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For anyone who is looking to plan a once-in-a-lifetime vacation for their family this year, look no further than Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica. When staying in one of our Playa Flamingo vacation rentals, you’ll find that you are spoiled for choice for things to do here. This area is packed with stunning scenery, natural attractions, and beautiful beaches that travelers of all ages will appreciate. Let’s take a look at some of the top places you’ll want to visit on an upcoming trip to Playa Flamingo and the surrounding areas.

Explore Playa Flamingo’s Beaches

Playa Flamingo is located on the Gold Coast of Costa Rica, and you’ll find white-sand beaches which you can enjoy throughout the year. Flamingo Beach is a Blue Flag-certified beach that offers a mile of beach that has some of the softest sands you will have ever seen. However, if you fancy a change of scenery one day, there are plenty of other beaches to explore in the area. Our top choices include Playa Prieta, Playa Pan de Azúcar, Playa Conchal, and Playa Danta. While you may be happy just relaxing and sunbathing on the beach, you can also enjoy surfing, snorkeling, exploring tide pools, and witnessing turtle nesting in this area.

Take an ATV Tour

One of the best things to do in Guanacaste Costa Rica is to explore the local area by ATV. You can either take a guided tour for a few hours or rent an ATV and take a self-guided exploration of the local area. You’ll be able to tackle all of the bumpy roads in the area safely while admiring the incredible ocean views. If you are looking to enhance this trip further, consider also adding a canopy tour to your day out.

Canopy Tours

You can’t travel to Costa Rica without taking a zip-line tour, and within just thirty minutes of our Playa Flamingo vacation rentals, you’ll find multiple different options. The longest zip lines in the area last up to ¾ of a mile, and it’s bound to be one of the highlights of your next trip. On top of the zip lines, you’ll also enjoy crossing suspension bridges and admiring the creatures that call this part of the world home.

Palo Verde

One of our favorite days out from Playa Flamingo is Palo Verde, which takes between an hour and 90 minutes to access. This park is ideal for your whole family to visit, and you’ll enjoy seeing colorful tropical birds flying over your head throughout your visit. On top of that, you’ll find crocodiles, monkeys, jaguarundis, and coatis in their natural habitat. You can either take a car or join a local bus tour here, or alternatively, you could join a boat tour to see some of the creatures in the water. We recommend arriving here as early as possible in the morning to enjoy the most animal sightings.

White Water Rafting

Another of the top things to do in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is to head out on a white water rafting tour. This is the perfect day out for any adrenaline seekers in your party and will be the highlight of any teenager’s trip to Costa Rica. The Tenorio River is the best local spot to enjoy a white water rafting adventure, and on the way, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for the Tenorio Volcano. This 15-mile long river will take you through rapids and waterfalls, and after your trip, you’ll get to admire the scenery from the shore while eating lunch. We highly encourage anyone over the age of 13 to have a go at this popular Costa Rica adventure on your next stay in our Playa Flamingo vacation rentals.

Surfing

If you are looking for an adventure that’s a little closer to our Playa Flamingo vacation rentals, we highly recommend taking surfing lessons in Costa Rica. Playa Grande and Tamarindo are great spots for surfing, and you’ll find plenty of surf instructors and surf shops in the area. For something a little tamer, you could stay nearer to your vacation home and have a go at stand-up paddleboarding. This is a fun activity that allows you to witness Playa Flamingo from a different perspective and also makes for a great workout.

Golfing

You may be surprised to learn that Costa Rica is also a popular vacation destination with golfers. With warm weather throughout the year, there’s nowhere better to enjoy a round of golf. Some of our favorite courses in the area include the Reserva Conchal Golf Club and the Golf Course at Hacienda Pinilla. Both of these courses overlook the ocean and will offer you a fun challenge and a lovely day out during your vacation. Make sure you call ahead to book your tee time to avoid disappointment.

