A Comprehensive Guide to Schools in Costa Rica: Focusing on Playas del Coco and Beyond

Costa Rica, known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture, is also home to a growing expatriate community. For families considering a move to this tropical paradise, education is a top priority. The Playas del Coco area, located in the Guanacaste province, is a popular destination for expats and locals alike. This article will provide an in-depth look at the educational landscape in and around Playas del Coco and our personal experience with each, including private schools like Dolphins, Lakeside, Seawonders, La Paz, Teocali, and CRIA, as well as public and alternative education options. We'll also explore the higher education opportunities available in Costa Rica.

Playas del Coco: A Growing Community

Playas del Coco, often referred to simply as "Coco," is a bustling beach town known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of recreational activities. Over the years, it has become a hub for expatriates, particularly from North America and Europe, who are drawn to its laid-back lifestyle and proximity to other popular destinations like Tamarindo, Liberia, and the Papagayo Peninsula.

As the expat community has grown, so has the demand for quality education. Families moving to Playas del Coco have several options when it comes to schooling, ranging from private international schools to public institutions and alternative education models.

Private Schools in and Around Playas del Coco

1. Dolphins Bilingual School

Location: Playas del Coco, Monteseco Neighborhood
Grades: Preschool to 11th Grade
Curriculum: Bilingual (Spanish/English), Costa Rican Ministry of Education

For expat families in Guanacaste, Dolphins Academy in Playas del Coco offers a unique blend of bilingual academics, environmental stewardship, and global citizenship for students from Preschool to 11th grade. With over 18 years of experience, the school is renowned for its social commitment, university success, and holistic development.

Key Features for Expat Families:

• Bilingual & Internationally Recognized: Follows a MEP-approved bilingual (English/Spanish) curriculum with "cutting-edge" international programs, preparing students for universities worldwide.
• Proven Academic Success: exceptional university acceptance rate for graduates, with many attending prestigious national and international institutions.
• Scholarship Commitment: Significant % of students receive financial aid, reflecting the school’s dedication to accessibility.
• Nature & Sustainability Focus: Teaches environmental responsibility through hands-on learning, aligned with Costa Rica’s eco-values.
• Holistic Development: Emphasizes artistic creativity, sports, leadership, and critical thinking in a collaborative, multicultural environment.
• Safe, Spacious Campus: Features soccer fields, basketball/volleyball courts, and green areas for active learning.

• Global Mindset: Students graduate as "ambassadors of peace" with fluency in English/Spanish and problem-solving skills for a changing world.
• Community Impact: Known for social outreach programs and support for local families.

Ideal for Families Who Value: A balanced, values-driven education (respect, empathy, resilience) with strong bilingual outcomes.

*Monthly Fee and Info: About $500/mo for 11 months, plus entrance fees, uniforms, supplies, field trips. Scholarships/reduced tuition options are available. School year matches the Costa Rican standard of February – December, with a week of during Easter week (Semana Santa), three weeks in summer (usually end of June – beginning of July), week off in the fall (end of September), and school year ending around mid December.

**Personal Note: Great school for expat kids to get Spanish immersion with customs and local celebrations. Right in Playas del Coco with bus service for different locations. Focus on math and use of tests, homework, and final exams. Many after class extracurricular activities and field trips. In 2024 there were live animals like goats in the enclosure within the campus and students can visit them during the breaks.

2. Lakeside School Guanacaste

Location: Near Playas del Coco
Grades: Preschool to 11th Grade
Curriculum: Bilingual, National Curriculum with an international focus

For expat families seeking a globally minded, nature-immersed education in Costa Rica, Lakeside International School combines academic rigor with holistic development, guided by its Learner Profile—a philosophy fostering leadership, creativity, and social responsibility.

Key Features for Expat Families:

• Bilingual & Internationally Focused: Curriculum emphasizes global citizenship, multiculturalism, and fluency in both English and Spanish, preparing students for worldwide opportunities.
• Proven Educational Philosophy: The Lakeside Learner Profile cultivates critical thinking, independence, problem-solving, and confidence—traits prioritized alongside academic success.
• Nature-Integrated Learning: Campus features a dry tropical forest, aquaculture farm (fish/shrimp), and 260+ bird species. Outdoor classrooms, hydroponic gardens, and sports fields enrich hands-on education.
• Small Class Sizes & Expert Faculty: Dynamic teachers use research-backed methods (e.g., Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligences) to personalize learning.
• Community & Service: Strong partnerships with families and local outreach programs instill social consciousness and leadership.

