Beaches in Costa Rica

Location: Playa Chiquita, southeast of Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

Recommended For: Beachcombers, snorkelers, solitude seekers, and eco-travelers.

What we Love: "Hidden behind lush coastal jungle, Playa Chiquita is a secluded treasure where nature reigns. Quiet bays, soft golden sand, and coral-rich waters offer a retreat for those craving untouched beauty far from crowds."

• Walk through tropical trails to reach this remote beach — no roads, just nature and peaceful seclusion.
• Swim and snorkel in clear Caribbean waters, especially around coral reef pockets near the shoreline.
• Explore quiet sandy bays ideal for a private day under the sun with hardly another visitor in sight.
• Dine at small, local eateries along the main road — no shopping district, but charming local character.

Cost: Free beach access; bring your own gear for snorkeling or diving.

Best time to visit: I go from February through April and September to October for drier weather and clear snorkeling visibility.

Local tips: I always bring snacks, water, and reef-safe sunscreen. Swimming can be rough depending on tides — always assess the current before entering.

Distance: Approximately 4 hours from San José by car.

How to Get to Playa Chiquita: Drive southeast from Puerto Viejo toward Manzanillo on Route 256. Look for small signs and trailheads leading to the beach — parking is limited and trails are short but unmarked.

Location: Santa Teresa, Nicoya Peninsula, Province of Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Recommended For: Surfers, beach explorers, nature lovers, snorkelers, and adventure travelers.

What we Love: "Santa Teresa captures the magic of wild Pacific beaches with jungle backdrops and world-class surf breaks. Whether you’re catching waves or catching sunsets, this is Costa Rica at its most raw and radiant."

• Surf epic waves at La Lora and Suck Rock — world-renowned spots hosting annual international competitions.
• Explore tide pools, coastal trails, and the jungle-lined shores for wildlife and photo ops.
• Swim, hike, snorkel, or set sail — Playa Santa Teresa offers endless outdoor adventures beyond just surfing.
• Fish the deep seas just off the Pacific coast, with local charters offering access to prime waters.

Cost: Beach access is free; guided excursions for surfing, fishing, and snorkeling available for a fee.

Best time to visit: I try to get there before the crowds. Or I arrive just before sunset when everyone leaves for dinner.

Local tips: While the beach is still somewhat remote, its growing popularity means it’s wise to arrive early for space. Beginners should take surf lessons — waves can reach up to 20 feet.

Distance: Around 93 miles (approximately 6 hours) from San José by car and ferry or short domestic flight.

How to Get to Playa Santa Teresa: From San José, take Route 27 to Puntarenas. Board the ferry to Paquera, then drive through Cobano to Santa Teresa. Allow extra time for the scenic but rugged drive.

Romantic Beaches in Costa Rica:

Location: Sámara, Nicoya Peninsula, Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica

Recommended For: Families, snorkelers, kayakers, nature lovers, and relaxed beachgoers.

What we Love: "Playa Sámara is calm, colorful, and full of life — from its reef-protected bay to bird-rich Isla Chora. Whether you're paddling a kayak, walking packed sands, or just soaking in the sun, it's paradise made approachable."

• Swim in shallow, gentle waters — considered some of the safest along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
• Snorkel or dive along living coral reefs and explore the marine life hidden beneath the surface.
• Kayak out to Isla Chora to see nesting birds and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
• Stroll the wide, packed-sand beach — perfect for long coastal walks and light hikes.
• Enjoy vibrant village life with beachside restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs all within walking distance.

Cost: Free public access. Equipment rentals and guided excursions available for a fee.

Best time to visit: December to April for dry weather and calm seas; July and August for fewer crowds and still-pleasant conditions.

Local tips: Bring binoculars for birdwatching from Isla Chora. Early mornings offer the calmest waters for kayaking and snorkeling.

Distance: Around 140 miles from San José (approximately 4.5 hours by car).

How to Get to Playa Sámara: From San José, take Route 1 northwest toward Nicoya, then follow signs for Sámara via Route 150. Accessible by car, shuttle, or domestic flight to nearby Nosara or Carrillo airstrips.

Location: Nicoya Peninsula, Northern Pacific Coast, Costa Rica

Recommended For: Beach lovers, surfers, eco-travelers, nature enthusiasts, and luxury vacationers.

What we Love: "Nicoya Peninsula is Costa Rica’s coastal gem — a place where surfing meets serenity, rugged trails lead to wildlife sanctuaries, and sunsets light up miles of pristine beach. From turtle hatcheries to golf resorts, it truly has it all."

• Explore nature reserves like Cabo Blanco and wildlife refuges such as Camaronal and Curu, rich with biodiversity.
• Surf world-famous Pacific waves at top beach breaks, perfect for all experience levels.
• Relax at coastal resorts and world-class hotels, or immerse yourself in quaint fishing towns full of local charm.
• Experience turtle hatcheries and conservation efforts — ideal for eco-conscious travelers and families.
• Play a round at the professional golf course in Tambor, surrounded by lush scenery and ocean breezes.

