swimming· Family Friendly· Photography· scenic
Playa Avellanas
Known for its long stretches of sand, exceptional surfing, long undeveloped beaches, beautiful sunsets, wildlife, and a relaxed local atmosphere.
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Santa Cruz
Known for its long stretches of sand, exceptional surfing, long undeveloped beaches, beautiful sunsets, wildlife, and a relaxed local atmosphere.
Playa Avellanas delivers a rare combination of world-class surf and pristine coastal beauty just 15 km south of Tamarindo. Golden sand stretches for miles beneath swaying palms, with consistent breaks that attract surfers of all levels while remaining refreshingly underdeveloped compared to nearby beach towns. The laid-back village vibe and genuine local character make it feel genuinely removed from the tourist trail, yet accessible enough for a day trip or extended stay. Come during the dry season (December-April) for the most reliable swells and clearest skies, or visit in the shoulder months when crowds thin considerably.
Playa Avellanas stretches for several kilometers of light golden sand with multiple world-class surf breaks (Little Hawaii, La Purruja, Palo Seco) suitable for all skill levels, plus beach walks across tide pools and rocky formations at low tide. The laid-back village atmosphere remains notably less developed than nearby Tamarindo, though access is straightforward via mostly standard vehicle roads (approximately 30 minutes from Tamarindo); plan visits during dry season (December–April) for reliable clear skies and consistent swells, or shoulder months (May–November) for thinner crowds.
Best Time to Visit
Visit December through March for consistent swell, fewer crowds, and sunny skies—this is prime time for surfers and photographers seeking golden-hour shots. May through November offers larger, more powerful waves ideal for experienced surfers, with June–September bringing the most consistent swell and lush green scenery, though afternoon rain is common; July and August see slightly fewer tourists than peak dry season, making it more secluded despite occasional showers.
What Changes Through The Year
Dry Season (Dec–Apr)
December–April offers sunny weather, clear skies, excellent beach conditions, and reliable sunsets; road conditions are generally best during this period.
Green Season (May–Nov)
May–November brings greener landscapes, fewer visitors, consistent surf, and more dramatic scenery.
Getting There
From Tamarindo: drive south on the main coastal road approximately 15 km (20-30 minutes). From San José: drive to Liberia, then west toward the coast to Santa Cruz, then south to Playa Avellanas (approximately 4-5 hours total).
What to Bring
Safety Considerations
Who This Is For
“The beach has seasonal river mouths that shift with rainy season runoff; ask at local sodas about current river conditions and safest swimming zones, as they change significantly between dry and wet seasons.”
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Swimming
A beach made entirely of crushed shells — no sand, only conchitas
Waterfalls
The most accessible major waterfall in Costa Rica — and the most generous
Hidden Gems
At the quiet end of the Caribbean road — the beach the bus doesn't reach
Waterfalls
Three-tier waterfall at the end of a jungle trail twenty minutes from the village
Swimming
One of the most famous surf beaches and beautiful stretches of coastline on the Central Pacific
Living traditions near this place
🫘 Harvest Life
Purple corn ground on a volcanic stone, fermented three days in open clay — older than the word corn
🪡 Artisan Traditions
One of the last surviving links to an Indigenous civilization that shaped much of Guanacaste's cultural identity
🪡 Artisan Traditions
The gourd vessel that predates pottery in the region — still carved with achiote and charcoal pigments
🥘 Markets & Food
The cattle arrive on foot every Saturday — this is what a working livestock market looks like