Discover La Cruz, Costa Rica: A Serene Escape in Guanacaste’s Untouched Nature and Secluded Beaches

Published on December 28, 2025

As millions visit Guanacaste’s popular beaches and resorts during peak season, an often-overlooked gem awaits just across the Nicaraguan border. La Cruz, a canton in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste province, provides a refreshing escape with its quiet beaches, abundant wildlife, and serene natural surroundings. Visitors are drawn to La Cruz because of its slower pace, which invites those looking for authentic experiences with nature away from the crowds.

La Cruz’s quiet charm is attracting an increasing number of tourists looking for balance in their travels. Local tourism organisations have reported an increase in interest in the region’s beaches, marine activities, and parks. Its unique location within the UNESCO-listed Guanacaste Conservation Area adds to its appeal, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore a region known for both its natural beauty and historical significance.

Natural Wonders and Wildlife Await in Santa Rosa National Park

Santa Rosa National Park is at the heart of La Cruz’s attraction, forming a vital part of the Guanacaste Conservation Area. The park is celebrated not only for its rich biodiversity but also for its historical importance. It holds the site where Costa Rican forces, in 1856, valiantly defended their land from filibusters during the National Campaign. The dry forests of the park are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including monkeys, deer, and numerous bird species, making it a hiker’s paradise.

Trails throughout the park offer visitors the chance to walk in solitude, while panoramic views from scenic overlooks allow for moments of quiet reflection. Families often spend hours exploring the park, soaking in the views and spotting wildlife along the way. The park’s historical sites, like the old stone walls from the 1856 battle, further enrich the experience, offering educational stops for history buffs and curious travellers alike.

Cuajiniquil: A Gateway to Unexplored Bays and Marine Adventures

Just a short distance from La Cruz, the charming village of Cuajiniquil serves as a gateway to some of the most pristine and less-travelled waters in Costa Rica. This quiet coastal community provides a jumping-off point for boat trips into nearby bays, such as Cuajiniquil Bay and Junquillal Bay. Experienced fishermen often guide small groups through these waters, where snorkellers can witness a kaleidoscope of marine life. Turtles, schools of fish, and graceful rays are common sights, especially in the crystal-clear waters.

For those seeking more seclusion, boat tours can venture to Santa Elena, a secluded stretch of coastline that boasts turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations. This remote part of the region remains largely unexplored, making it a true hidden gem. Seasonal whale sightings add to the magic of these tours, offering visitors the rare opportunity to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Many boat tours also make stops at isolated beaches or caves, where guests can fish, explore, or simply relax on sands only accessible by boat.

Bahia Junquillal: A Sanctuary for Nature and Adventure Enthusiasts

Bahía Junquillal Wildlife Refuge, another popular attraction in La Cruz, showcases Costa Rica’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. The refuge is an ideal destination for kayaking and paddleboarding, thanks to its tranquil waters and scenic views. The area’s biodiversity is remarkable, with armadillos, coatis, and tapirs frequently spotted in the wild. For families, the refuge offers short hikes that end at beaches with gentle waves, perfect for a peaceful picnic or a refreshing swim.

The beaches here are among La Cruz’s most alluring features. Playa Rajada, with its soft white sands and dramatic cliffs, is perfect for both swimming and leisurely walks. It’s a great place to disconnect from the outside world, with little to disturb the serene atmosphere. Playa Rajadita, nearby, is even more secluded, offering solitude amid similar stunning scenery. Bahia Salinas, with its strong winds, is a prime spot for kitesurfing, while Playa El Jobo provides a tranquil setting for those looking to sunbathe or fish. These beaches are supported by local eateries that serve fresh seafood, such as ceviche and grilled fish, allowing visitors to savour Costa Rican flavors in a relaxed atmosphere.

Scenic Drives and Sustainable Tourism in La Cruz

One of La Cruz’s hidden pleasures is the picturesque drives that take visitors through open landscapes, past volcanoes, and along the shores of the region’s bays. These scenic routes enhance the feeling of escapism that defines the region, providing a calming backdrop to any trip. La Cruz’s position, far from the heavy foot traffic of southern Guanacaste, allows visitors to experience a more personal and intimate journey through Costa Rica’s natural beauty.

La Cruz’s tourism operators are deeply committed to promoting sustainable travel practices. The La Cruz Tourism Chamber has worked tirelessly to increase the area’s profile while maintaining a strong focus on environmental protection. Efforts to promote eco-friendly activities, such as turtle releases and low-impact tours, are helping ensure that the region’s natural treasures remain preserved for generations to come.

A Range of Accommodations for Every Traveller

La Cruz offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different types of travellers. From beachfront lodges to eco-resorts, the area provides a mix of budget-friendly and luxury options. For those looking for a nature-centred getaway, eco-resorts that emphasize sustainability and local conservation efforts are particularly popular.

Guests can easily reach La Cruz via Liberia’s international airport, located just an hour south of the canton. The drive from the airport north through the scenic landscapes of Guanacaste is a beautiful introduction to the area’s tranquil charm. Public buses also connect La Cruz town, where local markets and services are available for basic needs.

A Perfect Destination for Nature-Lovers and Adventure Seekers

With its serene atmosphere, natural wonders, and emphasis on sustainable tourism, La Cruz is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The area’s pristine beaches, wildlife-rich parks, and secluded bays offer a wide variety of activities for families, hikers, and beachgoers. Whether visitors are exploring the historical trails of Santa Rosa National Park or diving into the crystal-clear waters of Cuajiniquil, La Cruz offers a peaceful and enriching experience that will last long after the journey is completed.

In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in Costa Rica’s hidden gem, and with continued efforts by local tourism groups, La Cruz is poised to become one of the country’s top ecotourism destinations. For those seeking an authentic experience in the heart of Guanacaste’s unspoiled nature, La Cruz is a welcome alternative to the region’s more well-known beaches.