Playa Negra

Los Pargos, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

 

Getting there

We suggest booking flights 2-6 months in advance. Please read here for more travel booking tips.

Flying into Liberia

We recommend flying into Liberia, which is an easy 2-hour drive to Playa Negra on new paved roads. Once you hit the dirt roads, you’re getting real close.

Flying into San Jose

If you’re planning on seeing more of the country, flying in or out of San Jose is a good option. It’s about a 6 hour drive from Playa Negra and luckily for you, there’s a sweet new highway that makes the trek much smoother than it was.

Getting around

Rental Cars

Recommended for those planning to explore more of Costa Rica during their trip or for those planning on staying anywhere not within close walking distance to the venue and Los Pargos town center.

*Make sure to get an SUV as it is only dirt roads in town and we will be coming out of rainy season, so there may be many potholes

Hired Cars

Recommended for those traveling directly to and from the wedding and are staying within close walking distance to the venue.

*Rides to-and-from the airport are about $100. If a guests are splitting a rental car but arriving at different times, this is a great option.

 

Must Read Pro Tips.

We don’t want you making the same mistakes we have or falling into a total tourist trap…

 
 

  • Los Pargos is a small town with all dirt roads. If you’re getting a rental car, make sure it’s an SUV. This time of year will be coming out of rainy season and going into dry season, so that means pot holes. Lot’s of them. Unless we get lucky and they’ve fixed the roads early this year but that’s highly unlikely.

  • There’s not much crime in the area, but if there is then it’s petty theft. Keep your cars and doors locked at all times. Don’t leave valuables in the car, or if you do then at least conceal them. Luckily Playa Negra has 24 hour security now so this shouldn’t be an issue there.

    When you’re at the beach and if it’s somewhat remote or removed from a crowd, make sure to keep one eye on your things on the sand if you’re in the water. There have been times when thieves pop out of the bushes and will snag your stuff.

  • There isn’t a gas station nearby Negra, the closest one is about a 15-20 minute drive. Keep that in mind when you are traveling to and from the area. My rule has been to not let my tank drop below 1/4 of a tank.

    If you do find yourself in a pickle (we have) then you might be in luck. There’s a small market across the street from Cafe Playa Negra and if you ask for a gallon of gas, they may have a few to sell you for about $20 a pop. It’s a rip off but it will get you to the next station.

  • Costa Ricans don’t tip like we do. If at all, it’s small. Maybe a buck or two. But don’t feel like you need to.

    If you’re staying at Hotel Playa Negra or a similar boutique hotel, then you can start a tab at the beginning of your stay and tip the staff with your card when you close out your bill.

    Always leave cash tips for the maids at the end of your stay.