Over the last decade, Guanacaste has become the epicenter of Costa Rica’s short-term rental boom—and for good reason. With year-round sunshine, international airport access, world-class surf, and some of the most desirable coastal towns in Central America, the region consistently delivers some of the highest occupancy rates and rental returns in the country.
For investors looking for a combination of lifestyle, appreciation, and strong cash flow, Guanacaste stands out as Costa Rica’s most reliable market.
Why Guanacaste Is the Best Market for Short-Term Rentals
1. Year-Round Demand
Unlike other regions with defined high and low seasons, Guanacaste benefits from:
- consistent sunshine
- surf tourism
- digital nomads
- wellness travelers
- families and luxury tourists
This creates stable occupancy throughout the year.
2. Easy Access via Liberia International Airport (LIR)
Direct flights from the U.S., Canada, and Europe make it easier for travelers—and investors—to reach their properties quickly.
3. Established Tourism Infrastructure
High-quality restaurants, boutique hotels, yoga centers, surf schools, and beach clubs support a thriving hospitality ecosystem.
4. High Appreciation & Strong Airbnb/VRBO Performance
Coastal towns in Guanacaste record some of the highest ADRs (average daily rates) and ROI percentages in Costa Rica.
Top Investment Hotspots in Guanacaste
Below are the premier locations for short-term rentals and appreciation potential—both the famous ones and the rising stars.
1. Santa Teresa
One of Costa Rica’s most in-demand luxury and surf destinations.
Why invest:
- High nightly rates
- International celebrity appeal
- Consistent occupancy
- Limited inventory = high appreciation
Ideal for villas, boutique projects, and high-end short-term rentals.
2. Nosara
A globally recognized wellness and surf hub, especially Playa Guiones.
Why invest:
- Strong safety, zoning, and community planning
- Yoga and wellness tourism
- ADR among the highest in Costa Rica
Excellent for eco-luxury homes, bungalows, and wellness-focused rentals.
3. Tamarindo
The most developed beach town in the region with strong tourism flow.
Why invest:
- High walkability
- Restaurants, nightlife, shops, surf
- Perfect for condos, villas, and multifamily investment
Consistently high occupancy and easier property management options.
Emerging High-ROI Markets (The “Next Tamarindos”)
These areas are less saturated but rapidly growing—ideal for investors seeking appreciation, affordability, and first-mover advantage.
4. Sámara
A family-friendly beach town with a calm bay and growing wellness scene.
Why invest: accessible pricing, increasing tourism demand, strong long-term growth.
5. Playa Azul
A peaceful, low-density coastal community ideal for boutique villas and off-the-beaten-path travelers.
Why invest: privacy, nature appeal, and rising land values.
6. Punta Islita
Home to luxury hotels and breathtaking landscapes.
Why invest: strong appeal for high-end travelers looking for exclusivity and nature.
7. Playa Lagarto
An emerging community with new developments and highly affordable land.
Why invest: early-stage growth = excellent entry prices and long-term appreciation.
8. Ostional
World-famous for sea turtle nesting and near Nosara.
Why invest: eco-tourism draw and proximity to a booming market while still offering lower entry points.
Final Thoughts: Guanacaste Continues to Lead Costa Rica’s Investment Landscape
From luxury hotspots like Santa Teresa and Nosara, to value-growth markets like Sámara and Ostional, Guanacaste offers one of the strongest combinations of:
- high rental income
- rapid property appreciation
- stable year-round tourism
Whether you’re looking for a vacation home that pays for itself or a serious investment property, Guanacaste remains Costa Rica’s most strategic region for short-term rentals and long-term real estate growth.
