4 Best Restaurants in Playa Potrero, Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula

Costa Rica Sailing Center

$$ Fodor's choice

Relax beachside at the most laid-back yacht club you'll ever visit. There are bonfires after dark, live music, and sometimes an event like a chili cookoff or beer fest; plus, the kids can play in the pool while you enjoy a craft beer and good food. They also rent boats, paddleboards, snorkel gear, kayaks, and more to the public.

Café Del Sol

$$$

There's something for everyone any time of day at this three-story bakery/bistro/lounge/cocktail bar.  In the morning, there are savory quiches and homemade granola as well as tartlets, pies, and every other type of sweets and bread (including gluten-free), while lunch has a more upscale menu with delectable soups (bouillabaisse), salads (poached lobster), sandwiches, and artisanal pizza. Dinner standouts are linguine del mare with lobster, shrimp, octopus, and clams, or tender grilled guava barbecue short ribs. 

Corner Of Hwy. 911, Potrero, Guanacaste, 50304, Costa Rica
Known For
  • tapas like fresh-from-the-sea tuna tiradito and sea-bass ceviche
  • rooftop cocktails
  • European-style patisserie breakfast noshes
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues.

The Beach House

$$

On the road connecting Potrero and Flamingo, this beachfront restaurant welcomes travelers with cheerful decor and witty signs like “Trespassers will be offered a shot.” Water laps just a few feet from your table, and there’s a pier out back, making this a popular lunch spot for American classics like hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, BLTs, and fried shrimp. The tasty sangrias and margaritas are sure to keep you dazed during sunset. If you hook it, they’ll cook it with a side of fries for $10. Like many restaurants in Costa Rica, service is slow, but worth the wait. Kids eat free on Wednesday. The Beach House is easy to spot by the rainbow-color picket fence; parking is limited so prepare to walk.

800 meters (2,624 feet) north of Banco Nacional, Potrero, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
2654–6203
Known For
  • onion ring tower
  • breathtaking sunsets
  • volcano dessert to share

Recommended Fodor's Video

The Shack

$$

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.