Playas del Coco, sometimes styled as Coco or Playa del Coco, is the largest beach town in Guanacaste, almost a city in its own right by local standards. Despite its compact size, this former fishing village boasts some of the finest amenities along the coast, including a variety of Playas del Coco restaurants and dining experiences ranging from cozy cafés and healthy lunches to indulgent dining and vibrant nightlife.
Personalized Recommendations
We polled three Blue Water Properties agents on their favorites in the area. Before we dive in, please meet our experts:
Becky Clower
Becky Clower is a dual citizen (USA & Costa Rica), and the founder, CEO, and lead broker at Blue Water Properties of Costa Rica. After enjoying a successful career as a real estate investor in Tampa, Florida, she relocated to Costa Rica and in 2006, founded Blue Water Properties of Costa Rica. She is also an active investor and real estate developer, with several projects currently underway.
👤 Agent: Rebecca Clower
☎️ Office: (+506) 2653-6779 x102
📱 Mobile: (+506) 8996-2002
Ian Solano
Ian Solano was raised in chilly Cartago and is now at home in warm Playa Hermosa. An outdoor enthusiast, he’s often surfing, hiking, and playing soccer. He serves real estate buyers and sellers throughout Papagayo, Playa Panamá, Playa Hermosa, and Playa Ocotal, as well as Río Celeste and Bijagua. Ian is committed to client satisfaction and a personalized, transparent approach, while channeling his local knowledge to make his clients’ real estate goals a reality.
👤 Agent: Ian Solano
☎️ Office: (+506) 4080-2095
📱 Mobile: (+506) 7245-2203
Karla Espinoza
Born in San José, Karla grew up in the lush and beautiful southern region of Costa Rica. She first moved to Guanacaste over two decades ago, and has also lived in both Switzerland and the U.S. With Blue Water Properties, Karla has embraced her passion for customer service and her gift for helping both buyers and sellers in the Guanacaste market. She prides herself on her respect for others and earning – and deserving – her clients’ trust. In her free time, Karla cherishes family time with her daughters.
👤 Agent: Karla Espinoza
☎️ Office: (+506) 4080-2095
📱 Mobile: (+506) 8919-0950
Playas del Coco Restaurants, Cafés & Bars
This post is admittedly heavy on Playas del Coco restaurants, but for good reason: Here, you’ll find a true smorgasbord of cafés, restaurants, bars, and other dining & drink establishments. We can’t list them all here – part 2, coming soon? – but we’re happy to spotlight a few of our favorites. They are, in alphabetical order:
Café Corazón
Phone: 2670-2037 @cafe.corazon
Cafe Corazon is a coffee shop and bistro bar offering air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Located at the end of Main Street, just 50 meters from the beach, they provide a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Their menu features natural foods made with heart, blending a fusion of Latin cuisines.
Karla: “This bistro café in Playas del Coco downtown. All the food is natural and fresh, with gourmet cafe from Costa Rica. You’ll also find great cocktails here, if that’s your thing. And it’s just a few steps from the beach!
Café de Playa
Phone: (+506) 2670-1621 | @cafe_de_playa_
Located beachfront with stunning Pacific Ocean views, Café de Playa offers guests the chance to enjoy beautiful sunsets while dining on dishes from their exclusive menu featuring fresh ingredients.
Becky: “Café de Playa is open-air, which offers such a great vibe for a beach café.”
Café Guayoyo
Phone: (+506) 2101-1398 | @guayoyo.cr
This craft coffee house is renowned for its excellent products and service. While continuing to offer favorites like arepas and paninis, Café Guayoyo has more recently introduced delicious new items, such as cold brew coffee and avocado toast, among others.
Karla: “This is a really cozy place to have coffee in Coco, and it doesn’t hurt (at all!) that they have absolutely delicious pastries and great breakfast options!”
Café Java
Phone: (+506) 2670-0297 / (+506) 8917-4423 | @javacoffeeco
Café Java provides a comprehensive selection of breakfast and light lunch options, featuring espresso, coffee, iced coffees, frozen drinks, fresh fruit smoothies, paninis, bagels, salads, and waffles.
Karla: “This is an intimate café with a really good menu, serving lots of indulgent milkshakes, delicious coffee, great sandwiches and paninis, and tasty waffles. It’s a great place for breakfast and lunch.”
