"From the time we got there we knew we had the right place, the view was one of a kind, the hosts were amazing, and the beach was walking distance, private and beautiful. 100 percent recommend Tree Tops, we will be back! "
"From the time we got there we knew we had the right place, the view was one of a kind, the hosts were amazing, and the beach was walking distance, private and beautiful. 100 percent recommend Tree Tops, we will be back! "
"Staff were lovely and inviting. Room was clean and comfortable. This hotel and restaurant combination is safe, friendly, comfortable, and relaxing. Beautiful beach is very close walk. "
"Staff were lovely and inviting. Room was clean and comfortable. This hotel and restaurant combination is safe, friendly, comfortable, and relaxing. Beautiful beach is very close walk. "
"Great place to stay if planning on seeing arribada at Ostional, we had 4x4 so had no issues driving that last signing with pit holes. Great breakfast! We came after 6pm after normal check in hours but got checked in by staff no issues. Overall will
definitely stay here again and recommend!"
"Great place to stay if planning on seeing arribada at Ostional, we had 4x4 so had no issues driving that last signing with pit holes. Great breakfast! We came after 6pm after normal check in hours but got checked in by staff no issues. Overall will
definitely stay here again and recommend!"
"A very nice place with friendly and helpful staff. The road getting there is a little rough but manageable. We were there in the low season but the place was still upkept very nicely."
"A very nice place with friendly and helpful staff. The road getting there is a little rough but manageable. We were there in the low season but the place was still upkept very nicely."
"Words can not do justice to how delightful an experience this was. Staff was so nice... property was unique and off the beaten path.. truly a memorable experience!"
"Words can not do justice to how delightful an experience this was. Staff was so nice... property was unique and off the beaten path.. truly a memorable experience!"
"The rooms were very comfortable (best sleep we had on our trip to Costa Rica) and we loved the pool, the beach, the sunsets, and the star gazing at night. We were there with our family. It is a bit remote so good idea to bring games and snacks if traveling with kids. The restaurant on the premise is expensive but serves creative dishes by a Michelin star chef using local ingredients."
"The rooms were very comfortable (best sleep we had on our trip to Costa Rica) and we loved the pool, the beach, the sunsets, and the star gazing at night. We were there with our family. It is a bit remote so good idea to bring games and snacks if traveling with kids. The restaurant on the premise is expensive but serves creative dishes by a Michelin star chef using local ingredients."
"Unsure what makes this an eco retreat aside from the fact they ask you to bring your own water bottle to refill with water they provide and there is no hot water for showers. The property has a lot of potential but it felt maybe slightly neglected. There was a lot of debris on the ground, the kitchen area was really dirty and the room had rusty racks and shower curtains that allowed water to spray out all over the floor. With that said, it is the cheapest option in the area (a fantastic...
"Unsure what makes this an eco retreat aside from the fact they ask you to bring your own water bottle to refill with water they provide and there is no hot water for showers. The property has a lot of potential but it felt maybe slightly neglected. There was a lot of debris on the ground, the kitchen area was really dirty and the room had rusty racks and shower curtains that allowed water to spray out all over the floor. With that said, it is the cheapest option in the area (a fantastic...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
<p>San Juanillo, located in Cuajiniquil, Guanacaste, is perfect for beach and outdoor adventure vacations. With a focus on beach experiences, visitors can explore Playa San Juanillo and enjoy various attractions that cater to both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're seeking sun-soaked beaches or local institutes, San Juanillo offers a variety of activities to ensure an enjoyable getaway.</p>
San Juanillo Beach
9.0/10 (195 reviews)
Why not spend a carefree afternoon at San Juanillo Beach during your travels in San Juanillo?
Staff were amazing Seabass made the whole trip for us. The food here is incredible. Worth the drive.
So relaxing and secluded. Would stay again.
Free breakfast was so so good.
Staff were amazing Seabass made the whole trip for us. The food here is incredible. Worth the drive.
So relaxing and secluded. Would stay again.
Free breakfast was so so good.
