Ocean Views, Flip Flops & Cash Flow: Why Papagayo Ocean View Homes Keep Winning

If you have ever been to the Papagayo Region of Costa Rica, you understand that the ocean views along this stunning coastline are among the absolute best in the world. If you have been fortunate enough to stay in or own a home that enjoys one of these spectacular ocean views, then you already know what all the fuss is about. Just 20 to 30 minutes from touchdown at Guanacaste International Airport (LIR), you will find yourself in the exclusive beach communities of Playa Hermosa, Playas del Coco, Playa Panama, and Ocotal. Together, these beaches form the crown jewel of the Papagayo Region and offer those fortunate enough the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking ocean views from a select number of homes perched above the coastline.

Tank Tops Flip Flops Newsletter edition no. 250

Without a doubt, an ocean view home is the most desirable type of rental property in the Papagayo area. Ocean view homes are the most valuable assets along the coastline and are expected to continue appreciating in value while simultaneously generating excellent rental income. Few real estate investments in the region can match the long-term appreciation potential of a quality ocean view property. We are rapidly running out of unbuilt ocean view lots within the four-beach Papagayo area, and inventory of existing ocean view homes remains limited. As available properties become increasingly scarce, values are expected to continue rising while demand from vacation renters and luxury monthly tenants continues to grow. Further contributing to the rental supply shortage is the increasing trend of ocean view homeowners choosing not to rent their properties when not in residence, or electing to rent only a limited number of weeks each year at substantially higher rates, often packaging premium amenities and curated experiences with the rental.

Costa Rica has chosen its next leader, and the message from voters was clear: stability, security, and economic momentum matter. Laura Fernández Delgado was elected president with 48.3% of the vote, crossing the threshold needed to avoid a second-round runoff, according to the Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE). Her victory marks both a continuation of the current administration’s direction and a generational shift in leadership.

Fernández, widely seen as the political heir to outgoing president Rodrigo Chaves, ran a campaign centered on economic growth and institutional reform. She emphasized support for private enterprise, foreign investment, tourism, and major infrastructure projects, while also promising improvements in education and a firmer stance on public security. These themes resonated with voters at a time when concerns about crime, corruption, and government efficiency have moved to the forefront of national debate.

Tank Tops Flip Flops Newsletter edition no. 249 

Early legislative results also worked in Fernández’s favor. Her party made significant gains in the 57-seat Legislative Assembly, giving the incoming president a stronger base of support than many recent administrations have enjoyed. While not enough for unilateral constitutional reforms, this foothold provides Fernández with a valuable head start as she begins negotiations and policy implementation.