Playa del Coco, Costa Rica

Playa del Coco is a beach town that grew fast in the 1990s, fueled by foreigners moving in and tourists discovering its shores. It’s a laid-back spot in Guanacaste Province, about 20 miles from Liberia, the region’s largest town. Liberia’s airport makes it easy to hop in and out, but don’t expect big-city amenities here—this is a small, beach-focused community.

Living in Playa del Coco means adapting to a slower pace and a mix of locals and expats. The town’s growth has brought some infrastructure challenges, like bumpy roads and occasional water shortages. If you’re okay with trading urban convenience for beachfront living, this could work. But if you need reliable services or a bustling cultural scene, look elsewhere.