Playa Azul

On the Pacific coast of Costa Rica’s northwestern province of Guanacaste lies a sandy beach with a blue hue and an even bluer ocean. Although Playa Azul is quite isolated, it is just a few miles from top-notch sports fishing, diving and surfing sites.

Playa Azul is a jewel of a hideaway. Its mile-long beach, a pristine place that time has forgotten, is bathed in tropical sunlight through most of the year. During the rainy season, the dirt roads in this relatively remote area can get quite muddy. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended, especially for those who would like to see and hear the native Howler monkeys and other exotic creatures who inhabit the region.

Encounters with many feathered, furred and flippered inhabitants await just a short drive away at the Ostional Wildlife Refuge. The visitor is rewarded with up-close looks into the lives of fascinating creatures like Leatherbacks and Olive Ridley turtles, and large colonies of colorful birds. At the end of any magical day in Playa Azul, the visitor can enjoy dining at one of the restaurants of the beach’s world-class resort, The Sanctuary.

Time spent on the sand, in the surf or on a horseback ride along the shore during a Playa Azul getaway will rejuvenate the weariest soul. The nearby mountains, forests and quaint fishing villages will provide lots of opportunities for exploration and discovery, experiences that the visitor will treasure forever.