If turtles are your thing, visit Playa Grande from October through March, where you may watch the nesting of Leatherback sea turtles. The Leatherbacks are the largest turtles in the world. The turtles come ashore and lay their eggs only at night. Be sure to sign up for nightly tours in advance, as they become booked quickly. Increased commercialization of the area has led to a decrease in turtle nesting, so before booking a tour, check with the tour operator to see if the turtles are out.

Of course a trip to Costa Rica would not be complete without visiting one of the country’s premier national parks. Just one hour and 45 minutes away from this beach haven is one of the best national parks in Costa Rica. Rincon de la Vieja National Park is home to a combination of volcanic geological wonders and pristine tropical forests. Hiking through Rincon is a great opportunity to discover a multitude of ecological marvels in one locale: waterfalls, volcanic activity of boiling mud and water, dry parched lava flows, hot springs and canopies of green jungle. The tropical forests provide safe haven for a host of flora and fauna and there is much wildlife to observe. Choose from one of the canyoning or ziplining tours. Reward yourself for hiking the trails by relaxing in a sulfuric hot spring and then cool off in a nearby stream or any number of the waterfalls with perfect swimming holes. You may want to hire a guide to walk you through these natural wonders so you don’t miss a thing!

Don’t forget to watch for all the Howler monkeys, which can be seen swinging on branches throughout Guanacaste. Interested in a full day excursion from Guanacaste to the Arenal Volcano or the Monteverde Cloud Forest? There are day trips available to take you to both of these destinations.

Guanacaste boasts the most consistent weather in Costa Rica year round and is one of the driest climates in the country. The sun shines just about 365 days a year, and the temperature is pleasantly warm throughout the year. In the rainy season, you can expect a brief shower in the late afternoon allowing for magnificent sunsets. Rain peaks in Guanacaste in September and October. Please keep in mind that these are general weather patterns as weather can never be accurately predicted.