Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off date
4.67/5
Reviews from 1300+ people
Excellent
Trustpilot
Playa Hermosa
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Playa Hermosa
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Playa Hermosa
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Playa Hermosa
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica, is a beautiful coastal paradise with stunning beaches and lush landscapes. While local transportation options are available, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom to explore this region at your own pace.
Explore Hidden Gems: A rental car allows you to venture beyond the main tourist areas and discover secluded beaches, hidden waterfalls, and charming local villages that are often inaccessible by public transport.
Flexibility and Convenience: With a car, you can easily visit nearby attractions like the Palo Verde National Park or the Arenal Volcano, without being tied to fixed schedules or tour groups.
Maximize Your Time: Instead of waiting for buses or taxis, you can efficiently travel between different destinations, making the most of your vacation time.
Before renting a car in Playa Hermosa, be aware of the essential terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Area
Approximately 2 square kilometers (0.77 square miles)
Population
Approximately 2,000 residents
Time Zone
CST (Central Standard Time), UTC-6
Ideal for
Exploring nearby national parks and beaches
Rush Hours
Traffic can be heavy around peak tourist times, especially during holidays and weekends.
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Playa Hermosa require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some may have additional restrictions or fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license from your home country is usually sufficient for tourists. However, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in Spanish or English. Always carry your passport for identification.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is typically included in the rental price, but it's wise to consider additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or theft protection. A security deposit is usually required and will be held on your credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the rental agreement for mileage limits. Unlimited mileage is preferable. Fuel policies vary, but 'full to full' is the most common and recommended option.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges for additional drivers, late returns, or optional equipment like GPS or child seats.
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €11 per day
Executive:
from £30 / $38 / €34 per day
7 Seater:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
SUV:
from £12 / $15 / €14 per day
Peak season (December to April): Expect higher demand and prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (May to November): Often comes with discounts and better deals
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
Booking a car in Playa Hermosa involves a few straightforward steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle for your needs.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best rental deals from various companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, considering factors like size, fuel efficiency, and terrain.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement for mileage limits, insurance coverage, and any additional fees.
4. Book in Advance - Book your rental car well in advance, especially during peak season, to secure better rates and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, passport, and credit card to collect your rental car. Make sure to inspect the vehicle for any existing damage before driving off.
Playa Hermosa is a tranquil beach town known for its calm waters and beautiful sunsets.
Located in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica, Playa Hermosa offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to nearby attractions. Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the surrounding areas, as public transport can be limited. Driving in Costa Rica requires some caution, especially during the rainy season when roads can be challenging.
Top Attractions to Discover
Playa Hermosa Beach
Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports in this serene beach.
Palo Verde National Park
Explore diverse ecosystems and observe wildlife in this nearby national park.
Arenal Volcano
Take a day trip to the iconic Arenal Volcano and experience hot springs and adventure activities.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Limited public parking is available near the beach and main areas. Check for parking fees and regulations.
On-Street Parking
On-street parking is available in some areas, but be mindful of parking restrictions and time limits.
Hotel Parking
Many hotels offer free parking for guests. Inquire about parking options when booking your accommodation.
Gas Stations in Playa Hermosa
Main Fuel Chains
Look for gas stations operated by RECOPE (the national oil company) and other private brands.
Availability
Gas stations are readily available along the main highways and in nearby towns like Liberia.
Payment Methods
Most gas stations accept cash and credit cards.
Useful Tips for Visiting Playa Hermosa
Driving Conditions
Be prepared for unpaved roads and potholes, especially when venturing off the main highways. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for exploring remote areas.
Watch for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for wildlife crossing the roads, particularly during dawn and dusk.
Allow Extra Time
Traffic can be unpredictable, especially during peak seasons. Allow extra time for your journeys.
Stay Hydrated
The tropical climate can be hot and humid. Drink plenty of water, especially when driving long distances.
Airports
Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR)
Located in Liberia, approximately 20 minutes from Playa Hermosa, this is the closest international airport.
Major Bus Stations
Liberia Bus Terminal
The main bus terminal in Liberia provides connections to various destinations throughout Costa Rica.
Renting a car in Costa Rica is relatively straightforward, but you'll need to meet certain requirements to ensure a smooth rental experience.
A valid driver’s license from your home country is typically sufficient for tourists. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in Spanish or English.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some may have additional restrictions or fees for drivers under 25.
A valid credit card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some rental companies may also accept debit cards.
A passport is required for international renters.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our clients rate such place as Playa Hermosa as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Pretty chill, car was great
Alex Garcia
Reviewed: 04.08.2025
Chill vibes, good enough.
Mike Jones
Reviewed: 13.09.2024
Low-key, pretty good
Kevin Brown
Reviewed: 17.08.2024
Peaceful, really liked it
Emily Davis
Reviewed: 11.02.2025
Heard amazing things, and Playa Hermosa lived up to the hype! Exploring the area with our rental car was effortless and so fun.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 03.05.2025
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Relaxing, low-key
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 19.02.2025