Costa Rica’s 802 miles of coastline have some of the finest beaches on the planet, from snowy shell shores to jungle-backed white sand beaches perfect for basking. Whether you’re traveling to the Pacific Coast, Nicoya Peninsula, or Caribbean Coast, you’re bound to find your ideal slice of seaside pura vida. These nine beaches are some of my favorites.
Playa Santa Teresa (Image Credit: Elizabeth Lavis)
Playa Santa Teresa
Playa Santa Teresa sits on the southwestern side of the Nicoya Peninsula and is an excellent spot to seek out intermediate- to expert-level waves and see some of the most incredible sunsets in the country. The town itself is dominated by one long street, fringed on either side by hotels, shops, and restaurants. Rent an ATV to explore Playa Hermosa to the north or Malpais to the south. What makes this stretch of sand special is its reliable waves, impressive international scene, and ample accommodations and amenities.
Playa Tamarindo
Tamarindo is the top party town in Nicoya, with a two-mile-wide golden beach that spans Playa Langosta to the south and Las Baulas National Park to the north. It’s just over one hour from the Liberia International Airport, making it a smart stop if you’re flying in that way. This beach is perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers. If you want bigger swells and fewer crowds, head up to neighboring Playa Grande. Tamarindo itself is a fab place for backpackers, with tons of local bars, cheap hostels, and a friendly vibe.
Playa Cocles
Playa Cocles is an excellent surf spot if you’re looking for intermediate and challenging waves and plenty of places to kick your sandy feet up and enjoy a beer after your surfing session. It’s just two miles south of popular Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and a ten-minute walk from Cocles. Surfing conditions tend to be best in early spring or fall, and the main beach break is sandy, although there is a reef bit at the northern end. Currents can be strong, and there are generally jellyfish, so surfing with caution and staying aware of your surroundings is key.
Sunbathe on the snowy shell beach of Playa Conchal, on the Nicoya Peninsula just north of Tamarindo. This semi-secret beach is accessible by foot from nearby Playa Brasilito and offers tranquil turquoise waters, crushed shell shores, and gorgeous views. Since it’s tucked into a cove, the seas are gentle in Playa Conchal. It’s a great place to take a refreshing dip, but those looking for good surf will want to venture south to Tamarindo.
Playa Conchal (Image Credit: Elizabeth Lavis)
Playa Conchal
Sunbathe on the snowy shell beach of Playa Conchal, on the Nicoya Peninsula just north of Tamarindo. This semi-secret beach is accessible by foot from nearby Playa Brasilito and offers tranquil turquoise waters, crushed shell shores, and stunning views. Since it’s tucked into a cove, the seas are gentle in Playa Conchal. It’s a great place to take a refreshing dip, but those looking for good surf will want to venture south to Tamarindo.
Playa Camaronal
South of Samara on the Nicoya Peninsula, you’ll find Playa Camaronal, a turtle-nesting beach that sits right against the Camaronal Wildlife Refuge. Visit at night between May and November, and you can spot turtles making the long trek from the sea to the shore to deposit their eggs. It’s also a phenomenal place for advanced surfing with massive swells and hollow breaks, but there are generally no lifeguards on duty, so you’ll have to surf at your own risk.
Playa Dominical at Sunset (Image Credit: Elizabeth Lavis)
Playa Dominical
Central Pacific’s Playa Dominical is a charming surf town with a laid-back vibe, intermediate waves, and a jungle-backed beach that’s a fantastic spot to catch the sunset. It’s an easy bus ride from San Jose or nearby Jaco, and you’ll find plenty of hostels and restaurants on the main drag itself. Plus, you can hop over to Playa Dominicalito for more mellow waves or visit local attractions, like the Nauyaca Waterfalls.
Playa Puerto Viejo
Playa Puerto Viejo is the main beach of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, and it’s an ideal place to go if you want a mix of beachy vibes and nightlife. The waves are beginner-level and gentle, so it’s an excellent place to learn to surf, and you’ll find tons of tide pools for shallow-water relaxation. The town itself is a draw too; it’s conveniently located near Cahuita National Park and very bikeable.
Playa Guiones
When people talk about surfing in Nosara, they’re talking about Playa Guiones. This beach is one of the most stunning I’ve seen in Costa Rica, with almond-tree-lined shores and astounding views, and the surf is pretty special too. Expect larger, consistent, intermediate waves. It’s also a good place to visit if you want to do some yoga or have a home base to hop to Playa Ostional to see the annual turtle arribada.
Did I miss any key beaches? What are some of your favorites?