Take a Trip Aboard a Luxury Yacht

If you are looking for unique things to do in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, consider heading out for the day on a luxury yacht. There’s no shortage of luxurious yachts in the area, and you can book a boat tour or charter your own boat for a private day out. During the day, you can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and dolphin and whale watching. Most of the boats include open bars and meals, so it’s the ideal all-inclusive day out for your whole family. We highly recommend taking a tour at sunset for a romantic experience that would be perfect for couples visiting the area.

Visit Rincon de la Vieja National Park

This national park is best known for its volcano, which has an active crater and landscape. You’ll find geysers, hot springs, and mud pots surrounding the crater, and there’s plenty for visitors to see and do here. If you enjoy hiking, you can take on the challenge of hiking to the summit, but it will take roughly seven hours for the round trip. A more gentle hike is the Las Pailas loop, which is just 1.75 miles in length. As well as hiking, you can enjoy exploring the waterfalls and witnessing the local wildlife within the park.

Sea Turtle Nesting

If you time your visit right to our Playa Flamingo vacation rentals, you might be lucky enough to witness the leatherback sea turtle return to Playa Grande and bury its eggs. This can often be very challenging to predict the timing of, and you’ll want to join an organized tour to help protect this fragile ecosystem. However, if you time it right, this will be one of the highlights of any trip to the area as it’s certainly one of the top things to do in Guanacaste Costa Rica.

Santa Rosa National Park

Santa Rosa National Park was Costa Rica’s first national park, and it was created to preserve La Casona, a ranch house that was an important part of Costa Rica’s independence. Visitors today can enjoy exploring the area’s beaches, dry forest, and spotting local birds. Nancite Beach is located within the park, and if you time your trip right, you might be lucky enough to see Olive Ridley Sea Turtles here.

As you can see, there are so many things to do in Guanacaste Costa Rica, so you’ll never be short of places to visit on your next trip here. For more information about Playa Flamingo vacation rentals or to book your next trip, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team today! Check out our Area Guides too!

If you’ve been searching for a Costa Rican investment property, you’re making the right move. A vacation rental can not only offer you an idyllic place to spend your downtime but can also be a source of income to offset your homeownership costs and expenses. Guanacaste, Costa Rica is one of the most attractive areas for investing in vacation rentals and is a hotspot for tourists throughout the year. Here we’re going to look at how you can maximize your Costa Rican investment with a vacation rental in the upcoming years.

Why Should You Consider Investing in a Vacation Rental in Costa Rica?

There are so many reasons why individuals are looking to invest in vacation rental properties in Costa Rica. Whether you are looking to spend more time in a tropical paradise with your family or are simply trying to make an investment that will offer you a solid source of income, you’ll find a wide selection of ideal properties when looking at Guanacaste, Costa Rica real estate. Real estate prices are still growing in this region of Costa Rica, so it’s well worth investigating what you could get for your money now. If you aspire to retire in Costa Rica in the future, US residents can also consider using their IRA to purchase an investment property, which they can then take over when the time is right in the future, and they are ready to relocate to Costa Rica.

What to Look For in a Costa Rican Investment Property

When it comes to investing in Guanacaste, Costa Rica real estate, there are certain considerations that you’ll want to keep in mind if you are specifically purchasing your property to use as a vacation rental. If you’ve visited Costa Rica before, you’ll know how beneficial it is to rent a property that’s in close proximity to the beach or that enjoys views over the ocean. These properties will generally see a better return than a vacation rental without a stunning ocean view. Location is the number one factor to consider for a Costa Rican investment property, and you’ll want to find somewhere that’s within reach of many popular tourist attractions, beaches or national parks.

Ideally, a vacation rental will be close to amenities, such as stores and restaurants, and have security or a gate. Comfort and cleanliness are of top priority for vacationers who are looking to ensure they feel secure in their home away from home. Privacy is also something that most visitors are looking for when renting a vacation home in Costa Rica, and this is one of the top reasons they opt for this type of accommodation in the first place.