Academic Excellence & Facilities:

• Programs: Preschool through secondary education with clear learning outcomes and university preparation.
• Campus: Five buildings with 28 classrooms, outdoor learning spaces (e.g., "Lakeside Park"), and upcoming sports courts.
• Technology & Innovation: Integrates the latest tech tools to enhance creativity and problem-solving.

• Holistic Growth: Balances academics with arts, sports, and environmental stewardship—perfect for families valuing well-rounded development.

Ideal for Families Who Value: A non-traditional, nature-based education without sacrificing academic prestige.

*Monthly Fee and Info: About $500/mo for 11 months, plus entrance fees, uniforms, supplies, field trips. Scholarships/reduced tuition options are available. School year matches the Costa Rican standard of February – December.

**Personal Note: Excellent bilingual school with international outlook and technology focus. Our kids found it easier than Dolphins Academy. More English speaking children then in Dolphins as well. Professional and dedicated staff.

3. Wonder Education International School (former Sea Wonders Academy)

Location: as you exit Playas del Coco
Grades: Preschool to 6th Grade
Curriculum: Bilingual (Spanish/English), International

For expat families in Guanacaste, Wonder Education near Sardinal offers a unique bilingual (English/Spanish) STREAM curriculum (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, Math) for children aged 6 months to 12 years. Founded as the first private bilingual school in Sardinal, Wonder blends academic innovation with emotional growth in a family-like, values-driven environment.

Key Features for Expat Families:

• STREAM Curriculum: Focuses on critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving through hands-on projects and interdisciplinary learning.
• Holistic Development: Emphasizes emotional intelligence, self-discovery, and Christian values (inspired by Father Kentenich’s pedagogy).
• Small, Personalized Classes: Individualized attention ensures each child’s unique talents and learning styles are nurtured.
• Strong Community Ties: Partners with Kinder Red de Cuido to offer scholarships and support for local families.

• Student-Centered Learning: Encourages autonomy, curiosity, and leadership through reflective, experiential activities.
• Bilingual Focus: Develops fluency in English and Spanish while honoring Costa Rican culture.
• Global & Local Mindset: Prepares students to contribute positively to both their community and the wider world.

Ideal for Families Who Value: A warm, inclusive school prioritizing character growth alongside academic skills.

*Monthly Fee and Info: About $400/mo . Scholarships/reduced tuition options are available. School year matches the Costa Rican standard of February – December.

**Personal Note: This was our daughter’s favorite school of all. The staff treated each child as their own. She wasn’t there very long but the friends she made had remained together for many years after. Same feedback we’ve heard from other parents. The only complaint was that they don’t offer education past grade 6.

4. La Paz Community School

Location: Near Playas del Coco (Behind Do It Center and second location in Mar Vista development near Conchal)
Grades: Preschool to 12th Grade
Curriculum: Bilingual, International Baccalaureate (IB)

For expat families seeking an innovative, nature-immersed education in Costa Rica, La Paz Community School stands out with its International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program and bilingual (English/Spanish) curriculum across two campuses in Guanacaste. La Paz blends academic rigor with experiential learning, fostering individuality, environmental stewardship, and global citizenship.

Key Features for Expat Families:

• IB World School: Fully accredited by the Costa Rican Ministry of Education (MEP) and IBO, offering the IB Diploma Program for grades 11–12.
• Experiential, Place-Based Learning: Students engage in Anchor Projects (e.g., gardens, chicken coops) and service-learning initiatives tied to local ecosystems.
• Dual-Campus Advantage:
  • Tempisque Campus (opened 2021): Modern facilities with soccer fields, running tracks, and outdoor classrooms.
  • Cabo Velas Campus (near the Pacific Ocean): Features semi-Olympic pools, greenhouses, and arts spaces.
• Holistic Development: Emphasizes life skills, arts, physical education, and environmental activism alongside academics.
• Inclusive Community: Celebrates individual learning styles and multicultural diversity.

Academic Excellence & Facilities:

• Bilingual Curriculum: Balanced English-Spanish instruction with authentic assessments (not just standardized tests).
• Eco-Conscious Campuses: Both locations prioritize sustainability, with gardens, recycled materials, and outdoor labs.
• Sports & Arts: Soccer fields, covered courts, swimming pools, and dedicated arts programs nurture well-rounded growth.

Ideal for Families Who Value: A progressive, community-driven education that prioritizes individuality and environmental responsibility.

*Monthly Fee and Info: About $450-$1000/mo for 12 months, plus entrance fees, uniforms, supplies, field trips. More details here https://www.lapazschool.org/en/info/tuition. Scholarships/reduced tuition options are available. School year matches the North American standard of September - June.

