As summer warmth begins to ebb, Labor Day weekend rolls around, and September ushers in the first autumnal blusters, our thoughts naturally drift toward the holiday season: Cozy traditions. Gift giving. The joys of family. And everything else you’re looking forward to… only this year, could that include welcoming New Year in paradise, at one of our luxury vacation rentals in Guanacaste, Costa Rica?
The end of the year is a time for reflection, celebration, and, for so many of us, a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. And while we often do just that in the comfort of our homes, with Jack Frost climbing the windows and snow shovels propped outside the door, it doesn’t have to be that way: If you’re dreaming of trading the chill of winter for the warmth of a tropical paradise, then Costa Rica bids you a feliz año nuevo (“happy New Year!”), in advance!
But here’s the catch: If you’re dreaming of luxury Costa Rica vacations during the holidays, then the time to book is now. Yesterday, even.
While it may seem early to start planning your New Year’s getaway, September is already pushing the limit when it comes to availability in Costa Rica, especially here in Tamarindo, a popular destination. The truth is that Costa Rica is never more sought than during the holiday season, and many vacation homes, hotels, and other accommodations are often booked well in advance – and by that, we mean a year or more in advance.
In addition to availability, here’s why booking early – this weekend, even! – is essential, along with tips on how to make the most of your planning time.
One of the greatest advantages of booking your New Year’s vacation early is the luxury of time.
Instead of rushing to make decisions at the last minute, you have the opportunity to thoroughly research and compare different destinations, accommodations, tours, and activities within Costa Rica. Whether you’re drawn to the lively atmosphere of Tamarindo, the pristine shores of Playa Langosta, or the cultural charms and luxurious amenities of Hacienda Pinilla, early planning allows you to explore all your options.
Each beach town and community offers a flavor of its own – from the surf-friendly beaches of Playa Grande to the gentle waves around Playa Flamingo. By taking your time to research, you can find the perfect spot that aligns with your vacation goals, whether that’s adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both. You’ll also have the chance to discover hidden gems – those lesser-known beaches, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and niche luxury vacation rentals in Guanacaste, Costa Rica that might not be on your radar if you were booking in a hurry.
The holiday season is meant to be a time of joy, not anxiety. Yet, all too often, last-minute travel planning can turn what should be a fun experience into a stressful ordeal. Flights get booked up (and can triple in price!), accommodations grow scarce, and the pressure of finding something suitable can overshadow the excitement of your upcoming trip.
By booking your New Year’s vacation in Costa Rica now, you can eliminate the stress that comes with last-minute planning. Instead of scrambling to secure a flight or home, you can relax, knowing that everything is taken care of. This peace of mind allows you to focus on the fun bits of travel – like imagining yourself sipping a tropical drink on the beach or hiking through a lush rainforest.
One of the joys of travel is the ability to tailor your experience to your own preferences. When you book your New Year’s vacation early, you give yourself – and our uber-talented concierge, Cris!) ample time to plan and customize every aspect of your trip. From arranging transportation to booking excursions, securing a private chef, and reserving in-villa spa services, early planning allows you to create a personalized itinerary that suits your dreams.
Imagine starting your New Year’s Day with a sunrise yoga session on your pool terrace of the beach, followed by a private catamaran tour where you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Or perhaps you’d prefer exploring Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity with a guided hike through the dry forest, spotting exotic wildlife along the way. With more time to research, whittle down, and plan, you can ensure that your vacation reflects the activities and experiences that matter most to you.
Additionally, early planning gives you the opportunity to take advantage of special offers and discountsthat may not be available closer to your travel date. Whether it’s a special add-on at your luxury villa or a group rate on a guided tour, booking early can help you save money while still enjoying the best that Costa Rica has to offer.
There’s something magical about starting the New Year with your toes in the sand, not your shovel in the snow…
The sound of the waves, your legs dangling in the pool, and the warmth of the sun on your skin create an atmosphere of relaxation and renewal. Here, you can leave behind the cold winter weather and immerse yourself in a paradise where the pace of life slows down, your enjoyment ramps up, and the natural beauty takes center stage.
