Welcome 👋

Diving in Playa Flamingo is really special for us. It’s not where our passion for scuba diving started, but it’s the place that fueled our desire to keep diving as much as possible. The idea for Good Vibes Dive Crew was created from experiencing the positive energy of the dive community that we’ve been fortunate enough to get to know so well.

We have a condo in Playa Flamingo and visit the area often, and every trip offers something new and exciting beneath the surface. The waters here are home to some of Costa Rica’s best diving, with the Las Catalinas Islands stealing the show. Whether it’s watching eagle rays glide by or catching sight of an unworldly octopus, there’s always something magical happening underwater.

This guide will highlight some of the best places to dive in Playa Flamingo, our favorite shops, and some travel tips that will help along the way. Let’s dive in. 👌👎🤙

Best Time to Dive Playa Flamingo

The Guanacaste region has two distinct seasons. November to April is generally considered the dry season, with little rain beginning in December. Then, the “Green Season” rains begin in late May and carry through the summer months until the pattern starts over again. 

After 30+ combined dives in Playa Flamingo, we can honestly say that the entire year can offer optimal conditions. Our favorite dives have been in October when the conditions should be less than stellar. Conditions were clear, water was warm, and we’re excited to get back in a few months. 

Our advice? Go dive any time you can!

Getting to Playa Flamingo

From Liberia Airport

Playa Flamingo is between 50-80 minutes driving from the Liberia International Airport (LIR)depending on the route. Taxis are normally available but we encourage renting a car. While the main highways are paved, dirt roads are a norm in Costa Rica. A 4×4 (or all-wheel drive) rental is recommended in the green season and extremely helpful in navigating the occasional washed out areas. Waze / Google Maps are the preferred navigation apps but don’t follow them blindly and check your routes first. I always bring a small wireless battery pack like this to make sure my phone stays charged when using navigation apps.

Primary Route – Highway 21 to 155 to 180
80-90 Minutes in average traffic
This is the primary route into Playa Flamingo and surrounding areas. It’s three turns on three highways, and you roll right into the Flamingo Marina.
View route here

Secondary Route – Highway 21 to 151 to 911
50-60 Minutes in average traffic
This alternate route is called The Monkey Trail, and only available in the dry season, normally December-May. It crosses over a river, which makes it impassable in the Green Season. There’s a nearby private bridge to cross the river that may be open to use for around $10, but it’s only open from around 8am-5pm and not guaranteed.
View route here

From Everywhere Else

Flying into San Jose International Airport (SJO) only makes sense if you’re going to visit other areas on the way to Playa Flamingo, like La Fortuna or Manuel Antonio. Use the right navigation app and you should be good. We’ve been told by all rental car employees that Waze is the best navigation app for driving in Costa Rica. We’ve had good experience with Waze, but Google Maps has always worked well too. Apple Maps doesn’t navigate in Costa Rica, so be prepared with a different app if that’s your usual go-to.

Favorite Dive Shops

Pacific Coast Dive Center

Located just minutes from the heart of Playa Flamingo, Pacific Coast Dive Center is our go-to for a top-tier dive experience. We’ve dived with them many times, and they consistently deliver a great mix of professionalism and fun. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned diver, the team ensures you’re well-prepared and comfortable. Their knowledge of the local dive sites, especially Las Catalinas, is unmatched, and they always know where to find the best marine life. Plus, their dedication to safety and conservation makes every dive feel both thrilling and responsible.

Under The Sea Diving

If you’re looking for a more intimate, personalized dive experience, Under the Sea Diving is a fantastic option. This smaller operation is known for its friendly, laid-back vibe and focus on individual attention. The owner, Aaron, is great at customizing dives to suit your skill level and interests. We’ve enjoyed the experience of diving with him, and his passion for marine life really shines through. His local knowledge is impressive, and he often take you to lesser-known spots where you can encounter Costa Rica’s underwater treasures without the crowds.

Notable Dive Sites

Las Catalinas Islands

So, this is the spot. If you’re diving in Playa Flamingo, it will likely be at the Las Catalinas Islands and some surrounding islands like Brumel. The Las Catalinas Islands are well known for seeing the Pacific Giant Manta Rays. More frequent visitors include Spotted Eagle Rays, White-tipped Reef Sharks, Puffer Fish, and schools of tropical fish. 

Playas Del Coco

The diving in Playas del Coco is accessible if you’re staying in Playa Flamingo, but it’s not as convenient as going with a local dive shop in Flamingo. We’ve made the early morning trip a few times, but it may be easier to stay in Coco if you’re planning on diving there frequently. We have a whole separate post on Playas del Coco that you can find here. 

Shore Diving

Shore diving in this region isn’t very popular due to the amazing dive sites off the coast. However, there are still a few smaller operators that will work with you if conditions permit. Under The Sea Diving is one shop to try if you’re interested in shore diving in Playa Flamingo and the surrounding areas.

Travel Tips

• Bring your non-diving friends – Pacific Coast Dive Center offers discounted tours for snorkeling and people who want to ride along.
• Book tours early – This helpful year-round, but highly suggested in the peak season from December through April.
• Check diver minimums – Many tour operators have minimum diver requirements for going out. Smaller operators

Conclusion

We’re Cody and Anna, a couple of ocean-loving divers on a mission to bring fun, inspiration, and a splash of good vibes to the scuba community. Good Vibes Dive Crew is our space to share epic underwater adventures, dive shop discoveries, favorite gear, and hidden dive gems across the globe. We’re here to connect with fellow adventurers who live for that next dive, salty stories, and good company—whether you’re brand new to scuba or a seasoned pro.