Browsing for your future home in Costa Rica can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming: Even if you know you’re interested in gated communities in Playas del Coco – and we’re assuming that’s true, since you’re here! – there is so much on offer and so many considerations, it can be hard to arrive at any conclusion. 

To help with your research, we’ve pulled together this overview of 10 gated communities in Playas del Coco, Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste), and Playa Panama (Papagayo Peninsula). (Looking further south? Check out our guide to gated communities in Tamarindo.) 

On our list, you’ll find both gated communities and gated resort communities. The difference? Gated communities offer amenities like a 24/7 guarded entrance gate and master-planned neighborhoods, while resort communities add on exclusive amenities like oceanfront Beach Clubs and beachfront swimming pools, championship golf courses and in-community restaurants. What they have in common: They all offer a distinct sense of place, a welcoming ambiance, and access to some of the most beautiful land and views in Costa Rica.

And so, without further ado, the gated communities of Guanacaste (Playas del Coco edition), listed by area (south to north) and in alphabetical order:

Gated Communities in Playas del Coco:

Playas del Coco, often styled as Coco or Playa del Coco, is Guanacaste’s biggest beach town with some of the best amenities on the coast, from excellent dining to proximity to the airport.

Altos de Cacique Gated Community (Playas del Coco)

Prestigious Altos del Cacique – the King’s Heights or Hill of the King, in Spanish – is an upscale gated community perched on the ridge that connects Playas del Coco and Playa Hermosa. Here, in one of the most scenic areas in the region, this community reveals Pacific Ocean panoramas, forested landscapes, views to the island-sprinkled bay, and spectacular sunsets.

You’ll have your choice of building lot or luxury home, both positioned on lots that range from about 500 m2 to 700 m2. The community is connected by paved roads, all lined with sidewalks and streetlamps (not a default, in Costa Rica). And, while it’s just minutes to downtown Playas del Coco and Playa Hermosa, Altos del Cacique is bordered by dense forest to not only ensure your privacy but grant you direct access to Costa Rica’s incredible flora and fauna.

Altos de Cacique Community Amenities:

  • 24/7 Gated Security
  • No HOA Fees
  • Underground utilities (to ensure unobstructed ocean and forest views)
  • Paved roads with sidewalks and streetlamps
  • Public transportation just outside the gate

>> Inquire About Altos de Cacique <<

Coco Bay Estates Gated Community (Playas del Coco)

A master-planned resort community, Coco Bay Estates invites to an array of upscale amenities and just-right lifestyle: private and exclusive, while still warm and welcoming. 

Here, every detail has been carefully planned, from the meticulously paved roads and underground utilities to the terracotta-tiled roofs and half-acre homesites angled to enjoy the best forest and ocean views. And then, there’s the spectacular oceanfront Beach Club, which offers an enormous tropical pool, complete with a waterfall, waterslide, swim-up bar, jumping wall, and sun-splashed terrace. 

Crave additional amenities? Coco Bay Estates delivers, with a plunge pool, children’s pool, lighted tennis courts, and fitness center. Book a class with the on-staff tennis pro or fitness trainer, or jump into a water aerobics class. This is true resort living, just minutes to downtown Coco’s supermarkets, shopping, dining, and nightlife. 

Coco Bay Community Amenities: 

  • 24/7 Gated Security
  • Private oceanfront Coco Bay Beach Club with infinity-edge waterfall pool, plunge pool, children’s pool 
  • Onsite restaurant Sugoi
  • Access to Ocotal Beach Club
  • Lighted tennis courts and full-time tennis pro
  • Fully-equipped fitness center
  • Playground
  • Underground utilities (to ensure unobstructed ocean and forest views)
  • Less than 5 minutes to shopping and dining

>> Inquire About Coco Bay << 

Ladera del Mar Gated Community (Playas del Coco)

Built on a scenic hillside, the prestigious gated community of Ladera del Mar – Spanish for Slope to the Sea or Ocean Hillside – sits 375 breezy feet above the Pacific: close to downtown Coco but just high enough for the kiss of ocean breezes, slightly cooler temperatures, and panoramic ocean views

Ladera del Mar unfolds over spacious 5,000 m2 (1.25-acre) homesites and luxury homes, many with dramatic views to the Pacific Ocean, tropical forest, the peninsula and curved bay, and dotted islands. Some even glimpse distant volcanoes. What you won’t see much of are your neighbors: With such large lots – an outlier and much-sought luxury in Costa Rica real estate – you’re afforded a great deal of privacy and tranquility. 

And yet,  you’re still just a short drive to downtown Coco’s conveniences: shopping and restaurants, banking and supermarkets. Just a minute or two more, and you’re at the beachfront. 

