Potrero Beach

Potrero is a hidden gem in Guanacaste's northwestern corner, named after the eponymous beach. This rural town is built in the style of old Costa Rican coast villages and can be considered a tranquil haven away from the tourist traps.

The inherent and simple beauty of this town is its defining feature. On Sundays, you can still see children playing soccer in 'la plaza' and locals going to church because the road is left unpaved by the residents. People can still be seen lying in a hammock on their own land, just a few steps away from the sea, as they did in every Guanacaste coast village years ago.

Despite the fact that there are several small hotels and villas in the area with their own facilities, there are only a few supermarkets and local restaurants in town. This is the place to go if you're looking for some peace and quiet away from the city's madness.

In Playa Tamarindo, on the south, and Playas del Coco, on the north, nightlife enthusiasts will find a plethora of excellent bars and clubs. Both are less than an hour's drive from Potrero. Swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking are available at three local beaches: Pietra, La Penca, and Potrero, which are ideal for those looking for a relaxing beach experience. Bring your own equipment because there are no equipment stores in the area, and renting services are sporadic.

Potrero is accessible by both public bus and car. The trip is 45 minutes from Liberia, Guanacaste's main hub, or four to five hours from San José, but it's well worth it. It's also a good place to start exploring Papagayo Bay and visiting nearby attractions like Santa Rosa National Park and Palo Verde Natural Reserve, as well as other famous beaches like Playa Flamingo and Playa Conchal.

• Location: Guanacaste, Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, just south of Playa Flamingo and Marina