Everything You Need to Know About Playa Coyote, Costa Rica

Playa Coyote is a secluded gem along Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula in the Guanacaste Province. The name "Playa Coyote" describes the entire area around the 9 km long beach and the village of "San Francisco de Coyote". The beach is divided into three sections: "Playa San Miguel", "Playa Costa de Oro" and "Punta Coyote" and is interrupted by two rivers. Known for its serene atmosphere, stunning sunsets, and untouched natural beauty, Playa Coyote is perfect for travelers seeking a tranquil beach experience. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting this peaceful paradise—from how to get there to what to expect and where to stay.

Getting to Playa Coyote

Reaching Playa Coyote might take some planning, but it’s well worth the journey. Located between the towns of Sámara and Santa Teresa, Playa Coyote offers an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Driving

• From San José: Driving to Playa Coyote is always an option - it will take between five and six hours. There are multiple ways to get to Playa Coyote. Plug it into your GPS and go! We prefer this route. Or take the ferry to shorten the trip and give you a break from driving! Take Route 27 to Puntarenas. Use the ferry to Playa Naranjo, and then drive through Jicaral and down towards San Francisco to Coyote. Make a left at “Cruze de Leon” and follow it all the way to San Francisco de Coyote. 

• From Liberia: This is the closest major city with an international airport, and it’s about 3.5 hours away by car. From the Guanacaste Airport, head south on Route 21 towards Nicoya. Turn right onto Route 160 to Samara. When you get into Samara, turn left at the start of town to stay on Route 160. Playa Coyote is about 1.5 hours south along Route 160. The road is a mix of paved and unpaved sections, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.

By Bus

Buses are a common form of travel within Costa Rica. From Nicoya, Liberia, or San José connect to nearby towns like Jicaral or Carmona, where you can catch a local bus to San Francisco de Coyote, the small town closest to Playa Coyote.

By Plane

Sansa offers several flights within Costa Rica. During the high season, the closest airport is Cobano - and you’re still two hours from Playa Coyote, if the rivers are passable. Flying into Nosara is another option, and you’re an easy 2.5 hours drive still. Private flights into Punta Islita or Corozalito will get you a bit closer. 

Travel Tips

• Use GPS: Both Waze and Google Maps can help navigate the twists and turns of the drive to Playa Coyote. Be sure to download the maps so you can use them without cell service. 
• 4x4 Vehicle: The unpaved roads around Playa Coyote can be bumpy, especially during the rainy season (May-November), so a 4x4 vehicle is a safer option.
• Travel during the day: The unpaved roads and one-lane bridges can be a challenge to navigate. It’s much easier if attempted during the daylight. 
• Travel Prepared & Patiently: If visiting during the rainy season, be prepared for mud and potential delays, as roads can become challenging. Even in dry season you may encounter slow downs for road repair or a herd of cattle. 

What to Expect at Playa Coyote

Playa Coyote is a long, wide stretch of sand with a natural, rugged charm. Here’s what you’ll find at this beautiful beach:

• Uncrowded Beaches: Playa Coyote is relatively remote, so you’ll often have the beach to yourself or share it with a few locals.
• Relaxed Vibes: Unlike the busier beaches of Tamarindo or Manuel Antonio, Playa Coyote and the surrounding area has an unhurried, laid-back atmosphere that’s ideal for relaxation.
• Pristine Nature: The area surrounding Playa Coyote is abundant in wildlife, including howler monkeys, iguanas, and a variety of tropical birds. The beach itself is framed by mangroves and lush vegetation.
• Rustic Beauty: Playa Coyote has a rustic vibe, with only a few structures and local businesses nearby. This is a perfect destination for those looking to disconnect and enjoy Costa Rica’s untouched landscapes.

Things to Do at Playa Coyote

Although Playa Coyote is a quiet destination, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy its natural beauty and local culture.

• Surfing: Playa Coyote’s strong waves make it a great surfing spot, the locals' favorite is a challenging rivermouth at Punta Coyote. On quiet days, the beach is suitable for beginners with some fun waves. Surfboards are available for rent and lessons can be arranged.
• Fishing and Boat Tours:  The local waters are teeming with fish, making it a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts. You can book a fishing tour with local guides or charter a small boat to explore the surrounding coastline. Fishing tours typically include catching red snapper, dorado, and roosterfish. 
• Mangrove and Wildlife Exploration: The Coyote River’s estuary feeds into Playa Coyote, creating lush mangroves that are home to various bird species and wildlife. You can arrange a guided tour by kayak or boat, where you’ll have a chance to spot kingfishers, herons, macaws, moneys and even crocodiles in their natural habitat.
• Sunset Views: One of Playa Coyote’s most breathtaking features is its westward-facing coastline, perfect for stunning sunset views. Settle in on the sand with a picnic, or bring a beach chair and watch the sky transform with a blend of pink, orange, and purple hues.

