Surf towns, dry-forest hills and Pacific beaches from Tamarindo to Santa Teresa. That is what Nicoya Peninsula Coast Drive promises, and it delivers. At about 120 miles (193 km), it is a drive best taken slowly, over 3–5 days, with time to pull over whenever the view demands it on the way from Tamarindo to Santa Teresa.
Open this route in XCRSNSetting out from Tamarindo
Start early, with a full tank and a loose plan. Tamarindo is where the road begins, and the first miles set the rhythm for everything that follows.
The first big moment is Playa Guiones. Give it the time it deserves; it is why many people make this trip at all.
Along the way
The road strings together Nosara and Sámara. Each one makes a natural break, and Sámara sits close to the middle if you want to split the drive with a night's sleep.
Do not miss Ostional turtle nesting.
Arriving in Santa Teresa
Save energy for the final stretch: Montezuma waterfall is still ahead.
By the end you will have seen Playa Guiones, Ostional turtle nesting and Montezuma waterfall, and you will understand why Nicoya Peninsula Coast Drive belongs on any list of great drives.
When to go and how to pace it
The best time to drive it is December–April. Plan on 3–5 days so the drive never feels rushed.
Coastal roads include river crossings; a 4x4 is safest in the wet season.
XCRSN prices fuel for every leg in the local currency, finds stops along the way and books overnights near each town.
