Nicoya Peninsula: Coastal journeys and culture beyond the beach

The west coast faces the Pacific, while the east faces the Gulf of Nicoya. Towns, hills and road connections lie between the coasts. The peninsula’s shape determines your travel journeys.

Tamarindo lies in the northwest, while Santa Teresa is in the south. Nosara belongs to the Pacific coastal region between them. Several coastal bases therefore create separate stages with their own arrival journeys.

Nicoya is also the name of a town inland. Its San Blas church belongs to the region’s historic architecture. The church museum displays objects from the colonial past.

A town visit adds history and inland daily life to beach days. I confirm a visit according to your chosen coastal route. You can make it a separate pause between two stages of your trip.

Guaitil and San Vicente preserve Chorotega pottery techniques. Clay is shaped by hand and decorated with traditional patterns. A workshop reveals the labour behind the finished vessels.

Freshly cooked corn tortillas also feature among the region’s offerings. Craft and food provide another way into the hinterland beyond a beach map. I discuss which encounter interests you.

The ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera crosses the gulf. Roads continue from there towards Santa Teresa and Mal País. The crossing can form part of your journey to the southern coast.

I arrange this connection according to your previous destination. A route from Guanacaste may use other roads. Your available nights determine which coastal changes I plan with you.