Looking to plan a beach trip to Costa Rica but not sure where to start? From crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling to digital nomad hotspots, there’s a place in Costa Rica for everyone.
At Remitly, we understand that planning a trip can be quite daunting, especially in a country like Costa Rica, where it seems the list of beaches to visit is endless. So we’re breaking it down for you. We’ll cover the top five beaches in Costa Rica—each with their own individual vibe, so you can tailor your trip around your needs.
Tamarindo Beach
Tamarindo Beach is one of the most popular destinations for visitors to Costa Rica as well as expats choosing to relocate there—and with good reason. The area provides excellent surfing conditions and an enticing nightlife scene. The long stretch of sand that glides gently into the Pacific Ocean means that Tamarindo offers something for all types of surfers—no matter whether it’s your first time on a board or you’re a seasoned pro. Tamarindo Beach has consistent and gentle waves, making it the perfect spot for all types of surfers.
Catamaran sunset cruises are a favorite among visitors to Tamarindo Beach—and what better way to watch one of Costa Rica’s jaw-dropping sunsets than while cruising on the open ocean? Many operators provide light meals or snacks, along with a well-stocked bar if you’re looking to push the boat out (no pun intended)!
I’m a big believer that you can’t truly immerse yourself into a new culture without sampling the food and nightlife, too. When the sun is setting and an ice-cold piña colada has just arrived at your table, your vacation has truly begun. As luck would have it, Tamarindo Beach’s lively dining scene includes plenty of beachfront restaurants and bars to choose from. Why not finish off a long day of surfing by letting your hair down and enjoying an evening out?
Santa Teresa
If you’re looking for quiet beaches in Costa Rica, Santa Teresa is a great option. A little less known than Tamarindo Beach, Santa Teresa is a beautiful surf destination, offering a laid-back lifestyle that makes it a popular spot for digital nomads. The main beach is a long stretch of sand, with a stunning backdrop of palm trees and rich green vegetation—picture-perfect.
While it is a slightly longer journey to get there, the benefit is that there are fewer crowds and no high-rise beach resorts. You’ll find pristine beaches, yoga studios, boutique cafes—and perhaps the odd monkey accompanying you on your walk to the beach. Although I have heard that Matthew McConaughey is a frequent visitor too; that’s almost a reason enough to visit in itself.
Santa Teresa offers very consistent swells, making it among the top Costa Rican beaches for surfing. There are plenty of surf shops you can rent a board from—and most of them are located right on the beach. Santa Teresa is also known for sensational sunsets, so if you’re lucky enough to be out on the water catching your last wave at the time, then you’d pretty much be in the best spot possible to watch the sky transform into an eclectic mix of red and orange.
Santa Teresa is one of those places where you’re able to completely disconnect from the rest of the world. It’s where people choose to soak up the surf and switch off from external distractions. You can understand why digital nomads choose Santa Teresa.
Manuel Antonio Beach
Continuing further down the Pacific coastline, you have Manuel Antonio Beach—a perfect location for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Manuel Antonio Beach is a perfect family getaway destination, offering a blend of beach and rainforest. There’s so much to do here, making it a great choice if you’re looking to bring your kids along with you. It’s located right next to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can explore easy hiking trails and even catch a glimpse of some exotic animals.
At the beach itself, you’ll find a wide range of activities, including surf lessons, kayaking, and parasailing. While it’s not a very built-up area, it does have all the amenities you need for a long day at the beach with kids, such as drink stands and snack bars. A few hotels in Manuel Antonio have direct access to their own quiet sections of the beach, meaning you can relax knowing your little vacation-makers are in safe hands (or, safe ‘sands’).
Manuel Antonio National Park is a renowned wildlife destination. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to see a whole range of animals you may never have seen before. Sloths, iguanas, toucans, and many different types of monkeys all call Manuel Antonio home and can be found along its beaches or hidden amongst the rainforest.
