Guanacaste Villas & Luxury Vacation Rentals

Your Guide to Luxury Rentals in Guanacaste

Located on the northwestern tip of Costa Rica, Guanacaste is one of the country's most popular regions thanks to its stunning landscapes, its natural wonders, and its wealth of activities, including world-class hiking and surfing. Here, it's all about living the "pura vida" – pure life – and Guanacaste haciendas, villas, and luxury vacation rentals let you do just that.

That's because Guanacaste condo and villa rentals blend in seamlessly with their surroundings, delivering an unparalleled experience in terms of design, privacy, and amenities. That said, rentals here come in all shapes and sizes.

The first step to choosing a luxury rental in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is to decide on the size of your party and your approximate travel dates. You'll also want to think about how many children you'll have in your travel group, as well as if you have any guests with mobility needs.

From there, you may want to consider which area of Guanacaste you want to visit. Tamarindo is a popular choice for travellers thanks to its great surfing, beautiful beaches, and fun vibes in the surrounding areas. Peninsula Papagayo in Guanacaste, meanwhile, offers a unique experience in one of the most exclusive parts of the country. Lastly, Las Catalinas is an amazing place and a great choice for families thanks to its modern amenities, car-free design, and relaxed atmosphere.

Whether you know where you want to stay in Guanacaste yet or not, your Rental Escapes Villa Specialist will be happy to present you with the best available villa rental options for your group size and travel dates.

Luxury Guanacaste Villa Rentals

Just as Guanacaste is home to so much diverse natural beauty, so too is it home to many different beautiful private villas. To that end, luxury villas in Guanacaste tend to be focused on balancing modern amenities with breathtaking natural surroundings and ultimately delivering an experience that you just can't get anywhere else in the world.

On that note, our stunning luxury villas in Guanacaste are independently owned and constructed with a distinct sense of style that reflects the personality of their owners. Combined with their unparalleled locations and vistas, these perfect villas offer a sense of privacy, luxury, and aesthetics that you just can't get at a hotel.

This can be seen in the region's three most popular five-star villa destinations: Tamarindo, Peninsula Papagayo, and Las Catalinas.

Tamarindo Luxury Villa Rentals

What started as a surf spot has quickly become one of Costa Rica's best-regarded beach destinations. Whether you're looking to catch waves or just relax by the beautiful beaches, Tamarindo luxury villa rentals let you enjoy the best of this laid-back resort town while still offering lots of privacy. Some great choices here include:

Villa Morabeza: Just steps away from the beach, this gorgeous 8-bedroom villa is perfect for families. The villa itself is exceptionally private, with a hidden walkway providing beach access, and it features plenty of thoughtful amenities in every room, like an all-natural, botanical bug-repellant system. It also features two kids' rooms with 2 sets of bunk beds each and a separate studio that's perfect for a nanny. It even includes electric bikes to help you get around. A truly well-thought-out gated community in the heart of Tamarindo.

Casa Alang Alang: Set out over 15,000 square feet, Casa Alang Alang is undoubtedly one of the most impressive villas in Tamarindo. It's set on a private, secluded hillside and offers jaw-dropping views, as well as a hot tub spa and not one but two ocean-facing infinity pools, one on each floor. A spacious living area, stunning décor, and attentive staff round out this beautiful, unique villa experience.

Sunset House: Perched atop a hillside in Tamarindo, you'll find Sunset House, an elegant 5-bedroom villa that, as the name implies, is the perfect way to enjoy a sunset. The house is also exceedingly stylish thanks to its modernist architecture and custom construction, and it accommodates 14 thanks to some resourceful bedroom configurations. The Sunset House is the perfect retreat that offers great value for families looking to enjoy the best of Tamarindo.

Peninsula Papagayo Villa Rentals

With over 31 beaches and a mandate keeping 70% of the land undeveloped, Peninsula Papagayo is a gorgeous strip of Costa Rican coastline with world-famous landscapes and serene natural beauty. Peninsula Papagayo villa rentals let you appreciate the tranquillity of these vistas while still taking full advantage of modern amenities and luxuries. They include:

Villa Flor Blanca: Four unique bedrooms, enchanting tropical landscaping, and unique, modernist design - Villa Flor Blanca really is one of the most chic and stylish villas in Costa Rica. Everything is either one-of-a-kind or top-of-the-line, from the appliances down to the artwork. When you combine hospitality with life-affirming views, it doesn't get more aesthetic than this.

