Moving to Guanacaste, Costa Rica: 10 Things to Know

For years, Costa Rica has attracted people looking to live differently, embrace nature, and enjoy a higher quality of life. Moving to Costa Rica seems like an obvious choice for anyone considering its strong foundations, unparalleled biodiversity, a commitment to peace with no standing army, a strong emphasis on quality of life, and a deep culture of sustainability.

If you’re considering relocating, Guanacaste is often the first region people explore. Stretching across the north Pacific, Guanacaste is where golden beaches meet tropical dry forest, and where days can be as active or as restful as you choose. Surfing, hiking, mountain biking, snorkeling, horseback riding, adventure is never far away. At| the same time, the climate offers long, sunny dry seasons, and the communities here are both international and deeply local. If Costa Rica represents the dream, Guanacaste is often where people decide to make it real.

So, what should you know before making the move? Here are ten important considerations,  blending practical advice with insights from expats who have already taken the leap.

1. WHERE TO LIVE IN GUANACASTE, COSTA RICA AND WHY LOCATION MATTERS

Before making any plans, ask yourself: What do I love about this place?

Costa Rica is incredibly diverse, and each region offers a different lifestyle. If you crave misty forests and cooler air, the northern highlands might be the right fit. If what you want is a remote off-the-grid adventure with powerful waves, head farther southeast. For beaches within driving distance from the capital, the Central Pacific could be your best choice. But if you are looking for a tropical paradise with golden beaches and nearby urban centers that provide essential services, then the Pacific North is for you. In Guanacaste, you will find the perfect balance between a laid-back coastal life and convenient city amenities.

Guanacaste stands out for its mix of qualities: hundreds of breathtaking beaches, abundant access to nature, lively coastal towns and rural villages, vibrant expat communities, easy access to Liberia International Airport, and an exuberant variety of wildlife along hundreds of miles of coastline.

The key is to align the location with the life you envision. Do you picture stepping out your front door for a morning swim, watching sunsets from your terrace, or leading an active lifestyle with surfboards, hiking boots, and mountain bikes always within reach? Or do you imagine a quieter rhythm, perhaps retirement, where your days are filled with gardening and birdwatching?

Taking the time to understand not only where you want to live but also why is the first step toward a happy transition.

2. LIFESTYLE IN GUANACASTE FOR EXPATS 

Relocating is not only about geography, but about lifestyle.

Will your new life involve remote work and reliable internet, or are you looking for a fresh start in a new field? Will you be raising children here, or are you stepping into retirement? These questions shape everything from the community you choose to the kind of home that will suit you.

Many expats in Guanacaste speak of the freedom to redefine their daily rhythm. Some wake early to walk along the shore before the world stirs. Others spend mornings cycling mountain trails or finish the day while watching the sunset. 

Thinking deeply about how you want your days to feel will help you filter options and keep your move aligned with your vision.

3. COSTA RICA RESIDENCY OPTIONS AND VISA REQUIREMENTS 

Falling in love with Costa Rica is easy; navigating the paperwork is less romantic, but absolutely essential. Fortunately, Costa Rica offers several residency options for newcomers, depending on your situation, income, or investment.

Costa Rica Residency Categories

• Pensionado (Retiree Visa): For retirees with a stable income, the Pensionado visa requires proof of at least $1,000 USD per month from a pension or Social Security.

• Rentista (Income-Based Visa): For those without a pension, the Rentista visa requires either:

  • A deposit of $60,000 USD in a Costa Rican bank, or

  • Proof of $2,500 USD monthly income for at least two years.

• Inversionista (Investor Visa): For investors, this visa requires a minimum investment of $150,000 USD in real estate, a business, or other government-approved projects.

• Digital Nomad Visa: Remote workers earning $3,000 USD per month (or $4,000 for families) can apply for this visa, allowing them to live and work legally in Costa Rica while working remotely.

• Residency Through Family: Spouses of Costa Ricans or parents of Costa Rican-born children may qualify for residency through family ties.