Stayed at this property 3 nights with my husband. We had a beautiful room with a balcony overlooking the jungle and ocean. Great place to lie in the hammock or sit and watch the sunset. The room was very nice just as in the pictures and very comfortable beds. Great shower with lots of hot water. The pool/hot tubs were very nice. Loved our delicious breakfast every morning. Had dinner on-site one evening and it was wonderful also - lots of vegetarian choices. We did an excursion booked through...
Stayed at this property 3 nights with my husband. We had a beautiful room with a balcony overlooking the jungle and ocean. Great place to lie in the hammock or sit and watch the sunset. The room was very nice just as in the pictures and very comfortable beds. Great shower with lots of hot water. The pool/hot tubs were very nice. Loved our delicious breakfast every morning. Had dinner on-site one evening and it was wonderful also - lots of vegetarian choices. We did an excursion booked through...
This is a FABULOUS place to stay. We enjoyed relaxing here for 4 nights. Great food, great service, friendly helpful people, and the best pool on our 16 day trip. Alice was so helpful, and the young Michael was very pleasant
This is a FABULOUS place to stay. We enjoyed relaxing here for 4 nights. Great food, great service, friendly helpful people, and the best pool on our 16 day trip. Alice was so helpful, and the young Michael was very pleasant
This hotel was very clean, quiet and the staff was very friendly. We stayed in the loft room and it was perfect. The little kitchen with everything you need. It was nice to walk in to a cool room after a hot day.
Jeffrey was welcoming, helpful and always a phone call away.
This hotel was very clean, quiet and the staff was very friendly. We stayed in the loft room and it was perfect. The little kitchen with everything you need. It was nice to walk in to a cool room after a hot day.
Jeffrey was welcoming, helpful and always a phone call away.
Jessica
Reviewed September 29, 2026Reviewed September 29, 2026
Amazing beachfront hotel located between 2 beautiful beaches. Friendly staff and very good service.
The restaurant for breakfast and lunch has amazing view and pretty good food. Worth a try.
Amazing beachfront hotel located between 2 beautiful beaches. Friendly staff and very good service.
The restaurant for breakfast and lunch has amazing view and pretty good food. Worth a try.
This is a beautiful surf hotel in Nosara. The facilities are beautiful and the rooms are spacious and very comfortable with all amenities. The staff is just amazing with everyone being very friendly and helpful. The mountain bike shop, the surf club and the gym with yoga studio are great. Wonderful experience. I wish we could have stayed longer and certainly will go back.
This is a beautiful surf hotel in Nosara. The facilities are beautiful and the rooms are spacious and very comfortable with all amenities. The staff is just amazing with everyone being very friendly and helpful. The mountain bike shop, the surf club and the gym with yoga studio are great. Wonderful experience. I wish we could have stayed longer and certainly will go back.
The Dutch owners are great people, very kind and helpful, We felt like welcome and like being at home. The cabins are surrounded by trees where you can see a lot of wildlife (from monkeys to parrots). Beautiful and safe location.
The beach is about 5 -10 minute walk from the lodge. Very pristine and unpolluted. You can walk in both directions for miles. There is a nice pool in the eco-lodge too.
There is a copious breakfast each morning. Lieke is a great chef, do not miss her tasty evening...
The Dutch owners are great people, very kind and helpful, We felt like welcome and like being at home. The cabins are surrounded by trees where you can see a lot of wildlife (from monkeys to parrots). Beautiful and safe location.
The beach is about 5 -10 minute walk from the lodge. Very pristine and unpolluted. You can walk in both directions for miles. There is a nice pool in the eco-lodge too.
There is a copious breakfast each morning. Lieke is a great chef, do not miss her tasty evening...
Alena
Reviewed December 12, 2016Reviewed December 12, 2016
Très bel endroit, avec un décor serein et une magnifique piscine. Le personnel est extrêmement sympathique et accommodant. Super attention aux détails. Une navette était à notre disposition toute la journée pour aller à la plage. Je recommande !
Très bel endroit, avec un décor serein et une magnifique piscine. Le personnel est extrêmement sympathique et accommodant. Super attention aux détails. Une navette était à notre disposition toute la journée pour aller à la plage. Je recommande !