Ladera del Mar Community Amenities: 

  • 24/7 Gated Security
  • Welcome Center 
  • Exquisite tropical landscaping
  • Underground utilities (to ensure unobstructed ocean and forest views)
  • Proximity to nearby hiking trails, waterfalls, and forest
  • 5-minute drive to Playas del Coco
  • Public transportation just outside the gate

>> Inquire About Ladera del Mar <<

Pacifico Gated Community (Playas del Coco)

Pacifico gated community in Playas del Coco

For anyone who wants to live in the heart of it all – and by that, we mean minutes to downtown Playa del Coco – but without actually living in the hustle and bustle, the resort community of Pacifico is just the ticket. 

This quiet beach community welcomes you to a world both convenient and bucolic, at once central and yet, somehow, removed from it all. Enter through its gates, and find yourself surrounded by tropical gardens and meandering community pools, towering trees and meticulous landscaping – by a sense of peace, of paradise, of belonging. 

Community life at Pacifico is defined by you: Pacifico’s luxury condos and two-story townhomes unfold over Mediterranean-style buildings, designed both for expansive living and ample privacy between neighbors, thanks to mature landscaping. Units offer 1 to 4 bedrooms (with baths to match) and deliver high-end finishes.

In the market for your dream home? This resort community also offers exclusive homesites and, as the community matures, a handful of single-family homes on the market. These privileged lots and homes offer panoramic ocean views or rolling tropical vistas, with access to the community’s resort amenities (the paved roads are perfect for puttering around in a golf cart!), as well as a network of hiking trails that lead to a beautiful waterfall and picnic areas.

Pacifico Community Amenities: 

  • 24/7 Gated Security
  • Private Beach Club, including the Beach Club Bar and Restaurant
  • Four community pools with decks and loungers
  • Coming Soon: Recreation area with tennis courts and pickleball
  • Kid-pleasing pool (one of the four community pools), with water features
  • Jacuzzi
  • Access to hiking trails and picnic areas
  • Immediate proximity to the Village Shops, including an upscale supermarket and restaurants

>> Inquire About Pacifico <<

Sombras Gated Community (Playas del Coco)

A unique – and uniquely central – luxury condominium community, Sombras (Spanish for Shade or Shaded) was designed by renowned architect Ronald Zurcher

A study in having it all – privacy and security, luxury and convenience – Sombras offers 2- and 3-bedroom condos with pool views, upscale finishes, and picturesque terraces and balconies, outfitted with outdoor barbecue areas with a wet bar. 

As a community, Sombras delivers with mature tropical landscaping, 24/7 gated security, and two communities pools, ringed by pool decks, sun loungers, and shaded ranchos for gathering. Best of all, Sombras is literally steps to the beach and downtown Playas del Coco: just 150 meters to the beachfront and walking distance to restaurants, shopping, and more. 

Sombras Community Amenities: 

  •     24/7 Gated Security
  •     Two community pools with decks and loungers
  •     Owner’s only parking
  •     Golf cart charging stations
  •     Onsite maintenance and gardening staff

>> Inquire About Sombras <<

Gated Communities in Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste): 

Just north of Playas del Coco, Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste) – not to be confused with the Playa Hermosa of Puntarenas province, just south of Jacó – is a more understated, northern suburb of Playas del Coco. 

Hermosa del Mar Gated Community (Playas del Coco)

Hermosa del Mar gated community in Playa Hermosa Guanacaste

Designed by renowned Costa Rican architect Ronald Zurcher, Hermosa del Mar is an ocean-view gated condominium community that unfolds over three condo buildings, strategically located to downtown Playa Hermosa. 

Take your pick of 2- or 3-bedroom units, or the distinct penthouse condominiums, all built to high standards and with upscale finishes. Each residence promises private outdoor terraces – the penthouses add rooftop terraces with sundecks, hot tubs, outdoor showers, and bathrooms – and some deliver ocean views. 

As a community, Hermosa del Mar promises two community pools, including a recreational pool and a semi-Olympic lap pool, as well as a clubhouse, a state-of-the-art fitness center, assigned parking, and professional landscaping. These units are also fully handicap accessible, with elevators granting access to every level.

Hermosa del Mar Community Amenities:  

  • 24/7 Gated Security
  • Two community pools, including a lap pool
  • Air-conditioned gym
  • Handicap accessible community
  • Doorman and elevator
  • Private parking for each unit
  • Walking distance to Hermosa beach

>> Inquire About Hermosa del Mar <<

Monte Bello Gated Community (Playa Hermosa – Guanacaste)

Monte Bello gated community

The gated community of Monte Bello opens onto 50 scenic acres of Playa Hermosa landscapes and a beautifully designed community, complete with a conscientious Homeowner’s Association that incurs no additional fee. 

What you’ll love most about Monte Bello is its low-density layout: Home to just 42 estate-sized homesites, each about 2/3 of an acre, this community delivers open spaces and ample privacy you won’t find at many gated communities in Playas del Coco (and surrounds). What’s more, every lot offers Pacific Ocean views. A slice of paradise, all your own. 

