Playa Avellanas literally translates to Hazelnut Beach, though it is known among the English speaking local and tourists just as Avellanas Beach (pronounced AVEYANA) Nestled in Guanacaste’s Gold Coast, Playa Avellanas gives you white sand beaches and turquoise waters, in addition to some incredible waves, which is why it is often called “Little Hawaii”. This area is a surfer’s haven because there are as many as eight different breaks, which rank as some of the best surf on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. The swells come from both the northern and southern hemisphere and are spectacular, year-round. Surf board rentals and surfing lessons are available.
A trip to Avellanas is not complete without a stop by Lola's bar. This beach front slice of paradise offers delicious pizza and front row seats to some of the best breaks in the area. Not to be forgotten, "Lola the pig" takes center stage as she bathes in the surf.
This more tranquil neighbor of Tamarindo Beach is the ideal place to spend 2-3 and get some much deserved rest and relaxation.
Hotels in Avellanas Beach are either high-end luxury hotels or geared towards the budget traveler. The luxurious JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort is located right around the corner from Avellanas. There are several bed and breakfasts and rental homes available. If you prefer a town with more people and activity, then we recommend you stay in Tamarindo Beach and spend your days in Playa Avellanas. Our travel specialists are available to help you find the perfect spot for your needs.
While the waters are not recommended for swimming due to the high waves, the calm and soft sand beaches are ideal for long walks, picnics, sunbathing, and catching up on a good book. Marina Las Baulas National Park and Ostional Wildlife Refuge are also nearby for a chance to see endangered sea turtles. You also need to know as a very undeveloped area, there is no bank or ATM in Avellanas, so plan on carrying cash for your stay.
Avellanas beach is just over 160 miles from San Jose (260 km) and you should plan about 4 hours in driving time. Follow the signs to Santa Ana and Escazu. On the main highway to Santa Ana (Prospero Fernandez) you will continue driving on the highway # 27 towards Caldera. From Caldera/Barranca, continue north direction and follow the signs to Liberia.. Make a left turn at the sign for Puente La Amistad (Bridge). Cross the bridge and head towards Nicoya and Santa Cruz which is 1 hour away.
Once in Santa Cruz look for the gas station on the right hand side of the road, then you´ll cross over a small bridge. Make a left turn following the signs to Playa Avellanas and Playa Negra. You will arrive to San Jose Pinilla which is a small town with a soccer field, keep going for another 5 minutes until you reach Avellanas Beach.
From Liberia, it is just 50 miles to this quaint beach town (75 km), and takes just over 1 hour.
Follow the signs for Tamarindo, but instead of the last turn to the right drive straight through Villareal and along the dirt road. Follow the signs for Hacienda Pinilla, and then you will see the signs for Avellanas.
Avellanas Beach enjoys near perfect weather…warm sunny days with heavier winds than most Guanacaste regions. Some rain usually in the afternoons can be expected during May through November. The most rainfall occurs in September and October. Water temperatures seldom drop below 28° C (82° F), so there is no need to pack a wetsuit.
Remember to pack a swimsuit, flip flops, a hat, a beach towel, shorts, t-shirts, rain gear, insect repellent, sun block and aloe vera gel for soothing any sunburns.
Latitude: N 10° 14' 12.75"
Longitude: W 85° 50' 27.68"
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