Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula Restaurants

Seafood and fresh fish are tops here, followed by fast food—pizza, tacos, barbecue—to satisfy the hordes of hungry surfers and beachgoers. But there are many sophisticated restaurants, too, offering Asian-fusion, Italian, French, and international cuisine, especially in the tourist-heavy beach towns of Hermosa, Flamingo, Tamarindo, Nosara, and Sámara. Many restaurants, especially tourist-oriented ones with dollar-denominated menus, do not include the 13% tax plus mandatory 12% service. By law, menus are required to show the total price including tax, but many owners flout this law. Be sure to ask if taxes are included; otherwise you may be surprised by a bill that’s 25% higher than you expected.

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  • 1. Cactus

    $

    It's easy to miss this unassuming eatery surrounded by cactus on the road to the beach, but you would be missing out on some of the area's best Costa Rican food. Starting with the humble dishes of his childhood, the chef elevates the menu with made-from-scratch corn tortillas made into tayuyás: sandwiches brimming with sweet and savory fillings like an omelet with cheese curd, ripe banana, honey, and custard, or shredded chicken spiced to perfection with avocado, tomato, and lettuce. There is also standard American fare on the extensive menu like burgers and pizza, and plenty for vegetarians. 

    Carretera Playa Avellanas, Playa Avellanas, Guanacaste, 50309, Costa Rica
    2215--3899

    Known For

    • Breakfast with ice cream
    • Mouthwatering casado
    • Great value

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed daily 3--6
  • 2. Lola's

    $$

    This hip beach café has exactly the kind of ambience one comes to Costa Rica for, with tables scattered along the beach amid palm and almond trees, hammocks swinging in the wind, palm fronds rustling, and surfers riding the glistening waves in front. Seating, or more precisely, lolling, is on reclining, African-style hardwood chairs, or at shaded tables. Along with fresh fruit smoothies, ultrathin vegetarian pizzas, and veggie soy burgers, the menu includes organic chicken and "responsible fish" (caught in nets that don't also trap turtles). Seared ahi tuna with sun-dried tomatoes and olive tapenade served on ciabatta bread is a winner, as are the ceviche, fish-and-chips, pesto pasta, and assorted salads. Mahi tacos are the latest addition to the menu, served with rice and beans. 

    At main entrance to Playa Avellanas, Playa Avellanas, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
    2652–9097

    Known For

    • Ave and Ana the pigs, their mascots
    • Great spot to camp out for the day
    • Flatbread pizza, fresh-fruit smoothies, and organic meats
  • 3. La Purruja

    $$

    While the day away listening to reggae, sipping on cold drinks, watching the surfers, and snacking on beach food. You can't beat the views or the service, and it's a great family spot owing to the large portions, good prices, and on-site ice cream parlor. American fare includes hamburgers and pizza and the casados (a plate filled with white rice, black beans, and salad) are fresh and delicious. Don't miss the breathtaking sunsets.

    Main entrance to Playa Avellanas, Playa Avellanas, Guanacaste, 50303, Costa Rica
    8703--7231

    Known For

    • Fish tacos
    • Beautiful vistas
    • Wonderful hospitaity
  • Recommended Fodor’s Video

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Recommended Fodor’s Video