Essential Documents for Costa Rica Residency

The residency process requires patience, preparation, and apostilled documents. Starting the process from your home country is strongly recommended to simplify procedures and reduce costs. Commonly requested documents include:

• Valid passport

• Birth certificate (original or apostilled)

• Criminal background check

• Proof of financial solvency (bank statements, income statements, or investment proof)

• Marriage certificate, if applicable

Work Permits and Residency

If you plan to work in Costa Rica, you first need to obtain the residency category that fits your situation based on income, investment, or employment. Once approved:

• Enroll in the Caja (Costa Rica’s public healthcare system)

• Submit essential documents such as your apostilled birth certificate, police background check, and passport copy

• Work legally without needing a separate work permit after permanent residency

Temporary residency is initially granted for two years, and after three years of living in Costa Rica, you can apply for permanent residency, which allows full work rights.

Where to Submit Your Application

You can apply for residency through:

• A Costa Rican consulate in your home country

• An immigration office in Costa Rica

Key Tips for Expats

• Start your paperwork before moving to Costa Rica

• Keep all documents apostilled and organized

• Understand the Caja system and monthly fees

• Choose a lawyer who is experienced with expat residency cases

• Working with a trusted immigration lawyer is highly recommended. Navigating Costa Rica’s Spanish-language bureaucracy can be complex, and legal support ensures compliance with local regulations, a smoother process, and peace of mind.

4. Healthcare in Costa Rica: Public vs Private Options for Expats

Costa Rica has one of the strongest healthcare systems in Latin America, and Guanacaste residents can access both public and private services.

• Public (Caja Costarricense del Seguro Social): Universal coverage that includes doctor visits, hospital care, and medication. Residents pay a monthly fee based on income.

• Private: Many expats also rely on private insurance for quicker access, English-speaking doctors, and specialized care. Out-of-pocket costs are much lower than in the United States: around $50 for a general consultation and $80–100 for a specialist. In general, expats mention that healthcare costs are generally 15–75% cheaper than in the U.S., which is great for tests or procedures.

Liberia has a modern hospital and a growing number of private practices. Creating a personal medical plan, keeping medication records, and ensuring you know where to go in an emergency provides peace of mind.  

Katherine, a resident at Las Catalinas, shared: “My international private health insurance in Costa Rica covered my $55,000 ACL knee surgery at Duke Hospital.”

5. Cost of Living in Guanacaste, Costa Rica: Groceries, Utilities, Internet

CURRENCY AND BANKING IN COSTA RICA 

Daily life in Guanacaste involves using both colones and U.S. dollars. Most supermarkets, restaurants, and tourist-oriented businesses accept dollars, but local markets, small shops, and services usually operate in colones, so it’s important to have both on hand.

Opening a bank account typically requires residency, though some banks allow limited access with just a passport. Options include public banks such as Banco Nacional and Banco de Costa Rica, and private institutions like BAC. Another route is creating a corporation (Sociedad Anónima or SRL) with the help of a licensed lawyer, which expats often use not only for banking but also to acquire property. Keep in mind that corporations are subject to annual taxes and reporting requirements.

COST OF LIVING

Guanacaste can feel affordable in some areas and more expensive in others. Local produce, services, and housing are often lower than in many home countries, but imported goods like electronics, cars, computers, clothes, or even skincare, tend to be more expensive due to taxes. Many residents order these through Amazon or other online shops and use shipping services to Costa Rica. Delivery takes time, but it often saves money compared to buying locally.

UTILITIES AND INTERNET IN COSTA RICA

Costa Rica has potable water, but in Guanacaste the water often contains minerals that leave white marks on faucets and sinks. For drinking and cooking, many households install reverse osmosis systems or simpler filters like Brita pitchers, Ecofiltros, or advanced systems with activated carbon. Some people even notice softer hair and skin after switching to filtered water.

Electricity and water services are generally reliable, with occasional outages during heavy rains or windy months. Internet service is available through providers like Kolbi, Tigo, Liberty, and Claro. Speeds vary depending on location: fiber optic is expanding in many areas, while remote regions may only have slower connections. It’s always worth checking coverage before renting or buying a home.

