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What Makes Playa Herradura, Costa Rica Different From its Neighbors

Costa Rica is the land many associate with delicious coffee, friendly people, and a dense, healthy rainforest.  But it’s also now home to a large number of North American expats.  Why, you might ask, is Costa Rica such a draw for expats?

There are so many answers to that question: unparalleled natural beauty, fresh and healthy food, a low cost of living, wonderful people.  And you can find it all in Playa Herradura, Costa Rica.

playa herradura

In Costa Rica

A Little More Than Local

Playa Herradura, Costa Rica sits on the Pacific Coast of this Central American nation. It’s officially known as the “Fishing Capital of Costa Rica” and, as a result, it has a bit of a tourist infrastructure built into the city.  Located next to the popular Jaco Beach, it’s also only an hour away from San Jose International Airport.  As such, many people have bought homes here and now call it their hometown.

The area was once just a locals beach on the Costanera Sur, but since the Los Sueños Marina opened, with over 1,100 acres, 200 slip marina, 600-acre rainforest, and golf course, it’s been “on the map” for many vacationers and retirees.  That doesn’t mean you have to live the posh resort life, however. There are many options with every budget in mind in the Playa Herradura, Costa Rica area that make sense for those seeking a new life.

playa herradura

Rolando Vargas

Why Playa Herradura?

But, why should you consider buying real estate in Playa Herradura?  Well, who wouldn’t want to live in a place called The Gold Coast?  The area has seen a lot of property development in recent years.  It’s no longer the sleepy fishing town it once was.  That’s not a bad thing, though!  You’ll find plenty of friendly people willing to help make your move a little easier.  There are plenty of recreational activities, like the aforementioned fishing, but there’s also jungle hiking and golf to keep you busy.

Playa Herradura does have a quiet side, though.  Visitors have a selection of only a few hotels, with the one standout being the Los Sueños Marriott resort.  It’s not the most touristy of the beaches around. Jaco takes that crown.  As a result, it’s perfect for full-time expats in Costa Rica – devoid of the constant beach noise that comes along with living in a popular beach town.

This is possibly the best advantage of Playa Herradura.  You’re close enough to all the fun and excitement of Jaco Beach, but far enough away to get some much needed R&R.  The more upscale resorts are located near Playa Herradura, so you do have a little bit of tourist infrastructure, but not in the form of the new casino resort that was recently built nearby.

Prices for homes are all over the map.  Obviously you’ll pay more for the more furnished and built-out properties in the area.  A few acres of virgin land with ocean views can be had for $200,000-$300,000.  If you want something pre-built, smaller properties including condos can run as low as $100,000.  Again, personal preference will dictate much of the price here.

Beating the Heat Won’t Make You Lose Your Cool

One of the first things you’ll notice about living in Playa Herradura are the pleasantly low prices.  You can enjoy the local beer, a Bavaria Negra, for $2, or a fruit smoothie (blackberry, pineapple, or papaya) for $1.50.  Tacos and fish can run between $5-$10 a plate (sourced right off the boat and some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat).

Utility bills obviously depend on your usage, but many reports in the area say that bills can be kept under $100 a month.  Regarding electricity, the biggest expense will be your air conditioning and washer/dryer.  If you buy or build a home with good access to ocean breezes, air conditioning might not be a necessity over time, as your body naturally adjusts to the heat and the humidity of the tropics.  Collecting rain water in a cistern and air drying your clothes are two common ways to cut utility costs.

playa herradura

Geoff Sowrey

How You’ll Spend Your Days in Playa Herradura, Costa Rica

The area was first, and still is, popular because of its sport fishing.  That’s why the Los Sueños Marina exists today.  If you’re an expat who’s drawn by the call of the sea, you can host a boat in the “5-star” marina (government sanctioned).  Boats from 30 to 180 feet in length can be accommodated, and you can also store your vessel on dry-dock.

There’s also plenty of shopping to be done in Playa Herradura.  If you’re looking to source some unique pieces for your new home, you’ll find many shops that sell local Central and South American art.  And, of course, there’s always the beach. The nicest ones are located just north at Punta Leona, which is just a few kilometers away. There is a resort nearby, but since it’s illegal to restrict beach access in Costa Rica, don’t let that deter you.  The conditions in the area are perfect for swimming, bodysurfing, and boogie boarding.

The Transition Is [Mostly] an Easy One

So, does Costa Rica sound like a place that is calling your name?  Playa Herradura welcomes a form of living that’s definitely a lot different than what you’re used to back at home.  However, like any other place, it isn’t without its areas that could use some improvement.  The costs are lower, sure, but with that comes the occasional headaches over logistical issues like getting mail, internet, and other basic needs.

Luckily, due to the increasing popularity of Playa Herradura among expats, many of the details have been already fussed over by the “pioneers.” As a result, assimilating into Playa Herradura can be a more than manageable task.  Take a look at what is offered in Playa Herradura, and make an educated decision for your family as to whether it’s the right spot for you!

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