To maximize your income, we recommend that you look for a property with at least three bedrooms if you are aiming to attract families. En-suite bathrooms in the main bedrooms are something that’s expected as standard today, as is air conditioning throughout the property or at least in the bedrooms. A swimming pool is an extremely attractive feature for Guanacaste, Costa Rica real estate, and will give your rental income a significant boost. Finally, ensure you can equip your new property with internet and a TV or satellite signal to help attract visitors from the US and Europe. Of course, the more features you can offer to potential visitors, the greater your chances of making your new vacation rental a success!

Choosing an Accessible Property

One of the reasons we believe Guanacaste, Costa Rica real estate is so popular is due to its excellent location within the country. Our team will be able to advise you about the best property options for your needs, and they’ll be able to guide you to find an accessible property that will be attractive for visitors. Access in Costa Rica is more complicated than visitors from the US and Europe may be used to, and in the green season, some vacation rentals may become unusable. Rural properties will struggle to get bookings throughout the year, especially as these properties often can’t offer the facilities that we expect in the modern world. Make sure you take the time to discuss access to your property to ensure you make a wise investment and don’t restrict the number of bookings you can take each year.

Vacation Rental Bookings Throughout the Year

As with anywhere in the world, there are low and high seasons for rental properties. It’s worth keeping these in mind, as you may be able to enjoy visiting your property during the off-season when it’s unlikely to be rented. December to April sees the highest occupancy rates, with many properties remaining full throughout this time. May to July have reasonable occupancy, and then things drop lower for the August to November period before picking back up again in time for Christmas and New Year. Of course, this will all depend on your property, as we have many properties which experience 100% occupancy almost every month.

Most people who purchase a Costa Rican investment property find they can make an annual net return of between about 4 and 6% on their investment. A popular vacation rental can be booked for about 65% of each year, but our team at Tropical Homes of Costa Rica can work to push that number even higher. With our expertise and knowledge of the Guanacaste area, we can help not only with high booking rates and property management but also with finding the right investment property for you.

Working with a Property Management Team

Often one of the biggest concerns for individuals purchasing a Costa Rican investment property is caring for the property and managing the booking process. Using our Tropical Homes team, you won’t have to worry about anything, even if you are on the other side of the world. It can be a challenge to find honest and hardworking people who will keep your property in top condition, but you can be sure your new home will be in good hands with our team. As well as being the key holders for your property, we also oversee maintenance and cleaning between bookings.

Instead of having to worry about putting time aside to deal with your vacation rental bookings, we can even handle inquiries and concerns from your renters and will help to schedule your guests and take care of payments. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your investment is offering you a great return without you having to dedicate endless hours to look after your listings, payments, and concerns from your clients. We also offer a wide range of services for your clients, including concierge services, which will ensure they have a wonderful time in the area and will return to your property again in the future.

If you are interested in Guanacaste, Costa Rica real estate, or are looking for a vacation rental management service, don’t hesitate to contact our team today. With over 20 years of experience, we are very well practiced at assisting individuals with their vacation rental properties and can guide you to select a property that will offer you the best return on your investment. Once you’ve purchased your property, our team will look after your home when you are out of the country, allowing you to rest easy knowing your new Costa Rican investment property is safe and secure throughout the year.

As a Costa Rica property management company that’s been in the Guanacaste area for 20+ years, we’ve come to know the beach homes, bungalows & villas of Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, Las Catalinas & surrounding areas very well. With our experience, we’ve developed a strong understanding of the Costa Rican real estate market, and it is ripe with investment opportunities.

The appeal of Costa Rica – it’s natural beauty, ocean views, fantastic weather, healthcare – has gotten international attention from people looking to invest, retire or have a second home in the tropics. Guanacaste Costa Rica real estate is thriving as it is a prime destination for relocation and is exactly where you should begin your search. Let us zero in on some key areas within the province and why they might be the perfect fit for you.