Coconutz Brewhouse
Phone: (+506) 8888-6957 | @coconutzcostarica
Coconutz is the neighborhood bar and micro-brewery you’ll love, serving their own ice-cold, house-brewed beer since 2012. Known as Coco’s original brewery, they offer a unique experience with beautiful hardwood decor, trees growing through the floor, and surfboards hanging on the walls. They boast over 10 TVs, including mega projector screens, so you can always catch the game.
Ian: “They have handcrafted IPAs and craft beer, as well as live music on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. During the peak travel season (December through April, more or less), they have live music almost every day.”
La Dolce Vita
Phone: (+506) 2670-1384 | @ladolcevitarest
Run by two Italian brothers, La Dolce Vita specializes in well-prepared Italian classics, thin-crust pizza, and intriguing seafood dishes such as tuna tartare and tagliolini with crab in cream sauce. Save room for dessert with options like panna cotta or classic tiramisu. For a romantic evening, request a table outside by the fountain and explore their selection of Italian wines. Live music is featured weekly.
Ian: “This is my favorite Italian restaurant in the whole area. Their steak is amazing, as are the pastas, and the environment is top-notch. After your meal, you can also jump over to the bar, Zarpe (see above), which can be fun during a night out on the town.”
Namu Tap Room
Phone: (+506) 8383-8367 | @taproombistrocr
They offer a casual and comfortable taproom and restaurant featuring Namu Brewing craft beer, delicious cocktails, excellent wines, and world-class food from Chef Nicolas Devenelle. Their dining spaces are spacious and beautifully designed, with options for both indoor and outdoor seating.
Becky: “Namu Tap Room is really good food and it’s also an A/C venue, which I often appreciate on a sunny day!”
Ian: “The great thing about Namu is that after a great meal – the chef is great, he’s the owner of Chef4You, and Namu also serves handcrafted beer – you can leave your car in the parking lot and go for a hike or do your shopping (there’s an Automercado and pharmacy in the shopping center).”
Nikkei
Phone: (+506) 6121-1795 | @nikkeicr
Nikkei offers a fusion kitchen and Lounge that is constantly innovating. They are beloved for their fresh flavors and diverse menu, which includes everything from vegan sushi to juicy steaks, with a wide variety of incredible seafood in between.
Becky: “Nikkei is really delicious; it’s a fusion restaurant and it’s just interesting food, plus there’s not that many Playas del Coco restaurants with air-conditioning. Nikkei is one of them.”
Pizzeria La Caveja
Phone: (+506) 8369-1002 | @ristorantepizzerialacaveja
La Cavejas offer some of the best pizzas in the country at great prices, with excellent service and a wide variety of dishes. Recommended options include fettuccine or gnocchi with pesto and shrimp pizza. Quality is top-notch, especially in the thin-crust pizzas. And yes, they have gluten-free options!
Ian: “This is, hands-down, some of the best pizza in the area!”
Restaurante Mar Azul
Phone: (+506) 8697-8602
Mar Azul is a restaurant and fish market offering fresh products daily; not surprisingly, they specialize in seafood. They feature both indoor and outdoor areas with air conditioning, a full bar, and swimming pools, and many note that their service is specialized and unique.
Ian: “The chef here used to be the chef at the Four Seasons, so this is a great choice for a nice meal, if you like elevated cuisine. I like that they have both outdoor seating and air-conditioned indoor dining, depending on the weather and your mood.”
Santorini Grill
Phone: (+506) 4703-6633 | @santorinicostarica
Santorini offers a variety of Greek and American dishes, including grilled meats, local seafood, fresh salads, gyros, gourmet burgers, and several vegetarian options. Their beverage selection includes a large variety of wines, beers, liquor, and delicious house-made sangria.
Ian: “Santorini is a must-visit if you enjoy healthy food. I love the vibrant atmosphere of the restaurant, the music, and the high-quality service. Often, the chef will come to your table to personally explain the ingredients and preparation of the dishes, adding a personalized touch to the experience.”
Sugoi
Phone: (+506) 2670-1324 | @sugoimexasian
Sugoi brings together the culinary delights of the East and the New World, blending spices and flavors from the 15th century. In a relaxed and stylish setting, hibachi tables, tacos, and noodles offer a variety of styles and flavors. Their authentic Mexican and Asian dishes are crafted with fresh ingredients and innovative techniques.
