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The Facts: Nicoya Peninsula

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When to Go

Known for pristine waters and dry tropical forests, the Nicoya Peninsula is usually warm, and— unlike much of the country—arid from November to April. During the rest of the year there are daily showers, though the sun always comes out at some point, and the landscape is at its greenest.

How to Get There

Several U.S. airlines, including Delta, American, and Continental, have direct flights to Liberia’s Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, in the province of Guanacaste. At the airport, you can catch a hotel shuttle or rent a four-wheel-drive SUV for the journey to the coast. Hotel Playa Negra is 1 1/2 hours southwest, the Four Seasons is 45 minutes west. Expect dusty, bumpy roads (though the one that leads to the Four Seasons is well paved), and views of teak farms and grazing cattle.

Where to Stay

Hotel Playa Negra

The resort’s 10 bungalows each have a queen-size bed, two twins, and a simple bathroom with a shower. A kiddie pool adjoins the freshwater swimming pool. The restaurant serves simple grilled fare. Surf lessons are $20 an hour for group sessions, $35 for private. Jungle excursions are less than an hour away. playanegra.com; 011-506/652-9134; bungalows for four $100.

Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo

Just north of Nicoya, here’s Costa Rica at its most pampering—an 18-hole Arnold Palmer golf course, tennis courts, three pools, a spa, kids’ programs, and a full menu of outings, including a jungle-canopy zip-line minutes away. The Gulf of Papagayo’s placid waters are a boon for parents with little ones. fourseasons.com; 800/332-3442; doubles from $735.

El Sueño, Tropical Hotel

One of dozens of inexpensive bungalow lodges along the Nicoya coast, El Sueño is 1 1/2 miles from white-sand Playa Carillo. elsuenotropical.com; 877/456-4338; doubles from $107, two-bedroom apartments from $157.

Tour Operators

Want to travel all over Costa Rica? These outfitters offer custom and organized group trips.

Costa Rica Expeditions

The country’s leading tour company has more than 100 itineraries and runs three well-regarded lodges. 011-506/257-0766; costaricaexpeditions.com.

Thomson Family Adventures

Their high-energy trips, including white-water rafting, enthrall teens. 800/262-6255; familyadventures.com.

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