Flamingo is a beautiful area, with several pristine beaches (Flamingo, Potrero, Mina, Penca, Brasilito, Conchal), lots of great lodging options, and numerous restaurants. It is also located near Santa Rosa National Park and the Palo Verde natural reserve, both offering opportunities for birders and outdoor enthusiasts. Flamingo is an ideal vacation spot offering some of the best deep-sea fishing in the world, along with excellent scuba diving. It is also home to the long-awaited and beautiful Flamingo Marina. In addition to water activities, there are plenty of great land activities too, including a Robert Trent Jones designed 18-hole championship golf course, ATV tours, horseback riding, hiking and more! Flamingo is also the place that we call home and we couldn’t be happier here. We invite you to check out our 10 best things to do in Flamingo Costa Rica in 2023!
1. Go to the Monday Moonlight Market at La Plaza
The MONDAY MOONLIGHT MARKET is a great place to hear live music, eat good food, and support local artisans and vendors at this open air market. It’s a community affair, and you’ll find it appeals to both locals and tourists alike. Held on Mondays from 6:00-9:00 pm it is located at La Plaza (where you will also find Angelina’s Restaurant). The Moonlight Market runs from mid-November until the end of April, and then from mid-June until the end of August.
2. Get Brunch at Surf Box
There are lots of good restaurants to choose from in the area, but one of our favorites, especially after a morning walk on the beach, is Surf Box. The vibe is very “beach town” in the best way. And the food is delicious with lots of fresh fruit smoothies, french toast, acai bowls, and even some yummy vegan options. And of course, excellent coffee!
3. Book a Private Boat Charter
Getting out on the water is a must for your Costa Rican vacation. The sun, the waves, the fresh, salty air – it’s the essence of “pura vida!” Whether you are vacationing with family or friends, you can’t go wrong with an all-ages, memory-making nautical adventure. We have many options within our private boat charter portfolio. We have five boats that sail out of Flamingo Marina and Flamingo Bay. Learn more here.
4. Visit Cremrica Heladeria ice cream shop at Flamingo Marina
The marina is a lovely place to visit. Watch as boats come and go, visit the new shops, and enjoy a scoop (or two… or three…). Fun fact - Cremrica ice cream is made in the Central Valley and the company was recently purchased by a young Costa Rican woman who was a huge Cremrica fan while growing up. Nothing spells success like a satisfied customer turned business owner!
5. Go to Flamingo’s famous Cliff Jumping Spot
Feeling a little adventurous? Check out Flamingo’s jump spot. You will need to ask for directions – just ask any local! The jump is 30+ feet into deep turquoise water. You can jump from an overhanging tree or from the rocks. We recommend jumping versus diving, and always have a friend with you. It’s also fun just to watch!
6. Watch the Sunset from Gracia Mar Vista!
Mar Vista is a gated community that climbs into the hills around Flamingo. At the top you will find Gracia Mar Vista - a restaurant with stunning views of Flamingo Bay. Just tell the guards at the gatehouse that you are headed to the restaurant. And bring your bathing suit, because they have an infinity pool with a swim-up bar. We can’t think of a better place to watch the sunset. And of course, stick around for a delicious dinner!
7. Private Snorkeling Excursion
There is a magical world beneath the waves, and snorkeling is a great way to get up close and personal with marine life. We offer a great snorkel and fish boat tour out of Flamingo with 4, 7, and 9 hour tour options. You will have the use of high quality snorkeling equipment, fishing rods, and paddle boards. This is a great activity for families and small groups. Click to learn more.
8. Drive up to Las Catalinas
Las Catalinas is a small, intentional community whose stated goals are to “create a way of life that is healthy, sustainable, fulfilling, and fun.” There are homes, shops, restaurants, plazas, parks, and recreational facilities. The architecture resembles a European village. Las Catalinas is walkable, especially because, by design, cars have to park in designated areas outside the community. There are over 1,000 acres of tropical dry forest, with extensive hiking and biking trails. And there is access to two beaches. Enjoy!
9. Go Scuba Diving in the Catalinas Islands
Are you a certified diver looking for a great dive in Costa Rica? Or are you a beginner, looking to learn? For certified divers, there is a great dive spot just 40 minutes off shore. All diving equipment and dive guide are provided through a local PADI dive resort. Dive times are approximately 40-50 minutes. For beginners (minimum age 10), a “Discover Scuba Diving” introductory course is a great start and includes pool training, and all diving equipment. For planning purposes, you can’t fly within 18 hours of diving. Click to learn more about scuba diving in the Catalinas Islands.
10. Order a “Coco Loco”
On the southern end of Playa Flamingo you can find Restaurante Coco Loco, a spot that is popular with locals and tourists. It’s the perfect place to relax after your busy (or not) day! According to their website, “The beach is always gorgeous, the sunsets always stunning, the service is always attentive and everything on the menu is genuinely special.” We can’t argue with this description. Their signature cocktail, the Coco Loco, is made with rum, guaro (made from sugarcane juice), tequila, coconut cream and coconut water. Sip on this while you decide what to order for dinner (it’s all good!).
We hope you enjoy your time in the Flamingo area. Need more suggestions? Feel free to reach out. We love introducing people to our tropical home! And for a perfect vacation from start to finish, check out our custom itinerary form – we'll help you build the vacation of your dreams.
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