Costa Rica is well defined by its geographical location: which is tucked between the shores of the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean. Having such an expensive shore, the beaches of Costa Rica are diverse, with fascinating and mesmerizing natural looks.
Being a visitor or as a beach-goer, you will yourself observe fascinating and beautiful white sand paradise, volcanic black sand, rugged beach coves which is surrounded by famous tropical rainforest. So you will always find there is an ideal beach choice for every visitor. Either from Mega beach to invisible shorelines. Being a visitor you may get confused with the variety of choices. In this blog, I will help you what to choose and help you to decide!
Manuel Antonio Beach, Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio Beach is one of the famous and popular beach destinations in Costa Rica. This beach is a gem in Costa Rica having its borders with Manuel Antonio National Park. The beach is very popular so far as its flora and fauna are concerned. Make sure it takes 30 minutes to move from the park's entrance to Manuel Antonio Beach.
If you want to explore some rainforest then you need to hike trails leading to other beaches within the park. If you are sure to see wildlife-monkeys and so on. Then kindly never forget to wear your swimsuit and grab some snorkelling gear. The coral seascapes are worth exploring while visiting this place.
Are you in a dilemma why Manuel Antonio is popular in Costa Rica? It is because of having a national park of the same name, Sparkling Pacific Ocean waters, luxury hotels, and swinging families of monkeys. That is why this beach is known as Costa Rica's popular beach.
Do remember inside the park there is a small beach namely Espadrille Sur Beach. Manuel Antonio national park is closed on Mondays.
Tamarindo Beach, Guanacaste
The Tamarindo Beach is a popular surf town of Tamarindo. It is a great place for those who love surfing. The beginners of surfing find it convenient for them - so don't be intimidated bites surf town reputation. This beach possesses a variety of accommodation options to choose from. Here the hotels facilitate you to choose water sports or direct you to nearby rental water sports. Never miss having dinner in the town of Tamarindo. In its neighbourhood, the white sand beach of Langouste is worth visiting - if you love to swim and escape from the crowds of Tamarindo.
Editor'sNote Make sure drop your bags at the JW Marriott Guanacaste, located in a quiet beach .
This beach has a number of restaurants. The main boulevard includes various Art galleries and boutiques. The vibes of the Tamarindo are best described as "Party and Play." Younger crowds love to enjoy the discotheques and local bars. Therefore this place is situated only one hour away from Liberia airport. So I recommend you while exploring the attractive roads rent a car for that.
Conchal Beach Guanacaste
Conchal Beach Costa Rica is a beautiful destination for those who seek calmer. It is located in the North Pacific region of the country. So it provides 'nature lovers' an opportunity to experience dry tropical forests. However, visitors can enjoy the local fishing town of Brasilito. Make sure, it is only a twenty-minute drive to the larger surfing town of Tamarindo. Here are some of the top activities for this region:
A variety of underwater and coral discoveries have been made there. Therefore the tiny seashells and white sand adhere to the beauty of the shoreline of Conchal beach. However, Playa a Conchal Resort is famous for its rental properties.
Dominical Beach, South Pacific
It is located in the south of Quepos, along the coast. So it is popularly known for its cascading cliffs, surfing, deep-blue ocean scenic landscape, and other mesmerizing looks. Dominical Costa Rica is surrounded by mangroves, marshes, Plantations, and estuaries. This place offers a wide variety of beaches to visitors. However, Playa Dominicalito is a great sport for swimmers and surfers.
Costa Ballena (Whale Coast), South Pacific
The South Pacific Coastline from Ojochal to Dominical, known as the Costa Ballena. However, it is one of the hottest destinations in Costa Rica. The Costa Ballena has few hotel options because of laws pertaining to coastline development. Therefore it is simply an effort to protect the natural environment. The Costa Ballena area has Marino Ballena National park - 13,400 acres of ocean and 270 acres of land. So this national park protects a coral reef. Moreover, this destination is famous for humpback whales. Therefore, Arco Beach is a nearby place to Ballena Beach, but only accessible at low tide.
The Coastal areas of Hermosa Beach and Uvita Beach border the beloved "Whale's tail" on Punta Uvita in Marino Ballena National park. Therefore the coastal park has an aerial flyover that reveals a whale tail-shaped sand bar. Here you need to book some snorkel gear to experience the coral reefs. Paddleboarding rentals and Kayak are also available.
