beside Tamarindo’s estuary, Pangas is one of the area’s most beloved dining destinations, known for exceptional seafood, steaks, and an enchanting candlelit atmosphere.
Dragonfly Bar & Grill
A long-time Tamarindo favorite combining international flavors, lush gardens, and a vibrant evening atmosphere. Frequently recommended by returning visitors who enjoy and elegant dinner in a setting just oozing ambience!
L’ Estanco El Jardin Escondido
If you’re looking to celebrate a memorable special occasion then be sure to check out L’Estanco. Hidden behind lush gardens, this intimate restaurant delivers one of the most unique dining settings in Tamarindo. Perfect for an anniversary or celebratory dinner.
TABÚ
One of Tamarindo’s most stylish daytime venues for breakfast, brunch and beach views! Offering excellent coffee, healthy breakfast options, and an atmosphere that effortlessly transitions into sunset cocktails
Two brothers who share a passion for flavors and the joy of gathering people together around a table. With their roots in the south of France, the brothers bring the rhythm of the sea and sun to the menu – this is not just a restaurant!
Mycelium is an Asian fusion restaurant in Playa Negra offering a unique dining experience with a blend of vibrant flavors and a distinctive ambiance. Hailed as ‘rebel asian food’ with creative dishes on offer plus the inviting atmosphere includes cozy swings and an open kitchen!
Pandeli Tamarindo
If you’re craving a European-style breakfast, then head here as Pandeli is known for excellent baked goods, breakfast plates, and gourmet sandwiches, this is a favorite among locals and long-term visitors alike.
Random Gems
(specifically transportation)
A question that often arises from guests when booking in Playa Avellanas is whether they’ll feel isolated. The answer is no!
Getting to Tamarindo
While Playa Avellanas offers a more secluded and tranquil setting than Tamarindo, guests are never far from the action. Tamarindo’s vibrant dining scene, boutique shopping, beach clubs, nightlife, and excursions are just a 20–30 minute drive away. The journey covers approximately 14 km and typically takes under half an hour.
Taxis and private transportation services are readily available throughout the area, making it easy to enjoy an evening in Tamarindo without the need to drive. Many visitors choose to arrange transportation through local providers such as Tamarindo Shuttle & Taxi Service., Trip N Taxi, or Airports & Tours JM Transportcr, all of which operate in the Tamarindo and Avellanas area.
For guests planning multiple outings, private drivers and shuttle services can also be arranged in advance. Some vacation rental guests even prefer to spend their days enjoying the peaceful beaches of Avellanas and venture into Tamarindo only for sunset cocktails, dinner reservations, or live music. The route is described as a simple 20–30 minute drive, making Tamarindo an easy evening excursion from Avellanas
Top Vacay Reads
10 Perfect Vacation Reads for Costa Rica
1. The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
A heartwarming and uplifting novel about finding belonging in unexpected places. Charming, imaginative, and impossible not to love.
2. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
A magical and atmospheric story filled with mystery, romance, and wonder. Ideal for readers who enjoy being completely transported.
3. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Part mystery, part coming-of-age story, and richly immersed in nature. A beautiful companion to Costa Rica’s wild landscapes.
4. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
A timeless tale of adventure, self-discovery, and following your dreams. A favorite among travelers worldwide.
5. A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Elegant, witty, and beautifully written. The perfect read for those who appreciate refined storytelling and unforgettable characters.
6. The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See
A compelling story of friendship, resilience, and island life that feels perfectly suited to a coastal retreat.
7. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
An engaging and uplifting novel with heart, humor, and a memorable octopus character that readers adore.
8. The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert
A sweeping tale of exploration, botany, and discovery. Particularly appealing while surrounded by Costa Rica’s extraordinary biodiversity.
9. The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
An absorbing road-trip adventure filled with memorable characters and impeccable writing.
10. State of Wonder by Ann Patchett
Set deep within a lush tropical rainforest, this literary thriller explores science, mystery, and human ambition. It feels especially evocative while vacationing in Costa Rica.
For the Traveler Who Loves Costa Rica
If guests want a deeper connection to the destination itself, try these….
- The Birds of Costa Rica by Richard Garrigues
- Tropical Nature by Adrian Forsyth
- The Old Patagonian Express by Paul Theroux
Annual Events
For Vaaraway guests, there are a handful of annual events that are genuinely worth planning a trip around. Some are major regional attractions, while others offer a more authentic glimpse into the local culture that makes Guanacaste so special. So whatever month you’re planning to visit, check out the event websites or social media for exact dates.
Tamarindo Art Wave Festival (January)
One of the area’s most sophisticated cultural events, the Tamarindo Art Wave Festival brings together artists, musicians, galleries, installations, and creative workshops. The event blends Tamarindo’s surf culture with contemporary art and attracts both local and international talent.
Tamarindo Beach Marathon (September)
A celebrated annual event that draws runners from around the world. Participants can choose from distances ranging from 5K to a full marathon while enjoying spectacular coastal scenery. Even non-runners enjoy the vibrant atmosphere around town during race weekend.
Ocaso Festival (January)
For guests who enjoy electronic music, Ocaso has become one of Central America’s best-known boutique music festivals. Multiple venues around Tamarindo host internationally recognized DJs and sunset beach events over several days. Event formats can vary from year to year, so it’s worth checking schedules in advance.
Tamarindo International Surf Film Festival (Typically March)
Celebrating surf culture, ocean conservation, and filmmaking, this event combines film screenings, community gatherings, and surf-inspired experiences.
These weekly events are also worth a mention and many visitors enjoy them even more because they’re authentic local experiences.
Tamarindo Moonlight Market is held on Thursday evenings, this lively market features artisan goods, local food vendors, live music, and a wonderful community atmosphere.
Tamarindo Farmers Market on Saturday mornings is one of Guanacaste’s most popular weekly markets, featuring organic produce, gourmet foods, local crafts, and live entertainment.
La Esquina Fridays in Playa Avellanas
A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Friday evenings often feature live music, artisan vendors, craft cocktails, and a relaxed beach-community atmosphere in the heart of Avellanas.
Junquillal Feria (Wednesdays)
A charming nearby market where guests can discover local produce, artisan crafts, baked goods, and live music while mingling with residents and expats.
