In short: Junquillal is a base for world-class surfing (the Playa Negra wave, 10 minutes away), leatherback turtle nesting (July–December), kayaking in Estero de Venado, coastal horseback rides and Chorotega markets in Santa Cruz. This guide is written by Luca Rey, the local concierge — no commissions, no advertising.
Luca Rey has lived in Junquillal since he was ten years old and, as Odisea's on-site concierge, has coordinated more than two hundred excursions for the estate's guests over the past four years. The recommendations below are his own — no advertising, no commissions, no references to services he hasn't tried himself.
Where can you surf near Junquillal?
Ten minutes from the estate is Playa Negra, one of the most famous waves in the world. It's our best card: a rock-bottom right-hander that breaks for intermediate and advanced surfers, depending on the day. If you're coming to surf seriously, come for this.
For beginners, the best option is Playa Avellanas, in front of Lola's — small waves and a sandy bottom, perfect for starting out. December through April brings the most consistent swell, though September and October can surprise you.
I work with local instructors for beginners, and with local surf guides for more advanced surfers looking for the best peak of the day. I coordinate with them directly.
When can you see sea turtles?
Leatherback nesting season runs from July to December. Night outings are coordinated with TAMAR (Asociación ANAI / TAMAR), which manages the beach counts. Groups are capped at 8 people to minimize impact. A heads-up: there aren't always turtles — this is nature, not a show. But when there are, it's one of the most striking experiences in Costa Rica.
Where can you go sea kayaking?
The spot is Estero de Venado: calm water, mangroves and birds at sunrise. Kayaks are rented right there, so there's no gear to haul. It's the ideal outing for a quiet morning before the sun gets strong.
What's the sport fishing like?
The Pacific off Junquillal is good for snapper, sea bass and — in season, May to November — mahi-mahi and wahoo. I work with trusted local captains for half-day or full-day trips. Book at least 48 hours in advance.
Are there horseback rides? Are they good for kids?
Yes. The route between Playa Venado, Playa Junquillal and Playa Blanca is one of the most beautiful in Guanacaste — just the beach and the forest that lines it. The ranch is 7 minutes from the estate. Minimum age: 4–5 years, so it's great for families.
Are there hiking trails?
There are no formal trails right here, but you can walk for miles along the beach, north and south — kilometers of nearly empty coast. For mountain hikes, the best and closest are around Liberia.
What's there to do in Santa Cruz on a rainy day?
The town of Santa Cruz (25 min) has the best market in Guanacaste for fruit, cheeses and corn tortillas. The Santa Cruz Artisans' Association makes the region's finest Chorotega ceramics — sold at the market, not in souvenir shops.
For something more in-depth, the Guanacaste Archaeological Museum (Liberia, 1h20) holds pre-Columbian pieces from the Chorotega region that put this whole coast in context.
How do you arrange activities?
For anything, message me before you arrive — the earlier the better. Nothing is arranged same-day. Half-day and full-day excursions need several days' notice, and turtle sightings need at least a week.
The goal is that you arrive with the program already set, so you don't have to think about logistics during your stay. That's what we're here for — Gaby, online concierge, and me, your on-site host.
— Luca, on-site concierge, Odisea Villa Domain
Where to stay in Junquillal
This guide comes from the estate Luca runs day to day: Villa Diosa del Mar and Villa Hermes, two architectural beachfront villas in Playa Junquillal.
- Villa Hermes — architectural beachfront villa →
- Villa Diosa del Mar — beachfront art retreat →
- For groups, weddings and retreats: experience both villas as Odisea Retreats →
- Ready to book? Talk to a concierge →
Frequently asked questions
Where's the best wave to surf near Junquillal?
The most famous wave in the area is Playa Negra, about 10 minutes from Junquillal — a rock-bottom right-hander for intermediate and advanced surfers. For beginners, the best spot is Playa Avellanas, in front of Lola's, with small waves and a sandy bottom.
When is turtle season in Junquillal?
Leatherback turtle nesting runs from July to December. Night outings are coordinated with TAMAR in groups of no more than 8 people. Sightings aren't guaranteed: this is nature, not a staged show.
What activities are there for kids in Junquillal?
Coastal horseback rides take children from age 4–5, and kayaking in Estero de Venado is a calm, family-friendly outing. Long beach walks also work very well with kids.
How far in advance should activities be booked?
The earlier the better — nothing is arranged same-day. Half-day and full-day excursions are booked several days ahead, and turtle sightings need at least a week's notice.
How far is Junquillal from the airport?
Liberia international airport (LIR) is about 1 hour 20 minutes by car from Playa Junquillal.