Ian: “Sugoi is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a spectacular view of the common areas of Coco Bay. Besides the stunning views, every dish is carefully prepared and presented, making each meal a memorable experience. If you’re in the mood for something different, this restaurant offers a perfect blend of Mexican and Asian cuisine, featuring a Teppanyaki experience that you shouldn’t miss. The chefs prepare the food right in front of you, adding a touch of spectacle to your dinner.”
Verde Salvia
Phone: (+506) 8723-5145 | @verdesalviaristorante
This family-friendly restaurant has a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere and offers handmade Italian cuisine and pizza, natural herb infusions, and cocktails, with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available. The restaurant features air conditioning indoors and a beautiful outdoor terrace for al fresco dining. There’s also a private dining room.
Ian: “I highly recommend Salvia Verde for its exceptionally personalized customer service. Every time I visit, I feel right at home as the staff makes sure all my needs and preferences are met. It’s a cozy and exclusive place that truly stands out. Plus, the chef here is super nice and incredibly talented; it’s probably the best pizza in the area, which is saying something!”
Karla: “This Italian restaurant is located in the heart of downtown and offers a very relaxing A/C environment, perfect for those days you need it! I love just about everything here, from their great homemade pizza and pastas to the salads and desserts. This is a great place for families or couples.”
Zarpe
Phone: (+506) 6488-6622 | @zarpe_cr
Zarpe – a Costa Rican term for the “last drink,” which usually means you’ll be home after about five more! – serves top-quality cocktails made with locally grown juices, garnishes, and fruits. They craft all their salts and dehydrated fruits in-house and are always experimenting, tweaking, and updating to create Coco’s most unique cocktail bar. At its heart, Zarpe is home – a place where friends and family are always welcome.
Ian: “Zarpe is a great place to enjoy a night out on the town. I particularly like going after a meal at La Dolce Vita, which is next door; together that’s a perfect Coco evening for me!”
Zi Lounge
Phone: (+506) 2670-1978 | @ziloungecr
This may be Playa’s del Coco’s premier lounge, offering a range of options from sports to live music and DJs. With an unparalleled ambiance and unique dishes, they provide a truly exceptional experience.
Ian: “This is a sports bar-like atmosphere, with weekly live music and a daily DJ. They have good cocktails and handcrafted beer, too.”
Honorable Mention: Café Mariposa (Paso Tempisque)
Brand new and sporting some serious style, this café, located at the new Parque Tempisque, is a perfect stop when you’re dropping your kids off at La Paz-Tempisque Campus. The menu offers breakfast, brunch, and lunch fare, including some delicious baked goods and soups.
Karla: “Café Mariposa at Paso Tempisque, next to La Paz Community School (Tempisque Campus), in the new Plaza Centro Guanacaste/Parque Tempisque, is one of my favorite recent discoveries. It offers typical breakfasts and lunches, as well as coffee and delicious baked goods. The plaza also offers a mini-market with all-organic products, and more coming soon. It’s so convenient, especially for parents whose kids are at La Paz!”
Honorable Mention: Soluna Beach Bistro (Ocotal)
Phone: (+506) 8989-9229 | @bahiapezvela_cr
This beachfront bistro is a coastal haven where the sea meets flavor. Guests enjoy a passionately crafted menu while tanking in the beauty of the coast.
Ian: “Soluna in Ocotal is my favorite spot for sushi in the area. I recommend visiting after 3 pm to enjoy its proximity to Bahía Pez Vela beach. The views of the bay are stunning, and it’s the perfect place to relax and snorkel. The restaurant has an open concept and an excellent selection of wines.”
Honorable Mention: Father Rooster (Ocotal)
Phone: (+506) 2670-1246 | @fatherroostercr
This beachfront restaurant in Playa Ocotal offers friendly service, fresh seafood, a variety of dishes, cocktails, and their most popular drink: margaritas!
Ian: “Father Rooster, located on Ocotal Beach, is more than just a place to eat; it’s an experience. The combination of delicious food, a cozy atmosphere, and ocean views makes it perfect for a relaxed meal. Additionally, the restaurant often hosts events and live music, creating a festive and enjoyable environment.”
