When you book your stay with Las Catalinas Doorway, you’re perfectly positioned for adventure. Town itself is a paradise of beaches, trails, and community spirit, but the beauty of this corner of Costa Rica is how much there is for families to explore just beyond its cobblestone streets. You’ll find ocean excursions, wildlife encounters, and nearby beach towns full of local flavor. Every day can bring a new shared experience for the whole family. With the help of the Las Catalinas Doorway’s concierge team, planning your outings is simple, all you need to do is choose the kind of activities that excite your group the most.
Nothing brings families together quite like a day on the water, and the Pacific coast of Guanacaste offers endless ways to enjoy it. Start close to home with Las Catalinas’ two onsite beaches, Playa Danta and Playa Dantita. No matter where you stay in Las Catalinas, you are just steps away from the ocean. Here, kids can swim safely in calm waters, or even join parents for a paddleboard or kayak trip along the shoreline. The gentle waves make these beaches ideal for beginners, and Pura Vida Ride, our rental and gear shop located right in town, can set you up with everything your family needs for activities.
If your crew is craving something a bit more thrilling, head 30 minutes south to Playa Grande or Tamarindo for family surf lessons. Both beaches are known for their long, rolling waves and friendly surf schools that specialize in teaching children and beginners. Watching your kids catch their first wave is one of those vacation moments you’ll never forget.
For something truly special, visit Flamingo Marina, just 25 minutes away. Families love the Sunset Sailing Trip and snorkeling excursions that depart from here. Glide along the turquoise coastline, and dive into the water to see colorful tropical fish.With a little luck, you’ll spot marine wildlife like whales. The sailing tours include fresh fruit, snacks, an open bar, and the chance to watch the sunset from the deck of a catamaran, an unforgettable finale to the day.
Las Catalinas feels wonderfully self-contained, but it’s also part of a vibrant coastline dotted with beach towns that each have their own personality. Exploring them gives families a glimpse of authentic Guanacaste life, and there are several road trips that we love to recommend to families.
Just five minutes from Flamingo lies Potrero, a laid-back beach town where you can enjoy local restaurants with traditional fare called “sodas” smoothie stands, and sunset picnics on the sand. Families often visit here for its easygoing charm and local vibe.
Further south, Playa Grande offers adventure and education in one stop, just under an hour’s drive from Las Catalinas. It’s part of Las Baulas National Marine Park, one of Costa Rica’s most important nesting sites for leatherback sea turtles. Families visiting from November through February may even have the chance to see
these gentle giants at night, guided by licensed park rangers.
A little beyond, Tamarindo buzzes with life, surf schools, boutique shops, beachfront restaurants, and markets make it a favorite for teens and parents alike. It’s a fun spot for a day trip when you’re in the mood for people-watching and beachside energy.
Choose a beach to camp out at for the day, visit a couple destinations, or stop in to all to see which one appeals to your group the most.
Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, and from Las Catalinas, you can access some of its most family-friendly nature spots without long travel days.
The tropical dry forest that surrounds Las Catalinas is home to monkeys, iguanas, and colorful birds. Families can hike or bike together on town’s scenic trail network, which winds through the hills and offers views of the Pacific below.
For a full-day outing, visit Rincón de la Vieja National Park, about two hours northeast. Kids love the bubbling volcanic mud pots and the chance to spot toucans, sloths, and coatis. The park’s gentle trails and waterfalls make it a favorite among families who want a safe but adventurous taste of Costa Rica’s wild landscapes.
Those looking for a more relaxed nature experience can explore Palo Verde National Park, about an hour and 20 minutes’ drive from Las Catalinas, which is known for its wetlands and birdlife. Boat tours glide through rivers lined with mangroves and water lilies, where crocodiles, herons, and monkeys often appear. Enjoy a home-cooked Costa Rican lunch after your adventure. It’s an incredible opportunity for children to see how this ecosystem connects land and sea, and how it helps protect coastal communities. Local guides point out birds, crabs, and monkeys along the way, sharing stories about Costa Rica’s conservation efforts. Parents love it for its peaceful pace and educational value, while kids are captivated by the sense of discovery.
Back in Las Catalinas, adventure can be as simple as connecting with nature in town’s on-site farm, Finca La Estancia. This small but special place offers horseback riding, chances to meet baby animals, and hands-on lessons in composting and regenerative farming.
Families are often surprised by how much their children love learning where their food comes from and how sustainability is part of daily life here. The experience is equal parts fun and meaningful, creating memories that last long after the trip ends.
Many guests pair their farm visit with a relaxed afternoon in town, perhaps enjoying a smoothie or fresh lunch at one of the local cafés before heading to the beach. Others may bring farm fresh ingredients home, like produce, honey, and eggs, to cook a locally sourced meal with them.
For families who love authentic experiences, Las Catalinas Doorway can arrange cultural outings that go beyond sightseeing. Join a Guanacaste Essence Experience, split between two nearby towns. These experiences offer a glimpse into the warmth and creativity of Guanacaste’s people. Kids can try fresh handmade tortillas or sample tropical fruits they’ve never seen before, while parents enjoy connecting with the local community in a meaningful way, exploring how local pottery is made.
From gentle hikes to adrenaline-filled zipline rides, there’s something for every age and comfort level in or near Las Catalinas. Teens might love tackling a canopy tour through the forest canopy near Rincón de la Vieja, while younger kids can enjoy easy horseback rides or beach playtime.
Every experience is guided by trusted local partners who prioritize safety and fun, and Las Catalinas Doorway can help families choose options that suit everyone’s energy level and interests.
Let Las Catalinas Doorway help take care of logistics, like booking transfers, or helping you rent a car for your activities. We can also assist with onward travel should you choose to extend your stay and visit another area of the country.
When you stay with Las Catalinas Doorway, you’re not just booking a place to stay. Our expert local team will help you open the door to a world of adventure, learning, and connection. Each day offers something new, so you and your family can discover wildlife in the mangroves, share a laugh on a surfboard or a trail, or just enjoy free time surrounded by nature.
And the best part? Every experience is close enough to make your family vacation feel spontaneous, without long car rides or complicated planning.
Let Las Catalinas Doorway help you plan your next family adventure in Guanacaste. Reach out to start crafting days full of exploration, laughter, and memories you’ll treasure for years to come.
Get in touch to plan your family adventure