"Playa Zancudo, Costa Rica" Zancudo by maglione

Playa Zancudo is a 5-kilometer peninsula just 12 miles north of the Panama border. From San Jose one can catch a 45-minute flight to Golfito where a boat taxi will bring you to Zancudo. On one side is the spacious Golfo Dulce, which showcases the Osa peninsula off the coast and Rio Coto Colorado on the other. Corcovado National Park is an enchanting hour’s boat ride away- where you are bound to see the dolphins swimming.

Trails for viewing nature

Playa Zancudo is a friendly little fishing and surfing community. Its remote location on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica makes it a wonderful retreat for vacationers looking to get away from typical tourist traps.

Zancudo is a tranquil, secluded area where you will see hundreds of species of wild flora and fauna and meet welcoming people. You will not see Starbucks, McDonalds, or malls. You will find strong Costa Rica coffee and fresh fruits and vegetables everywhere.

Sunset at Playa Zancudo

Miles of beautiful sand beaches are lined with coconut and cashew trees. Ocean temperature is in the low 80s. The waves on the beach north of Villa Mariposa are gentle enough for swimming and relaxing. From Villa Mariposa south, you'll find larger waves that are perfect for surfing.

Other activities to be enjoyed in the area include: fishing, river tours. horseback riding, kayaking, swimming, boogie boarding, hiking, birding, and tours of the nearby rainforest. The photos were taken on the five acres of Villa Mariposa (formerly called Villa de Monos in honor of the friendly whiteface monkeys who inhabit the property).