A Digital Nomad’s Playground

Tamarindo, Guanacaste is a thriving beach town and the ideal real estate market for those looking for a tropical sanctuary with all the comforts of home. Charmed by the great surf & laidback lifestyle, a growing community of digital nomads and ex-pats have chosen Tamarindo as their stomping grounds. With the trend of 2021 being remote work, Costa Rica and office views of the ocean are on everyone’s radar. The consistent growth and potential of the Tamarindo region is drawing investors and developers expecting high returns, especially within the vacation rental industry. If it is a return on your investment you are looking for, vacation rentals in Tamarindo have the potential to make upwards of $6000 a month. When looking for homes for sale in Tamarindo, you will be impressed at the variety & quality of what you’ll find. With current trends & pricing, the time to buy is now.

An Investors Dream

Just 23km North you’ll find the quaint, yet up and coming coastal town of Playa Flamingo. This is a hot spot in the Costa Rican real estate market. With a new world class marina being built in the community, the property values of existing homes and commercial properties have already risen significantly. The momentum for the development of new homes and commercial properties will bring in ample opportunities for local businesses and investors. The selection of homes for sale in Flamingo is impressive. Whether it’s a beach mansion or a villa in the hills, there is a lot to choose from in a wide range of pricing. Getting in on Playa Flamingo real estate means white sand beaches, luxury and opportunity. Take a look at our amazing selection of homes here. (Hyperlink to TH real estate flamingo page?)

Settle Down In This European-like Town

Community oriented with a European small town feel, Las Catalinas is as picturesque as they come. The secluded town has everything you’d need from shops and restaurants to plazas and parks, along with its own private stretch of beach. By buying a home in Las Catalinas, you are intentionally choosing a wholesome, relaxed life. Motorized vehicles are refreshingly absent, and every street leads to an incredible view of the ocean and mountainous landscape. Las Catalinas real estate is drawing in young families and retirees looking for a community-oriented, active lifestyle in a secluded, natural environment. Boho chic one-bedrooms starting at $395,000 and the perfect four-bedroom family homes with ocean views are found tucked quietly within this gated community. If you are looking to relocate, this could very well be the haven for you.

The Myriad of Families Putting Roots in Costa Rica

The appeal of raising a family in Costa Rica is undeniable when looking at the quality of life (read about Costa Rica’s Blue Zone), education system, pristine environment and real estate market on this golden coast. Thousands of Americans, Europeans and Canadians make the move every year with the vision for a slower paced life. With multigenerational households and a ‘Pura Vida’ outlook, the locals of Costa Rica offer an inspiring perspective on family dynamics and way of life. Between fishing, surfing, sailing, hiking, mountain biking and soccer (fútbol), there is something for everyone to connect with. There is no shortage of passion projects, hobbies and activities in the Costa Rican tropics.

Where Our Team Comes In

As we’ve expanded into the real estate market, we’ve grown into a team of three incredibly skilled agents who know all there is to know about buying and selling a home in Costa Rica. We are a trustworthy, tight-knit team who works closely with our clients to ensure we find exactly what you are looking for and present you with the best options on the market. With our background in vacation rental management, we make up the total package. If you are looking to invest, not only can we help you with the buying process but our expertise also extends to rental management and can help ensure a return on your investment. From maintenance and check ins to all the little tasks in between, we’ve got it covered. When it comes to Tamarindo, Las Catalinas, or Playa Flamingo real estate, we’ve got all the expertise needed to ensure a smooth & wise buy.

As travel restrictions begin to lift across the globe, planning a getaway has shot to the top of many of our agendas. Costa Rica is a popular destination for many travellers due to the idyllic, ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle on offer, so you may be wondering how the ongoing Coronavirus outbreak could impact your trip.

Keep reading to hear all about the current Costa Rica COVID situation, and discover all the essential details you need to know before booking your summer holiday.

Essential facts to remember

Costa Rica opened up its borders again to international tourists back in November 2020. As a country that’s heavily reliant on trade from visiting travellers, this move was welcomed by the locals and their guests alike. Since then, restrictions have eased thanks to the drop in cases, particularly in coastal areas. And although there are some travel restrictions depending on how you’re arriving, it’s a pretty simple process compared to many other holiday hotspots. Standard visa restrictions still apply, so it’s worth checking out these before setting anything in stone.

