Nicoya, Guanacaste

Nicoya, Costa Rica, is an unspoiled treasure, often stumbled upon by travelers headed to other beach destinations. Whether by accident or intention, travelers who explore this region are likely to learn a little history along the way.

This village was initially settled by native tribes, chiefly the Chorotega Indians. One of the primary leaders of the original Chorotega tribe gave the town its name and contributed to the framework of modern culture in the city.

Ideal Locale

The same Chorotega chief who named Nicoya also welcomed the Spanish visitors who would later conquer and establish the area’s first Spanish settlement. Since then, Nicoya has cultivated one of the strongest artistic and civic hubs in the local vicinity of Guanacaste.

Trekking through Liberia, tourists can reach Nicoya in just over one hour.

Aside from being one of the primary artistic centers of the region, Nicoya lies 203 km from the capital city of San José and is also the area’s center of livestock commerce.

Local Attractions

While there is plenty to see in this town, one of the principal attractions is a five-century-year-old church located in the middle of Parque Central.

This monumental landmark houses a collection of historic antiques and mementos, many with religious and cultural significance. Travelers with an affinity for local relics will enjoy La Casa de Cultura, where regional artists display their crafts.

In addition to the historic church and artistic displays, Nicoya offers a pleasant environment for a leisurely excursion. While the outdoor markets and exhibits offer an enticing flair of local flavor, the typical comforts of home are also readily at your fingertips. Grocery stores, hotels, eateries, and cash are all accessible during a tropical adventure in this town.

Nicoya

Where to Stay

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Things to do in Nicoya

Summertime in Nicoya brings the arrival of the Día de Guanacaste festival. This colorful celebration injects a delightful new energy into the city, and an already dynamic town becomes positively vibrant during this festival.

While you’re roaming the streets of Nicoya, enjoying the beautiful scenery, be sure to pick up a unique piece of pottery as a keepsake to take home with you. Returning with a souvenir is great, and supporting the local economy is even better. Artfully decorated mementos are commonly available locally, but these exotic vestiges will be considered rare treasures back home.

Climate in Nicoya

Balmy Nicoya weather is one of the upsides to traveling in the province of Guanacaste.

Rainy season can extend from April to November and may require that you pack your patience and flexibility with respect to transportation.

However, a change of plans that extends your time on an isolated beach sounds just about as bad as too many gifts for Christmas.

Keep your plans pliable and be ready to enjoy the sights and scenes of Central America.

Map of the Area

Click to enlarge map - Map of the Area

Nicoya Unfolded

A complete Nicoya map will identify many fascinating locations in the region.

From Playa Avellana to Playa Coyote, the peninsula coastline is replete with fine sand, beautiful foliage and scenery.

The city of Nicoya lies in the interior of the peninsula. This region offers an ideal mix of a tropical rainforest environment, beach paradise, and Latin American culture.

Locals are highly literate, and the artistic ingenuity is visible in the pottery and relics exhibited by local craftsmen.

Pleasant hot weather, amicable locals, exuberant parades, delicious food and laid-back conventions are hallmarks of the Nicoya environment. As there is much to see in Nicoya, this top tourist destination would be a pleasant addition to any traveler’s bucket list.