13 Best Beaches in Costa Rica for Surfing, Relaxation, and Adventure
Beaches in Costa Rica: With over 800 miles of coastline along both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica is a beach lover’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for world-class surf breaks, secluded white-sand shores, or thrilling water adventures, Costa Rica has the perfect beach for you.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best beaches in Costa Rica, categorized by surfing, relaxation, and adventure, so you can find the ideal spot for your next tropical getaway.
Beaches in Costa Rica
Best Beaches in Costa Rica for Surfing
Costa Rica is a top surfing destination, with consistent waves year-round, warm waters, and a variety of breaks for all skill levels.
1. Playa Hermosa (Jacó) – A Surfer’s Paradise
Location: Central Pacific Coast, near Jacó
Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers
Wave Type: Powerful beach breaks, fast and hollow waves
Highlights:
One of Costa Rica’s top surf spots, hosting international surf competitions.
Strong and consistent waves with swells year-round.
A laid-back surf town atmosphere with surf schools and rentals.
2. Playa Santa Teresa – A Remote Surf Haven
Location: Nicoya Peninsula, Pacific Coast
Best for: All skill levels
Wave Type: Long, peeling waves with sandy bottoms
Highlights:
Consistent surf conditions throughout the year.
A bohemian, relaxed vibe with yoga retreats and eco-lodges.
Nearby waterfalls and tide pools for post-surf relaxation.
3. Playa Tamarindo – Perfect for Beginners and Pros
Location: Guanacaste Province, Pacific Coast
Best for: All skill levels
Wave Type: Smooth rolling waves, excellent for beginners
Highlights:
One of the most popular surf towns in Costa Rica.
Surf schools and board rentals are widely available.
Vibrant nightlife and excellent restaurants for après-surf fun.
4. Pavones – The Longest Left-Hand Wave
Location: Southern Pacific Coast
Best for: Advanced surfers
Wave Type: Long left-hand point break
Highlights:
One of the longest left-hand waves in the world, lasting over 1 minute.
Uncrowded and off-the-beaten-path.
Stunning natural surroundings, with rainforest-covered hills nearby.
5. Salsa Brava – The Best Caribbean Surf Break
Location: Puerto Viejo, Caribbean Coast
Best for: Expert surfers
Wave Type: Powerful reef break
Highlights:
Costa Rica’s heaviest and most powerful wave.
A true challenge for experienced surfers.
A lively Caribbean culture with reggae vibes and delicious food.
Best Beaches for Relaxation
If you’re looking for secluded beaches, soft sand, and crystal-clear waters, Costa Rica offers plenty of hidden gems for relaxation.
6. Playa Conchal – The Most Beautiful White-Sand Beach
Location: Guanacaste, Pacific Coast
Best for: Relaxation and swimming
Highlights:
Named after its shimmering crushed-shell sand.
Calm turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Nearby luxury resorts for an upscale beach getaway.
7. Playa Carrillo – A Secluded Gem
Location: Nicoya Peninsula
Best for: Tranquility and scenic beauty
Highlights:
No crowds, making it perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Lined with palm trees and golden sand.
Gentle waters ideal for wading and relaxing.
8. Playa San Juanillo – A Hidden Paradise
Location: Guanacaste, Nicoya Peninsula
Best for: Seclusion and stunning scenery
Highlights:
Two-tone sand and crystal-clear waters.
A quiet escape with very few visitors.
Great for snorkeling and sunbathing.
9. Playa Uvita – The Whale’s Tail Beach
Location: Marino Ballena National Park, Pacific Coast
Best for: Nature lovers and beachcombers
Highlights:
Famous whale-tail-shaped sandbar, visible during low tide.
A great spot to see humpback whales (July–October, December–March).
Soft golden sand and warm waters for a serene experience.
Best Beaches for Adventure
For thrill-seekers, Costa Rica’s beaches offer exciting water sports, wildlife encounters, and hidden coves to explore.
10. Playa Dominical – The Best for Surf and Adventure
Location: Southern Pacific Coast
Best for: Surfing, hiking, and waterfall adventures
Highlights:
Strong surf breaks for experienced surfers.
Nearby Nauyaca Waterfalls, a must-visit for adventure lovers.
A vibrant backpacker scene with yoga, hiking, and horseback riding.
11. Playa Manzanillo – Snorkeling and Wildlife Encounters
Location: Caribbean Coast, near Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
Best for: Snorkeling, kayaking, and wildlife spotting
Highlights:
Coral reefs filled with tropical fish and marine life.
Lush rainforest meets pristine beaches, offering a unique landscape.
Sea turtles, dolphins, and manatees can be spotted nearby.
12. Isla Tortuga – The Best for Water Activities
Location: Gulf of Nicoya
Best for: Snorkeling, diving, and boat tours
Highlights:
Crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving.
White-sand beaches with palm trees and hammocks.
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and banana boat rides available.
13. Playa Ostional – Witness the Arribada (Sea Turtle Nesting)
Location: Nicoya Peninsula, Pacific Coast
Best for: Wildlife lovers
Highlights:
One of the best places in the world to witness the mass arrival of olive ridley sea turtles.
Nesting season occurs between July and December.
A truly unique and awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.
Final Tips for Enjoying Beaches in Costa Rica
1. Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (December – April): Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water activities.
Green Season (May – November): Great for fewer crowds, lush landscapes, and excellent surf conditions.
2. What to Pack
Reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
Water shoes for rocky or coral-filled beaches.
Bug spray for areas near rainforests.
Snorkeling gear to explore Costa Rica’s rich marine life.
3. Respect Nature
Avoid disturbing wildlife and sea turtles.
Do not litter or take shells and coral.
Stick to designated trails and paths.
Beaches in Costa Rica Conclusion
From thrilling surf spots to hidden tropical retreats and adventure-filled beaches, Costa Rica offers an unforgettable beach experience for every traveler. Whether you’re riding the waves at Playa Hermosa, snorkeling at Manzanillo, or simply relaxing at Playa Conchal, you’ll find your perfect slice of paradise.
So, grab your surfboard, snorkel, or hammock, and get ready to explore the best beaches in Costa Rica!
