Santa Rosa: You’ll find some unbelievable biodiversity here. Located 35km north of Liberia, wildlife is abundant and there are plenty of trails to explore. Some of Costa Rica’s best camping facilities are here – although still rustic. Entrance fee is $7, and camping is $2 per night.
Palo Verde: A major sanctuary for resident and migrating waterfowl, trained eyes will find over 300 species of birds in the park’s varied habitats, which include swamps, mangroves, marshes and lagoons. Entrance fee is $7. Call the Organization for Tropical Studies for more information on lodging within the park and available tours and guides at 240-6696 or 240-6783.
Barra Honda: Break out your headlamp. Barra Honda sports over 40 caves, of which only 19 have been explored. Some reach depths of up to 200 meters (650 feet) and feature many striking formations, including stalagmites, stalactites, soda straws, among many others. Once inside, check out bats, blind salamanders, and underground streams. Pre-Columbian skeletons have been discovered in the caves.

The vibe: A hip throwback to a 1950s SoCal surfing town.
The choices: Plenty of lodgings, restaurants, cafes and nightlife to please any taste and budget.
The skinny: The water’s the thing here, and surfing is great. There is easy access to several memorable, close-by beaches. Several tours leave from this area, and equipment rentals are plentiful. Services include banks and a clinic.

The vibe: Growing provincial capital and springboard to Guanacaste, Santa Rosa, Rincón de la Vieja, and Palo Verde national parks, as well as Guanacaste’s northern beaches.
The choices: A modest supply of lodgings compliments excellent restaurants and bars.
The skinny: The new international airport has brought hundreds of thousands through the city, and Liberia has responded with aplomb. The city of 50,000 has a nice balance of new growth, while still retaining its colonial character.

The vibe: The epicenter of Chorotega indigenous art.
The choices: Most Travelers take day trips to Guaitil, staying in Liberia or one of the beaches.
The skinny: Check out the high-quality pottery produced by the local indigenous group. Production techniques have remained unchanged for nearly a thousand years. See artists hand paint their wares, and pick up some inexpensive, unique souvenirs.

The vibe: Laid-back international community with lively nightlife.
The choices: Some nice mid-ranges selections balance out budget cabinas. Interesting eateries abound.
The skinny: Famous for its interesting inhabitants, Montezuma is also a favorite beach destination. Although the beach is a bit rocky, the nearby waterfalls are dramatic – including some that tumble right into the ocean.

Air: Nature Air has daily flights to Islita, Carrillo, Nosara, Tamarindo, Liberia and Tambor (www.natureair.com).
Buses: There is good service between San Jose and the major beaches; however, allow for plenty of travel time when using buses within the region.
Car: Rent a 4x4 and you’ll have no problems. Many of the region’s roads are unpaved, making passing difficult after heavy rains. Be prepared for poor or nonexistent road signs and few gas stations – fill up whenever you can.