By booking New Year’s in Costa Rica now, you’re set the stage for a stress-free start to the year. (Imagine that!) Whether you’re watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean, exploring our night market, or simply lounging by the pool, your New Year’s celebration will be one of relaxation, joy, and pura vida. And as they say, you should always start the year the way you’d like to end it…
The Tamarindo area is a top destination for holiday travelers, and for good reason. With our stunning natural beauty, welcoming culture, and year-round warm weather, it’s no wonder that people from around the world flock to our sandy piece of paradise to ring in the New Year. The flip side of this, though, is that Tamarindo’s popularity means that accommodations are in high demand – and they book up quickly.
In fact, some of the most desirable homes, condos, and villas are reserved a year or more in advance. From luxury beachfront villas to charming jungle bungalows, prime views, perfect locations, and top-of-the-line amenities are often the first to go. By waiting too long to book, you risk missing out on the kind of incredible accommodations that your luxury Costa Rica vacations truly deserve.
To help you get started, we’ve highlighted a few of our top luxury vacation rentals in Guanacaste, Costa Ricathat still have availability for New Year’s, but they’re sure to book up quickly. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly condo with ocean views or a romantic retreat amidst nature, these properties offer the perfect setting to ring in new beginnings.
Please note, these homes are currently available (as of publication) but won’t be for long! If you find your favorite has booked up, please get in touch to inquire about any remaining NYE availability. We look forward to welcoming you!
Tamarindo | 5 bedrooms | 5 baths | 14 guests
Discover the captivating allure of Casa Lucy, where panoramic ocean views greet you at nearly every corner, inviting you to pause and immerse yourself in the vastness of the horizon. The wide expanse stretches endlessly, urging you to lose yourself in its splendor.
But Casa Lucy offers more than just picturesque views. It’s a sanctuary of unparalleled indulgence. From a state-of-the-art fitness garage and a serene infinity pool to a private cinema and verdant gardens, Casa Lucy embodies relaxation and is the epitome of holiday euphoria. As part of our elite service tier, Casa Lucy promises an exceptionally luxurious experience throughout your stay.
Indoors, find solace in the deep soaking bathtub and elevate your evenings with immersive movie nights in the home theater. When the moment calls, step into your sheltered outdoor living space, perfect for enjoying sunsets by your private pool. What’s more, Casa Lucy is part of our elite services tier, ensuring a truly premium experience throughout your stay.
Playa Langosta | 8 bedrooms | 6 baths | 18 guests
Designed as the ideal retreat venue – the amenities of a boutique hotel and the expectations of a warm, private home – Villa Estrella Azul is both expansive and intimate, at once luxurious and cozy.
Named for its blue-and-sun-bleached beach palette, the "Blue Star Villa" serves as a welcoming beacon, even amidst the incredible smorgasbord of luxury vacation rentals in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Here, no comfort is spared, no amenity is overlooked.
Wrap yourselves in the indulgence of a beach-adjacent location (just a two-minute walk to the beach!) and the luxury of fine amenities, including a custom infinity pool, gourmet-ready chef's kitchen, brick pizza oven, and expansive outdoor living: pergola, verandas, and a private yoga pavilion. And then, there's the catered daily breakfast, rooftop terrace, and eight spacious rooms to house your vacation dreams.
Playa Grande | 5 bedrooms | 5 baths | 12 guests
Envision experiencing Spring Break amidst the tranquility of a wildlife sanctuary. This fantasy becomes a reality at Villa Brisa del Mar, an exclusive New Year’s retreat that serves as your private nature reserveadjacent to a national park and one of the globe's crucial turtle nesting grounds. Dreams truly do come true!
Secluded at the edge of the beach, Villa Brisa del Mar, meaning "Sea Breeze Villa," combines a private pool with the potential for turtle sightings. Its ocean-view patio allows you to witness pelicans, gulls, and other seabirds in their graceful flight. Take a moment with a refreshing drink in hand and simply bask in the unique beauty of this locale – an incomparable slice of life and a window into a distinctive world. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary experience of a nature-centric holiday in Costa Rica.
Being one of the original beach bungalows in the area, Villa Brisa del Mar, now tastefully updated, seamlessly blends the charms of old Costa Rica with contemporary aesthetics. Revel in a chef-ready kitchen, a spectacular master suite, and recently redesigned interiors, all complemented by breathtaking views and iguanas as your friendly neighbors.