Conchal Beach
Moving northwards up the coast, you’ll come to Conchal Beach. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters and stunning white sands create a postcard beach experience.
The words “Conchal Beach” and “relaxing” go hand-in-hand. The white-sand shore and the tranquil waters offer nothing but pure relaxation. This is the perfect spot for total zen or a romantic getaway.
However, if you’re anything like me and can’t sit still for more than twenty minutes, then don’t worry. Conchal Beach also offers a mix of fun water-based activities, including snorkelling and kayaking.
With water so clear you can see your toes, there’s no doubt you’ll be able to spot some pretty special tropical fish here. Towards the northern end of the beach, you’ll discover vibrant reefs with an array of colorful fish weaving in and out. You may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a sting ray here, too.
Puerto Viejo
Last, but definitely not least, we have Puerto Viejo, a laid-back surf town on the southern Caribbean coast.
Remaining somewhat off the radar, Puerto Viejo has all the elements of a tourist hot spot without the unwanted crowds that come with it.
Upon arriving, you’ll feel the heavy influence of Jamaican culture throughout all aspects of Puerto Viejo life. From reggae music filling the streets at night to the colorful architecture and cuisine bursting with Caribbean flavor, this town offers a unique coastal vibe.
This spot has some of the best waves in the south of the country, and also boasts spectacular coral reefs. It’s a great location if you’re looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. The list of activities you can enjoy in Puerto Viejo is pretty vast, ranging from chocolate tours to white water rafting. And with Cahuita National Park nearby, there’s so much to do.
Tips for visiting Costa Rican beaches
Costa Rica’s beaches are beautiful; there’s no doubt about that. But they’re also part of delicate ecosystems that need protecting. There are a few small steps all vacationers can take to help preserve the beaches, including using reef-safe sunscreen and avoiding single-use plastics by bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. It’s also important to be respectful of the wildlife, stick to designated trails and, where you can, support local businesses.
When it comes to packing, here are a few essentials we recommend to help make your beach experience both comfortable and environmentally friendly:
- A small first aid kit
- Sunglasses and sunhat
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Reusable shopping bags and water bottles
- Insect repellent
To get ready for your beach day, bring plenty of extra water and a few snacks—expecially if you’re travelling with kids. Staying hydrated, applying sun cream frequently, and staying out of the sun during peak sun hours is crucial to protect your skin from the tropical sun. And to save on exchange rates, withdraw some of the local currency to spend at shops and bars rather than paying in a foreign currency.
Ready to explore the best beaches in Costa Rica?
From the bustling surf towns to pristine waters and wildlife-rich rainforests, Costa Rica’s beaches offer something for every type of traveler.
Planning your beach vacation in Costa Rica doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Use this guide to zero in on the destinations that best suit your needs—whether that’s chasing waves, spotting sloths, or sipping cocktails under swaying palms.
So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience pura vida on one of Costa Rica’s unforgettable shores.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Costa Rica’s beaches?
The best time to visit Costa Rica’s beaches largely depends on what you’re looking for. For beaches along the Pacific Coast, we recommend visiting between mid-December and April. During these months, you can expect consistent blue skies, warm water, and minimal rain.
If you’re looking to make your trip a touch more budget-friendly, we recommend visiting in May, September, or October. These months fall in Costa Rica’s wet season, but the rain often comes in short bursts in the evening, and there’ll still be plenty of sun.
Finally, for the best surfing, visit the Pacific Coast from May to October or the Carribean Coast from January to March.
Are Costa Rican beaches accessible for families?
Yes, there are many destinations for the whole family. The most popular Costa Rica family beach destinations include Conchal Beach, as it tends to be close to resorts, and Manuel Antonio Beach, which has a nice range of safe swimming areas.
Can you snorkel at Costa Rican beaches?
Absolutely! You can snorkel at pretty much any of the Costa Rican beaches, especially Conchal Beach with its crystal-clear waters, and Cahuita National Park, which features the country’s best reef snorkelling—think coral, sea turtles, and tropical fish.