Explore, Chill, Repeat: 12 Fun Things To Do When In Playa Avellanas

1.
Ride Into the Sunset on Horseback 🐎 🌅 (5 min from SoulShine)
Enjoy a magical afternoon galloping down the beach with the ocean breeze in your hair. Join legendary local sabanero Andrey Guti of Guti Tours for a stunning ride along the area’s beautiful beaches. The tour typically includes a stop at a local restaurant for a refreshment; for the riders and the horses.

2.
Take a Walk on the Wild Side 🦜🐒 (5 min walk from SoulShine)
Ever wonder what’s hiding in the forests around Avellanas? Take a 2.5-hour guided walk with Oropopo Experience and uncover the area’s secret spots, wildlife, and lush landscapes. Expect to meet chatty howler monkeys, colourful tropical birds, and tiny crustaceans chilling between the tides.

3.
Paddle Through Mangrove Tunnels 🏄♂️ 🐊 (10 min from SoulShine)
Glide through the winding Nandamojo River on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) with Pargos Adventures. It’s a peaceful, otherworldly experience—like floating through a hidden jungle. Keep an eye out for water birds, monkeys, and sometimes crocodiles (don’t worry, they’re more into sunbathing than chasing tourists).

4.
See Exotic Wildlife Up Close 🦁 (1.5 hrs from SoulShine)
Diamante Eco Adventure Park’s Animal Sanctuary in Costa Rica is home to a diverse range of rescued and wildlife management animals, including jaguars, toucans, and sloths. Designed for both the well-being of the animals and an immersive guest experience, the sanctuary allows for up-close, safe viewing while promoting education and conservation. The park is also home to the longest dual-action zipline in Costa Rica!

5.
Sail Into the Sunset ⛵🍹 (25 min from SoulShine)
Picture this: you’re on a catamaran, cocktail in hand, watching the sun dip below the Pacific. Does life get any better? Marlin del Rey’s four-hour sunset sailing tour departs at 1:30 p.m. from Tamarindo and includes snorkelling in a remote cove, an open bar, and a late lunch.

6.
Catch a Wave 🏄♀️ 🌊
Playa Avellanas is one of Costa Rica’s best surf spots—so why not give it a shot? Whether you're a newbie or looking to level up, local surf pros offer lessons for all ages. We recommend the professional instructors at Snapper Surf School.

7.
Go All-In on an Adventure Day 🤠 🌋 (1:45 hrs from SoulShine)
If you're up for a nonstop adventure, head to Hacienda Guachipelin in Rincón de la Vieja. The park offers ziplining, horseback riding, tubing, hot springs, and a volcanic mud bath—all in one action-packed day.

8.
Chase Waterfalls at La Leona 💦 🏞️ (1:45 hrs from SoulShine)
The La Leona Waterfall tour has it all: hiking, swimming in turquoise canyons, and climbing through caves. It’s not an easy stroll, but the breathtaking waterfall at the end makes every step worth it.

9.
Eat (Way Too Much) Chocolate 🍫 🤤 (25 min from SoulShine)
Chocolate lovers, welcome to heaven. During Reina’s Chocolate Tour, you’ll taste more than 15 types of chocolate and three different chocolate drinks. Want to take your obsession to the next level? Join the hands-on class and learn how to make chocolate yourself.

10.
Dive Into the Catalina Islands 🤿 🦈 (1 hour from SoulShine)
Just a boat ride away, the Catalina Islands offer some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling in Costa Rica. Expect manta rays (in season), harmless reef sharks, sea turtles, and swarms of tropical fish. No experience? No problem! The team at Be Salty Adventures has all the gear and guidance you need.

11.
Eat, Shop & Dance at La Esquina Night Market 🎶 🥂 (10 min walk from SoulShine)
Every Friday night, La Esquina Cultural Center turns into a bustling market with local food vendors, handcrafted souvenirs, live music, and a cocktail bar. Great for families, date nights, or just vibing under the stars.

12.
Explore Hidden Sites by ATV 🚜 🏝️ (20 min from SoulShine)
Hop on an ATV with Avellanas ATV and explore off-the-beaten-path spots only accessible by backroads. Tours are limited to small groups and include stops to enjoy snacks, photo ops and short hikes. Tours depart at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
So Many Things To Do In Playa Avellanas
From epic adventures to laid-back local experiences, Playa Avellanas has something for everyone. Whether you’re here to surf, explore, or just relax, this tropical paradise delivers. Let us know what suits your style, and we’ll help make it happen for you—we’re here to make your Costa Rica vacation shine!
We all know Playa Avellanas has perfect waves and pristine beaches.
Still, this little slice of paradise on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is also packed with adventure, nature, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a beach bum, or just here to soak up the pura vida vibes, there’s plenty to do beyond the beach.
From horseback rides at sunset to snorkelling in hidden coves, here are 12 must-do activities in Avellanas that’ll make your Costa Rica adventure shine.
Let’s dive in!