All this, just minutes to downtown Playa Hermosa and soft Pacific-coast sands. Just minutes to nearby Hermosa Heights, which gathers together services (ATM, salon, etc.) and entertainment (a movie theater, the Sand Bar, and more). And just 10 minutes to Playas del Coco, where you can find almost anything you need for daily life. 

Monte Bello Community Amenities:  

  • 24/7 Gated Security
  • Large 2/3-acre homesites
  • Homeowner’s Association with no fees
  • Underground utilities (to ensure unobstructed ocean and forest views)
  • Paver-stone streets for an upscale aesthetic
  • Walking distance to the beach

>> Inquire About Monte Bello <<

Palo Alto Gated Community (Playa Hermosa – Guanacaste)

Palo Alto gated community

The terraced community of Palo Alto promises some of Playa Hermosa’s best views, both to the surrounding forests and hillsides, as well as to the turquoise Pacific Ocean, with its passing sailboats, white-capped waves, and island-speckled vistas.

An intimate community, Palo Alto unfolds over homesites staggered over its terraced hillsides: private and tranquil, yet all part of one community. And this is a community, linked by paved roads and served by exclusive amenities, including lighted tennis courts and basketball courts.

You’ll love the sense of calm at Palo Alto, even more so because it resides in harmony with convenience: The community is within walking distance to Playa Hermosa and the town’s many amenities, and just a 10-minute drive to Playas del Coco. 

Palo Alto Community Amenities: 

  • 24/7 Gated Security
  • Lighted tennis courts
  • Lighted basketball courts
  • Expansive outdoor green spaces
  • Paved community roads

>> Inquire About Palo Alto <<

Gated Communities in Playa Panama:

Located directly north of Playa Hermosa, Playa Panama sits within the exclusive curve of Papagayo Bay, one of Costa Rica’s most privileged and sought-after communities. 

El Mangroove Residences Gated Community (Playa Panama – Guanacaste)

Mangroove Residences gated community in Playas del Coco

One of Costa Rica’s most exclusive resort communities, the thoughtfully designed and eco-conscious El Mangroove Autograph Collection® Residences are the stunning vision of renowned Costa Rican architect Ronald Zurcher.

Live amongst aged trees and tropical gardens, where each home promises to be “exactly like nothing else.” Here, hospitality reigns over every corner and in every detail, from the community’s ocean-view pool and 24-hour concierge to its two restaurants, spa, fitness center, and other amenities. 

And, even with these myriad amenities. El Mangroove Residences is still a place where simple pleasures live at the forefront. Step out onto the seven-mile Gulf of Papagayo for a morning stroll or an evening sunset. Swim in calm Culebra Bay. Plan your ocean adventures. And when life beckons you back, know that the amenities of Playa Hermosa are just minutes away.

Mangroove Residences Community Amenities: 

  • 24/7 Gated Security
  • Ocean-view community pool
  • Onsite restaurants
  • Spa
  • Fitness Center
  • 24-hour concierge

>> Inquire About Mangroove Residences <<

Hacienda del Mar Gated Community (Playa Panama – Guanacaste)

Hacienda del Mar gated community in Playa Panama

An elegant oceanside escape, Hacienda del Mar is the first master-planned community in Playa Panama: an exclusive invitation to refinement and convenience, moments to soft sands and world-class amenities. 

Perched atop a lush ridge, Hacienda del Mar is one of the most privileged gated communities in Playas del Coco area, where Gulf of Papagayo views and stunning sunsets become part of your every day. And here, just 31 lush homesites invite you to make your home in paradise.

If you answer yes, you’ll have access to the community’s many amenities, including a Beach Club with a two-tiered infinity pool, onsite restaurant, bar, and beach access, plus a fitness center, clubhouse, tennis courts, and banquet facilities. All this, just 15 minutes from Liberia International Airport. 

Hacienda del Mar Community Amenities: 

  • 24/7 Gated Security
  • Beach Club with two-tiered infinity pool
  • Clubhouse
  • Onsite restaurant and bar
  • Fitness Center
  • Tennis Courts

>> Inquire About Hacienda del Mar <<

Looking at Gated Communities in Playas del Coco, Playa Hermosa, or Playa Panama? 

You have questions, we have answers! Whether you’ve already settled on your favorite gated community or are still browsing the options in Northern Guanacaste, we’d love to help you explore the world of master-planned communities.

At Blue Water Properties of Costa Rica, we’re committed to you. Not to selling you a property or spamming you with all the options, but to helping – genuinely and with good intent – to match you to the perfect property for your needs and wants. We thrive on relationships and promise the fastest communication and best services in the industry.

At Blue Water Properties of Costa Rica, we’re proud to offer some of the best Costa Rica Real Estate. We have both condos and homes, land and businesses for sale.

Go ahead – try us. Give us a chance to show off our expertise – and wow you with the possibilities! We look forward to it.