BEST SUPERMARKETS IN GUANACASTE

Guanacaste offers plenty of grocery options to match different needs:

• Local verdulerías: Fresh, affordable fruits and vegetables.

• Pulperías or Small Stores: Small neighborhood shops offer everyday basics. In Las Catalinas, you can also find Copper & Stone,  a gourmet market with a boutique and premium feel and selection that also sells coffees, smoothies and food ready to be consumed. 

• PriceSmart (Liberia): Similar to Costco or Sam’s Club. Ideal for bulk shopping such as cheese, snacks, sparkling water, paper goods, appliances, and even a pharmacy. Membership is required, but the selection and value make it worthwhile.

• Automercado: A boutique supermarket with a clean, spacious feel. Comparable to high-end U.S. stores, it offers premium local and imported products, cheeses, meats, and bakery items, perfect for those seeking quality over quantity.

• Walmart (Liberia): Familiar brands, competitive prices, and a wide range of food and household goods.

• Maxipalí and Megasuper: Found throughout Guanacaste, these supermarkets tend to be cheaper for individual items than Automercado or pulperías, though they have a warehouse-style feel. They’re convenient for savings rather than the shopping experience.

• Organic options: Less common, but available at specialty stores like Mentha & Limón in Tamarindo, where you’ll find organic produce and grass-fed meats.

  
  

Pro Tips for Saving Money on Grocery Shopping

Many locals and expats combine different shops to get the best of everything:

• Stock up on fruits and vegetables at a verdulería.

• Buy meats from local butchers like Carnes San Martín, La Goyita, or Centro de Carnes Villa Mar.

• For fresh fish, head to Marcosta in Potrero or small shops like the one in Brasilito next to Gracia Pizzería.

• If you are craving European-style bread you can try Panadería Alemana (main shop in Liberia, but they also sell some of their items at Merkdo in Potrero and Massai in Flamingo. For pastries, El Patio in Potrero or Deli Café in Brasilito are great choices. Automercado’s bakery also offers diabetic-friendly and gluten-free options, which is worth checking out. 

• Use PriceSmart for bulk pantry staples with a better cost-to-quantity ratio, Automercado for premium specialties, and local markets for seasonal produce.

restaurants and dining in guanacaste

• Pots & Bowls: Fresh, healthy bowls and local dishes in a casual setting.

• Tamaki: Offers Assian cuisine in Las Catalinas. Its menu includes options like ramen and other dishes inspired by oriental flavors, perfect for those craving something different.

• Nature’s Table at Center of Joy: Plant-based, wholesome meals focusing on fresh, local ingredients.

• Ponciana at Hotel Santarena: Upscale dining with a view, offering Costa Rican and international cuisine.

• Celeste: A fine dining experience with a focus on creative dishes and local flavors.

• Sentido Norte at Casa Camaleón: Elegant dining with an emphasis on tropical, locally inspired dishes.

OTHER SPOTS FOR TREATS AND DRINKS 

• Coquelicot: Delicious gelato, perfect for a sweet break while strolling through Town.

• Calle Cuatro La Ronda: Offers coffees, tees and a selection of pastries and salads. 

• Papagayo Brewing: Craft beer, casual eats, and refreshing drinks in a lively atmosphere.

6. Best Schools in Guanacaste for Expat Families: Public, Private, and International Options

Public, Private and International Schools in Guanacaste

One of the most important considerations when relocating with family is education. Costa Rica offers free public education, which is a great benefit for residents. However, many expat families in Guanacaste choose private or international schools because they provide academic programs that are transferable to other institutions worldwide, such as U.S. or International Baccalaureate (IB) systems. Many also offer bilingual education, helping children transition more smoothly between cultures. Some of the most popular schools in the area include Elif for Preschool and Educarte, CRIA, and La Paz.