Tests are not required before arriving in Costa Rica, but all visitors must fill in a Health Pass in order to protect passengers and the country’s population. It’s a simple and straight-forward form to fill out for each member of the family and, once complete, it provides you with a QR code to show at the airport as you enter.

While the extra admin may seem a little bit of a hassle, it’s a small price to pay to keep you and your loved ones safe as you begin the trip of a lifetime in Costa Rica!

Coastlines and nature spots are the way to go

The majority of new COVID cases have been established in densely populated cities, but Costa Rica’s stunning coastlines and vast national parks are extremely safe to visit. For many, these spots are the main appeal for a trip to Costa Rica, providing the opportunity to see some incredible sights and experience the rich culture of the country.

The tourism trade in Costa Rica has been deeply impacted by Coronavirus, so visiting its popular locations is a great way of supporting local communities too. Why not try surfing at Tamarindo’s wavy beaches, or hiking around the beautiful Carara National Park in Jaco?

Life is slowly getting back to normal in Costa Rica, but there are still some things to bear in mind. At present, there’s a nightly curfew for everyone between the hours of 11pm and 5am. You’re welcome to visit restaurants and bars, but clubs, concerts and large indoor events are still off the cards for now.

If you plan your daily itinerary well and book into one of the many blissful spots along the coast, you’re guaranteed to have a great time without too much adjustment.

Experience incredible outdoor tours as normal

Despite the Coronavirus situation in Costa Rica, most outdoor tours are going ahead as planned. They’re the perfect way to take a more scheduled approach to your visit, allowing you to experience amazing sights while keeping your family safe.

Whether you decide on an adventure-packed tour of the mountains or a guided coastal exploration, there are options to choose from to suit everyone’s tastes. Many tours are hosted by local residents, making them one of the best ways to get a true taste of Costa Rica’s bright and energetic culture.

If you’re an adventure-seeker who’s looking for an unforgettable experience, why not try a full tour? Costa Rica offers some world-class escapades, including a 16 day wildlife exploration from San Jose and beyond.

Life at your villa can be just as incredible

If you’re worried about crowds during the Costa Rica Coronavirus outbreak and would prefer to avoid busy spaces, your villa can offer a safe and luxurious haven. There’s thousands of stunning villas across Costa Rica to choose from, whether you’re on the idyllic coast or somewhere more rural. Hosts are aware that more people are choosing to stay inside during busy periods, and will be fully equipped to keep you entertained.

Downtime at your villa offers the perfect chance to escape the noise and enjoy some gentle, relaxing yoga. If you’re lucky enough to have a veranda, we encourage you to lay down your mat and meditate with the beautiful green surroundings. Or if you’re on a family-style trip, a night spent playing board games will never go amiss. Whether you’re enjoying garden sports, soaking up some rays, or taking a dip in your villa’s pool, there’s a perfect downtime hobby for everyone to enjoy in Costa Rica.

Transport during Costa Rica COVID

If you’re planning a trip to the vibrant country of Costa Rica, you might be wondering how Coronavirus rules have impacted the local transport. Getting around is important for exploring, so it’s important you familiarize yourself with the current guidelines before you head on your vacation.

Renting a car has many benefits when visiting Costa Rica. There really is a whole world to explore, including enchanting nature spots and breathtaking coastlines you won’t want to miss out on. Having access to a car is a great advantage, giving you the freedom to move around at your own pace without relying on public transport.

Most rental agencies are still open for business, and Costa Rica rental cars also carry another benefit. Current restrictions mean drivers cannot use their cars on certain days of the week, but rental cars are exempt from these rules.

Public buses are still running throughout the country too — all you’ll need is a mask and you’re good to go. The only restriction to be aware of is that all passengers must be seated, which shouldn’t be much of an issue. If a bus happens to be full, another one will be along in minutes to get you to your destination.

