Life in Playas del Coco is vibrant and diverse. Formerly a fishing village, it has evolved into a popular destination for both locals (Ticos) and international travelers. The town boasts a variety of nightlife options and restaurants that cater to diverse tastes. Popular dining establishments include Pacifico Bach Club, Santorinis, Che Sirloin, Cava Bar, Buzzed Monkey BBQ, Masala, Numu Taproom, Papagayo Seafood, Coco Palms, Playas del Coco's evenings are filled with the sounds of music from open-air bars and nightclubs, offering everything from Latin America's top musicians to Rock & Roll. Notable venues include, The Garden Bar, Zi Lounge and Coconutz Sports Bar, making bar hopping a common pastime.
For those seeking a quick bite, Playas del Coco features a range of options, from Subway and several pizza joints. Additionally, sweet indulgences are catered to by an Italian ice cream shop and POPS ice cream shop in the Auto-Mercado shopping center.
Key amenities and services are conveniently located along Coco's main boulevard, including banks, churches, a police station, and the new post office. Well-stocked supermarkets such as Auto-Mercado and 4 more large grocery stores, hardware stores, pharmacies, taxi services, and souvenir shops contribute to the town's comprehensive infrastructure. Medical care is readily available through several clinics offering services in both Spanish and English, with 24-hour emergency care equipped with a new ambulance service.
Playas del Coco is renowned for its water activities, such as sports fishing, surfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. Once a central hub for surfers exploring spots like Ollie’s Point and Witches Rock, the beach has transformed into a prime diving location. The local waters teem with rich marine life, featuring massive schools of fish, rock formations, and the occasional sighting of humpback whales, dolphins, sea turtles, eagle rays, and mantas.
The soft volcanic sand of Playas del Coco creates an inviting shoreline, perfect for leisurely walks, especially when the tide is out. The horseshoe-shaped bay, surrounded by steep hills, offers an ideal setting for relaxation, enjoyment, and people-watching.
The exceptional weather in Guanacaste, characterized by an average temperature of 85°F and minimal rainfall of 55-65 inches annually, contributes to the area's allure. The region's temperate climate, even during the rainy season, makes outdoor activities a year-round possibility. The Papagayo winds during the dry months offer a pleasant cooling effect, enhancing the experience of basking in the warm sun.
Under construction on Cacique Peninsula between Playas del Coco and Playa Hermosa, the Waldorf Astoria
Playas del Coco's real estate developments are designed with resort living in mind, providing residents with amenities such as private pools, lush landscaping, high-speed internet, cable, property maintenance, 12-24 hour security, and property rental management services. This, coupled with the town's strategic location, has made it a sought-after destination for both vacationers and investors, many of whom have chosen to make Playas del Coco their permanent residence or retirement home.
As Playas del Coco continues to flourish, it remains a testament to the dreams of those seeking the "Pura Vida" lifestyle—a lifestyle characterized by relaxation, enjoyment, and the fulfillment of long-held aspirations. The next decade is poised to witness an influx of individuals realizing these dreams, and the community is ready to assist and welcome those embracing the unparalleled charm of Playas del Coco.