Amazing property. Staff were friendly, dedicated and knew our names after the first day. The property was beautiful, the view is breathtaking. The on-site restaurant was also quite good, though the menu is a bit limited for dinner. The breakfast is surpassingly good. The complimentary laundry is a bonus.
The shuttle service into town is quite the added bonus as well.
Amazing property. Staff were friendly, dedicated and knew our names after the first day. The property was beautiful, the view is breathtaking. The on-site restaurant was also quite good, though the menu is a bit limited for dinner. The breakfast is surpassingly good. The complimentary laundry is a bonus.
The shuttle service into town is quite the added bonus as well.
Beautiful, comfortable, tastefully decorated rooms.
more than enough space for our 3 teens.
Great Breakfast choices
Wonderfully kind staff who truly enjoy their work.
Isolated location, 30 km of gravel so a 4-by-4 is a must if you plan to leave the hotel grounds.
Beautiful, comfortable, tastefully decorated rooms.
more than enough space for our 3 teens.
Great Breakfast choices
Wonderfully kind staff who truly enjoy their work.
Isolated location, 30 km of gravel so a 4-by-4 is a must if you plan to leave the hotel grounds.
Latica lodge was amazing to stay at! If you’re looking for that community vibe then this should be on the top of your list. Everyone from all over the world staying there, all having breakfast/supper together was spectular. The owners are everyday people willing to help you out with everything they made the stay so enjoyable. It’s definitely off the beaten path, I would recommend having a 4x4 vehicle to tackle the roads getting there and getting around. There’s a couple amazing beaches (best we...
Latica lodge was amazing to stay at! If you’re looking for that community vibe then this should be on the top of your list. Everyone from all over the world staying there, all having breakfast/supper together was spectular. The owners are everyday people willing to help you out with everything they made the stay so enjoyable. It’s definitely off the beaten path, I would recommend having a 4x4 vehicle to tackle the roads getting there and getting around. There’s a couple amazing beaches (best we...
Brandon
Reviewed January 16, 2025Reviewed January 16, 2025
You can tell that the entire location was very thoroughly thought and planned out to its beauty! We loved that the location had lots of nature, a pool, and breakfast included.
The only thing that we didn’t like was that there were lots of red ants that were coming through the bathroom window all throughout the night. We would find them in the sink, toilet, and wall beside the bed.
You can tell that the entire location was very thoroughly thought and planned out to its beauty! We loved that the location had lots of nature, a pool, and breakfast included.
The only thing that we didn’t like was that there were lots of red ants that were coming through the bathroom window all throughout the night. We would find them in the sink, toilet, and wall beside the bed.
Carlos
Reviewed February 11, 2026Reviewed February 11, 2026
Stunning Beaches: San Juanillo features beautiful, secluded beaches like Playa de San Juanillo and Juanillo Beach, perfect for sunbathing and water activities.
Adventure Activities: Enjoy thrilling experiences such as water rafting and exploring nearby nature reserves rich in wildlife.
Eco-Friendly Experiences: The area promotes sustainable tourism, allowing visitors to connect with nature while minimizing their impact.
Charming Local Communities: Experience the warm hospitality of local residents, enhancing your tropical getaway.
Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a variety of lodging options, including cozy bed & breakfasts and adventure-ready hotels.
Find great hotels near San Juanillo
Explore a variety of delightful hotel accommodations in San Juanillo, Cuajiniquil, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. From charming bed & breakfasts to adventure-ready hotels, you'll find options that cater to every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking a beachside getaway or a relaxing spa experience, San Juanillo offers the best hotels close to the stunning coastline. Enjoy your vacation in this tropical paradise, filled with opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel: Nestled 12.9km from San Juanillo, The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel is the perfect choice for adventure seekers and business travellers alike. This 4-star gem boasts direct access to the beach, making it an ideal spot for a thrilling beach vacation. Enjoy an array of adventure sports, including surfing, fishing, and hiking, all available onsite or nearby. For business needs, the hotel provides a well-equipped Conference Centre and multiple meeting rooms, ensuring a productive stay amidst the beauty of Costa Rica.
Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge: Located 9.7km from San Juanillo, Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge offers a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA travellers, with a focus on relaxation and wellness. This 4-star hotel features a full-service spa that includes hot stone massages and treatment rooms, making it an excellent choice for those looking to unwind. The business facilities, including a meeting room and business centre, are available for those who need to mix work with pleasure. Experience a tranquil getaway while enjoying top-notch amenities in a beautifully designed setting.
Azul Hotel & Retreat: Just 3.2km from San Juanillo, Azul Hotel & Retreat is a luxurious 4-star accommodation that offers an exquisite beach vacation experience. With direct access to the stunning coastline, guests can indulge in the sun and surf while enjoying upscale amenities. This retreat is perfect for travellers yearning for a tranquil and lavish stay, surrounded by the natural beauty of Costa Rica. Experience the finest in relaxation and comfort at Azul, where luxury meets nature.
Where to stay in San Juanillo
San Juanillo, Costa Rica, invites you to explore its stunning beaches and embrace the laid-back atmosphere of this charming village. Enjoy access to beautiful, secluded shorelines where you can unwind under beach umbrellas or embark on outdoor adventures. Nearby, you’ll discover friendly communities that enhance your tropical getaway, making it the perfect destination for relaxation and recreation. Experience the exotic charm of this coastal gem and create unforgettable memories during your travels.
Nosara: A vibrant city located 11.3km from San Juanillo, Nosara offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Known for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities, this destination attracts travellers year-round, with peak visits from January to March. Here, you can indulge in various experiences, from surfing the waves to exploring lush national parks. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby golf courses, while nature lovers can revel in the beauty of the surrounding volcanoes. With a laid-back vibe and a focus on wellness, Nosara is perfect for those looking to rejuvenate and connect with nature.
Cuajiniquil: Nestled within the same region as San Juanillo, Cuajiniquil is a charming city that attracts families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The city experiences moderately seasonal visitor numbers, peaking from January to March. Travellers come here for its beautiful beaches and adventurous activities, with golf courses and various outdoor experiences readily available. The area's natural beauty is complemented by stunning mountain views and the presence of nearby volcanoes, making it an excellent spot for those who appreciate scenic landscapes. Cuajiniquil’s welcoming community and rich culture provide an authentic Costa Rican experience.
Black Beauty: A quaint village located 4.8km from San Juanillo, Black Beauty is a hidden gem for those seeking outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. With moderately seasonal travel patterns peaking from January to March, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including resort stays and golf at nearby courses. The village is surrounded by stunning beaches and is close to national parks, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Black Beauty’s serene atmosphere and natural beauty create a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration, ensuring a memorable vacation experience.
Things to do near San Juanillo
San Juanillo, Cuajiniquil, offers a perfect blend of beach and adventure activities for a memorable vacation. Visitors can enjoy stunning sand beaches ideal for relaxation, as well as thrilling water rafting experiences. Golf enthusiasts will also find excellent golf courses in the area. With its beautiful landscapes and outdoor offerings, San Juanillo is an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in Costa Rica.
Shopping
In San Juanillo, visit Frog Pad, an 12.9km away store offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, explore nearby towns for more shopping options and local artisan markets that showcase Costa Rican culture and craftsmanship.