Extracurricular Activities for Kids

Beyond academics, it’s worth thinking about the overall experience your children will have here. Students in Guanacaste are closely connected with nature on a daily basis, and extracurricular opportunities are diverse. Schools often offer traditional sports like volleyball, soccer, basketball, and swimming, while the region also provides unique options such as horseback riding at the Flamingo Equestrian Club, rock climbing at Tama Rocks, surfing, dance classes at Elevate Studio or The Wellness Club, and music lessons at Good Vibes Rock School. 

These outdoor and indoor activities give kids the chance to explore their talents and interests while staying active and engaged.

Pro Tips for Choosing the Right School

Many expats recommend visiting several schools, reviewing their curricula, and even allowing children to spend a trial period at different institutions. This helps families evaluate not only the academic fit but also where their children feel happiest and most inspired.

Some parents may feel nervous about introducing their children to such a big change, but in reality, the experience tends to be more positive than negative. One expat shared: “It’s a great benefit for my child to grow up speaking two languages and being in a class with students from over 20 different countries, as it gives him a broader experience interacting with people from all over the world.” 

7. How to Bring Pets to Costa Rica: Rules, Vaccines, and Travel Tips

Pets are family, and bringing them with you to Costa Rica is absolutely possible with the right preparation.

Health Certificate Requirements 

• Pets must be at least 3 months old to travel.

• A licensed veterinarian in your home country must issue a health certificate within 14 days of travel, confirming your pet is healthy, up-to-date on vaccinations, and free of contagious diseases.

• For U.S. travelers, the certificate must be endorsed by the USDA (APHIS 7001 form via VEHCS, which can be issued digitally). Canadian travelers require CFIA endorsement.
  
  

Mandatory Vaccinations and Parasite Treatment for Pets 

• Rabies: Mandatory for dogs and cats over 3 months, administered at least 30 days before travel (Costa Rica does not recognize 3-year rabies vaccines).

• Dogs: Distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus, parainfluenza.

• Cats: FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia).

• Pets must be treated against internal and external parasites (ticks, worms, fleas) within 15 days before travel.

Airline & Entry Requirements

• Airlines may have specific rules regarding carriers, cabin vs. cargo travel, and fees. Always check in advance to avoid any complications. 

• Pets traveling as cargo require an import permit and must be cleared by a licensed import company. For this, required documents include: your pet’s flight ticket, copies of the passports of the person sending and receiving the pet, vaccination and health certificates, your contact information, and a Costa Rica address.

• In-cabin pets will be inspected by veterinary officials upon arrival.

• At the airport, Costa Rican Border Authority will collect and retain the original international health certificate.

Veterinary Care after Arrival to Costa Rica 

• Within 14 days of arrival, a licensed Costa Rican veterinarian must examine your pet and issue a Veterinary Certificate in Spanish.

• There is no quarantine requirement in Costa Rica, making the process smoother.

• Be sure to locate a nearby veterinarian in your new community, especially in warm regions like Guanacaste.

Pro Tips for Traveling with Pets 

• Keep all health documents and vaccination records in an organized folder for customs.

• Carry extra copies of the health certificate and vaccination records in case authorities request them.

• Consider your pet’s comfort in the tropical climate, particularly for heat-sensitive breeds.

• Budget realistically: vet paperwork ($200–$500), airline fees ($100–$1,000), plus import/customs fees for cargo pets.

• Use an AirTag or other trackable device on your pet’s carrier for peace of mind during travel.

For official and updated requirements, check with SENASA or contact them at info@senasa.go.cr | (+506) 2587-1600 / (+506) 2260-8300.

8. Taxes in Costa Rica for Expats: Property, Income, and Financial Tips

Costa Rica operates under a territorial tax system, meaning income earned abroad is generally not taxed here. This is a major advantage for retirees or remote workers with foreign income. However, local income (including rental income from Costa Rican property) is taxable.

Income Tax Rules for Expats

• Income Tax: Progressive, ranging from 0–25% on taxable income.

• Property Tax and Luxury Home Tax: Around 0.25% annually, plus an additional luxury home tax for high-value properties.

