Same hotel, new name
When we first profiled this place in 2015, it was Flamingo Beach Resort. In late 2018 the owners rebranded it as Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo, after a renovation, and the old website now forwards to the new one. It's the same 120-room beachfront hotel on the same spot. We checked it in October 2026: the official site was current and the resort was taking bookings.
What it's like
The resort sits right on Playa Flamingo, a wide, light-sand beach on the north Pacific coast of Guanacaste. It's a big, casual, full-service place, with low red-roofed buildings around the pools and gardens behind the beach.
The 120 rooms come in a few types:
- Rooms with garden, pool or ocean views
- Family rooms with extra space
- Studios and ocean-view suites, some with kitchenettes and sofa beds, and suites with separate living areas
- The JB Suite, with 2 bedrooms and direct pool access
All rooms have air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge, a coffee maker and a balcony or patio.
Eating, drinking and things to do
There are 3 restaurants: Banana Wind Cafe for Costa Rican and international food, Capriccios for pizza and pasta, and 5 O'Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill. There's also a swim-up pool bar. You can book room only, or an all-inclusive plan that covers meals, house drinks, tips and a few extras.
Beyond the beach and pools, you'll find the OnZen Spa, a small movie theater, tennis and pickleball courts, a water sports center with kayaks, paddleboards and snorkel gear, and daily activities such as salsa lessons and nature walks. The resort also runs its own yacht for dolphin-watching and sunset trips.
The resort holds Costa Rica's Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) at level 4 of 5, first earned in 2011, under its earlier name.
What's nearby
Flamingo Marina is about half a mile away, and Playa Potrero is just past it. Within a short drive you'll find Playa Conchal, Sugar Beach and, a bit farther, Playa Grande and Tamarindo. Flamingo is a good base for boat days: Lazy Lizard Sailing runs catamaran snorkel tours from the beach, and Rocket Frog Divers takes divers out to the Catalina Islands. Our scuba diving guide has more on diving this coast.
Who it suits (and who it doesn't)
It's a good fit for families, groups and anyone who wants a straightforward beach resort with lots on site and an all-inclusive option. If you want a small, quiet boutique hotel or a nature lodge, this isn't it. Browse our where to stay guide for other styles.
Getting there
The closest international airport is Liberia (LIR), and the resort says the drive takes about 1.5 hours. It can arrange private transfers, and there are also public buses via Santa Cruz. If you're deciding between airports, see our guide to Costa Rica's airports.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same place as Flamingo Beach Resort?
Yes. Flamingo Beach Resort was rebranded as Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo in 2018.
Is the resort on the beach?
Yes. It has direct access to Playa Flamingo.
Does it offer all-inclusive?
Yes. You can book an all-inclusive plan or stay on a room-only basis.
How many rooms does it have?
120, including rooms, family rooms, studios and suites.
How far is it from Liberia airport?
About 1.5 hours by road, according to the resort.
