Relocating to Costa Rica is not simply about arriving. It is about settling into a new rhythm of life shaped by nature, community, and thoughtful choices. For families and individuals drawn to Guanacaste, the transition often centers around Playa Flamingo and its neighboring coastal communities, where white sand beaches, a modern marina, and access to international schools support a balanced lifestyle. With the right guidance, the early months become a period of clarity rather than uncertainty. This guide outlines what comes next after the move, helping you establish routines, choose the right community, and build a confident foundation for long term living.
Table of Contents
- Your First 90 Days Living in Costa Rica
- Choosing the Right Guanacaste Community
- Everyday Essentials for Coastal Living
- Work, Investment, and Financial Planning
- Common Questions About Living in Costa Rica
1. Your First 90 Days Living in Costa Rica
The first three months shape how settled and supported your new life will feel. This period is about observation, organization, and informed decision making, especially for those living along Guanacaste’s coastline near Playa Flamingo, Potrero, or Tamarindo.
A practical first 90 day checklist
Use this step by step process to move from arrival to confidence:
- Confirm a temporary home
Begin with a comfortable rental in your preferred area such as Playa Flamingo, Potrero, Surfside, or Tamarindo. Renting first allows you to experience daily life before committing to a purchase. - Meet a local real estate advisor
A conversation with a trusted Guanacaste based advisor helps clarify timelines, lifestyle goals, and budget. This guidance is especially helpful when comparing micro markets. - Engage an independent Costa Rican attorney
Even before buying, an attorney can explain immigration pathways, property ownership structures, and local legal norms. Foreigners may own titled property with the same rights as Costa Rican citizens. - Organize essential documents
Keep passports, birth certificates, marriage records, and corporate documents scanned and securely stored for residency, banking, and school enrollment. - Understand residency options
Costa Rica offers several residency categories with specific financial and legal requirements. Confirming the latest detail with an immigration attorney ensures accurate planning. - Establish healthcare access
Learn how the public healthcare system operates through the Caja and identify nearby private clinics. Many residents use a combination of both. - Explore schools if you have children
Touring international and bilingual schools early helps narrow community choices and daily logistics. - Open a local banking relationship
A local account simplifies utilities, property transactions, and everyday payments. - Build a social network
Community groups, language classes, and sports clubs provide support and local insight. - Take short scouting trips
Visiting neighboring communities at different times of day reveals how each area truly feels.
2. Choosing the Right Guanacaste Community
Guanacaste offers a range of coastal lifestyles, each with distinct advantages. Playa Flamingo is widely recognized for its white sand beach and modern marina, while nearby areas offer quieter or more elevated settings.
Core communities to consider
Below is a high level comparison to help frame your decision:
Playa Flamingo
- Calm bay and white sand shoreline
- Flamingo Marina with boating and dining
- Walkable beach lifestyle
- Often ideal for families, boat owners, and luxury buyers
Potrero and Surfside
- Flat, walkable village layout
- Sheltered bay and strong local community
- Relaxed residential atmosphere
- Often ideal for full time residents seeking simplicity
Mar Vista
- Elevated setting above Flamingo
- Ocean views and consistent breezes
- Close to international schools
- Often ideal for families prioritizing education and security
Tamarindo
- Active town with surf culture
- Broad dining and service options
- Social and energetic environment
- Often ideal for those who prefer a lively setting
Other nearby areas such as Brasilito, Playa Conchal, and Las Catalinas offer additional lifestyle options, including resort style living and walkable design. Confirming the latest detail on amenities and access is recommended when evaluating each location.
3. Everyday Essentials for Coastal Living
Once you choose your community, daily life logistics become the priority. Guanacaste’s coastal corridor supports both full time residents and seasonal owners with growing infrastructure.
Healthcare options
Costa Rica’s healthcare system combines public and private services.
- Public coverage through the Caja provides broad access.
- Private clinics offer shorter wait times and flexibility.
- Many families combine both for balance and convenience.
Schools and family considerations
Education often guides where families settle. Guanacaste is home to respected international and bilingual schools serving coastal communities.
Common factors families consider:
- Commute time from home
- Language of instruction
- Academic continuity for international transitions
Living near Playa Flamingo, Mar Vista, or Brasilito often supports manageable school routines and after school activities.
Banking and payments
A simple approach to finances includes:
- Using home country accounts initially
- Opening a Costa Rican account with professional guidance
- Setting up online bill payments
- Planning transfers for property purchases
Transportation and mobility
Daily life blends walking, driving, and short trips. Many coastal towns are compact, while regional travel typically requires a vehicle. Learning local driving customs and routes takes time but becomes intuitive.
4. Work, Investment, and Financial Planning
Many new residents balance lifestyle goals with income and investment planning. Guanacaste supports retirees, remote professionals, and entrepreneurs alike.
Common income and investment paths
- Remote work for international employers
- Tourism and service based businesses
- Vacation rental ownership with professional management
- Long term residential investment
Foreign investment is welcome in Costa Rica. Titled property ownership is straightforward for foreigners, while concession properties require additional legal review.
Coordinating professional advice
A coordinated approach helps avoid surprises.
A simple three step framework
- Clarify lifestyle and financial goals
- Meet with a real estate advisor and attorney together
- Create a written plan for residency, property, and taxes
This structure allows flexibility as your life in Costa Rica evolves.
5. Common Questions About Living in Costa Rica
Is Costa Rica suitable for families?
Yes. Many families choose Guanacaste for its beaches, outdoor lifestyle, and access to international schools.
Where do expats commonly live?
Popular areas include Playa Flamingo, Potrero, Surfside, Mar Vista, and Tamarindo, each offering a distinct lifestyle.
Is Spanish required?
English is widely spoken in coastal areas, though learning Spanish enriches daily life and relationships.
How does healthcare work?
Most residents use a mix of public and private services depending on needs and timing.
Can foreigners own property?
Yes. Foreigners may own titled property with the same rights as Costa Rican citizens.
Should you rent before buying?
Many choose to rent first to experience daily life before purchasing.
What is daily life like?
Life is outdoors focused, community oriented, and family friendly.
How does professional support continue after purchase?
Local advisors often assist with schools, services, and community integration beyond closing.