Cost: Entry to natural areas may require a small fee. Lodging and excursions range from budget to luxury.

Best time to visit: December through April for dry season and optimal beach conditions; September and October for quieter, greener surroundings.

Local tips: Rent a 4x4 vehicle to access off-the-beaten-path beaches and explore more remote natural areas. Catch the sunset daily — it’s a local ritual for good reason.

Distance: Accessible via Liberia (LIR), San José (SJO), or Tambor (TMU) airports; drive times vary by location on the peninsula.

How to Get to Nicoya Peninsula: Fly into Liberia or San José, then drive or take a domestic flight or ferry (via Puntarenas) to various towns on the peninsula such as Santa Teresa, Sámara, or Tambor.

Family Beaches in Costa Rica:

Location: Punta Uva, near Puerto Viejo, Caribbean Coast, Costa Rica

Recommended For: Families, snorkelers, nature lovers, bird watchers, and peaceful beachgoers.

What we Love: "Punta Uva feels like a gentle secret — calm turquoise waters, jungle trails, and coral reefs just offshore. It's a place to reconnect with nature, wander without a plan, and hear howler monkeys calling from the trees."

• Swim in warm, tranquil waters — ideal for kids and new swimmers thanks to the protected reef.
• Snorkel vibrant coral gardens just offshore, teeming with colorful tropical fish and sea life.
• Hike jungle paths in the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, spotting monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds.
• Stay at charming eco-lodges and small hotels that blend seamlessly into the lush landscape.
• Disconnect from resort crowds — no golf courses here, just pure, peaceful coastal beauty.

Cost: Free beach access; guided tours and lodging vary in cost.

Best time to visit: September and October for the driest weather on the Caribbean coast; also great in February and March.

Local tips: Bring snorkeling gear and binoculars — Punta Uva is as much about underwater life as it is about rainforest canopy exploration. Stay alert for wildlife even on short walks.

Distance: About 5 miles (15 minutes) southeast of Puerto Viejo; 4.5 to 5 hours from San José by car.

How to Get to Punta Uva: From Puerto Viejo, take Route 256 south. Look for signs or trail entrances to Punta Uva Beach — some access points are via short jungle paths.

Location: Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Recommended For: Families, snorkelers, swimmers, water sports lovers, and peaceful beachgoers.

What we Love: "Playa Hermosa lives up to its name — a serene cove framed by volcanic ridges and tropical forests. It’s the kind of beach where you can both unwind and explore, all just minutes from the airport."

• Swim in calm, clear waters that are ideal for families and casual waders alike.
• Snorkel or scuba dive off the volcanic coastline to discover vibrant marine life beneath the waves.
• Kayak, sailboard, or jet ski on the smooth bay — perfect for water sports in a relaxed setting.
• Escape to a low-key paradise just 20 minutes from Liberia’s international airport with few crowds and abundant nature.
• Stroll nearly two kilometers of soft grey sand backed by tropical greenery and coastal rock formations.

Cost: Free beach access; water sports equipment rental and diving tours available at varying prices.

Best time to visit: November through April for dry, sunny weather; May to August for a greener landscape and fewer crowds.

Local tips: Visit early in the morning for the most peaceful experience. The water is typically calm year-round — ideal for beginners learning new water sports.

Distance: About 20 minutes from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia.

How to Get to Playa Hermosa: From Liberia, take Route 21 west, then follow signs to Playa Hermosa via Route 254. The beach is well-marked and easy to reach by car or shuttle.

Unique Beaches in Costa Rica:

Location: Uvita Beach, Puntarenas Province, South Pacific Region, Costa Rica

Recommended For: Nature lovers, turtle watchers, surfers, snorkelers, and peaceful beach seekers.

What we Love: "Uvita Beach is serene and soul-soothing — where palm-fringed sands stretch endlessly and the only nightlife is the sound of waves. Add in turtle hatchings, whale sightings, and jungle-covered hills, and you’ve got a coastal escape like no other."

• Walk along miles of soft white sand shaded by towering palms — perfect for peaceful beach strolls.
• Surf or swim in warm Pacific waves, ideal for beginners and seasoned beach lovers alike.
• Snorkel and dive around nearby reefs teeming with marine life.
• Watch Olive Ridley and Hawksbill turtles nest between May and October — a magical wildlife moment.
• Kayak through nearby mangroves rich in birdlife, or spot migrating Humpback whales from December to April.

Cost: Free public beach access; turtle tours, whale watching, and kayaking excursions available for a fee.

Best time to visit: December to April for whale watching and dry beach days; May to October for turtle nesting and lush greenery.

