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| Base | Best for | Approx. drive from LIR |
|---|---|---|
| Liberia | Early flights, volcano day trips | 10–15 min |
| Playas del Coco / Hermosa | Boat trips, short airport transfer | 35–45 min |
| Tamarindo | Surf, restaurants, sunset sails | About 1 h 15 min |
| Sámara / Nosara | Quieter beaches, longer stays | 2–2.5 h |
| Rincón de la Vieja | Volcano hiking, hot springs | 45 min–1 h |
| Bijagua (Río Celeste) | Tenorio Volcano park | About 1.5–2 h |
| La Fortuna (Arenal) | Volcano, hanging bridges | About 3 h |
Gulf of Papagayo
Playas del Coco, Playa Hermosa, Playa Panamá and the Papagayo Peninsula form the closest coast to Liberia. Calmer bays make this area good for boat trips and snorkeling.
Nicoya Peninsula beaches
Flamingo, Conchal, Tamarindo and further south Nosara and Sámara. Tamarindo is the busiest; Sámara and Nosara feel quieter and suit longer stays.
The volcanic interior
Rincón de la Vieja (fumaroles, mud pots, waterfalls), Tenorio Volcano National Park with Río Celeste, and further east the Arenal area around La Fortuna.