Moving to Costa Rica with Kids: Schools, Communities & Family Lifestyle in Guanacaste

If you’re thinking about moving to Costa Rica with your family, you’re not alone. Every year, more parents from the U.S., Canada, and Europe make the choice to relocate to Guanacaste — drawn by the warm culture, outdoor lifestyle, and a slower, healthier pace of life.

For kids, Costa Rica isn’t just a place to live — it’s a place to grow. Surrounded by beaches, nature, bilingual education, sports, and close-knit communities, children here tend to develop confidence, independence, and a deep appreciation for the world around them.

Here’s what life really looks like for families in Guanacaste — from schools and safety to activities, social life, and what your day-to-day rhythm might feel like.

1. Schools in Guanacaste: Exceptional Options for Every Family

One of the biggest questions families have is: What about schools?The good news: Guanacaste offers a strong selection of high-quality international and bilingual schools.

Top International Schools:

These schools follow U.S., Canadian, or IB-style programs, offering academic rigor in a warm, multicultural environment.

• La Paz Community School (Brasilito & Tempate campuses)

• CRIA – Costa Rica International Academy (Brasilito)

• Educarte (between Tamarindo & Huacas)

• TIDE Academy (Tamarindo)

• Journey School (Nosara)

• Del Mar Academy (Nosara)

  
  

What Parents Love About These Schools:

• bilingual or trilingual options

• multicultural student bodies

• strong arts, sports & environmental programs

• warm, community-driven environments

• project-based learning

• safe, inclusive campuses

• emphasis on kindness, emotional intelligence, and global citizenship

Kids here grow up with classmates from all over the world — and that exposure truly shapes them.

2. Daily Life for Kids: Safe, Outdoorsy, Fun

The lifestyle in Guanacaste is incredibly kid-friendly.

Typical after-school activities include:

• surfing lessons

• soccer (fútbol!)

• gymnastics

• skateboarding

• horseback riding

• swimming

• dance

• Jiu-jitsu

• mountain biking

• ocean conservation clubs

Instead of long commutes or screen-heavy schedules, kids spend time outside — building confidence and independence.

Why Kids Thrive Here:

• warm climate means outdoor play year-round

• beaches become weekend playgrounds

• strong sense of community and belonging

• more unstructured play and exploration

• exposure to wildlife and nature

• multicultural friendships

• a slower pace with less pressure

Families often say their kids “come alive” here.

3. Community Life: You’ll Find Your People Fast

Guanacaste has one of the strongest expat-family communities in Costa Rica.

You’ll meet:

• parents who work remotely

• families relocating from the U.S. or Canada

• long-term residents

• entrepreneurs

• digital nomads

• local families born and raised here

The region has a warm blend of cultures, and families tend to support each other — especially newcomers.

Community events include:

• beach cleanups

• school fairs

• surf competitions

• holiday festivals

• community markets

• sports leagues

• music & art workshops

You’ll build connections quickly, and your kids will too.

4. Healthcare for Kids: Accessible & High-Quality

Healthcare is a big reason families feel comfortable relocating.

Medical services include:

• pediatricians in Tamarindo, Huacas, Flamingo, Liberia, and Nosara

• CIMA Hospital in Liberia (full-service private hospital)

• 24/7 urgent care clinics

• excellent dental care

• specialized care in San José when needed

Costa Rica’s healthcare is modern, affordable, and easily accessible — a huge relief for parents.

5. Safety: One of Costa Rica’s Biggest Advantages

Costa Rica is known for being safe, stable, and family-friendly.

Families appreciate:

• low crime in coastal towns

• friendly, community-oriented locals

• kids walking or biking to activities

• strong neighborhood networks

• safe beaches and surf programs

• welcoming environment for children

Parents often feel more comfortable here than in major North American cities.

6. The Family Lifestyle: What Everyday Life Really Feels Like

Picture this:

Your mornings start slower.You make coffee while the sun rises.Kids pack their swimsuits because surf class starts right after school.You drop them off on a palm-lined campus, then work remotely from home or a café with fiber internet.

After school, you’re all on the beach together — watching your children play in the waves while you chat with friends.

Dinner might be fresh fish, vegetables from the feria, and walking to get ice cream. Evenings end earlier. Life feels simpler.

This is the daily rhythm for many families in Guanacaste.

7. Real Estate for Families: What Buyers Look For

Family buyers typically want:

• safe gated communities

• quick access to schools

• walkability to the beach

• strong internet

• modern amenities

• community activities

• space for kids to play

  
  

Popular communities include:

• Tamarindo & Langosta

• Reserva Conchal

• Mar Vista

• Hacienda Pinilla

• Potrero / Surfside

• Flamingo

• Las Catalinas

These areas offer the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and lifestyle.

8. Tips for a Smooth Move with Kids

✔ Visit schools early

Tours fill quickly — especially mid-year.

✔ Expect an adjustment period

Kids adapt fast, but give them time.

✔ Let them join activities

Surfing, soccer, art, music — community makes transition easy.

✔ Start with a rental

Gives you time to explore different neighborhoods.

✔ Learn the rhythm of each season

The green season is amazing for families.

Final Thoughts: Guanacaste Is One of the Best Places in the World to Raise a Family

Between the schools, the lifestyle, the nature, and the sense of community, Costa Rica offers something rare — the chance for kids to grow up slower, freer, and more connected.

If you’re considering relocating with your family and want help choosing the right school, community, or home, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.