Playa Panama Restaurants, Cafés & Bars
Playa Panamá offers some truly exceptional options! In alphabetical order:
Hacienda Blu
Phone: (+506) 8783-5458 | @haciendablu_beach
Hacienda Blu Beach Lounge & Grill is a new favorite hangout, known for great music, great food, and a great ambiance! They offer a complete breakfast & brunch menu, lunch options, and a dinner menu.
Becky: “Hacienda Blu is from the same owner as Peninsula Steakhouse, although this one is less formal and located right on the beach.”
Ian: “Hacienda Blu is super convenient for anyone living in Playa Panama and/or Playa Hermosa. I love that they’re open from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm and have such an ample menu, because that means you can enjoy almost anything there; they even have sushi after 3:00 pm, and it’s some of the best in the area!”
Peninsula Steakhouse
Phone: (+506) 8360-0123 | @peninsula.cr
Peninsula Steakhouse invites you to enjoy stunning sunset views from the best spot in town and indulge in unforgettable evenings with delicious cuisine, featuring exquisite and unexpected flavors. This is a true culinary adventure, where each dish delights the palate and captivates the eye.
Becky: “Peninsula Steakhouse is so good; it’s probably the most upscale restaurant in the area with more formal indoor dining with A/C. This is my top recommendation for a special meal or celebration, as the menu is amazing and it has absolutely killer ocean views. This is the place to have a memorable meal overlooking the ocean.”
Ian: “I’m a sunset guy and I assure you, in addition to great food, this is also one of the best spots in the area for a sunset!”
Playa Hermosa Restaurants, Cafés & Bars
Here are a few of our Playa Hermosa favorites. In alphabetical order:
Ginger
Phone: (+506) 2672-0041 | @gingercostarica
Anne Hegney, trained at Le Cordon Bleu de Paris, is the chef and owner of Ginger, one of Playa Hermosa’s most successful restaurants since 2003. Known for its inventive tapas and unique flavors, Ginger consistently ranks as the top restaurant and cocktail bar in Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. The menu features a variety of cocktails, tapas, and small plates, all crafted with fresh, local tropical ingredients and inspired by the spices and flavors of Southeast Asia and India.
Becky: “Ginger is great because they serve tapas, so you can sample a lot of different dishes, textures, and flavors, platter-style. As an FYI, it’s entirely outdoor, covered seating, which I love but it’s an important consideration for some.”
Roberto’s Restaurant
Phone: 2672-0011 | @restaurante_robertos
Roberto’s is situated beachside on the first floor of La Gaviota Tropical Boutique Hotel. Their menu features a variety of dishes including fish, pork, seafood, and chicken, offering traditional Costa Rican cuisine alongside international favorites. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available.
Ian: “There aren’t many options in the morning in Hermosa, but Roberto’s is great. It offers typical breakfast dishes and it’s so nice, because you can walk by the beach and then enjoy the restaurant, which generally has good meals, good drinks, and good coffee.”
Verde Smart Eating
Phone: (+506) 7242-6196
Experience a unique culinary journey with dishes crafted on the spot, blending fresh ingredients into a symphony of flavors. The restaurant offers a range of options including vegetarian, gluten-free, and keto choices, celebrating well-being with every selection.
Becky: “I love that Verde has indoor and outdoor dining – perfect for any mood I’m in!”
Considering Relocating to Playas del Coco, Playa Panama, or Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica?
You have questions; we have answers! Whether you’re already well on your way to living in Costa Rica or just dipping your toes into research, we’d love to help you explore the possibilities of life (and longevity) in Costa Rica.
At Blue Water Properties of Costa Rica, we’re committed to you. Not to sell you a property or spam you with all the options, but to help—genuinely and with good intent—match you to the perfect property for your needs and wants. We thrive on relationships and promise the fastest communication and the best services in the industry.
We’re also proud to offer some of the best Costa Rica real estate. We have both condos and homes, land, and businesses for sale. Go ahead, try us. Give us a chance to show off our expertise—and wow you with the possibilities!
Get in touch with our Playas del Coco office:
☎️ Office: (+506) 4080-2095
📱 Mobile: (+506) 6444-9300
📬 Email: info@bwpcr.com
