Things To Do
in Rita
Rita is a small coastal village in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, tucked between sandy shores and dry forest landscapes. It exudes a laid-back, friendly vibe with a slow pace that invites you to linger on the beach and chat with locals. The town serves as a gateway to pristine beaches, mangrove estuaries, and nearby farms that showcase Costa Rica’s rural heart.
Visitors come to soak up the pura vida rhythm, watch dramatic sunsets, and enjoy uncomplicated days away from larger tourist hotspots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral in downtown Rita, where you can admire its beautiful neoclassical architecture. Afterward, stroll through the vibrant Central Park, soaking in the local atmosphere as you watch vendors setting up their stalls. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast of Gallo Pinto and fresh coffee.
In the afternoon, explore the National Museum of Costa Rica to learn about the country's rich history and cultural heritage. After your museum visit, take a leisurely walk through the artisan markets where you can find unique handmade crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby soda, tasting local specialties like casado or ceviche.
As the sun sets, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant offering Costa Rican cuisine with a modern twist. After dinner, take a stroll along the charming streets of downtown Rita, where you might come across live music or local art displays. End your night with a refreshing cocktail at a rooftop bar, enjoying the views of the city skyline.
Start your day with an early drive to a nearby coffee plantation, where you’ll get a firsthand look at the coffee-making process from bean to cup. Join a guided tour that explains the history of coffee cultivation in Costa Rica while walking through lush coffee fields. Don't forget to sample some of the freshly brewed coffee before heading into the next part of your adventure.
After your immersive coffee experience, enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch at the plantation's café, featuring locally sourced ingredients. Spend your afternoon hiking the nearby trails, where you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as birds and monkeys as you navigate through the lush landscape.
Return to Rita in the early evening and unwind at your accommodation, perhaps enjoying a dip in the pool. Later, venture out for dinner at a local restaurant known for its farm-to-table offerings and warm ambiance. Cap off the evening with a stroll through the town, enjoying the cooler night air and vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or small drink | $2-4 |
| 🚗One-way taxi ride within town | $3-8 |
| 🛏️Dorm bed in a hostel | $15-25 |
| 🍺Local beer or drink at a bar | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with a strong sense of pura vida
- Beautiful beaches, mangroves, and coastal scenery within easy reach
- Affordability and access to fresh, local cuisine
- Moderate crowds compared to major tourist hubs; authentic regional experiences
- Limited public transportation; a car or scooter is helpful for exploring
- Smaller selection of amenities compared with larger towns
- Healthcare facilities are basic in Rita; for serious needs, travel to Liberia or Nicoya
- Seasonal weather can affect access to some remote areas during the rainy season
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Puede recomendar un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Estoy perdido/a" - I am lost
- "Vamos a la playa" - Let's go to the beach
Places to Visit in Rita
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy shoreline with golden light at dawn, ideal for silhouettes of palm trees and gentle waves.
Low-tide reflections and birdlife along a wooden boardwalk; best during morning or late afternoon light.
Panoramic ocean views from a higher vantage point; dramatic sunsets and a sense of the coastline’s scale.
Food in Rita
Rita Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice and black beans fried together with onions and peppers; often served with eggs or plantains.
Must-Try!
A hearty plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a protein such as chicken, fish, or beef.
Fresh, marinated seafood (often white fish or shrimp) cured in lime juice with onions and cilantro.
Rice cooked with a mix of local seafood and spices, a coastal staple.
Coconut rice often served as a side alongside fish or shellfish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market with fresh produce, street snacks, and small eateries; great for sampling empanadas and fresh fruit.
Bustling market with vendors selling tropical fruits, homemade salsas, and roasted coffee samples.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly smile; a handshake is common, and people may use 'Pura Vida' as a casual greeting or farewell. Maintain polite eye contact and speak calmly; avoid high-pressure sales pitches.
Dress modestly in towns and while visiting religious sites; swimwear is appropriate at the beach but not in town centers. Ask before taking photos of people or private property.
Carry out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, and adhere to marked trails on hikes. Support local, sustainable businesses when possible.
Safety
Tipping in Rita
Ensure a smooth experience
A service charge of around 10% is often included in restaurant bills; if not, a 5–10% tip is appreciated for good service. For bars and sodas, round up or leave a small tip for staff. In some markets, tipping is optional and based on satisfaction.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with low rainfall and excellent beach conditions. Great for long days of swimming and hiking, but expect more visitors, especially around holidays.
Afternoon showers are common; landscapes become lush and verdant. Trails can be muddier, and showers can refresh the air with a cool, tropical feel.
Rita at Night
Hiking in Rita
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short drive away, offering volcanic craters, fumaroles, forested trails, and waterfalls suitable for day hikes.
An easy, family-friendly hike to a scenic waterfall near Bagaces; great for a refreshing dip after a warm day.
Coastal forest and wildlife viewing with opportunities to spot monkeys, birds, and tropical flora along rugged shorelines.
Airports
How to reach Rita by plane.
Liberia’s main international airport, about a 1.5–2.5 hour drive from Rita depending on road conditions. Regular international and domestic flights connect to North America and Central America.
Small domestic airport serving regional flights; convenient for travelers heading to Nosara area and nearby beaches, with transfers to Rita by road.
Another small domestic airport serving the North Pacific coast; typically used for quick hops to and from local beach destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Traditional Costa Rican families living in coastal communities, often involved in fishing, farming, and small businesses.
Visitors attracted to the coastline, looking for waves, sun, and relaxed beach culture.
International residents and seasonal travelers who ebb and flow with the tourist seasons, adding a cosmopolitan mix to the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple along the coast with beginner-friendly breaks and more challenging spots for experienced surfers nearby.
Widely played and watched at local parks and beaches; joining a pickup game is a great way to meet locals.
Coastal and estuary fishing opportunities, often with local fishermen offering trips and fresh catches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rita.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer bean-and-rice combinations, salads, plantains, and vegetable soups. When ordering, specify 'sin carne' or 'sin pescado' and confirm no meat broths. Be mindful of sauces that may contain fish stock or lard.