Things to do in Papagayo, Costa Rica
The Papagayo Peninsula consists of a string of resorts and villas on the peninsula itself and around the shores of Culebra Bay, an inlet of the Gulf of Papagayo.
It's a place where many tourists come to spend time on the beach or by the pool, relaxing after activities and adventures elsewhere in Costa Rica. Life in Papagayo revolves around swimming, sunbathing, boogie boarding, paddle boarding, and snorkeling.
Other activities are available, though, if you're spending your entire vacation in Papagayo. Hiking, canopy tours, nature trips, and national parks are all accessible from this area. Contact us to talk about your options for activities in Papagayo.
Water Sports in Papagayo
Papagayo is all about the ocean, Let's check out some water-based activities available for you here.
Swimming, snorkeling, and beach activities
Swimming and snorkeling are easy activities to enjoy. The calm waters of Culebra Bay are akin to a warm lake, making beach time a safe and enjoyable experience for families with children.
These calm waters also make swimming safer and allow for excellent snorkeling. Some hotels will have snorkeling gear for you to use. There are also beach and snorkeling tours available if you want to go further afield and check out different beaches.
You'll also find these waters great for kayaking and SUP paddle boarding. Let us know if you're interested in these activities and we'll set you up with either a tour, or recommend a Papagayo hotel that provides the equipment you need.
Fishing
The Gulf of Papagayo offers some incredible fishing opportunities for anglers seeking both inshore and offshore excursions. Inshore hot spots include Punta Gorda and the underwater reef of Las Barras. If you want to venture offshore, you'll have access to marlin and sailfish.
Sailing
The Papagayo area offers some great sailing for those of you wanting to get out on the water to explore the coastline and experience amazing sunsets. Most of these tours combine various snorkeling opportunities off hidden beaches and coves, alongside snacks and drinks.
Inland Adventures in Papagayo
Interested in staying ashore and exploring more of what Costa Rica has to offer? There's plenty to do if you're staying in Papagayo.
ATV tours
The hills and dry forest trails around Papagayo are great for exploring on your ATV. You can check out rivers, beaches, and more on an exciting day out.
Canopy tours
If you're staying in Papagayo for the whole week or if you missed out elsewhere then never fear. You can still enjoy a classic Costa Rican zip line canopy tour while staying here!
There are local tours to enjoy in a morning or afternoon or you can take a combo tour to the Rincon de la Vieja National Park and explore the treetops from there.
Golf
Papagayo is a golf lover's dream, which a significant part of the peninsula taken up by the best championship course in the country at the Four Seasons.
FAQs About Things to Do in Papagayo, Costa Rica
Is Papagayo worth visiting?
If you're looking for resorts, beaches, sunsets, and swanky pools, then Papagayo is the place for you. It's a place of larger resorts rather than boutique hotels, but sometimes we all need some pampering and Papagayo is perfect for that.
What's Papagayo known for?
Tourists visit Papagayo for relaxing resort vacations, water sports, sunsets, and beaches. Another great thing this area is known for is its convenience. Papagayo is only around 30 minutes from Guanacaste Airport in Liberia, making it super easy for travelers to enjoy with a minimum amount of travel time.
How many days do you need in Papagayo?
Three or four days is generally a good amount of time to stay in Papagayo. It's a perfect place to end your vacation relaxing after activities elsewhere. If, however, you're all about resorts and relaxing, then why not spend a week here? You'll leave Costa Rica with your batteries fully charged, that's for sure.
Why should I visit Papagayo?
If you want a relaxing vibe in an upscale resort on a quiet and calm beach, then you should consider visiting Papagayo.
What are the most popular things to do with kids in Papagayo?
Beach fun, for sure. The beaches here are calm and safe, without the waves and currents you'll find elsewhere in Costa Rica. They're perfect for relaxing, swimming, and splashing around. Many of the resorts around Papagayo also offer kids' clubs and activities for the little ones to enjoy.