Villa Eram: With a creative mix of indoor and outdoor elements, including a grand piano hovering over water beside a green wall and a 34-foot infinity pool, Villa Eram is an imaginative, modern construction that redefines what a tropical luxury villa can be. Its name translates to house of paradise, and that's exactly what this is.

Seacliff Point: Floor-to-ceiling windows, an open-concept design, and an expansive, boundary-free pool area all punctuate the most spectacular parts of Seacliff Point, which are its unobstructed ocean views across Peninsula Papagayo. Throw in extras like a pool room, media room, designer furniture, and lovely artwork, and this is one villa that delivers at every level.

Las Catalinas Villas

Las Catalinas is a recently constructed car-free eco-resort with a big focus on environmentalism and maintaining balance with nature. Like the resort itself, Las Catalinas villas are inspired by Mediterranean, colonial, and coastal architecture, with a strong priority on liveability, making them a great choice for families. Some prime choices here include:

Casa Brewer: The private residence of the founder of Las Catalinas, Casa Brewer is a Mediterranean-style masterpiece with a stunning neo-Classical loggia, an enchanting poolside grotto, and an open design. An especially perfect choice for families with children.

Casa Pelicano: Full of delightful details, including a surfboard table and a colourful mural, Casa Pelicano is a vibrant, whimsical hillside home with a surprise around every corner. Best of all, it's surrounded by pristine landscaping and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, creating a one-of-a-kind indoor-outdoor experience that the whole family will love.

Castillo del Mar: A walking distance from Playa Danta, Castillo del Mar is a 7-bedroom villa that's perfect for beach lovers. The open terrace stretches down to a private pool patio, where you can indulge in some stunning ocean views before enjoying a meal cooked in the fully equipped kitchen. A perfect place and a beautiful villa located within the heart of Las Catalinas.

Things to Do in Guanacaste

With its diverse landscapes and wealth of natural wonders, Guanacaste offers endless activities for adventure seekers, beach lovers, and families alike.

Visit Rincon de la Vieja National Park: Centered around a volcano that last erupted in 1995, Rincon de la Vieja National Park offers a glimpse into the wilder side of Costa Rica. The park is centered around the volcano itself, with the Caribbean-facing side featuring lush rainforests and the Pacific side overlooking tropical dry forest. Highlights here include hiking to La Cangreja waterfall, visiting the picturesque hot springs in the Las Pailas sector, and spotting all manner of monkeys, birds, and even big cats.

Go Surfing in Tamarindo: The beach town of Tamarindo is known for its long coast and easy waves, making it a great place to surf, especially for beginners. Even if you don't surf, it's easy to appreciate the super friendly and laid-back vibe and colorful atmosphere of this friendly resort town. This is one spot where 'pura vida' is taken seriously.

Explore Car-Free Las Catalinas: For a unique beach town experience, visit Las Catalinas with its Mediterranean-inspired architecture, 40+ km of hiking and mountain biking trails through conserved dry forest, and calm Playa Danta beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The walkable town center features plazas, chef-driven restaurants, and yoga studios.

Check out Ponderosa Adventure Park: An especially great choice for families, Ponderosa Adventure Park offers plenty of fun activities, including kayaking, horseback riding, canopy tours, waterfall tours, and safari experiences. Zebras, giraffes, and other exotic animals can be found throughout, and you can pet, feed, and have your pictures taken with them.

Boat Tours & Snorkeling: Charter catamarans and yachts from marinas in Playa Flamingo, Playas del Coco, or Peninsula Papagayo. Explore the Catalina Islands for world-class snorkeling, discover hidden coves, or enjoy sunset cruises along the stunning Guanacaste coastline.

Guanacaste Weather & Best Time to Visit

Guanacaste benefits from a hot, dry, tropical climate, as it sits in the lowlands of Costa Rica. Its beautiful weather is a big reason why it's such a popular part of the country.

Dry Season (December–April): The best time to travel to Guanacaste is from December to April, which corresponds to Costa Rica's dry season. This is when you'll see the best weather overall, with temperatures reaching highs of 91–96°F (33–36°C) and very little rainfall (0.4–0.9 inches monthly). This is peak season with the most services available, so book your Guanacaste villa rental well in advance.

