Most travelers in Costa Rica say “no way San Jose!”, opting for crystal-clear paradisal beaches, lush jungles echoing with wildlife, and simply the Pura Vida lifestyle we all strive for.
Costa Rica may settle in the shadows of Mexico in terms of being a vacation hotspot, but if we were neighbors you can bet things would look different.
Despite being a handful of countries away, Costa Rica couldn’t be easier to reach with plentiful flights.
Vacationing here is a dream. So much so that many of the country’s hidden gems have already been revealed, leaving little to no surprises when you arrive.
But there’s at least one left, a place lined with all-inclusive resorts for locals to enjoy a “staycation”.
Deep into Guanacaste lies Playa Panama, a laid-back beach town along the gorgeous Gulf of Papagayo coastline.
Far from being a mainstream getaway, it’s time to take advantage before the secret is out!
The best part of all is it’s a great escape for all seasons, so as fall foliage gradually turns to barren trees, Playa Panama should be your next vacation spot to avoid the crowds in pure serenity.
Costa Rica’s Hidden Luxe Paradise
Most travelers in San Jose or Guanacaste, but the jewel of Central America’s pristine coastlines are where a majority of travelers set their sites.
As cool as venturing inland may be, where you’ll discover lush jungles and cultural villages, it’s the picture-perfect blue waters that you’ll remember most.
There are plenty of beaches to visit for ample days spent relaxing in the sun, or you can leave life’s stresses back home as you splurge on an all-inclusive package.
Off-the-beaten path of Costa Rica’s unofficial tourism trail lies some of the country’s best stays – the secret stretch of coastline locals hold dearly.
Your best bet is the CC Beachfront Papagayo for all-inclusive perks like endless food and drinks in one of Costa Rica’s most idyllic settings nestled in a seemingly endless canopy of greenery.
Recent guests have noted the immaculately spotless grounds and pair of on-site pools that feel like a hidden oasis amongst the singing sounds of the surrounding jungle.
Not to mention, you get a great bang for your travel buck during Costa Rica’s off-season, so take advantage of the right time to pamper yourself along the scenic shores of Playa Panama.
Why Locals ‘Staycation’ In Playa Panama
It seems there are always places near and dear to locals they wish to keep on the down-low, but ‘secrets secrets are no fun’…
Sorry to play spoiler, but many Costa Rica vacationers tend to scope out the best hidden gems anyway.
Playa Panama is the ultimate place to unplug – quite literally. One travel trend making the rounds in recent years is ‘digital detoxing’, a crazy concept where we actually put our phone aways and enjoy real life!
While that’s certainly not required here, and probably a tough sell if you’re glued to screens like I am, this blissful side of Costa Rica is for those who enjoy pure serenity and tranquility away from many of the livelier beaches in the country.
That being said, there’s more than enough to keep busy than scrolling TikTok with a cold drink in hand.
Aquatic adventures range from snorkeling to parasailing, or you can hop aboard a delightful boat tour and let the Captain do the work.
Plus, what better way to enjoy a gorgeous sunset than out on the open waters?
But most importantly, this region is relatively unknown to the average tourist, so locals love coming here to enjoy their own slice of paradise, especially with great weather from late November through April as the rain season dies down.
How To Get Here
If Playa Panama tops your list, you’ll want to fly into Liberia (LIR) versus San Jose, which in all honesty, isn’t the postcard welcome you might expect in such a place brimming with natural wonder.
Many travelers choose to rent a car when exploring Costa Rica, and if that’s the case for you, expect about a 20-minute drive to Costa Rica’s hidden paradise.
Otherwise, public transit is your best bet, but this adds at least an hour to your day, although at a price of $1, who can be picky?
Travelers need to transfer to the small town of Sardinal, then it’s a straight shot to the “Playa Panamà” bus stop.
Taxis are another option with estimates of $27-$33, according to Rome2Rio.
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