Have you ever heard of Esterillos? Probably you have not. I’d like to extend an open invitation to all to come and visit us in Esterillos, the hidden gem of the Central Pacific.
The Central Pacific region of Costa Rica is one of the most visited and popular areas in Costa Rica, but unfortunately many people fail to explore areas other than Jaco Beach and the Los Suenos Resort. While Jaco is clearly the hub of the Central Pacific and the primary focus of the regions marketing, there are some areas in the Central Pacific off the beaten path that remain somewhat undiscovered.
One of those areas is Esterillos. Esterillos is a quick 20 minute drive south of Jaco and features some of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Its lighter, soft sands and long beach lines are often deserted, providing the feeling that travelers are left to themselves on their own private beach.
Esterillos beach is often deserted
Village Vibe
Esterillos is very attractive. With no large resorts, no paved roads, and no big anchor hotels, the area provides more of the traditional Costa Rica village vibe that many travelers still seek. Esterillos beach is divided into three areas, Esterillos Oeste (West), Esterillos Centro (Center) and Esterillos Este (East), each area having a slightly different feel.
Fishing & surfing
While there is no shortage of fishing and surfing in the Central Pacific, Esterillos is no exception. Consistent waves and less crowded beaches make it a favorite spot for diehard surfers, in fact the The World Surf League (WSL), the sport’s international sanctioning body, will hold the Costa Rica Pro men’s and women’s qualifying series event from Oct. 5-9 at Esterillos Este.
Fishermen also love Esterillos for the in-shore fishing that is available. Panga boats and crew are available at a fraction of the cost of the charters out of the Los Suenos marina. Red snapper, snook, sea bass, mackerel, tuna, and barracuda are all commonly caught. Happy fishermen often take their caught fish to one of the local restaurants where they are happy to prepare and cook for them.
Enjoy horseback riding in Esterillos
Other activities in Esterillos
Esterillos is perfect for active retirement or for those who love to have a vacation home in an area with plenty of activities. With its long stretches of beach, the area is also very popular for horseback rides along the beach, while the mountains to the East make for some excellent hiking, biking and ATV trails. Esterillos is still plenty close to all of the local tour activities. Canopy tours, monkey tours, waterfall rappelling, rafting are all nearby.
Food in Esterillos
And let’s not forget that any hidden gem can’t truly be a gem without having some great local food. One of my favorite restaurants in the area is located Esterillos Oeste. Los Almendros features an authentic Costa Rican Caribbean cuisine and fresh local seafood. Truthfully I love everything on the menu, but their Carribbean stew chicken and spicy plantains are probably my top recommendations.
Head a little farther south to Esterillos Este and you’ll find a couple more great restaurants right on the beach. The Pavillion, located in the Alma de Pacifico Hotel is a beautiful beachfront setting with excellent food, while the neighboring Pelicano is great for dining or grabbing a couple beers and watching the sunset right on the sand.
Fishing is really great from Esterillos
Are you convinced yet? Spend a little time in Esterillos and I’ll think you’ll agree that it is truly a hidden gem.