• Sales Tax VAT in Costa Rica: A 13% VAT on most goods and services.

Working with Local Lawyers and Accountants 

Consulting a Costa Rican lawyer and accountant will give you a solid framework to understand what to expect and how your specific situation may unfold based on your personal circumstances and local law.

9. Spanish & Culture in Guanacaste: The Pura Vida Lifestyle

English is widely spoken in Guanacaste, especially in coastal areas popular with visitors. You can easily get by at restaurants, supermarkets, and with many service providers.

That said, learning Spanish expands the depth of your experience. It allows for more genuine friendships, smoother legal and financial interactions, and a richer understanding of the culture. Expats who embrace the language often feel more integrated, less like visitors, and more like neighbors. Even if you don’t speak fluently, a few key words will take you a long way, such as hola (hi), gracias (thank you), and por favor (please). And then there’s the famous Pura Vida, a phrase you’ll hear everywhere in Costa Rica. It’s used to say hello, thank you, or goodbye, and it reflects the Tico way of embracing life with ease and positivity. When locals hear an expat saying Pura Vida, they usually receive it warmly, recognizing it as a genuine gesture of affection and a way of connecting with Costa Rican culture and people.

10. How to Build a Life in Guanacaste: Housing, Community, and Real Estate 

Most expats looking to relocate are searching for more than a vacation spot, they’re looking for a life that aligns with their rhythm, values, and vision. Imagine a lifestyle that feels lighter, less rushed, where nature isn’t something you escape to twice a year, but part of your everyday. The place where you live shapes how you experience life, and understanding what you truly want is the first step toward making the right choice.

If peace, community, movement, connection, and beauty are values that resonate with you, Las Catalinas could be the perfect fit. Built on the principles of New Urbanism, this car-free Beach Town is not just a development of isolated coastal homes. It’s a vibrant, safe environment for children and families, with plazas full of life and nature woven seamlessly into every corner.

The neighborhoods evoke the charm of Mediterranean, European, and colonial Latin cities, so beauty is everywhere, from stunning architecture to breathtaking ocean views and sunsets at your fingertips. With what feels like endless trails for hiking and mountain biking, staying active and living a life full of movement is inevitable. The freedom to connect with yourself, with nature, and with a close-knit community creates a rare combination of conditions all in one place.

Choosing to move to Guanacaste isn’t just about picking a property, it’s about designing the life you want. So, ask yourself:

• What kind of investment will support my lifestyle?

• What kind of experience do I want while making this change?

Las Catalinas offers options for every vision:

• Montaña: For those who dream of being steps from the trails and living an active, sporty lifestyle.

• Lantana: Perfect if you want premium finishes, a luxurious experience, and a move-in-ready home without the stress of designing it yourself.

• Single-family lots: If customizing every detail matters, the Design and Construction team will help you handpick your views and craft a home uniquely yours.

• Resales: For a quicker transition to beachfront living, or if you want to feel the Town’s atmosphere before making a final decision.

Deciding on the right home also means choosing the right people to guide you. The Las Catalinas Sales Team exists to make the process easy, not overwhelming. As residents themselves, they know the community inside and out: its history, governance, and daily life. They’ve guided hundreds of families and individuals through relocation, offering advice that is strategic, practical, and deeply human. 

With over $150 million in sales across lots, finished homes, and preconstruction projects, the Sales Team can match the right property to your vision. Their expertise ensures your transition to life in Las Catalinas is smooth, exciting, and tailored to you.

Moving to Guanacaste is a lifestyle choice, not just a practical one. If simplicity, beauty, connection, and a sense of community are what you seek, Las Catalinas is where that vision becomes reality. And with the right guidance, this next chapter of your life can be not just possible, but truly extraordinary. 

Disclaimer: This guide was created using information available at the time of publication. Regulations, requirements, and services in Costa Rica may change without prior notice. For the most up-to-date and official information, please consult the relevant government agencies, such as SENASA  for pet import rules, Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social for healthcare, or Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería for residency and visas.