Local tips: Visit early to spot more wildlife and enjoy cooler sand. Turtle tours are best at dusk — bring a red-light flashlight to avoid disturbing the hatchlings.

Distance: About 11 miles (18 km) south of Dominical; roughly 3.5–4 hours from San José by car.

How to Get to Uvita Beach: From San José, take Route 27 to Route 34 (Costanera Sur) heading south. Uvita is clearly marked, and beach access is easy from town by foot or car.

Location: Cocles, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Caribbean Coast, Costa Rica

Recommended For: Surfers, swimmers, adventure travelers, and beach lovers seeking a lively yet scenic escape.

What we Love: "Playa Cocles combines the raw beauty of the Caribbean with world-class waves and local heart. With jungle on one side, powerful surf on the other, and lifeguards watching over it all, it’s as thrilling as it is welcoming."

• Surf both left and right-breaking waves, with peak conditions from December to March — especially early mornings.
• Watch pros tackle Salsa Brava nearby, one of the most legendary surf breaks in Costa Rica.
• Swim safely under the watch of community-supported lifeguards — a rare feature on the Caribbean coast.
• Explore lush tropical surroundings and the relaxed coastal village of Cocles just steps from the sand.
• Relax on the wide sandy beach framed by jungle and breeze-swept coconut palms.

Cost: Free public beach access. Surfboard rentals and lessons available for a fee.

Best time to visit: December through March for the best surfing conditions; early mornings for optimal waves and fewer crowds.

Local tips: Stay alert to surf flags and lifeguard advisories. For beginners, surf lessons are highly recommended. Salsa Brava is for experienced surfers only.

Distance: About 1.5 miles (2.5 km) south of Puerto Viejo; 4.5–5 hours from San José by car.

How to Get to Playa Cocles: From Puerto Viejo, head south on Route 256. Playa Cocles is easily accessible by car, bike, or foot, with visible surf activity marking the main entrance.

If you are a photographer, don't miss:

Location: Marino Ballena National Park, Uvita, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica

Recommended For: Snorkelers, divers, bird watchers, marine life lovers, and eco-travelers.

What we Love: "Where land meets sea in perfect harmony — Marino Ballena is a lush blend of beach, mangrove, and coral reef. It’s one of the few places where you can spot iguanas on the rocks, birds in the trees, and whales breaching offshore — all in a single day."

• Snorkel vibrant coral reefs during low tide around the iconic whale-tail sandbar and crescent-shaped reef.
• Dive to nearby islands with guided excursions — reefs here host colorful marine life and dramatic underwater landscapes.
• Watch humpback whales migrate from December to April, often visible from shore or boat tours.
• Explore mangrove forests rich in birdlife between Uvita and Ballena beaches.
• Wander through tide pools, sandy shores, and scenic coastal trails for beachcombing and wildlife sightings.

Cost: Entry fee to the national park is approximately $6 USD. Tours and diving trips available at additional cost.

Best time to visit: December to April for whale watching and dry-season snorkeling; September and October for clearest water conditions.

Local tips: Swim with caution near reef areas due to occasional rip currents. Visit at low tide for the best access to the reef and the iconic sandbar shaped like a whale's tail.

Distance: About 10 miles south of Dominical; 3.5 to 4 hours from San José by car.

How to Get to Marino Ballena National Park: Take Route 34 south past Dominical to Uvita. Follow signs for Playa Chamán and park entrances; multiple access points lead into the protected area.

Location: Nosara, Nicoya Peninsula, Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica

Recommended For: Surfers, yogis, eco-travelers, cyclists, and turtle watchers.

What we Love: "Nosara is where surf culture meets serene nature. With its long white beaches, jungle backdrops, and year-round waves, it’s a barefoot paradise for wave riders, wellness seekers, and nature lovers alike."

• Surf consistent year-round waves at Playa Guiones — one of Costa Rica’s best beaches for all skill levels.
• Bike or walk along seven kilometers of pristine white sand, dotted with tide pools and wildlife.
• Snorkel in naturally formed tide pools during low tide, perfect for a relaxing dip with a view.
• Watch for Olive Ridley and Leatherback turtles nesting along protected stretches of the Ostional Wildlife Refuge.
• Stay in laid-back eco-lodges and boutique hotels nestled within the forest just steps from the shore.

Cost: Free public beach access. Surf lessons, rentals, and guided wildlife tours available at local rates.

Best time to visit: December to April for sunny surf days; July to December for turtle nesting and lush surroundings.

Local tips: Head out early to catch gentle waves and fewer crowds. Sunset surf sessions are a local ritual — bring your board or your camera.

Distance: About 2.5 hours from Liberia International Airport (LIR); 5–6 hours from San José by car.

How to Get to Nosara: Drive via Route 21 through Nicoya, then follow Route 160. Roads can be rugged — a 4x4 is recommended. Domestic flights to Nosara airstrip are also available.