10 Best Beaches in Costa Rica, it is renowned for its exceptional commitment to environmental sustainability, is widely recognized as one of the most eco-friendly countries worldwide. It comes as no surprise, therefore, that this remarkable nation boasts stunning, pristine beaches along both its Pacific and Caribbean coastlines.
These beaches possess an untouched and unspoiled allure, captivating visitors with their breathtaking beauty. On one side, lush rainforests and jungle-clad hills gracefully embrace the golden sands, while on the other, shimmering turquoise waters glisten under the sun’s radiant rays.
Beyond the awe-inspiring scenery, Costa Rica offers an array of exceptional surfing spots and a plethora of thrilling water sports activities. For those seeking encounters with adorable wildlife, several of its beaches serve as nesting sites for sea turtles, providing a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Tortuguero Beach
Tortuguero, situated alongside the Caribbean Sea, offers an abundance of breathtaking natural wonders that will leave you in awe. It truly feels like a paradise.
Although reaching Tortuguero can be quite challenging, as it is nestled deep within a remote national park bearing the same name, the wildlife and scenery it offers are unparalleled. The rainforest, teeming with tapirs, crocodiles, monkeys, and more, threatens to spill onto the beach. If you visit during the right season, you will have the incredible opportunity to witness thousands of sea turtles hatching along the shores of Tortuguero.
However, this picturesque destination comes with a price. Due to its remote location, the restaurants and hotels in Tortuguero tend to be more expensive. Additionally, to access the pristine beach, you will need to take a boat or a flight from Puerto Limon.
Playa Grande
Playa Grande, also known as Salinas, is a vast beach located within the magnificent Marino Las Baulas National Park on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. This protected area ensures that the beach remains unspoiled and free from the presence of crowds and litter. Additionally, Playa Grande serves as a nesting ground for leatherback turtles, making it a significant site for wildlife conservation. During the nesting season, the beach is closely monitored by police officers to safeguard these unique creatures.
Aside from its ecological importance, Playa Grande boasts some of the finest surf spots in the entire country. If you are seeking to challenge yourself on the rolling waves, this beach is a must-visit destination. Moreover, if you wish to explore another one of Costa Rica’s exceptional beaches, Tamarindo is conveniently located nearby.
Playa Santa Teresa
Playa Santa Teresa is a haven for both surfers and yoga enthusiasts alike. Its laidback and relaxed atmosphere is complemented by its secluded location, making it the perfect place to unwind. Despite being less developed than other Costa Rican beaches, Playa Santa Teresa still offers a variety of restaurants, hotels, and lively bars. The golden sands of the beach are ideal for relaxation, while those seeking adventure can take surf lessons or participate in yoga classes.
Playa Dominical
Dominical Beach offers a truly awe-inspiring landscape that is sure to captivate any visitor. The pristine white sands are juxtaposed against the lush rainforest-covered hills that cascade down towards the crashing waves.
Beyond its breathtaking scenery, Dominical Beach is renowned as one of the premier surfing destinations in the country. The powerful waves that relentlessly pound the shore provide an exhilarating experience for surfers. Additionally, while staying at the beach, embarking on a jungle trek is highly recommended. The surrounding national parks boast enchanting waterfalls that are a sight to behold.
Currently, Dominical remains a hidden gem, untouched by the masses of tourists. As a result, the amenities such as bars, restaurants, and hotels are limited and tend to be modest in nature. However, this only adds to the charm of the place, creating a laidback and unpretentious atmosphere that is truly delightful.
Tamarindo Beach
Tamarindo is a destination that offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking sun, sand, and sea, a vibrant nightlife scene, or the beauty of nature. It’s no wonder that this town is one of the most sought-after vacation spots in the country.
The town is bustling with activity, boasting a wide range of bars, restaurants, and accommodations to suit any budget. As a result, Tamarindo is home to some of the liveliest nightlife on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica.
Visitors can also explore the stunning Marino Las Baulas National Park, which borders the beach and offers breathtaking natural scenery. Tamarindo itself is a picturesque town that looks like it was plucked straight from a travel brochure.
Surfing enthusiasts will be pleased to know that Tamarindo is home to some of the best surf spots in the country. Many visitors come here to learn how to ride the waves like a pro and soak up the laid-back surfer vibe.
