When travelers think of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast, the first
names that come to mind are usually Jaco and Manuel Antonio. But
tucked quietly between these two famous spots lies a stretch of
coastline that feels like a secret — Esterillos. Whether you’re
staying in Jaco, heading toward Manuel Antonio, or looking for a base
that offers a little bit of everything, Esterillos is the kind of
place that surprises you.
While the tide pools themselves are in Esterillos Oeste, the wide-openbeach of Esterillos Este offers something equally unforgettable —horseback riding along the sand. Just five minutes away, our ranchlets you experience the coastline from a whole new perspective. There’s no better way to balance adventure and relaxation: spend theafternoon with your family exploring the tide pools, then end the daywith a sunset horseback ride. Reserve your horseback ride here and complete your perfectEsterillos beach day. Click here
About 10–15 kilometers inland from Esterillos lies one of the area’sbest kept secrets: the Guamalotillo Waterfall. Reaching it is straightforward — you don’t necessarily need a 4×4vehicle, although a higher-clearance car makes the trip morecomfortable. Once there, you’ll discover a refreshing natural poolperfect for a mid-day swim, surrounded by lush greenery and the soundof rushing water. Unlike many of the crowded waterfalls closer to Manuel Antonio,Guamalotillo remains peaceful. It’s a favorite among locals and thosetravelers who don’t mind a short detour off the main road.
Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast is famous for its dramatic waves and surfculture. While that makes it a paradise for surfers, it can leavefamilies wondering where it’s actually safe to get into the water. Theanswer lies in Esterillos Oeste, just five minutes from EsterillosEste — home to natural tide pools that form during low tide. If you’re traveling with kids or simply looking for a calmer beachexperience, the tide pools of Esterillos are a must-visit.
