If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, there are many exciting activities and beautiful sights to see.
Due to its geographic location, Costa Rica offers beach access to both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean sides of the country.
The popularity of tourism to Costa Rica shows no signs of slowing, with nearly 1.7 million visitors heading to the country annually.
Just the same, most tourists will find the shores to be less crowded than many other popular tropical travel locations.
Let’s take a closer look at 10 of the most beautiful beaches in the country and why some consider Costa Rica to have the best beaches in the world.
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Best Beaches in Costa Rica
1. Manuel Antonio National Park
Coming in at #1 is one of Costa Rica’s smallest national parks.
But, as they say, good things often come in small packages.
Located on the Central Pacific coast, the beach at Manuel Antonio is well known for its white sugar sand, varied wildlife, proximity to the rain forest, and coral reefs in crystal-clear waters.
As a popular location for tourists, there are also numerous other amenities and attractions, such as bars, restaurants, and shops in and around the town of Manuel Antonio.
Visitors can also enjoy outside activities such as zip lining, horseback riding, kayaking, snorkeling, and offshore fishing while in the area.
Things to Know
- The park is open daily, from 7:00 am- 4:00 pm, and admission is $16 per person.
- Camping is not permitted in the park, but there is ample lodging available in the area.
- Manuel Antonio Park is home to over 100 species of birds.
- Swimming is allowed, but visitors should be aware of the possibility of strong ocean currents.
- Fishing is allowed, but visitors are required to follow the applicable rules and regulations.
Things to Do
- Visitors can hike the many trails in and around the park, where they can explore both beaches and rainforests.
- Explore the coastline on a boat tour.
- Take a canopy tour through a ziplining experience.
2. Playa Tamarindo
Once a small fishing village, Playa Tamarindo has become one of the top destinations for surfers from around the world.
The waves in Tamarindo are consistently big and well-formed, which attracts surfers of all ages.
Situated in the Guanacaste Province on the Pacific coast of the country, this popular beach destination has lots more to offer besides just amazing waves.
In addition to beautiful beaches and clear blue waters, surfers and visitors are able to explore local bars and restaurants, as well as numerous nightlife opportunities.
Things to Know
- Playa Tamarindo offers opportunities for the entire family to explore Costa Rica, with numerous activities, shops, and attractions available.
- Photographers are able to regularly capture stunning sunsets, framed in lush tropical settings, in Tamarindo.
- The beaches of Tamarindo are also home to one of the largest Leatherback Turtle nesting sites in the world.
Things to Do
- Playa Tamarindo offers varying sizes and intensities of waves for all levels of surfers, from novice to experienced.
- Visit the local markets for a taste of traditional Costa Rican produce and foods, artwork, goods, and crafts.
- Take a cooking class that focuses on Costa Rican cuisine.
- Explore the rainforest or beaches on horseback.
- Enjoy some fishing, boating, or just relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun.
3. Playa Conchal
Another of Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches, Playa Conchal’s “sand” is composed of millions of crushed shells, which makes for a unique beach experience, as well as shell collecting possibilities.
Conchal actually translates to shell beach. Guests regularly enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving, often fairly close to shore, as the waters are often warm and calm.
Sailing and kayaking are also popular aquatic activities in Playa Conchal.
Things to Know
- Reserva Conchal is a nature-based private resort on the Pacific Coast, which focuses on sustainable practices and serves as a nature preserve for the numerous species of plants and animals in Costa Rica.
- Coral reefs in the area offer excellent possibilities for snorkeling or scuba diving.
- Numerous bus tours and nature hikes are available to explore the Conchal area.
- Playa Conchal is pet friendly.
- Fishing licenses are required for locals and tourists and can be acquired here.
Things to Do
- Play a round of golf at Conchal Golf Reserve.
- Explore Costa Rican nature within Reserva Conchal.
- Visit the local markets and shops for hand-crafted goods.
- Plan a bat expedition along the coastline.
4. Playa Herradura
Positioned on the Central Pacific Coast, Herradura is roughly an hour’s drive from the capital city of San José and the Juan Santamaría International Airport.
Playa Herradura is also about 2.5 miles away from the town of Jacó in Puntarenas Province.
Both Playa Herradura and Jacó offer visitors excellent options for restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
Herradura means horseshoe in Spanish and refers to the shape of the bay where the beach is located.
Regional attractions include Carara National Park to the south and Isla Palma, a small island directly off the coast on the southern edge of the bay.
Things to Know
- Great swimming conditions with calm, clean water.
- Good for long beach walks and shell collecting.
- Not a very busy beach.
- A good locale for younger children.
Things to Do
- Rent SUPs or jetskis for water activities.
- Plan a catamaran trip up or down the coast.
- Visit local shops and markets for local flavors.
- 4-wheel drive tours through jungle and beach areas.
5. Playa Negra
Costa Rica sits atop a fault line for intersecting tectonic plates.
As a result, volcanic activity is fairly prevalent throughout the middle of the country.
In fact, there are currently 5 active volcanoes in Costa Rica.
Because of volcanic activity, many beaches will have darker sand from weathered and eroded volcanic material.
Playa Negra is a dark sand beach on the Pacific Coast of the country.
It is closest to the beach town of Los Pargos.
Numerous visitors come to the area for the excellent surfing conditions.
