While Costa Rica isn’t exactly Miami or Cancun when it comes to nightlife, Guanacaste definitely knows how to have fun after dark!
Here’s your guide to evening entertainment:
Resort Nightlife:
Let’s start with what’s included at your all-inclusive:
- RIU properties have nightly shows (dance performances, live music) until about 10pm, then the disco/club opens until 2am
- Planet Hollywood has more themed parties and surprisingly good entertainment
- Most resorts have casino areas that stay open late
- All have lobby bars with occasional live music
But the REAL fun happens when you venture out…
Playas del Coco Nightlife: The main party hub in Guanacaste!
- Coconutz – Sports bar that transforms into a dance club, live music several nights a week
- Lizard Lounge – Rooftop bar with amazing cocktails and chilled vibes
- Hard Rock Cafe – Yes, they have one here! Reliable fun and occasional live bands
- Tiki Bar – Open-air beachfront spot with great rum drinks
Coco bar crawls run Thursday-Saturday nights with transportation from major resorts
Tamarindo After Dark: More sophisticated but still fun:
- Sharky’s – Iconic surf bar with live music and dancing
- Monkey Bar – Late-night spot where everyone ends up dancing
- Crazy Monkey Bar – Younger crowd, DJ music, gets going after 11pm
- El Be! – Beach club with bonfires and cocktails under the stars
Special Nightlife Experiences:
- Sunset Catamaran Party Cruises – The booze cruise experience with amazing views
- Full Moon Beach Parties – Monthly events at Tamarindo Beach (check calendar)
- Casino Nights – Several larger casino options with table games and slots
- Dinner Shows – Cultural performances with traditional dancing at places like Diamante Eco Park
Nightlife Tips:
- Taxis are ESSENTIAL for nightlife – don’t drive after drinking
- Arrange return transportation BEFORE you start enjoying the evening
- Most places accept credit cards, but cash is king for small bars
- Drink prices are similar to US prices ($5-8 beers, $8-12 cocktails)
- Ladies’ nights (usually Wednesday/Thursday) often mean free drinks until midnight
- The party starts LATE – places don’t really get going until 10-11pm
- Casual dress is fine everywhere (nice sandals, shorts/sundresses)
Safety Notes:
- Stick to well-known areas
- Consider going as a group, especially for first-time visits
- Most bartenders watch out for tourists and are helpful if you need assistance
- Uber works in some areas but is not as reliable as in the US
Pura Vida, JaQuay
P.S. Don’t miss trying a “Chiliguaro” shot – it’s a local specialty with guaro (sugar cane liquor), lime, hot sauce and tomato juice. Sounds weird, tastes AMAZING!