Las Catalinas is a unique place, one that espouses a new way of living in Costa Rica. At a glance it is a walkable pedestrian village that exists in harmony with its natural surroundings, and draws its character from a diverse set of influences from across the world.

In 2026, the most walkable town in Costa Rica is widely considered to be Las Catalinas, located on the coast of Guanacaste. Unlike most Costa Rican towns that evolved around vehicle traffic, Las Catalinas was specifically designed as a car-free, pedestrian-only "New Urbanist" town. Its narrow, cobblestone streets are reminiscent of Mediterranean coastal villages, where every home, shop, and restaurant is accessible by foot within minutes. For a more "traditional" walkable experience, many travelers point to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean coast, where the flat terrain and concentrated "strip" of cafes and shops make it easy to navigate by walking or bicycle. Similarly, the central area of La Fortuna is very walkable, though you will need transport to reach the nearby volcano and hot springs. Las Catalinas remains the standout for 2026 because the lack of cars is a core part of its identity, offering a peaceful, safe, and truly pedestrian-centric environment for families and solo travelers.