Active travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure in Costa Rica will find the hiking and biking trails of Las Catalinas bring an exhilarating challenge. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, the trails are sure to inspire.
This car-free coastal town features over 42 kilometers (26 miles) of multi-use trails that wind through a stunning tropical dry forest. The trails consist of dirt roads, single-track paths, and steep climbs and descents, providing beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you can expect to see diverse wildlife and enjoy direct access to the beach.
During the dry season, which lasts from November to April or May, the best times for hiking or riding are early morning or after 3:00 PM, as the midday sun can be quite intense. Early morning and late afternoon rides are delightful.
During the green season, trail timing can be more flexible. Mornings are typically clear, while afternoons may be cloudy with a chance of rain, resulting in cooler temperatures throughout the day. After the first few rainfalls, the trails become vibrant, as the rain washes away dust and creates magical experiences.
The six hiking trails are thoughtfully designed to cater to various skill levels, from casual beachgoers to expert cyclists. The trails weave through the 1,000-acre private reserve, offering a mix of smooth paths, technical climbs, and exhilarating descents.
If you're looking for a great hike, Punta Penca is a fantastic option. This easy 1.3-kilometer trail boasts stunning views of Playa Danta and the wonderful Las Catalinas Beach Club. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the moderate trails on the western side, like the Playa Dantita Loop, Punta Guachipelines Loop, and La Cresta Loop, range from 2.3 to 4.3 kilometers.
For those looking for a short but intense climb, the McHenry Peak Loop offers a steep challenge with rewarding views. In contrast, the El Cielo Loop on the eastern side is the most demanding trail, stretching 12.5 kilometers with a 200-meter elevation gain. This trail leads to some of the most breathtaking coastal viewpoints in the region. The steeper, pedestrian-only paths give adventurers sweeping panoramas of the Pacific Ocean and the Guanacaste hills, making the effort truly worthwhile. Download the trail map here for a closer look at the trails.
In addition to the beautiful scenery, the area functions as a nature reserve, which likely includes wildlife sightings such as monkeys, coatis (relatives of raccoons), deer, peccaries (wild hogs), and various exotic birds.
Las Catalinas offers over 22 kilometers of world-class single-track trails that provide shifting views of the coast, making it a top destination for mountain biking enthusiasts from around the globe. The trails feature excellent flow, diverse topography, and stunning ocean vistas. It's arguably the best tropical seaside singletrack available anywhere.
Mountain biking is an essential part of the culture in Las Catalinas. On Thursday nights, you can catch the "Juevones," a group of night mountain bikers that includes homeowners, members of the residential sales team, and the Pura Vida Ride staff, as they hit the trails after sunset. Charles Brewer, the town's founder, is also a regular on the trails, highlighting how Las Catalinas was designed to be an excellent place for biking enthusiasts.
The trails are well-maintained and expertly crafted to ensure an exciting yet safe ride, so riders can test their endurance while enjoying an ever-changing landscape.
Pura Vida Ride is the town's complete bike shop, conveniently located near the trailhead. It offers bike rentals, repairs, and excellent coffee or gelato, perfect for before or after your ride.
Las Catalinas’ trails are built sustainably with a moderate grade, offering fantastic “flow” riding that features enjoyable swoops and roller coasters, without any prolonged, strenuous climbs. One of the unique aspects of Las Catalinas is how seamlessly its trail system integrates with the coastline.
After an invigorating hike or ride, adventurers can easily transition to Playa Danta and Playa Dantita, two pristine beaches known for their crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere. These beaches provide the perfect setting to cool off, engage in water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling, or simply relax and soak up the sun.
It might seem counterintuitive that development within a forest could positively impact conservation efforts. However, the multi-use trails in Las Catalinas have proven to be immensely valuable for rejuvenating the forest and preventing wildfires. These trails serve a dual purpose by effectively addressing issues such as runoff and erosion caused by wind and rain. They function as a drainage system and provide natural structural support for the forest ecosystem.
Las Catalinas has become a sought-after destination for endurance athletes, hosting various events that draw competitors worldwide. One of the most notable is XTERRA Costa Rica, an off-road triathlon featuring a 1.5-kilometer swim, a 21-kilometer mountain bike ride, and a 9-kilometer trail run. The event, coming August 22 to 24, 2025, challenges participants with its rugged terrain while rewarding them with some of the most spectacular views in the region before finishing in the heart of town’s lively pedestrian streets.
Las Catalinas offers a variety of accommodations, from hotels to vacation rentals, making it an ideal base for exploring the trails. Equipment rentals and guided tours are available for both hikers and mountain bikers, ensuring visitors have access to everything they need for an unforgettable outdoor experience. Push your limits on a challenging ride, or enjoy a peaceful hike with stunning views.
With its extensive trail network, seamless beach access, and thriving fitness culture, Las Catalinas is one of Costa Rica’s top destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. Lace up your hiking boots, grab your bike, and prepare for an adventure that blends exhilaration with natural beauty in a way only Las Catalinas can offer.