Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica is a dream destination for nature lovers, surfers, and beachgoers. With over 800 miles (1,290 km) of coastline, this small Central American country offers an astonishing variety of beaches—from golden sands with world-class surf to secluded, jungle-fringed coves teeming with wildlife.
Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast is known for its rugged cliffs, powerful waves, and golden beaches, making it a hotspot for surfers and adventure seekers. Meanwhile, the Caribbean Coast boasts lush rainforests, turquoise waters, and coral reefs, creating a more laid-back and culturally rich atmosphere.
In this guide, we’ll explore 12 of the best beaches in Costa Rica, each offering its own unique charm. Whether you’re looking for serene, palm-lined shores, epic surf spots, or beaches where you can spot nesting sea turtles, Costa Rica has a place for you. So grab your sunglasses, pack your sunscreen, and let’s discover the most stunning beaches in Costa Rica!
1. Manuel Antonio Beach (Pacific Coast – Central Region)
Located inside Manuel Antonio National Park, this breathtaking beach is a tropical paradise that looks straight out of a postcard. The soft white sand, calm turquoise waters, and lush rainforest backdrop make it one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful and famous beaches.
Since it’s part of a protected national park, no high-rise hotels or commercial developments disturb the scenery. Wildlife is everywhere—you might spot monkeys swinging in the trees, iguanas sunbathing on the rocks, or even sloths lazily hanging from branches as you walk down the trails leading to the beach.
Activities
- Wildlife Watching – Keep an eye out for howler monkeys, capuchins, sloths, and toucans.
- Snorkeling – The clear waters near the rocky edges are perfect for spotting tropical fish.
- Hiking – Explore the Manuel Antonio National Park trails for panoramic jungle-and-sea views.
Best For:
Nature lovers, families, and travelers looking for a mix of wildlife and beach relaxation.
2. Tamarindo Beach (Pacific Coast – Guanacaste Province)
If you’re looking for a vibrant beach town with great waves and nightlife, Tamarindo Beach is your spot. This golden-sand beach is one of the best places in Costa Rica for learning to surf, thanks to its gentle, rolling waves and numerous surf schools.
Beyond surfing, Tamarindo has a lively atmosphere with excellent restaurants, beach bars, and a fun nightlife scene. Just outside the town, Las Baulas National Marine Park is a critical nesting site for leatherback sea turtles, which arrive between October and February.
Activities
- Surfing – Perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers.
- Sea Turtle Watching – Visit Las Baulas National Marine Park to witness nesting leatherback turtles.
- Nightlife & Dining – Enjoy beachfront restaurants, cocktail bars, and live music venues.
Best For:
Surfers, young travelers, and those looking for a social beach town with great energy.
3. Santa Teresa Beach (Pacific Coast – Nicoya Peninsula)
A bohemian paradise known for its laid-back surf culture and stunning sunsets, Santa Teresa Beach is a favorite among backpackers, yogis, and digital nomads. The wide, golden beach is lined with palm trees and lush jungle, making it feel wild and untouched.
While Santa Teresa attracts serious surfers, the town itself has a relaxed, eco-friendly atmosphere, filled with yoga studios, organic cafes, and boutique hotels.
Activities
- Surfing – Ideal for experienced surfers looking for consistent, powerful waves.
- Yoga & Wellness – Join a beachfront yoga class or a wellness retreat.
- Sunset Watching – Experience one of the best sunsets in Costa Rica, often accompanied by fire dancers and music.
Best For:
Surfers, free spirits, and travelers looking for a chill, off-the-beaten-path beach town.
4. Playa Conchal (Pacific Coast – Guanacaste Province)
Playa Conchal stands out because of its unique shoreline, which isn’t made of sand but millions of tiny crushed seashells. This gives the beach a sparkling white-pink hue, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica.
The crystal-clear, calm waters make Conchal perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Nearby, The Westin Reserva Conchal resort offers a luxurious option for those looking to stay in style.
Activities
- Snorkeling & Swimming – Some of the clearest, calmest waters on the Pacific coast.
- Shell Collecting – Walk along the unique shell-covered beach.
- Luxury Stays – Enjoy high-end accommodations at The Westin Reserva Conchal.
Best For:
Couples, honeymooners, and anyone looking for a peaceful, luxury beach getaway.
5. Playa Flamingo (Pacific Coast – Guanacaste Province)
Known for its soft pinkish-white sand and luxury resorts, Playa Flamingo is a high-end beach destination perfect for those looking for a more exclusive beach experience.
The calm, turquoise waters make this beach ideal for swimming, sailing, and sport fishing. Nearby, luxury condos and hotels cater to travelers who want a quieter, more refined beach experience.
Activities
- Sailing & Fishing – Join a deep-sea fishing or catamaran tour.
- Sunbathing & Swimming – The calm waters make it safe and relaxing.
- Luxury Resorts – Stay at an upscale beachfront hotel or villa.
Best For:
Luxury travelers and couples looking for a peaceful, upscale beach experience.
6. Playa Biesanz (Central Pacific – Near Manuel Antonio)
For those who love hidden beaches, Playa Biesanz is a secluded cove just outside Manuel Antonio. This calm, crescent-shaped bay is surrounded by lush rainforest and is less crowded than its famous neighbor, Playa Manuel Antonio.
The gentle waves and shallow waters make Biesanz ideal for families and snorkeling. You’ll find local vendors renting kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear, making it an excellent spot for a relaxing beach day.
Activities
- Snorkeling & Kayaking – Explore the calm waters and nearby rock formations.
- Beach Hammocking – Find a shady spot to relax with a book.
