All About Costa Rica Cocktails: Popular Drinks You Need to Try

Costa Rica is a sunkissed paradise in Central America, bounded by the Caribbean to the East and the Pacific Ocean to the West. With an abundance of rare fruit and other tropical delicacies, it’s no wonder the country features some of the most inventive beach cocktails.

At Casa Teresa luxury villa, situated directly on the famous Santa Teresa beach, we can arrange bartenders that love whipping up these local luxury cocktails as guests immerse themselves in the local cuisine. We’d be delighted to have you stay with us and experience these Costa Rican beverages for yourself.

The Definitive Costa Rican Cocktails Guide: Popular Drinks in Costa Rica 

Costa Rica boasts some of the most pristine beaches throughout the Americas. So, it’s no wonder that locals and travelers alike have created some of the most refreshing and captivating cocktails out there. With the country’s iconic Guaro spirit to a heritage of rum and spices, let’s take a look at some of the most popular drinks in Costa Rica.

Guaro Cocktails 

Upon landing in Costa Rica, make sure to start with Costa Rica cocktails like the Guaro Sour or any other beach cocktail featuring the country’s national spirit.

Guaro is Costa Rica’s most popular liquor, but don’t let its low price tag and accessibility lead you to believe it’s not worth drinking. This cane liquor has a consistency similar to vodka but with a naturally sweeter taste and lower alcohol content. And like vodka, it’s incredibly versatile in a range of luxury cocktails. 

Guaro Sour 

The definitive Costa Rica cocktail is the Guaro Sour, consisting of fresh lime, sugar, guaro, club soda, and a dash of mint to garnish: 

• Half a fresh lime (sliced into wedges) 
• 3 ounces of Guaro 
• 1 splash of club soda 
• 1 teaspoon of sugar 
• Cracked or chipped ice as needed 
• 1 sprig of mint (to garnish) 

Chiliguaro 

What began as a unique, regional specialty in Costa Rica’s Playas del Coco on the northwest coast has become a daring take on the nation’s iconic Guaro cocktails. 

As the name suggests, the Costa Rican cocktail, Chiliguaro, features guaro, along with hot sauce, lime juice, and salt. Today, many bars throughout Costa Rica will gladly concoct pitchers of Chiliguaro, which some say has a taste not unlike a particularly spicy Bloody Mary as the guaro’s taste blends in with the alluringly spicier elements in the drink. 

This luxury cocktail recipe serves 6 easily: 

• 3/4 of a cup of Guaro 
• 3 cups of tomato juice 
• 3 tablespoons of tabasco 
• 1/2 cup of lemon juice 

Jaguar Colada 

The Guaro Sour may be a classic and is considered by many to be the national drink and definitive Costa Rican cocktail. However, for those who want something a little different, the Jaguar Colada infuses the classic Guaro flavor with passion fruit (maracuyá in Costa Rica) along with coconut cream: 

This recipe also serves 6: 

• 1 cup of coconut milk or cream 
• 1 cup of coconut water
• 3/4 cup of guaro (you can also substitute for white rum) 
• 1 cup of passion fruit juice (Try fresh juice for the best possible taste.) 
• 2 cups of ice 

Pura Vida

“Pura Vida” is a term said a lot throughout Costa Rica. In keeping with the country’s coastal vibes, “pura vida” is a versatile catch-all phrase analogous to Hawaii’s “aloha.” It can be a greeting, well wishes when saying goodbye to someone, or just something to connote the laid-back allure of Costa Rica’s beach culture. 

As a popular cocktail in Costa Rica for two, this recipe for Pura Vida features: 

• 1 Ounce of guaro 
• 1 Ounce of triple sec 
• 2 Ounces of fresh orange juice
• 2 Ounces of pineapple juice 
• 1 Ounce of grenadine 
• Lime to garnish
• Ice as needed 

Colada Fresco 

This popular Costa Rican drink is a creative take on the Piña Colada, another classic tropical luxury cocktail enjoyed internationally. 

Use this recipe to serve a group of 5-6 in a pitcher: 

• 1 can/cup of coconut milk or cream (full fat preferably) 
• 3/4 cup of guaro 
• 4 cups of water 
• 1 chopped pineapple 
• Agave nectar to taste 

Beer

If you’re not a fan of many beach cocktails’ sugary sweetness or abundance of rum and guaro, don’t worry. Costa Rica’s cocktail scene is fueled by historic influxes of German immigrants, and today it boasts one of Latin America’s most vibrant beer cultures. Locals savor homegrown microbreweries and international favorites alike.

Pilsen and Imperial are two of the most popular brewers in the country, and you’ll easily find their ales in many bars, hotels, and restaurants, along with popular drinks in Costa Rica. But in recent years, craft brewers have been infusing the scene with distinctive tropical flavors. Today, there are a few hundred craft beers available in Costa Rica, running the gamut from inventive takes on traditional, full-bodied German ales to lighter options. 

El Sabor de Costa Rica 

Costa Rica, which means “the rich coast” in English, is known throughout the Americas and the world for its abundance of fresh ingredients, delicious cuisine, and captivating flavors. 

Whether you’re looking to do some sightseeing, tour the jungles, or just relax on the beach, there’s no better way to unwind than with a refreshing Costa Rican cocktail.

As a luxury villa located right on the gorgeous Santa Teresa beach, Casa Teresa is the ideal location to enjoy your luxury cocktails. Take your vacation up a notch when you hire a private bartender for your stay, or ask our concierge to help arrange an additional cocktail service when you add personal chef amenities to your booking. Then, enjoy any of these beach cocktails for you and your fellow vacationers to enjoy on a fun, relaxing evening. 

For large groups seeking an elevated beach experience, Casa Teresa Grande is the perfect destination. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a gathering of friends, our luxurious private villa can comfortably accommodate up to 17 people, ensuring everyone has ample space to unwind and enjoy their time together while indulging in delightful Costa Rica cocktails.

One of the standout features of our luxury villas is our private chef services that you can add on to make your travel experience even more effortless. We can then recommend hiring a separate bartender or connect you with a private chef who offers additional cocktail services. Whether you prefer the classic Guaro flavors or want to venture into the tantalizing world of Jaguar Colada, we can cater to your preferences and serve up unforgettable Costa Rican cocktails, making your beach retreat truly exceptional.

Customizing Your Luxury Costa Rica Vacation with Our Concierge Services

Our dedicated concierge service is at the heart of our commitment to offer unsurpassed hospitality. Our team will ensure your stay is as pleasant and enjoyable as possible. Our concierge will be at your service from the moment you arrive, ready to assist with any request or arrangement. From organizing thrilling outdoor adventures to planning group activities and recommending the best local spots to explore, we have you covered.

At our luxury villas, we understand the value of shared experiences, and our goal is to make your time at the beach an unforgettable one. Gather around for a sunset cocktail hour in Costa Rica, celebrating life’s moments with the people who matter most. With a private villa, a dedicated concierge, and expertly crafted luxury cocktails by your hired bartender, you have all the elements of a perfect Costa Rica getaway. 

For more travel tips, read our blog and explore all that Casa Teresa and Casa Teresa Grande have to offer your Costa Rican getaway.