3 Best Restaurants in Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica

This hip beach café has exactly the kind of ambience one comes to Costa Rica for, with tables scattered along the beach amid palm and almond trees, hammocks swinging in the wind, palm fronds rustling, and surfers riding the glistening waves in front. Seating, or more precisely, lolling, is on reclining, African-style hardwood chairs, or at shaded tables. Along with fresh fruit smoothies, ultrathin vegetarian pizzas, and veggie soy burgers, the menu includes organic chicken and "responsible fish" (caught in nets that don't also trap turtles). Seared ahi tuna with sun-dried tomatoes and olive tapenade served on ciabatta bread is a winner, as are the ceviche, fish-and-chips, pesto pasta, and assorted salads. Mahi tacos are the latest addition to the menu, served with rice and beans. 

You can’t get any closer to the water than at this outdoor beach garden, where rustic tables are shaded by enormous ficus trees draped with wicker lamps. Classic French cuisine with Costa Rican flavors include dishes like fresh seafood with fruit reductions and organic meats seared on hot lava stones. It's one of the few places in Tamarindo serving lamb, and 100% of the ingredients are local. For something light, try the tropical goat cheese salad with mango chutney or the yellowfin tuna tower topped with mango and avocado.

A popular spot with expats who come for the cold beers, burritos, burgers, and pura vida vibe, The Shack successfully blends a Tico menu with American and British favorites. Grab a seat under the tin roof and try the fresh fish-and-chips, heaping nachos, cheeseburgers, or coconut shrimp. Start the day with their "Tony" sandwich: fried eggs, onion, tomato, spinach, avocado, jalapeño, and cheddar cheese, along with a fresh smoothie. The Shack gimlet, with cucumber and basil, packs a powerful punch.