Costa Rica, a tropical paradise, is renowned for its lush jungles, active volcanoes, and stunning coastlines that feature a variety of beautiful beaches. These beaches cater to different activities such as surfing, swimming, sunbathing, and offer a glimpse into the relaxed coastal life.
The beaches vary from region to region, with the Nicoya Peninsula in the north known for some of the best beaches, especially during the dry season. Moving south, the landscape becomes more tropical, and on the Caribbean side, expect a hot and humid climate.
Most beaches are easily accessible, allowing visitors to quickly set up a spot on the sand under the sun or shade.
Explore some of the top beaches in Costa Rica for an unforgettable vacation.
1. The Beach of Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio National Park and its neighboring town boast beautiful beaches like Playa Espadilla, known for its gentle waves and clarity. The park itself houses two stunning beaches separated by Cathedral Point, accessible via a jungle trail teeming with wildlife. Accommodations are plentiful in Manuel Antonio town, with some of Costa Rica's best luxury resorts offering ocean views.
2. Santa Teresa Beach
Santa Teresa, a surfer's haven on the Nicoya Peninsula, is also perfect for beach walks and sunset views. The area includes Playa Cobano and Playa Carmen, with a variety of accommodations and international dining options in the nearby towns.
3. Whale Tail Beach (Uvita)
Whale Tail Beach in Marino Ballena National Park is famous for its unique shape and family-friendly swimming conditions. Low tide allows visitors to walk along the peninsula, and nearby accommodations range from basic to luxurious, such as Rancho Pacifico.
4. Playa Tamarindo
Playa Tamarindo is a surfer's dream with a variety of breaks and a golden-sand beach for spectators. The town of Tamarindo offers a relaxed atmosphere with an array of shops and eateries.
5. Playa Conchal
Playa Conchal, known for its crushed shell beach and clear waters, is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is accessible from Brasilito Beach and is home to the all-inclusive Westin Resort & Spa Playa Conchal.
6. Playa Flamingo
Playa Flamingo boasts an almost white sand beach with manageable waves for swimming and a lack of crowded developments, offering a peaceful beach experience.
7. Montezuma Beach
Montezuma Beach features greyish-brown sand and tidal pools, with less crowded beaches and wildlife sightings further south. The town is a budget-friendly destination with a range of accommodations.
8. Playa Carrillo
Playa Carrillo offers a wide beach with calm waves, perfect for families, and is less developed than nearby Samara Beach, providing a tranquil beach experience.
9. Playa Punta Uva
Playa Punta Uva on the Caribbean side is known for its warm waters and lack of major resorts, offering a serene beach setting with basic to exceptional accommodations nearby.
10. Playa Hermosa
Playa Hermosa near Jaco is a surfing hotspot with massive waves and several famous breaks. The beach is not recommended for swimming due to the strong surf.
11. Dominical Beach
Dominical Beach is a surf-centric beach with powerful waves and a high tide surf break near the river mouth. Accommodations range from budget-friendly to luxury villas.
12. Esterillos Oeste Beach
Esterillos Oeste is an off-the-beaten-path beach with black sand and good surf breaks, located a short drive from Jaco.
13. Jaco Beach
Jaco Beach is family-friendly with calm, shallow waters and a lively town offering a variety of amenities. It's easily accessible from San Jose.
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Where to Go in Costa Rica: For those new to Costa Rica, planning a trip can be challenging due to the country's diverse ecosystems and attractions. For ideas, see our list of the Top Attractions in Costa Rica.