Nacascolo Beach, Papagayo Peninsula
If you ever looking for a top-notch hidden beach in Costa Rica, the perfect one is Playa Nacascolo Beach. It is a perfect day or morning trip from nearby beaches such as Playa Ocotal or from Liberia. There is a variety of wildlife and shades for viewing. Therefore there is no danger of riptides!
Here you will find a small ranger station that has picnic tables, bathrooms, outdoor showers, and drinking fountains. So on the eve of Christmas, there were groups of Tico locals who had canopy tents, meat, coolers full of beer, and even music it was awesome!
Montezuma Beach, Nicoya Peninsula
Montezuma is a fishing town in the Nicoya Peninsula. It is one of the most famous locations for a beach vacation. The beaches at Montezuma provide a relaxing atmosphere. So you will observe many romantic bungalows and waterfront hotels. Therefore sport fishing, hiking, and surfing are the most popular sports activities in Montezuma.
So, Montezuma is famous for waterfalls! it is just a 15-minute walk from Montezuma. The dry season in Montezuma is between December-April. However, if you want hotels cheaper and crowd less, the rainy season between May-November is a perfect time to visit. Therefore it is at the Southernmost tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. It is behind the lush jungles. Discover this coastline with its local led-back vibe. Therefore it is a challenge for swimmers, but the setting is stunning tide pools when the tide is low.
Santa Teresa and Malpais Beach, Nicoya Peninsula
Santa Teresa is away from city lights and airports. So this jungle-beach town is remote. Beach parties, shared workspaces, hip restaurants, and a growing population of ex-pats makes it the next big trend. It is in the Southern part of the country's northern Peninsula. So in the entire Costa Rica, Sinta Teresa had little development in the past. Therefore the visits from celebrities like Gisele Bundchen and Tom Bred, this place gains some popularity.
Malpais lies at the southeastern cliff of the Nicoya Peninsula. This beachfront village offers surfing opportunities and is famous for rocky coves and seductive swells. It is 5 km away from Playa Carmen. Malpais is less developed than its counterpart Santa Teresa. So Malpais has preserved its serene atmosphere.
The Nicoya Peninsula is a famous destination for Yoga Enthusiasts and surfers. Manzanillo Beach, Santa Teresa, Hermosa Beach and Carmen Beach are the string of beaches that back up the smaller towns of Satna Teresa and Malpais. These Beaches are always standouts that they still remain relatively of the beaten path. Santa Teresa beach is gorgeous for those who looking for Secluded Beach with great surf. Malpais beach is a well-known stretch of rocky tidal pools and white sand.
Samara Beach, Nicoya Peninsula
Samara beach is a great beach for family excursions and is an Island off the Pacific Coast. Nicoya Peninsulas long beach wraps around a horseshoe bay which scatters or disperse the crowds that gather on weekends. Therefore Samara Beach is famous for sportfishing, scuba diving, snorkelling and Kayaking.
Nosara Beach, Nicoya Peninsula
It is famous for its wellness and hot surf among the destinations at the Nicoya Peninsula. Nicoya is the coastal town of Nosara. However, Pelada beach, Guiones beach and Garza Beach together here form the Nosara Beach region. Guiones Beach is a famous beach that has consistent surf throughout the year. Nosara Beach is having the least population than Tamarindo. Moreover, Pelada Beach is a small, rocky, swimming beach with little surf.
San Juanillo Beach, Nicoya Peninsulla
San Juanillo Beach lies to the north of Nosara on the pacific coast. This beach frequently remains under the radar. So it does not have as many tourists as some of the more powerful beaches to the north in the Guanacaste region. This beach comprises of two beaches. Here the waters are generally calm and clear - so great for swimming.
Ostional Beach, Nicoya Peninsula
Ostional Beach lies within the Ostional wildlife refuge on the Nicoya Peninsula belongs to the turtles. It is one of the volcanic black sand beaches. Adventurers suggest it is the perfect destination for sitting a night in order to experience olive ridley sea turtles. The annual nesting of turtles is between July and October. Therefore the nesting of these creatures happens between 4-10 times a year. So the most interesting thing is that their timing is relatively unpredictable.
Punta Uva Beach, Southern Caribbean Coast
It is one of the white sand beaches on the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica this beach is backed by lush green jungle where animals like sloths, monkeys, and other bird species can be seen. Punta Uva beach lies within Gandoca-manzanillo wildlife refuge. Make sure what makes Punta Uva a fantastic Snorkel beach is non-other than the offshore coral reef. The calm waters are also great for families having kids.