Tamarindo | 8 Bedrooms | 8 Baths + 1 Half Bath | Sleeps 20
A crown jewel of Costa Rica retreat venues, Casa Puros Dieces – “pure tens” or more figuratively, “straight 10s” or a “perfect 10”! – sits at the literal height of tropical indulgence. This eco-friendly, Balinese-style property creates the perfect ambiance for any retreat, with immaculate tropical gardens, a koi pond, and stunning ocean views from almost every corner.
The perfect balance of private wonderland and hidden retreat, this luxury home is just a few minutes to downtown’s dining, activities, and shopping, while perched on a breezy bluff that puts you a world away from the touristed hustle and bustle. Taking advantage of its hilltop, Casa Puros Dieces is designed for natural ventilation and invites you to fling open the windows and bask in the ocean breeze.
In addition to an ocean-view infinity pool jacuzzi, rooftop terrace, and expansive decking, the home is incredibly spacious, offering plenty of space for your activities and guests. And because it’s not a retreat without a few luxuries, this tropical villa includes daily breakfast prep (excluding Sundays and holidays): fresh fruits and juices, traditional gallo pinto, eggs, and other breakfast favorites.
If you’re in town for New Year’s, you’ll be happy to learn that Costa Rica’s holiday season is a vibrant symphony of color, lights, fireworks, and festive feasts that stretches well beyond December 25th.
New Year’s Eve 2024 and New Year’s Day 2025 fall mid-week this year, so depending on your arrival day, you’ll have the opportunity to explore, enjoy, and experience this magical time. We promise – you’re in for a treat as the celebrations continue, weaving joy and excitement into the very fabric of the new year!
December 26: El Tope
Experience the exhilarating energy of Costa Rica’s famous horse parades, which crescendo with the Tope Nacional on December 26th. Riders and their majestic horses converge in San Jose (you can also watch on TV), showcasing their skills in a breathtaking display of rhythmic choreography. This is a spectacle of tradition and artistry you won’t want to miss!
December 26 - January 1: Beach Vacations
The week between Christmas and New Year’s is cherished in Costa Rica as a time for sun-soaked relaxation. With many enjoying paid time off, it’s the perfect opportunity to escape to the beach, where the celebration spills onto the golden sands. Here in Tamarindo, our lively atmosphere becomes a hub of festive energy.
December 31: New Year’s Eve
As the year winds down, Costa Ricans embrace New Year’s Eve with a heartwarming blend of tradition and modern festivity. Families gather for a feast, often featuring the classic pierna de cerdo (pork roast), and as the clock strikes midnight, the skies light up with fireworks, echoing the joy of new beginnings.
In Tamarindo, the celebrations extend into the night with beach parties, live music, fire dancing, fireworks, and champagne toasts. Whether you’re dancing at a club or watching fireworks on the beach, Tamarindo offers a New Year’s Eve to remember.
January 6 & 7: Epiphany
The holiday season in Costa Rica doesn’t conclude until the rezo del Niño (prayer to the Christ child), a cherished tradition marking the end of Christmas. Following Epiphany, which commemorates the three wise men’s visit, Costa Rican families come together to pray, share delicious treats, and bid farewell to their elaborate nativity scenes. It’s a time of reflection, community, and celebration – the perfect conclusion to a season of joy.
This year, immerse yourself in the warmth and wonder of Costa Rica’s holiday and New Year’s traditions. From festive parades to beachside revelry, there’s no better place to celebrate the magic of the season.
While it may seem like September is too early to start thinking about your New Year’s plans, it’s actually the perfect time to reserve your dream vacation in Costa Rica. With top accommodations still available but booking up quickly, this is your moment!
Luckily, At Stay in Tamarindo, we really are different. We really do care about you. We really will go the extra mile. And New Year’s dreams are our specialty.
We’re going to work hard for you. We’re going to follow up with you. And we’re going to do everything we can, to ensure that this is not just your Best Vacation Ever, but also Everything You Want It to Be.
Because that is what we mean, when we talk about our quality of service: We want to transform the way you travel and celebrate. We want to deliver the best everything you’ve ever experienced – including the best value. And we want you to go home completely fulfilled, whether you came to relax for a week straight or have packed your days full of every adrenaline-soaked, high-adventure activity you could fit in.
So go ahead, give us a try. Embrace the experience. Live your best life. And now, ask us to help you plan unforgettable Costa Rica holidays and traditions. It all starts with getting in touch with our concierge!