Playa Ardilla is a small, little-known beach located in Potrero Bay, in the province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica. This corner of the northern Pacific is perfect for those seeking tranquility, contact with nature, and beautiful landscapes, far from the crowds.

Location and how to get there

Playa Ardilla is located near the popular Potrero and Flamingo beaches on the northwest coast of the country. From Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, the drive takes approximately one hour. If you are traveling from San José, you should allow between four and five hours on Route 1, passing through the distinctive landscapes of Guanacaste.

Driving route (recommended):
From Tamarindo, take the main road north (Route 155 or paved coastal roads), passing through Playa Grande and Brasilito, until you reach the Flamingo and Bahía Potrero area. Access to Playa Ardilla is near Potrero; you can park in a public area or near a hotel, such as in the vicinity of Bay del Sol.

From the access point, you will need to descend around 70 steep steps along a path surrounded by jungle vegetation and palm trees until you reach the beach. Sturdy footwear is recommended.

To make the journey easier, you can use Waze or Google Maps to search for “Playa Ardilla, Bahía Potrero” (approximate coordinates: 10.45° N, 85.68° W). The final stretch of the road is dirt or gravel, so a high-clearance vehicle may be a good option.

Features of the beach

Playa Ardilla is distinguished by its crystal clear turquoise waters, white or beige sand, and generally calm waves, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing. Its secluded location and relatively difficult access contribute to it being a less crowded spot.

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It has no tourist infrastructure or services, which reinforces its rustic and natural essence.

Tips for your visit

The best time to visit Ardilla Beach is during the dry season, between December and April, when weather conditions are more stable and the trails are in better condition. During the rainy season, the trails can become slippery and access more difficult.

Since there are no services on the beach, it is important to bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and everything else you need for a comfortable and safe stay.

Other modes of transport

  • Taxi or private shuttle:
    From Tamarindo, the approximate cost is between $50 and $80 USD per trip. The journey takes around 1.5 hours and can be booked at hotels or local agencies for door-to-door transportation.
  • Public bus: You can take a bus from Tamarindo to Huacas or Playas del Coco (approximate cost of $2 to $3 USD, duration of 45 minutes) and then continue by taxi to Potrero or Flamingo. The total trip takes about 2 hours and is the most economical option, although it requires transfers.

There are no buses that go directly to Playa Ardilla, as the final access is exclusively pedestrian.

Sensorial Sunsets