Playa Flamingo
Situated in the northwestern region of Costa Rica, Playa Flamingo is a truly breathtaking beach renowned for its mesmerizing pinkish-white sand. Distinguishing itself from other coastal towns in the country, Playa Flamingo boasts an array of luxurious hotels and resorts that cater to the discerning tastes of its visitors. Perched on a cliffside, these accommodations offer unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, particularly during the enchanting sunsets that grace this coastal paradise.
Nestled amidst the lush palm trees that line the beachfront, you will find a selection of exceptional hotels, providing a perfect retreat after a leisurely day spent basking in the awe-inspiring scenery. With its relaxed atmosphere, Playa Flamingo is an idyllic destination to unwind and savor the tranquility. The inviting waters of this beach make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling, adding to the allure of this captivating locale.
Playa Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio, situated on the Pacific Ocean coastline of Costa Rica, boasts a captivating landscape with majestic palm trees, glistening golden sands, and mesmerizing turquoise waters. Renowned for its unparalleled beauty, this beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
Nestled within the Manuel Antonio National Park, the beach offers an array of enchanting trails that wind through the dense jungle. As visitors explore this remarkable scenery, they have the opportunity to catch glimpses of fascinating wildlife such as howler monkeys, iguanas, and vibrant birds that call the rainforest their home.
Adjacent to the national park lies the charming town of Quepos, which is brimming with a variety of bars, restaurants, cafes, and hotels. This proximity allows visitors to experience the best of both worlds – immersing themselves in the wonders of nature and then retreating to the comfort of their accommodations.
With its pristine and unspoiled beauty, Manuel Antonio beach is a sight to behold. Moreover, its offshore waters teem with abundant marine life, making it an ideal destination for scuba diving enthusiasts.
Playa Guiones
Playa Guiones, stretching for a distance of seven kilometers along the Pacific coastline of Costa Rica, offers a serene and unspoiled retreat for those seeking a tranquil vacation. With its pristine white sands and powerful waves, it is an ideal destination for both relaxation and surfing enthusiasts.
Unlike popular tourist spots, Playa Guiones remains delightfully undeveloped, providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town boasts only a handful of restaurants and hotels, creating a laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating.
While the natural beauty of Playa Guiones is captivating, it is also conveniently located near the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is a must-visit during the hatching season, as it becomes a spectacle of thousands of baby sea turtles making their way to the ocean for the first time. Witnessing this incredible phenomenon is truly a remarkable experience.
Playa Montezuma
Playa Montezuma, also known as ‘monte fuma’ because of its large hippie population, is a popular destination for backpackers who are drawn to its relaxed atmosphere and stunning beach. Nestled amidst pristine rainforest, the beach offers a variety of trails and treks for visitors to enjoy. If you venture into the lush rainforest, you will discover hidden waterfalls that are a delightful sight amidst the dense vegetation. These waterfalls provide a refreshing escape from the beach, allowing you to wash away the salt and sand.
Playa Montezuma is gaining well-deserved recognition for its exceptional scuba diving opportunities in the inviting waters that surround the beach. In addition to vibrant coral reefs and schools of shimmering fish, divers can explore three shipwrecks and numerous other impressive dive sites.
Playa Samara is one of the 10 Best Beaches in Costa Rica
Samara Beach is a serene destination, protected by the picturesque bay that surrounds it. Its tranquil waters offer a peaceful and safe environment for various watersports activities. Whether you prefer swimming, kayaking, or snorkeling, the bay provides an ideal setting with its stunning marine life. Additionally, there are numerous dive spots just a short distance from the shore, waiting to be explored.
Situated on the secluded Nicoya Peninsula, Samara Beach remains a hidden gem, away from the usual tourist routes. However, its reputation for its beautiful beach, inviting waters, and breathtaking scenery is gradually spreading.
Despite its secluded location, Samara Beach offers a range of shops, restaurants, and hotels to cater to visitors’ needs. The atmosphere here is family-friendly, creating a welcoming and inclusive vibe. The sunsets at Samara Beach are particularly enchanting, and spending an evening at one of the beach bars, witnessing the sun gracefully descend below the horizon, is the perfect way to conclude another day in this paradise.
