I always tell everyone that Playa Hermosa is UNIQUE! I don't know of any other community in Costa Rica that offers such a well-balanced diversity of social structures, all within the same small beach town. It's surrounded by a mix of Costa Rican natives, expats who are full or part-time residents, retirees, and vacationers.
In this compact beach area, you can find humble homes, luxury houses, condominiums, many gated communities, over 5 large residential developments, million-dollar mansions, 2 large hotel resorts, more than 5 boutique hotels, and some of the best restaurants in Papagayo. Despite all these features, Playa Hermosa remains a super quiet, comfortable, secure, and pleasant residential area that feels like a place called 'Home.' Usually, such infrastructure is only found in much larger beach communities.
Of course, larger towns like Playas de Coco, just 8 minutes away from Playa Hermosa, offer many more amenities. However, you miss out on the atmosphere of being in a small, cozy oasis with cool, happy, and grateful people.
Among the many classy beachfront bars and restaurants, my favorite spot is 'Aqua,' almost in the center of the beach. The place is filled with good vibes, and the casual yet sophisticated decor is done in very good taste!
Here are the services available in a town that resembles the typical small beach town along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica:
- Movie Theater
- ATM Cashier
- Grocery store with A/C
- Tennis courts
- Live Music
- Basketball Courts
- Spa
- Dental Clinic
- Property management
- Banana Boat
- Jet Ski & JetPack
- Zumba Class
- Yoga Class
- Dancing Class
- Etc…
Sometimes, special events are organized by the big resorts or the Playa Hermosa Association, such as triathlons, live beach concerts, and the annual beach clean-up. These events attract people from all over. Apart from these special occasions, and during Christmas and Easter weeks when it can become quite crowded, the beach usually feels like it's all yours!
Living in Playa Hermosa epitomizes the tropical lifestyle. For those who reside here full-time, it offers much more than just a beach with a few restaurants, which is common in Costa Rica. Its unique feature is its location, only 25 minutes from the country's only international airport. On my days off, I can play tennis, enjoy lunch with a view of gentle waves, visit the ATM, take the kids to mini-golf, drop my wife off at her Zumba class, watch the sunset over the ocean, enjoy popcorn while watching the latest movie at the theater, and dine in an Indonesian-inspired gourmet restaurant without ever having to leave Playa Hermosa. It feels more like home than just a tourist spot.
If you are considering living in this quaint little town, check out my property listings in Playa Hermosa. You may find that perfect place to live in Paradise.
Pura Vida!
Updated Feb 14, 2024