American Express recently released its list of top trending destinations for 2026, providing some great inspiration for planning your next trip. Among the few coastal spots that managed to make the cut was Costa Rica‘s Papagayo Peninsula, located on the north coast of the country in the northwest of the Guanacaste province.
If you’ve already visited, you understand why. As Amex notes, it not only offers luxury resorts but the potential for close encounters with diverse wildlife. The peninsula preserves the purity of its remarkable diversity by maintaining 70% of its natural state with lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear blue waters. On land, watch for everything from sloths and monkeys to iguanas and exotic birds like toucans. Out on the water, sea turtles, dolphins, and whales can be spotted.
Extraordinary Adventures
In this nature lover’s playground, you might snorkel off an uncrowded beach to observe reef fish like parrotfish and angelfish. You might also see rays, eels, hawksbill sea turtles, or even dolphins. Humpback whales are often spotted from July to October and December to March, with the peak time generally considered to be December through February. These months are when both northern and southern humpbacks are in the area.
Scenic hiking trails meander along coastal bluffs and through dense forests, while unspoiled national parks like Guanacaste and Santa Rosa are just an easy day trip away. A tour with an expert guide can take you deep into the jungle to spot animals that are hard to see, like the more elusive sloths. Deep within the 250-acre Palmares Preserve, thrill-seekers can mountain bike, whiz across a zipline, go off-roading, and more, all while searching for unique wildlife.
Relaxation
Squeezing in time for relaxation is important too. The crescent-shaped beaches lapped by turquoise waters are especially inviting for soaking up the sun in between refreshing dips. Sunset catamaran cruises are possible too where you can watch the sun melt into the cobalt sea while dolphins play in the surf.
Several world-class spas offer unique and rejuvenating treatments with views of the tropical landscape, including the tranquil ONDA Spa at Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort and the Four Seasons Spa.
How to Get There
Getting to the Papagayo Peninsula is easy. Most visitors fly into Liberia International Airport, just a short drive away. Many resorts will arrange pickups from the airport, but you can book a private transfer or rent a car.
When to Go
The high season is the dry season, running from December to April. There’s little rain and plentiful sunshine, ideal for all your outdoor activities. Of course, that also means this is the busiest time of year, so expect to pay more for airfare and accommodation. May to October is the low season, which is also the wet season, although rainfall typically occurs for only a few hours in the afternoon or evening. For good weather while avoiding the crowds and potentially saving money, November can be ideal.
