Hotels in Playa Grande

Playa Grande: Where Untamed Shores Embrace Serenity

Discover Playa Grande in Cabo Velas, Guanacaste, Costa Rica—a hidden gem where pristine beaches meet vibrant ecosystems. Famous for its fantastic shoreline and serene, private beach experience, Playa Grande invites you to bask in the sun or surf the gentle waves. Just steps away, the lush landscapes of Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas offer incredible wildlife viewing, including nesting sea turtles. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Playa Grande's enchanting sunsets and laid-back atmosphere make it the perfect destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Experience the essence of Costa Rica in this unspoiled paradise. For the best hotel rates in Playa Grande and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Playa Grande

Some of the best places to stay in Playa Grande are Palm Beach Estates, Rancho Armadillo and Nosara. Palm Beach Estates, Rancho Armadillo, and Nosara each offer unique experiences for travelers. Palm Beach Estates is ideal for those seeking laid-back beach vibes and convenient access to Playa Grande's stunning shores. Rancho Armadillo provides a tranquil setting amidst nature, perfect for relaxation. Nosara is known for its surf culture and wellness retreats, making it a great choice for active visitors. For first-time travelers, Palm Beach Estates is best, with a variety of accommodation options catering to different tastes and budgets. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Playa Grande:

1. Palm Beach EstatesOpens in a new window: Palm Beach Estates is a fantastic destination for beach lovers, offering proximity to stunning beaches like Tamarindo, Grande, and Conchal. This area is perfect for families and adventure seekers alike, with many activities available. Nearby hotels include JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and SpaOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star resort providing adventure sports and business amenities, ideal for both families and business travelers. W Costa Rica - Reserva ConchalOpens in a new window is another luxurious 5.0-star option that caters to families, featuring a children’s club and a range of outdoor activities. For an all-inclusive experience, The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & SpaOpens in a new window offers unlimited food and drinks alongside direct beach access, perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy a variety of recreational options.
2. Rancho ArmadilloOpens in a new window: Rancho Armadillo is a great place for beach enthusiasts, situated near popular spots like Coco Beach, Playa Hermosa, and Ocotal Beach. The area is known for its relaxed atmosphere and luxurious accommodations. Guests can choose Luxury Coco VillasOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and offers a luxury experience. Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All InclusiveOpens in a new window is another excellent option, featuring an all-inclusive plan with children’s amenities and direct beach access, making it family-friendly. For the ultimate luxury stay, Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, Costa RicaOpens in a new window offers a range of adventure activities and business facilities, ensuring a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
3. NosaraOpens in a new window: Nosara is a haven for surfers and beachgoers, known for its beautiful beaches like Nosara Beach, Playa Pelada, and Guiones Beach. This area provides a laid-back vibe and is ideal for those looking to unwind. Azura Beach Resort - All Inclusive - Adults OnlyOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star all-inclusive resort that features various activities and direct beach access, making it a great choice for adventure seekers. Leyenda Boutique Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, offers family-friendly amenities and a full-service spa for relaxation. Another option, Punta Islita, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window, provides adventure sports and is suitable for families, ensuring a fun-filled stay for everyone.

Things to do in Playa Grande for first time

Playa Grande offers a stunning blend of pristine beaches and lush natural landscapes, perfect for a three-day getaway. Enjoy thrilling activities like surfing and boating, or unwind with serene sunsets and birdwatching. This tranquil paradise is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Playa Grande:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at Tamarindo Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. After some time relaxing by the ocean, make your way to Tamarindo Church, a charming local landmark. Take a moment to appreciate its architecture and perhaps engage with some locals. Conclude the day with a visit to Playa Langosta, known for its stunning sunsets and tranquil vibes, perfect for unwinding after an exciting day.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Conchal Beach, famous for its unique shell-covered shoreline. Enjoy swimming or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. Next, head to Playa Brasilito, a nearby beach where you can savor a local meal in one of the beachfront eateries. As the afternoon approaches, visit Monkey Park, a fantastic wildlife rescue center where you can learn about the diverse fauna of Costa Rica and enjoy close encounters with monkeys and other animals.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Flamingo Beach, a stunning stretch of sand perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Afterward, visit the Haras del Mar Equestrian Center, where you can take a horseback ride along the scenic trails. Finish your itinerary with a relaxing afternoon at Playa Potrero, where you can enjoy the calm waters and perhaps indulge in some paddleboarding or kayaking, making for a perfect end to your Costa Rican experience.

5 tips to find a great Playa Grande hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Playa Grande is between September and November, when hotel rates drop significantly. For international travelers, it's best to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure the best deals. To fully experience the main attractions, plan to stay for at least 4-5 days. Playa Grande offers great value for money with its beautiful beach and vibrant sea, making it a perfect destination for those traveling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Playa Grande, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you could find discounted rates on hotels and resorts with good availability right before your travel date. To stay in the loop about flash sales and special offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, ensuring you have the best chance to score a fantastic deal.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like location, star rating, and the time of year. Consequently, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Playa Grande.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Playa Grande is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars, buses, and taxis to explore the area, which can be more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Playa Grande and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Playa Grande

Here are some popular dishes in Playa Grande, Cabo Velas, Guanacaste, Costa Rica:

• Gallo Pinto: This traditional Costa Rican dish is a flavorful mix of rice and black beans, often served for breakfast. Typically seasoned with cilantro, bell peppers, and onions, it reflects the local culinary heritage. Gallo Pinto is frequently accompanied by eggs, fried plantains, and a side of sour cream, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. It's a staple in many households and a must-try for visitors to experience the essence of Costa Rican comfort food.
• Ceviche: A refreshing and vibrant dish, ceviche is made with fresh fish, marinated in citrus juices, particularly lime, and mixed with diced onions, cilantro, and chili peppers. This dish is a popular choice along the Pacific coast, showcasing the region's rich seafood offerings. Often served as an appetizer, ceviche is perfect for sharing, embodying the social aspect of dining in Costa Rica.

Best time to go to Playa Grande

Playa Grande experiences its lowest average temperature in November, at 78.1°F (25.6°C), while April is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 83.3°F (28.5°C). October tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Playa Grande are January to March, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. In contrast, September to November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.