Costa Rica's Rincon de La Vieja National Park

This magnificent national park is named after the 1916 meter high Rincon de la Vieja massif of stratovolcano covering a 400 km2 area.   At the top, there are nine eruption sites that were once all active.  The one eruption point that is still active is the Rincon de La Vieja which the park is named after.  The Rincon de La Vieja site is located on a height of 1895 meters and has had recent eruptions in 1991, 1995, 1997, 1998, 2011 and 2012.  On the south side of the active crater, there is a 400 meter long freshwater lagoon.  The park has more than 250 bird species recorded and it is the home of many mammals including pumas, jaguars, different types of monkeys, sloths and tapirs.

The park is divided into two sections: Pailas and Santa Maria.  The trails that stem from the Santa Maria ranger station zigzag their way through the park.  A sulfuric hot spring is located 3 kilometers up the trail from the ranger station.  Here you can relax in one of the natural heated pool and cool off in a nearby fresh water stream.  There are also several waterfalls with swimming holes where you can enter the water.  At the Pailas ranger station, which is a short distance away, they offer also many trails and a campground for those that want to spend the night.

Due to the recent eruptions, a hike to the crater of Rincon de la Vieja is not possible at this time.  Once stability returns to the area this will be an option again and worth the rigorous all-day hike.  Until then, no hikers are allowed near the crater.

There are several companies that offer a great all-day guided adventure package for those that would like to do more than just hike.  The tours often include visiting one of the waterfalls, a canopy tour, horseback riding and a visit to their mud spa.  In the rainy season you also have the option to go white water rafting down the Colorado river.  During your stay with us at Sueno del Mar Bed & Breakfast near Playa Tamarindo, we can help you set up any of these great activities.

Our beachfront hotel in Playa Langosta is the perfect setting for your next Costa Rica vacation.

Explore the Northwest Coast of Costa Rica

5 Beaches to visit while staying in Tamarindo.

While visiting Sueno del Mar and spending some time at Tamarindo Beach, surfing and playing in the fun waves, you might also want to explore some other great beaches in the area.  Here you have some of our favorites.

1.     Playa Grande:  This 3 kilometer long white sand beach borders north to Tamarindo. It is great for those that want to go for a long beach walk or catch some great surf.  Playa Grande is known as an important egg laying and hatching beach located in the Las Baulas National Park.  If you go in the right season you might even get to see some baby turtles hatch.  You can get here by taking a water taxi at the Tamarindo Estuary to the other side, cost $2 per person.   

2.     Conchal:  One of the most exotic beaches on the Pacific coast.  The beach is a natural sea shell deposit and has some of the clearest waters on the coast.  This is a snorkeling paradise.  About a 20 min car ride north from Tamarindo...this is a great option for a low budget activity.

3.     Playa Avellanas:  This small town beach is in a popular upcoming area, just two beaches south of Tamarindo.  It has some of the best surf for advanced surfers.  Also for non surfers this beach is worth a visit.  The famous Lola’s beach bar is a great spot to hang out, have lunch and maybe even stay to watch the sunset.  It will take you about 40 min by car to get there from Tamarindo.

4.     Playa Danta:  With the new 1200-acre development Las Catalinas, this area gained a beach worth to visit.  It offers some of the best hiking/biking trails in Guanacaste as well as a protected bay that is perfect for SUP (stand up paddle boarding).  The new Green House Restaurant is a great option to grab something to eat while you are here.

5.     Bahia de los Piratas:  This 2 kilometer stretch of pink sand beach is not that easy to get to.  It is located just south of Conchal and great for swimming or relaxing in the sun.  Bahia de los Piratas is one of Costa Rica's best kept secrets, but probably not for long.  More and more visitors are discovering this beach with rocky outcrops and islands where pirates once hid.

You will feel right at home at our beachfront Bed and Breakfast located near Tamarindo, Costa Rica.

Small Budget Activities for Your Tamarindo Vacation at Sueno del Mar

Things to do for a smaller budget while staying at Sueno del Mar

Estuary tour:  Paddle out in the Tamarindo estuary by kayak or take one of the many Pangas (small covered boats).  The Tamarindo estuary offers a great variety of birds, iguanas, monkeys and crocodiles. Cost $35 per person.

2.      Beach walks:  Walk along the pretty beach of Playa Grande or towards Playa Avellanas.  Both beaches are located in a protected national park giving you the opportunity to enjoy your tranquil walk without seeing too many other people. 

3.      Horseback riding:  Experience a real taste of Guanacaste’s real horse culture.  There are many different type of tours available for all levels.  The guides are always very knowledgeable about the area and will be able to provide you some interesting information on Costa Rica’s flora and fauna.   Cost: around $40 per person.

4.      Watch the sunset:  The pacific coast sunsets are amazing all year long.  The sunsets in the rainy season are probably our favorites.  Due to the clouds in the sky you will see the most incredible colors in the sky.   This might be the favorite activity at Sueno del Mar that truly is priceless. 

Our beachfront hotel in Playa Langosta is the perfect setting for your next Costa Rica vacation.