- Please support our journalism through affiliate links. Affiliate Disclosure
Review:
As you drive south along Costa Rica's central Pacific coast, about 20 miles from fashionable touristy Quepos and Manuel Antonio, you will find the quiet small town of Matapalo. Playa Matapalo has all the beauty of more popular beaches in the area but has been overlooked by tourists as being a bit off beaten path, leaving its fine cocoa powder brown sands pristine and undeveloped.
The beach is surrounded by ancient tropical forests and is lined by stately tall coconut palms. If walking along the beach, swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing are not enough, you can also try horseback riding on the beach, or fishing from the shores or at the spot where the Portalón River spills into the sea.
Matapalo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Plan Your Trip
Get Ready to Go!
- Search flights and stays nearby.
- Book your tour or local activity.
- Book your car rental.
Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.