- Wildlife Spotting – Look for monkeys and exotic birds in the surrounding jungle.
Best For:
Travelers looking for a quiet, hidden cove near Manuel Antonio.
7. Playa Hermosa (Pacific Coast – Guanacaste Province)
Living up to its name, which means “Beautiful Beach” in Spanish, Playa Hermosa is a serene, less crowded alternative to the busier beaches in Guanacaste. With dark gray volcanic sand and calm, clear waters, it is ideal for those looking to unwind in a tranquil setting.
Unlike Costa Rica’s famous surfing spots, Playa Hermosa’s gentle waves make it perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. The surrounding area is home to high-end resorts and eco-lodges, making it an excellent spot for relaxation and luxury travel.
Activities
- Swimming & Snorkeling – Enjoy the gentle waves and explore the underwater marine life.
- Paddleboarding – Rent a board and glide along the calm waters.
- Sunset Watching – Playa Hermosa is known for its spectacular sunset views over the Pacific.
Best For:
Travelers looking for a quiet, scenic, and luxurious beach getaway.
8. Playa Samara (Pacific Coast – Nicoya Peninsula)
Nestled on the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Samara is a picturesque beach town with a mix of laid-back charm and adventure. The calm, shallow waters and long sandy shoreline make it an excellent choice for families and first-time ocean swimmers.
The town of Samara is small but lively, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and tour operators offering activities like kayaking, horseback riding, and dolphin-watching tours.
Activities
- Kayaking & Boating – Paddle out to the nearby Isla Chora, a small island with great snorkeling.
- Horseback Riding – Take a sunset horseback ride along the beach.
- Dolphin & Whale Watching – Join a tour to spot bottlenose dolphins and, in season, humpback whales.
Best For:
Families, nature lovers, and travelers looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure.
9. Playa Uvita (Pacific Coast – Marino Ballena National Park)
Part of the Marino Ballena National Park, Playa Uvita is famous for its whale tail-shaped sandbar, which becomes visible during low tide. This protected beach offers stunning natural beauty and is a key location for whale watching, particularly from July to October and December to March when humpback whales migrate to these waters.
The tranquil waters and pristine sand make Playa Uvita a fantastic spot for relaxation, wildlife spotting, and eco-tourism.
Activities
- Whale Watching – One of the best places in Costa Rica to see humpback whales.
- Kayaking & Snorkeling – Explore the clear waters around the Whale’s Tail sandbar.
- Beach Hiking – Walk along the scenic shoreline inside the Marino Ballena National Park.
Best For:
Eco-tourists, wildlife lovers, and travelers seeking a unique, quiet beach experience.
10. Playa Negra (Pacific Coast – Guanacaste Province)
One of Costa Rica’s most unique beaches, Playa Negra is known for its striking black volcanic sand and powerful surf. This remote beach attracts experienced surfers, thanks to its fast, hollow waves that provide an exhilarating ride.
Despite its reputation as a surf beach, Playa Negra remains less crowded than nearby spots like Tamarindo, making it a fantastic place to escape the tourist crowds while still enjoying world-class waves.
Activities
- Surfing – One of the best surf breaks in Costa Rica, with consistent waves year-round.
- Photography – The contrast between the black sand and turquoise waters is incredibly photogenic.
- Secluded Sunbathing – Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.
Best For:
Surfers, adventure seekers, and those looking for a unique and dramatic beach landscape.
11. Punta Uva (Caribbean Coast – Limón Province)
On the Caribbean side, Punta Uva is a tropical paradise with golden sand, swaying palm trees, and calm, crystal-clear water. It’s located near Puerto Viejo, a town famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae vibes, and delicious cuisine.
Because of its calm waters and nearby coral reefs, Punta Uva is one of the best snorkeling spots in Costa Rica. It’s also an excellent place to simply relax under the shade of a palm tree, far from the crowds.
Activities
- Snorkeling & Swimming – Warm, calm Caribbean waters make this a snorkeler’s paradise.
- Biking & Exploring – Rent a bike and explore the coastal jungle paths.
- Cultural Dining – Try authentic Caribbean-style food in nearby Puerto Viejo.
Best For:
Travelers who want a tranquil, Caribbean beach experience with stunning nature and culture.
12. Playa Ventanas (Pacific Coast – Osa Peninsula)
Located on the rugged Osa Peninsula, Playa Ventanas is named after its two sea caves (ventanas = windows) carved into the cliffs. These natural rock formations create an incredible visual spectacle, especially when waves rush through the caves.
The golden sand, lush jungle backdrop, and gentle waves make Playa Ventanas a hidden gem, perfect for those looking to escape more developed beaches.
Activities
- Exploring the Sea Caves – Walk inside the rock formations during low tide.
- Beachcombing & Picnicking – The remote feel makes it a perfect spot for a quiet picnic.
- Wildlife Spotting – The Osa Peninsula is home to some of the richest biodiversity in Costa Rica.
Best For:
Nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for a remote, beautiful beach with unique natural features.
Conclusion
From the lush rainforest-backed beaches of Manuel Antonio to the surf-friendly shores of Tamarindo and Santa Teresa, Costa Rica’s beaches offer something for everyone. Whether you want thrilling water sports, remote jungle retreats, or vibrant cultural experiences, each coastline unveils a different side of Pura Vida living.
These 12 beaches showcase Costa Rica’s biodiversity, adventure, and relaxation all in one. Pair your beach days with volcano hikes, cloud forest adventures, and authentic Costa Rican food, and you’ll discover why Costa Rica is one of the world’s most beloved tropical destinations.
