Pacific Surge: Costa Rica Records Massive Crowds for Easter 2026

Discover the highlights of Costa Rica's 2026 Easter beach rush, from record occupancy in Guanacaste to traffic reversals and emergency alerts on the Pacific coast.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 6, 2026, 5:57 AM EDT

Source: The Tico Times

Record Occupancy and Coastal Migration

The annual "Semana Santa exodus" saw thousands of residents from the Central Valley migrate toward the coast. Data from the hotel sector confirmed a highly successful period for domestic tourism:

National Average Occupancy: Projected at 75%.

Guanacaste: The top destination with a staggering 91% occupancy rate.

Northern Plains & Puntarenas: Followed closely with 88% and 82% occupancy, respectively.

Managing the Return: Traffic and Infrastructure