The most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica

With more than 1200 km of coastline, Costa Rica offers a variety of about 300 beaches, spread to the west on the Pacific Ocean and to the east on the Caribbean Sea. The turquoise waters, around 28°, are ideal for many water activities, but also for relaxing. The "pura vida" quality of life has fostered a nature and wellness tourism where surfing, yoga, and family activities blend together. An ideal destination to recharge and discover unforgettable landscapes in a preserved natural environment. Let's discover together the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, it's hard not to find happiness there.

Manuel Antonio

One of the most popular in Costa Rica, this superb white sand beach on the Pacific coast is accessible only by crossing the Manuel Antonio natural park. You can enjoy the crystal-clear waters while admiring the lush nature in the company of monkeys and other raccoons. A must-see!

Tamarindo

One of the most touristic beaches in the country, on the Nicoya peninsula bordering the Pacific, a real favorite spot for surf lovers. Even if purists will avoid the place, the site is worth seeing and you will find lots of entertainment, bars, and restaurants. For a bit more tranquility, don't hesitate to escape to Playa Langosta, accessible on foot in 20 minutes, more deserted and ideal for horseback riding.

Playa Conchal

Located in the northwest of the country, Playa Conchal gets its name from the shells, conchas in Spanish, that cover the coastline. Very suitable for diving and snorkeling, it is very well preserved and benefits from unique brightness as it is sunny for more than 11 hours a day! The site is magnificent and offers many activities and discoveries of the seabed. Don't forget your mask, snorkel, and fins!

Santa Teresa and Malpais

You will have to venture off the beaten path to get there, but it's worth it: the sand is immaculate white and the beach is lined with palm trees. Playa Santa Teresa has become one of the favorite destinations for surfers, but also for yoga enthusiasts. You can stay there for a while and, who knows, maybe never leave…

Playa Uvita and Hermosa

Very surprising from the sky, as the two beaches, located in the Marino Ballena park, form a whale's tail! You may even have the chance to see humpback whales there at certain times of the year. An ideal place for relaxation, lost between the Pacific and superb mangroves to explore, you will find the necessary entertainment for your well-being and can enjoy stand up paddle, very relaxing.

Playa de Dominical

Located on the southern Pacific coast, it is known as one of the best surf spots, and is monitored all year round by lifeguards. The small hippie-style village is ideal for enjoying the setting in a relaxed atmosphere, tasting seafood or sipping a drink with your feet in the water. A real little corner of paradise!

Playa Cahuita

Let's move to the east coast, where the beaches are fewer but worth the trip. The Cahuita National Park on the south coast is bordered by superb beaches, the three main ones being playa Blanca, playa Negra, and playa Vargas. If you want to enjoy a black sand beach, choose playa Negra; playa Vargas has more rocks, so it's ideal for snorkeling. As for playa Blanca, just relax and watch the monkeys. Watch your bags, they love to rummage!

Punta Uva

One of the most beautiful beaches in the country, accessible through the jungle, a guaranteed change of scenery! Everything is splendid: fine sand, turquoise waters, lush vegetation. You may have the chance to see green macaws, parrots whose species, highly endangered, has recently been reintroduced into the natural park.

Puerto Viejo

This is THE spot for surfers on the Caribbean coast. They come in large numbers in December and January to surf the salsa brava, the most anticipated wave of the spot. The beach is located near a small fishing village blending Jamaican and Hispanic cultures. Relaxation, surfing, reggae, the site offers many activities that will suit all travelers. Be careful, only experienced surfers can try the salsa brava.

Playa Cocles

Close to Puerto Viejo, on the southern Caribbean coast, it offers a bit more calm and tranquility. Beginner surfers prefer it to Puerto Viejo, which is more dangerous.

It's up to you to choose among these wonders of nature. A tip: explore the most beautiful beaches of Costa Rica on both coasts, the atmospheres are different. You won't be disappointed by the trip. These multiple stretches of fine sand, bordered on one side by turquoise waters and on the other by the tropical forest where palm trees offer all an idyllic postcard setting.