Others come for the gorgeous views and to enjoy a somewhat secluded beach location.
Things to Know
- The black beach sand can get very hot, so bring shoes.
- Access to the beach is not difficult, but the location is somewhat remote.
- Hotel Playa Negra offers accommodation for visitors.
- Playa Negra is located in a dry tropical forest, meaning there is less precipitation than in typical rainforests.
Things to Do
- Surfing is a big draw for all ages and abilities.
- Nearby Los Pargos offers restaurants and food, markets, and other hotel accommodations.
- The Pura Jungla Nature Reserve and Sustainable Community is a short 10-minute drive from the beach.
6. Playa Montezuma
Playa Montezuma is located on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica.
This remote beach locale offers some of the most beautiful shorelines in the country, often without many other visitors present.
The small community of Montezuma is thriving in spite of being off the beaten path.
Those who visit often reflect on the close-knit culture and community feel of the area.
Things to Know
- There are a few surfing schools in the area for those wanting to learn.
- Romelia Wildlife Sanctuary is close to Montezuma and features a turtle hatchery and sanctuary.
- At the tip of the peninsula is Reserva Natural Cabo Blanco. This was Costa Rica’s first reserve and is considered the catalyst for the country’s continued conservation efforts and focus on nature.
Things to Do
- Visit the Montezuma Waterfall and pools to the south of the town.
- Isla de Cabuya is a small island off the coast, which can be accessed by foot during certain low tides.
- Numerous restaurants featuring cuisine from all over the world are available in and around Montezuma.
7. Playa Flamingo
This white sand beach in the northwest portion of the country is a popular tourist destination and features a number of all-inclusive resorts.
Located in close proximity to the Guanacaste Airport, there are many options for traveling to and from this area.
The mountainous formations reaching the coastline make for secluded lagoons and beaches throughout the area.
Scuba diving is one of the more popular activities at this beach location.
Things to Know
- Although numerous amenities, including food, lodging, and entertainment are available, Playa Flamingo doesn’t feel fast-paced or crowded.
- Playa Flamingo is close to other popular beaches like Playa Grande and Tamarindo.
- Numerous scuba schools are available to prepare you for a diving experience off the coast.
Things to Do
- The Catalina Islands off the coast offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling or scuba diving and seeing ocean wildlife.
- Cooking classes with local chefs are also available for interested visitors.
- Schedule a helicopter tour of the coast or rainforests.
8. Playa Cocles
Moving to the Caribbean side of the country, Playa Cocles is a beautiful white sand beach.
Stunning blue-green waters and swaying palm trees complete this picturesque beach locale.
Whether surfing, swimming, sunning, or fishing, Cocles is a gem on the Caribbean coast.
Things to Know
- During winter months, rip tides and waves can be challenging for swimming.
- Cocles is considered one of the best spots on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica for surfing.
- Between February and April and August and October are the best times to visit. The summer months tend to be much rainier.
Things to Do
- Wellness spas in the area are a popular activity for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- The Manzanillo Nature Observatory gives visitors an excellent opportunity to learn about and interact with many of Costa Rica’s native species.
- Experience whitewater rafting in the Pacuare and the Reventazón rivers.
9. Playa Samara
Situated in a long horseshoe-shaped inlet, this beach is great for swimming and watching sunsets.
The surrounding town features numerous restaurants, hotels, and bars, but doesn’t feel overcrowded.
The palm tree-lined beach offers great shade for sunbathers and wave watchers, alike.
Things to Know
- Playa Samara is protected by a coral reef, which makes for calm waters.
- Horseback riding on the beach is an excellent way to explore the area.
- Yoga and surfing classes are popular beach activities.
Things to Do
- Visit the Belén Waterfall and swimming pools.
- Go fishing with local guides.
- Hike the Werner-Sauter Natural Reserve to experience Costa Rica’s flora and fauna.
10. Playa Avellanas
Rounding out the top ten beaches in Costa Rica is Playa Avellanas, a rustic surfing beach town.
The warm, clean waters, pristine sandy beaches, and welcoming locals all make for an amazing experience.
Whether surfing, fishing, or just enjoying the sand and sun, Avellanas is an amazing spot to experience the best of Costa Rica.
Things to Know
- Liberia International Airport is approximately 1.5 hours from Playa Avellanas.
- Renting a car offers an affordable way to explore the coast.
- There isn’t a town center, so it may be advisable to bring some supplies for a day trip or longer.
Things to Do
- Avellanas is an excellent surfing spot for those with some experience.
- Visit the estuary area near the river mouth in Avellanas. Be on the lookout for crocodiles!
- Don’t miss out on the spectacular sunsets.
Costa Rica Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Costa Rica Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most swimmable beach in Costa Rica?
Playa Chiquita, located close to Playa Cocles on the Caribbean coast, is said to have some of the calmest waters for swimming.
Which beach has the clearest water in Costa Rica?
Many beaches in Costa Rica can lay claim to the clearest water, with Tamarindo, Conchal, and Manuel Antonio NP boasting some of the best.
Which side of Costa Rica has white sand beaches?
Both the Pacific and Caribbean sides feature white sand beaches, but the Pacific has more locations fitting this description.
When should I go to Costa Rica?
If you enjoy beautiful beaches, tropical rainforests, delicious food, and some of the kindest people on the planet, Costa Rica should be a destination for you.
