Huacas is a key crossroads in Guanacaste, linking popular beach towns like Tamarindo, Flamingo, and Playa Grande. Known for its authentic Costa Rican atmosphere, Huacas is a blend of local charm and expat convenience. The town offers all kinds of shops and services and provides easy access to the region’s beaches, medical facilities, and cultural activities.

Expats in Huacas appreciate the strong sense of community, with frequent local events that bring together both locals and newcomers. The presence of non profit organizations like CEPIA, which supports underprivileged communities, further fosters this communal spirit, making it easier for expats to get involved and give back.

Some more places to check out: A meeting point is the  Stop Café with yummy treats, coffees and lunches.  Vida Bowls Food Truck offers delicious bowls and smoothies, my favorite is the unicorn bowl. A new addition is  Tamarocks, a rockclimbing place for kids and adults to enjoy offering different classes and events. All your house supplies, furniture, decoration for indoors and outdoors can be find at Casa y Más. Huacas is home to the top 2 clinic hospitals in our area:  Beachside Clinic and Hospital Metropolitano – Sede Huacas.  They both offer 24 hour care with onsite medical doctors, x-rays, laboratory, pharmacies, and monthly visits of specialist doctors such as pediatricians, gynecologists, psychiatrists, and more.

Real estate in Huacas is diverse, catering to different lifestyles. From traditional Costa Rican homes to more modern condos, there are options for every preference and budget. Many properties offer proximity to the beach while maintaining affordability compared to the more tourist-centric areas nearby. Whether you’re looking for a place to integrate into the local culture or seeking a quieter residential experience, Huacas has something to offer. Communities to check are La Garita Nueva/Vieja and La Josefina, The Oaks Condos with resort-style amenities and El Sandal.

Matapalo, located just a short drive from Huacas, is ideal for those seeking a deeper connection with nature. The area is surrounded by lush landscapes, with an abundance of wildlife and scenic views. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities like birdwatching, hiking, and horseback riding being popular among residents.

The community in Matapalo is tight-knit, with a shared appreciation for the environment and a quieter lifestyle. This makes it a perfect choice for expats who value privacy and a slower pace, while still being within reach of more developed areas.

Matapalo’s real estate primarily features larger properties with spacious homes and estates, often with stunning views of the mountains and forests. Communities like Cabo Velas and Colinas del Golf offer condo living with access to outdoor activities, including close proximity to some of the area’s most beautiful beaches like Playa Conchal and Playa Minas. The real estate market here is ideal for those who want to be surrounded by nature without sacrificing modern comforts.

Both Huacas and Matapalo offer distinct experiences for expats looking to settle in Costa Rica. Huacas provides a blend of local culture with the convenience of shops and modern amenities, making it easier to integrate into the community. Matapalo, on the other hand, offers a more secluded and nature-oriented lifestyle, perfect for those who wish to retreat from the busyness of everyday life.

Whether you prefer the communal and accessible environment of Huacas or the tranquil, nature-focused setting of Matapalo, both towns offer unique opportunities for a fulfilling life in Costa Rica. With diverse real estate options and vibrant communities, they cater to a range of preferences, allowing you to truly experience the Pura Vida lifestyle. Contact me to help you find your ideal property!