NICOYA PENINSULA

Almost every visitor to Costa Rica sets their sights on the Nicoya Peninsula, known for its white-sand beaches. Surfers are particularly enamored of this hook-shaped region, whose dozens of beaches and coastal attractions are linked by often difficult-to-negotiate dirt roads (a four-wheel drive is essential). Large-scale resort development concentrates at Playa Tamarindo and Playa Flamingo, both centers for sportfishing. Scuba centers offer dives offshore, notably around the Murcielagos Islands. Playa Grande and Ostional are important nesting sites for marine turtles. Other than the community of Guaitíl, where an indigenous pottery tradition is preserved, sites of interest concentrate along the Pacific shore, which grows lusher to the south around Montezuma, Malpaís, and Santa Teresa, the latter surfers’ havens bordering the nation’s first wildlife reserve. Accommodations run the span from ascetic to sublime inspirations. Exploring the entire peninsula might take two weeks or more at a leisurely pace. Allow at least four days; one week is recommended.

Guaitíl: Ancient pottery traditions are kept alive at this charming village, where you can witness ceramics being crafted in age-old fashion. (read more)

The Murciélagos: Experienced scuba divers can swim among large pelagics in warm waters around these offshore islands. Whale sharks and manta rays are commonly sighted. (read more)

Playa Conchal: The country’s only truly white-sand beach is popular for watersports, including snorkeling in warm turquoise waters. It can get crowded, but the pros outnumber the cons. (read more)

Playa Grande: Here, surfers can enjoy consistent action while nature lovers can kayak or take boat trips in search of crocodiles, birds, and other wildlife protected by Playa Grande Marine Turtle National Park. The highlight in season is a chance to witness giant leatherback turtles laying eggs. (read more)

Ostional National Wildlife Refuge: Site of a unique mass turtle nesting, this remote reserve has few services, but the experience of witnessing an arribada will sear your memory for the rest of your life. (read more)

Nosara: Beautiful beaches, cracking surf, plentiful wildlife, and a broad choice of accommodations combine to make Nosara a choice destination. (read more)

Isla Tortuga: Stunning beaches, nature trails, warm turquoise waters, and plenty of watersports await passengers on day cruises to this gorgeous little isle off southeast Nicoya. (read more)

Cabo Blanco Absolute Wildlife Reserve: This remote reserve is unrivaled locally for wildlife viewing, with all the main critters on show. (read more)

Malpaís: This burgeoning yet offbeat community is the gateway to Playa Santa Teresa, the perfect spot to bag some rays, ride the waves, and chill. Accommodations range from budget to super-deluxe. (read more)