Where to Stay Near Playa Coyote

Playa Coyote offers a variety of accommodations that match its serene, natural atmosphere. You won’t find large hotels or resorts here, but rather eco-lodges, small hotels nestling in the mountains with stunning ocean views and vacation rentals that blend with the landscape. 

Amongst the most beautiful places to spend your nights is the hotel “La Colina Pura Vista”; its breathtaking ocean view is priceless. The cabins are all different with lovely details. 

• Beachfront Rentals and Airbnbs: There are several private beachfront rentals available in the Playa Coyote area, offering a cozy and private experience for families or groups. Many options include kitchens and outdoor areas with ocean views, allowing you to enjoy a slice of paradise right on the shore. One of our favorites is Salvatierra.  

• Eco-Lodges and Cabins: The eco-lodges around Playa Coyote focus on sustainability and creating a comfortable, rustic experience. These lodges are often family-run and provide a more authentic local feel. Amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning can vary, so check beforehand to make sure it meets your needs. A treasure, nestling in the hills, is the ecolodge “Canta La Rana”. 

• Camping: Camping on Playa Coyote is an option for the adventurous traveler. Just ensure you get permission from local landowners or confirm with your host, as there may be restrictions in some areas. You can set up camp near the beach and enjoy an incredible night under the stars.

Restaurants and Food

Since Playa Coyote is a small and remote area, dining options are limited but delightful. Here are a few recommendations:

• Soda-Style Eateries: Small, locally run sodas (traditional Costa Rican diners) serve simple yet delicious Costa Rican dishes like *casado*, a meal with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and your choice of protein. Your best options are in town, there you will find Restaurante Rio’s, Soda Marlene, Soda Familiar, or Rancho Loma Clara.
• Cafés: There is a small café in town called Café Santé which opens during high season. Enjoy your milkshakes, pancakes and brownies there.
• Beachfront restaurant: El Barco Restaurante y Bar is a beachfront restaurant with good, local food as well as hamburgers, tacos and seafood. It offers casual beachside seating where you can also enjoy your cocktails, smoothies and a variety of beers.
• Treetop Restaurant: The “Pizza Tree” serves pizza and local dishes in a tree! It has an actual wooden structure in the top of a beautiful, large tree.
• European cuisine: A choice of excellent meat and seafood dishes along with home-made pastas and exquisite taste is available at “Restaurante San Miguel” which lays on the main coastal road. 
• Catering: There are a number of people in town who will cook for you!
• Dining at home: If you’re staying at a rental or eco-lodge with a kitchen, consider bringing groceries or stopping in nearby towns like Jicaral or Nicoya or shop in three different supermarkets in San Francisco de Coyote for supplies. Many lodges offer locally sourced produce, so you can cook your meals with fresh ingredients.

When to Visit Playa Coyote

Costa Rica’s dry season (December to April) is the best time to visit Playa Coyote, with sunny days, little rain, and easier road access. During the rainy season (May to November), the landscape becomes lush and vibrant, but you may experience muddy roads and less predictable travel conditions. 

Despite the rains, the rainy season has its own charm; the beach becomes even quieter, and accommodation rates are often more affordable.

Essential Tips for Your Trip to Playa Coyote, Costa Rica

• Bring Cash: There isn't a bank in San Francisco de Coyote and ATMs are rare, so bring enough cash for small purchases, tips, and any unforeseen expenses.
• Fill up: There isn't a gas station in the surrounding areas, be sure to fill up in Samara, Nicoya, or Santa Teresa. 
• Pack Essentials: Since Playa Coyote is remote, pack items like sunscreen, insect repellent, and any medications you may need, as supplies can be limited.
• Stay Hydrated: Temperatures can get quite warm, especially during the dry season, so bring plenty of water and stay hydrated.
• Respect the Wildlife: Playa Coyote is home to a wide range of wildlife, so maintain a respectful distance from any animals you encounter, and avoid littering to help protect the environment.

Final Thoughts 

Playa Coyote offers a rare opportunity to unwind and experience Costa Rica’s natural beauty in a peaceful, unspoiled environment. From surfing and fishing to simply enjoying the sunset, Playa Coyote has a unique charm that’s perfect for anyone looking to step off the tourist trail. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, Playa Coyote is sure to leave you feeling recharged and inspired by Costa Rica’s incredible landscapes.