**Personal Note: The Tempisque Campus is one of the nicest we’ve seen for a school, it is located in the former CIMA Hospital building, behind the Do It Center. Lots of paved parking and large sport fields. This school focuses mainly on project style work and less emphasis on tests.

5. Teocali Academy

Location: Liberia, with bus service from Playas del Coco
Grades: Preschool to 11th Grade
Curriculum: Bilingual (Spanish/English), IB Graduation

For expat families in Guanacaste, Academia Teocali stands out as Liberia’s first MEP-recognized bilingual school (established in 1982) and one of the few in the region offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. Combining Costa Rican and global curricula, it prepares students for success in international universities and a competitive professional future.

Key Features for Expat Families:

• • IB-Accredited Diploma: One of Guanacaste’s select schools authorized to deliver the IB program (starting in 11th grade), known for boosting admission to top global universities.
  • Bilingual Excellence: English-Spanish instruction across most classes, with a focus on critical thinking, research, and communication skills.
  • Proven Academic Rigor: Recognized for outstanding results in international exams and a MEP-approved national curriculum.
  • Holistic Development: Emphasizes values (integrity, respect), emotional education, and leadership, alongside STEM and problem-solving skills.
  • Experienced Faculty: Highly qualified teachers dedicated to personalized learning and global perspectives.

• Legacy & Credentials: 40+ years as Guanacaste’s pioneer bilingual institution, trusted by local and international families.
• University Advantages: IB graduates gain priority admission to prestigious universities worldwide.
• Balanced Education: Blends Costa Rican culture with global competencies (e.g., teamwork, conflict resolution).

*Monthly Fee and Info: About $800/mo for 11 months, plus entrance fees, uniforms, supplies, field trips. Scholarships/reduced tuition options are available. School year matches the Costa Rican standard of February – December.

**Personal Note: This school offers great Spanish immersion with strong focus on math and sciences. Mostly attended by Spanish speaking kids. Our daughter loved the teachers and classmates in this school. Many after school activities and sports.

6. CRIA (Costa Rica International Academy)

Location: Between Brasilito and Playa Conchal (with bus service from Playas del Coco)
Grades: Preschool to 12th Grade
Curriculum: International (U.S. Accredited), Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

For expat families seeking a rigorous U.S.-style education in Costa Rica, Costa Rica International Academy (CRIA) offers a fully accredited (MSA & MEP) college-prep program with Advanced Placement (AP) courses and dual enrollment opportunities.

Key Features for Expat Families:

• U.S. & Costa Rican Accreditation: The only MSA/MEP dually accredited school in Guanacaste, ensuring seamless transitions to U.S. and global universities.
• College Prep Focus: AP courses, SAT/PSAT testing, and dual enrollment with Grand Canyon University (students earn college credits in high school).
• Proven University Success: High acceptance rates at top U.S. and international universities, with a track record of academic excellence.
• Small Class Sizes: 10:1 student-teacher ratio (average 18–22 students per class) and faculty from the U.S., Costa Rica, and beyond.
• World-Class Facilities: 40 air-conditioned classrooms, STEM/science labs, swimming pool, covered gym, sports fields, and arts suites.
• Values-Driven Environment: Teaches compassion, integrity, and fairness without religious affiliation, reflecting Costa Rica’s multicultural ethos.

Academic Highlights:

• Advanced Placement (AP): 15+ AP courses offered, with College Board partnership since 2004.
• NWEA MAP Testing: Tracks student growth with U.S.-aligned assessments.
• Bilingual Community: English-language instruction with Spanish integration, welcoming all nationalities.

Ideal for Families Who Value: A U.S.-accredited, secular education with university-ready outcomes in a tropical setting.

*Monthly Fee and Info: About $500-$1000/mo for 12 months, plus entrance fees, uniforms, supplies, field trips. More details here https://criacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CRIA-Tuition-and-Fees-Policy-2025-26-1.pdf Scholarships/reduced tuition options are available. School year matches the North American standard of September - June.

**Personal Note: This school is the most “Americanized” out of all. If your child is not fluent in Spanish yet this may be a great place to start as most children speak English here. Senior grades focus heavily on university acceptance in the US. School work consists, of homework, projects, tests and exams.

*Monthly Fees – these are all based on 2024-2025 info and our personal experience. Please always inquire directly with each school for current rates and discuss your specific situation as various discounts are available (e.g. more then one child, prepayment for half/full year, family circumstances, etc.)

**Personal note – these remarks are based on our personal experience and/or knowledge based on our two daughters attending different schools, and may differ for others’. We are happy to talk to you directly in more detail about any of these education options. We also recommend you talk to other parents of the school to get different current perspective to understand how it fits with your child’s needs.

