Costa Rica is a one-of-a-kind location known for its pristine beaches and exotic wildlife.
Costa Rica, though small with a land area of just 51,180 km² (19,760 sq mi), boasts an impressive 1,228 km of coastline, including 1,016 km along the Pacific and 212 km on the Caribbean, as noted by Visit Costa Rica.
The country boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the world, offering turquoise waters, rich biodiversity, and world-class surf. With so many options it can be difficult to choose the right beach for your stay. We recommend renting a car and checking out several of the top beaches in Costa Rica:
Best Turquoise & Crystal Waters
Cahuita National Park, Limon
Located on the Caribbean coast, this park features white sand beaches and the most well-preserved coral reef in the country. Perfect for snorkeling and wildlife watching, Cahuita is also known for its strong community involvement in sustainable tourism.
Google Maps location: https://g.co/kgs/gRRWpiZ
Playa Conchal, Guanacaste
Named after the crushed shells that make up its sand, Playa Conchal is famous for its sparkling waters and tranquil atmosphere. A gem on the northern Pacific coast, it’s a paradise for sunbathing and water sports.
Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hf4rPLG5v1QcVRJE8
Playa Quesera, Nicoya Peninsula
With white sand and turquoise waters, Playa Quesera feels like stepping into a tropical dream. Located within Curú Wildlife Refuge, it’s perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, or simply enjoying a quiet sunset.
Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sApyq3yuPKRcu4WaA
Playa Muertos, Nicoya Peninsula
A secluded beach known for its crystal-clear water and soft white sand, Playa Muertos offers an idyllic escape. Surrounded by palm trees, it’s the ideal spot for swimming and relaxation.
Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zxH8ZZLVuLUnyUUD8
Best Surf Spots
Playa Hermosa, Puntarenas
Famous for its A-frame waves, Playa Hermosa is Costa Rica’s ultimate surf destination. It draws surf enthusiasts from all over the world with its year-round swells and strong community efforts toward sustainable tourism.
Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pdekmMXCN12UYdsRA
Santa Teresa, Nicoya Peninsula
Santa Teresa offers white-sand beaches with excellent surf conditions, making it a hotspot for surfers of all levels. Beyond surfing, visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, and yoga retreats in this charming coastal village.
Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bpUsre3hoEQj1EYs5
Tamarindo, Guanacaste
A haven for surfers, Tamarindo is known for its lively beach breaks and proximity to Playa Grande, a nesting site for leatherback turtles. It’s a great spot for beginners and pros alike.
Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nvnDF3KkCy1RrgFZ6
Playa Matapalo, Savegre de Aguirre, Puntarenas
Surrounded by tropical rainforest, Matapalo offers secluded beaches and eco-friendly accommodations. It’s a perfect place for surfing, hiking, and exploring nearby waterfalls.
Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mzqPJtUUoVLJN79w9
Playa Pavones, Puntarenas
Pavones boasts the second-longest left-hand surf break in the world. It’s a surfer’s paradise, known for its powerful waves and remote, untouched beauty.
Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pqnFr9xyzn22FrhK8
Best Overall Beach
Playa Espadilla, Manuel Antonio, Puntarenas
Nestled right outside Manuel Antonio National Park, Playa Espadilla stands as Costa Rica’s best overall beach, offering a perfect fusion of natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife. The waves are perfect for swimming and the beach itself is located in a tropical peninsula – meaning you’ll see plenty of vibrant green palm trees.
Though the park spans just 1,983 hectares (4,900 acres), it remains the most visited of Costa Rica’s 30 national parks, drawing over 4 million tourists between 2012 and 2022. Playa Espadilla’s expansive stretch of soft sand meets calm, turquoise waters, making it ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and watersports like paddleboarding or surfing. What truly sets it apart is its proximity to lush jungles, where visitors can encounter monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds while enjoying easy access to local restaurants and beachside vendors. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this beach offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit for any traveler.
Where to stay:
The Falls Boutique Hotel, Manuel Antonio
Where to eat:
Where to shop:
No matter what type of beach experience you’re seeking, Costa Rica’s coastline has it all—from serene waters and thriving marine life to adventurous surf breaks.
Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Zscej6K6Us65y5yf8