Shoulder Season (May–August): If you're looking to save on your Guanacaste villa rental, then shoulder season from May to August may be an excellent choice. You'll still enjoy mostly sunny weather with some afternoon showers, and there are fewer crowds. This is also prime surfing season if you're looking to catch serious waves, with consistent swells arriving on the Pacific coast.

Green Season (September–November): The coolest and rainiest months see average highs of 87°F (31°C) and significant rainfall (8–11 inches monthly). While this is the wettest period, the landscapes are at their most lush and dramatic. You'll find the best villa values during this time, and many activities remain available, though it's wise to plan around afternoon showers.

Getting to & Around Guanacaste

Getting There: If you're flying into Guanacaste, you'll most likely be landing at Liberia Airport (Daniel Oduber International Airport – LIR), which serves as the main gateway to the region. The airport offers direct flights from major US cities, making it convenient for international travelers. Liberia Airport is centrally located, with most Guanacaste destinations ranging from 30 minutes to 90 minutes away by car.

Getting Around: A rental car is suggested to get direct access around the region, giving you the freedom to explore Guanacaste's many beaches, national parks, and towns at your own pace. The main coastal highway (Highway 21) and inland routes are well-paved and clearly marked. Private drivers are also popular for those who prefer not to drive, especially for airport transfers and day trips.

Town-Specific Transportation: Las Catalinas is car-free with bikes and golf carts available. Tamarindo is walkable in the center, though a car or ATV helps for exploring surrounding beaches. Peninsula Papagayo villas typically include golf cart access within the resort.

Your Rental Escapes Concierge can arrange airport transfers, rental cars, private drivers, and any transportation needs throughout your stay.

Dining in Guanacaste

Costa Rican cuisine is a rich fusion of indigenous and European flavors, with a big emphasis on fresh seafood and fresh produce. Guanacaste offers dining experiences ranging from casual sodas (local eateries) to upscale beachfront restaurants.

Local Dishes to Try: Sample casado (traditional plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and protein), fresh ceviche made with local fish, gallo pinto (rice and beans breakfast staple), and arroz con mariscos (seafood rice). Don't miss trying fresh tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and guanabana.

Dining by Area: Tamarindo offers the widest restaurant selection, from beachfront bars to international cuisine. Las Catalinas features chef-driven restaurants like Ponciana and Limonada. Peninsula Papagayo includes fine dining at resort restaurants.

There's also a big emphasis on clean living throughout Guanacaste, so expect to find lots of organic, vegan, and fair-trade options as well.

Private Chef & Villa Pre-Stocking: Your Rental Escapes Concierge can arrange private chef service for your villa, so you can be sure everything you eat is freshly prepared to meet your tastes. We also offer villa pre-stocking, so all your favorite foods and drinks will be waiting for you when you arrive.

Is Guanacaste Safe?

Yes, Guanacaste is generally considered one of the safest regions in Costa Rica, particularly in established resort areas and gated communities. The region's tourism infrastructure is well-developed, with security measures in place at major villa developments and resorts.

Luxury Guanacaste villa rentals are professionally managed with high property standards, and many include on-site staff and 24-hour security. Gated communities in areas like Peninsula Papagayo, Tamarindo, and Las Catalinas provide additional peace of mind.

As with any destination, practice common-sense safety: don't leave valuables in cars, use hotel safes, and stick to well-traveled areas at night. Your Rental Escapes Concierge can recommend vetted transportation providers and trusted tour operators for excursions.

Guanacaste FAQ

Book a Guanacaste Villa with Rental Escapes

If you want to enjoy the best of this hidden gem of a tropical paradise, Rental Escapes can elevate your Guanacaste villa rental into a true luxury experience.

Our portfolio includes the finest oceanfront vacation rentals in Guanacaste, including luxury properties in Tamarindo, Peninsula Papagayo, and Las Catalinas. Whether you're seeking a beachfront villa with infinity pools, a hillside retreat with panoramic ocean views, or a family-friendly home in a car-free town, we have the perfect Guanacaste luxury villa for your needs.

Your Rental Escapes Villa Specialist will work closely with you to find the best villa for your group size, preferred location, and travel dates. Then our dedicated Concierge team personalizes your trip with airport transfers, private chef service, villa pre-stocking, excursion bookings, and any additional services to create the ultimate Guanacaste luxury villa experience.

Contact us today to book your next dream holiday and discover why Guanacaste is Costa Rica's premier destination for luxury villa vacations!