Recreation
Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course is a fantastic spot for golf enthusiasts, offering an invigorating outdoor experience just 27.4km from San Juanillo. For a more relaxing vibe, visit Black Stallion Eco Park, located 29.0km away, where you can unwind amidst nature. Reserva Conchal Golf Course, 40.2km away, also promises thrilling sports activities.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of water sports at Safari Surf School, located 12.9km from San Juanillo, offering exhilarating waves and a vibrant outdoor atmosphere. For hiking enthusiasts, Samara Trails, 43.5km away, presents stunning scenery and adventurous trails that immerse you in Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
Nightlife
The nightlife in San Juanillo is laid-back yet vibrant. Enjoy a refreshing drink at La Cueva, a popular local spot, or unwind at the beach with live music at Playa San Juanillo. For a more lively scene, check out nearby Cuajiniquil for local bars and dancing.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Juanillo
To save money on your trip to San Juanillo, consider visiting between September and November, when accommodation prices drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or checking last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia can yield lower rates. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Mondays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s tools to filter by budget and combine hotel, flight, and activity bookings for additional savings. Explore free local activities like beach days and nature hikes to make the most of your budget while enjoying the beauty of Costa Rica.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Juanillo are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in San Juanillo about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in San Juanillo is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in San Juanillo is Monday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your preferences, such as budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your San Juanillo hotel reservation with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around San Juanillo
San Juanillo offers a perfect blend of beach and adventure for travellers seeking eco-friendly experiences. Popular attractions include Playa de San Juanillo, Playa Junquillal, and Juanillo Beach, where you can soak up the sun or enjoy water activities. Explore the nearby nature reserves for a taste of Costa Rica's stunning wildlife and landscapes, making your vacation in this charming coastal town truly unforgettable.
San Juanillo Beach: Experience the serene beauty of San Juanillo Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning coastal views. Enjoy the soft sands and gentle waves, perfect for relaxation and beachcombing.
Playa Azul: Just 3.2km away, Playa Azul offers vibrant beach vibes with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque scenery. It's an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely walk along the shoreline.
Playa Pelada: Located 11.3km from San Juanillo, Playa Pelada boasts breathtaking landscapes and a more secluded feel. This hidden gem is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat and opportunities for exploration.
Best time to go to San Juanillo
The best time to visit San Juanillo is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. November is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
79.3°F (26.3°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Slightly High
Average
February
80.8°F (27.1°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Average
Average
March
81.9°F (27.7°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
April
82.6°F (28.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
May
81.3°F (27.4°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Average
June
79.5°F (26.4°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
July
79.2°F (26.2°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
August
78.8°F (26.0°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Average
September
78.8°F (26.0°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
October
77.9°F (25.5°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
November
77.7°F (25.4°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
December
78.1°F (25.6°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
The nearest major airports for your trip to San Juanillo
To reach San Juanillo, Costa Rica, you can fly into three major airports. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is 66.0km away, with nearby hotels like the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo and the all-inclusive Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, both offering comprehensive transportation services. Tamarindo (TNO), located 32.2km from San Juanillo, features upscale options such as the W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal and JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa, providing shuttle services. Lastly, Nosara (NOB) is a mere 11.3km away with accommodations like Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge, which also offers convenient transport options. Each airport provides various access points for a seamless travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in San Juanillo?
The best area to stay in San Juanillo is near the main beach, which offers the most convenient access to local amenities and the Pacific Ocean.
This area is the heart of San Juanillo, with a few small shops, restaurants, and places to stay clustered around the main road that leads directly to the beach. The beach itself is distinctive, with white and black sand meeting at a rocky point, offering great spots for sunbathing and exploring tide pools. It's a relatively quiet and undeveloped spot, ideal for those seeking a tranquil coastal experience.
Couples looking for a peaceful escape will find the area around San Juanillo beach particularly appealing. The uncrowded beach provides a ideal setting for relaxing walks and enjoying the natural beauty. Many accommodations here offer direct beach access or stunning ocean views, making it easy to unwind and enjoy the surroundings.
For families, staying near the main beach is also highly recommended. The calm waters in certain sections of the beach are suitable for children to play, and the rock formations offer interesting areas for exploration during low tide.
When is the best time to go to San Juanillo?
The best time to go to San Juanillo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This period offers consistent sunshine and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities.
During these months, you'll experience minimal rainfall, typically clear skies, and calm ocean conditions great for swimming, snorkelling, and fishing. The average daytime temperature hovers around 30°C (86°F), with cooler evenings. The roads, especially those unpaved, are also in their best condition, making travel to and from San Juanillo much more straightforward.
For those looking to avoid the larger crowds and potentially find better value on accommodation while still enjoying good weather, the shoulder months of May and November can also be a good option. You might encounter occasional afternoon showers, but these are often brief and help to refresh the landscape.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in San Juanillo.
How much is the nightly rate at a San Juanillo hotel?
Prices for hotels in San Juanillo often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $55 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.