Public and Alternative Education Options

While private schools are a popular choice for expat families in Playas del Coco, there are also public and alternative education options available. These options can be more affordable and provide a different educational experience.

1. Public Schools in Costa Rica

Costa Rica's public education system is free and accessible to all residents, including expatriates. Public schools in Costa Rica follow the national curriculum, which is set by the Ministry of Public Education (MEP). The school year starts in February and ends in December. Instruction is primarily in Spanish, although some schools offer English as a second language.

Public schools in Costa Rica are generally well-regarded, with a strong emphasis on literacy, math, and science. However, class sizes can be large, and resources may be more limited compared to private schools. For expat families, the language barrier can also be a challenge, particularly for children who are not fluent in Spanish.

2. Homeschooling and Online Education

Homeschooling is available in Costa Rica, and some expat families choose this option for their children. Homeschooling allows for a more flexible and personalized approach to education, and there are several online programs available that cater to expat families.

Online education can be an excellent option for families who want to maintain continuity with their home country's curriculum or who prefer a more flexible schedule. Many online programs offer accredited diplomas, which can be important for college admissions.

While homeschooling is not illegal in Costa Rica, it is not formally recognized by the Ministry of Public Education (MEP). It is then parent’s responsibility and a study plan must be submitted and reviewed by the MEP. For more information visit https://www.mep.go.cr/educacion-distancia

3. Alternative Education Models

In addition to traditional public and private schools, there are several alternative education models available in Costa Rica. These include Montessori schools, Waldorf schools, and other progressive education models that focus on holistic development and experiential learning.

Alternative schools often have smaller class sizes and a more individualized approach to education. They may also place a stronger emphasis on creativity, critical thinking, and social-emotional learning. For families looking for a non-traditional educational experience, these schools can be an excellent option.

Higher Education in Costa Rica

For families considering long-term residency in Costa Rica, higher education is an important consideration. Costa Rica is home to several universities, both public and private, that offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

1. Universities

Costa Rica has five public universities, which are highly regarded for their academic excellence and affordability. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• University of Costa Rica (UCR): With many campuses across the country, UCR is the oldest and one of the most prestigious university in Costa Rica. It offers a wide range of programs in fields like medicine, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.
• National University (UNA): With main campus located in San José and few others throughout the country, UNA is known for its strong programs in education, environmental science, and social work.
• Costa Rica Institute of Technology (TEC): Located in Cartago and surrounding areas, TEC is a leading institution for engineering, technology, and science programs.
• National Technical University (UTN): UTN has several campuses across the country and offers programs in engineering, business, and environmental science.
• State Distance University (UNED): UNED is a distance learning university that offers flexible, online programs for students who cannot attend traditional classes.

• Universidad Latina de Costa Rica: With several campuses across the country, Universidad Latina offers programs in fields like business, law, medicine, and engineering.
• Universidad EARTH: Costa Rica-based global institution empowering young leaders through unique four-year agricultural sciences program focused on ethical entrepreneurship, environmental sustainability, and social transformation to address global food system challenges.
• Texas Tech University: based in Escazu, San Jose, this US school offers U.S. accredited courses in programs like accounting, engineering, computer science and management.
• Universidad Ciencias Medicas en Costa Rica (UCIMED): Most popular medical school in the country with career paths in medicine, microbiology, pharmaceutical, nutrition, and physiotherapy.
• University for Peace Costa Rica (UPEACE): the United Nations-mandated institution dedicated exclusively to peace education, offering an interdisciplinary curriculum, global community, and practical learning focused on conflict resolution and sustainable development.

2. International Universities and Study Abroad Programs

Costa Rica is also a popular destination for international students and study abroad programs. Many U.S. and European universities offer study abroad programs in Costa Rica, particularly in fields like environmental science, tropical biology, and Spanish language studies.

For expat families, these programs can provide an opportunity for older children to continue their education in Costa Rica while gaining valuable international experience.

Conclusion

Playas del Coco and the surrounding areas offer a wide range of educational options for families, from private international schools to public institutions and alternative education models. Whether you're looking for a bilingual education, an American-style curriculum, or a more progressive approach to learning, there's something for everyone in this vibrant community.

For families considering higher education, Costa Rica's universities offer a wide range of programs, both in traditional fields and in areas like environmental science and sustainability. With its commitment to education and its welcoming expat community, Costa Rica is an excellent choice for families looking to provide their children with a high-quality education in a beautiful and culturally rich environment.

Whether you're planning a short-term stay or a long-term move, the Playas del Coco area has something to offer for every family. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant community, and excellent educational options, it's no wonder that so many families are choosing to call this part of Costa Rica home.