As well as the usual modes of transport, Uber and Didi are also still allowed to operate for spontaneous journeys around the city. Private shuttles with tourism licenses are also still on the move, so there’s nothing to worry about when it comes to exploration.

Safety is still a priority in Costa Rica

There’s still plenty of adventuring and relaxing on offer, all with enhanced safety guidelines to protect you and the population from contracting COVID.

To protect yourself and the locals, all tourists entering Costa Rica must have valid travel insurance when entering the country. This should cover potential quarantine accommodation, as well as health costs related to Coronavirus. Once you’ve arranged this, remember to bring a certificate in either English or Spanish with all the relevant names, coverage dates and guarantees that match travel guidelines.

Many vaccinations have already been delivered and administered, and regular testing is available for anyone who needs it on their trip. Rest assured, your trip to this incredible country will be ultra-safe if the correct precautions are taken!

We’ve covered everything you need to know for now about the Costa Rica Coronavirus situation, but please consult official government websites for detailed instructions and updates on how to travel safely.

In the meantime, get planning. Your Costa Rican paradise is waiting!

We fell in love with Casa del Mar, a beautiful mountainside home overlooking the Pacific Ocean. We thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful home which had more than we could have imagined. We enjoyed swimming in the large infinity pool at sunset, soaking in the hottub and listening to Latin Salsa on the Bose surround sound system. The indoor/outdoor lifestyle let us soak up the tropical breezes and take in some of the most stunning views and sunsets we have ever seen. You’ll think you are in paradise as you savor your fresh mornings with Costa Rican coffee sitting in the comfortable furnishings outside watching the tropical birds fly by. We enjoyed breathtaking evenings watching the sun set in the enchanting outdoor terrace which features everything you could desire, a hot tub, fully equipped outdoor kitchen with a large screen tv, Bose surround sound system (indoors & outdoors), shower and ample spaces for luxurious relaxation. What a perfect place to relax and enjoy the slow paced lifestyle of Costa Rica. Playa Conchal and Playa Flamingo, two of Costa Rica’s best rated beaches, were within a 10 minute drive and parking was incredibly easy. If you are a surfing enthusiast, Tamarindo offers world-renowned surfing and is less than a 30 minute drive. If you are looking for more adventure, you’ll find options for ziplining, ATV tours, horseback riding, deep sea fishing, etc. There are numerous adventures, nearby beaches & abundant wildlife in Costa Rica. We didn’t need to go far to see brown pelicans feeding at Playa Flamingo or green parrots and howler monkeys in their natural habitat off the trail within the Mar Vista development, just a short distance from the house. Casa del Mar is a beautiful home in a stunning location and offers exquisite living spaces. The house was clean, comfortable and equipped with everything we needed. Casa del Mar was a perfect getaway for a romantic trip and I imagine it would be perfect for your family and friends. There is also a fully equipped guest house off the terrace. As part of the gated community, you’ll have access to local dining, activities and amenities or you could enjoy the complete privacy of your secluded, beautiful mountainside home with unsurpassed views of the Pacific Ocean. Casa del Mar is located in the Guanacaste area which is known for their beautiful beaches, health and longevity (one of the five Blue Zones longevity hot spots in the world researched by National Geographic fellow Dan Buettner). Casa del Mar’s fully equipped kitchen gives you everything you need to prepare a healthy, Blue Zones recipe or make a delicious smoothie with local, tropical fruit. The infinity pool is so large, it offers plenty of room to swim laps for vigorous exercise while leaving room for others to take a refreshing break from sunbathing. The house and grounds are impeccable. The concierge staff at Tropical Homes of Costa Rica were very pleasant and helpful. We found the binder at the house to be quite useful. It was filled with information about the house, nearby beaches, local grocers, grocery delivery options, restaurants and opportunities for nearby adventures. All we needed to do was show up and relax. We have been blessed with wonderful memories, a sense of renewed health, relaxation and adventure. We hope to return and we hope you find your pura vida at Casa del Mar!

~Lana W.

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