Manzanillo Beach, Southern Caribbean Coast
The southern Caribbean beaches are famous for turquoise waters and white sand. Nature lovers do often visit this place because of its seaside tropical rainforest and coral reefs. So especially during the fewer touristy months of September and October. Therefore make a plan to dive snorkel or explore by Kayak.
Flamingo Beach Guanacaste
Flamingo beach lies to the North of Conchal Beach. Are you curious? from where Flamingo Beach gets its name - It is because of its pretty pinkish-white sand. The Flamingo Beach is a perfect destination for overlooking the bays and inlets of the pacific and this beach sits high on a cliffside. The sunset visuals look exceptionally beautiful from Flamingo Beach.
Beach Safety
In general, you need to remember the pacific coast of Costa Rica is known for its riptides. Therefore You should take care of your loved ones while visiting Costa Rican beaches. So never leave your children unattended and never swim alone. However, if you find or observe you have been caught by the current so never attempt again to swim at the sand beach. Do not panic and always try to go towards the beach at an angle of 45 degrees. Kindly make sure the best time for treacherous riptides occur 2 hours before and after low tide.
What are the most relaxing beaches?
The Nicoya Peninsula is home to several of the most relaxing beaches in Costa Rica:
- Santa Teresa Beach
- The Samara Beach
- San Juanillo Beach
Samara beach is a great beach for family excursions and is an Island off the Pacific Coast. Nicoya Peninsulas long beach wraps around a horseshoe bay which scatters or disperse the crowds that gather on weekends.
San Juanillo Beach lies to the north of Nosara on the pacific coast. This beach frequently remains under the radar. So it does not have as many tourists as some of the more powerful beaches to the north in the Guanacaste region.
Where are the best surfing spots?
Costa Rica is home to many great beaches for surfing, whether you're just beginning or you're a seasoned veteran looking for your next challenge:
Tamarindo Beach The Tamarindo Beach is a popular surf town of Tamarindo. It is a great place for those who love surfing. The beginners of surfing find it convenient for them - so don't be intimidated bites surf town reputation.
Dominical Beach Dominical Costa Rica is surrounded by mangroves, marshes, Plantations, and estuaries. This place offers a wide variety of beaches to visitors. However, Playa Dominicalito is a great sport for swimmers and surfers.
Santa Teresa Beach on the Nicoya Peninsula – a secluded beach with great surf.
What are the best beaches for snorkelling?
Costa Rica has a variety of snorkelling locales for beginners and experts. Many diving and snorkelling tours are available along Coast Rica’s coasts, but you can also enjoy a DIY snorkelling adventure on any of these beaches:
Conchal Beach Conchal Beach Costa Rica is a beautiful destination for those who seek calmer. It is located in the North Pacific region of the country.
Conchal Beach Costa Rica is a beautiful destination for those who seek calmer. It is located in the North Pacific region of the country. So it provides 'nature lovers' an opportunity to experience dry tropical forests. However, visitors can enjoy the local fishing town of Brasilito. Make sure, it is only a twenty-minute drive to the larger surfing town of Tamarindo. Here are some of the top activities for this region:
- Golfing
- Horseback Riding
- White water rafting
- Scuba diving or Snorkeling
- Hacking or Mountain biking
- Cave spelunking
- Bird and wildlife watching
Punta Uva Beach It is one of the white sand beaches on the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica this beach is backed by lush green jungle where animals like sloths, monkeys, and other bird species can be seen. Punta Uva beach lies within Gandoca-manzanillo wildlife refuge.
FAQs
Which part of Costa Rica has the best beaches?
Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches are located in northwest Costa Rica (Guanacaste, the Nicoya Peninsula) and the southern Caribbean (Puerto Viejo, Cahuita). In both regions, you'll find light sand, warm tropical water, and — when conditions are right — great surfing
What is the nicest beach in Costa Rica?
Where is the clearest water in Costa Rica?
Unless a big hurricane swell moves in, Manzanillo to almost Punta Mona on the south Caribbean coast will offer the clearest waters in Costa Rica for the next few months. For the rest of the year, the clear is to be found offshore in the Pacific.
best beaches in Costa Rica for families
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Beaches in Costa Rica for Families
- Playa Hermosa. When people visit Guanacaste, they often come for Tamarindo and the fiesta scene. ...
- Samara is one of the most popular Costa Rican tourist destinations for families.
- Playa Samara. ...
- The Playa Manuel Antonio. ...
- Playa Pelada.
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