Costa Rica is located between the shores of the Caribbean and the Pacific Oceans. With such an extensive coastline, the beaches of Costa Rica are diverse, with unique and varying personalities. Every beach-goer will find something fascinating – a beautiful white sand paradise lined with palm trees, volcanic black sand, or naturally rugged beach crescents surrounded by tropical rainforest There’s an ideal location for everyone, from mega beach resorts to untouched shores. With so many choices, how can you possibly choose? I teamed up with other travel bloggers to bring you our personal recommendations on the best beaches in Costa Rica.
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Corcovado National Park
Recommended by Bret of Green Global Travel
As one of the world’s first destinations to emphasize responsible travel, ecotourism in Costa Rica is big business. The Central American nation became the first in the Americas to ban hunting in 2012, so its biodiversity is virtually unparalleled. Nowhere is that more evident than in Corcovado National Park, which has been described by National Geographic as “the most biologically intense place on earth.” Located on the Osa Peninsula, where it encompasses nearly 164 square miles (making it the largest national park in Costa Rica), Corcovado is a remote, but increasingly high-profile hotspot for bird-watchers, hikers, and wildlife photographers alike. Its sandy beaches are remarkably pristine, with no hotels, restaurants, or any other sort of development as far as the eye can see. What they do have is wide open stretches of sand, dramatically crashing surf, and a dazzling array of animals. From monkeys, sloths, and cute coatimundis to rare species such as Baird’s tapir and jaguars, this is one beach where the wildlife is as much an attraction as the ocean. And should you want to explore the park further, there are extensive hiking trails that take visitors through 13 different ecosystems, including highland cloud forest, mangrove swamps, and lowland rain forests. It’s safe to say there’s no other place quite like it!
Montezuma
Recommended by Yaren of Bug in our Bag
Although not many people visit Montezuma in Costa Rica, it is worth visiting if you are looking for a calm beach town. The main beaches are called Playa Grande and Montezuma Beach and they are both very nice and not usually very crowded. Just like many other places in Costa Rica, you can see parrots and monkeys around these beaches.
When in Montezuma, you can also take a day trip to Cabo Blanco National Park which is the first national park in the country. There are easy, medium, and hard trails in the national park and at the very end of the park, there is also a beach. Montezuma Waterfalls are located a short walk from the town and is a good option for those who like hiking.
The local restaurants are called ‘soda’ in Costa Rica and there is only a handful of them in Montezuma – but they are all good places to eat. For accommodation, Pura Vida Hostel is a nice budget option for budget travelers. For higher budgets, Hotel Nya and Hotel El Jardin are good places to stay.
Playa Espadilla
Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler
Playa Espadilla, along the Pacific coastline, is exactly what you think of when you hear “tropical paradise”- lush palm trees, a long stretch of white sand, and rugged sea stacks, jutting out of the turquoise water. It’s actually accessible two ways- the southern portion of the beach can only be reached through Manuel Antonio National Park (although you’ll need a reservation and a $16 ticket for admission to the park, plus you’ll need to hike about half an hour through the jungle to reach the tranquil beach) or the northern portion is publicly accessible and certainly more on the crowded side. On the northern end, you can participate in all kinds of water activities- parasailing, surfing, jet skiing. But the real treat is watching the epic sunset- Playa Espadilla is one of the only beaches to face due west near Manuel Antonio and provides a spectacular show every evening as the sun sinks beneath the horizon. If you get hungry, head up the street to Barba Roja, an excellent place to hit happy hour and catch the sunset, whereas Manuel Antonio Falafel Bar dishes up some delicious Mediterranean grub. After a busy day at the beach, rest your head at La Posada Jungle Hotel, a cozy and clean hotel offering a pool to cool off in and a hearty amount of monkeys playing overhead.
Playa Flamingo
Recommended by Marjut of The Smooth Escape
Playa Flamingo is located in the Guanacaste province, on the northern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Because of its fine white sand, clear water and scenic surroundings, it is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the country and should be a part of every Costa Rica itinerary.
The best thing to do on this picturesque crescent-shaped beach is to simply kick back and relax, sip some fresh coconuts and cool down in the shimmering turquoise waters.
If you’re looking for something more active though, you can go stand-up paddleboarding or catch some waves on a bodyboard. Besides watersports, there are plenty of other activities to choose from around Playa Flamingo such as ATV tours, ziplining tours and horseback riding tours. As the beach is facing west, it is also an excellent place for watching the sunset.
If you want to grab something to eat, head to Coco Loco restaurant at the southern end of Playa Flamingo. They serve the most amazing ceviches, fish tacos and refreshing cocktails right on the beach.
One of the best places to stay in the area is the Margaritaville Beach Resort. It is an eco-friendly 4-star resort with a perfect location overlooking Playa Flamingo.
Travel Tip: Be sure to bring your eco-friendly sunscreen and your sand-free Tesalate towel!
Playa Guiones
Recommended by Lori of Travelinmad
The Pacific coastline of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula has no shortage of beautiful beaches and Playa Guiones is one of the most beautiful. For some, it’s the excellent year-round surf break that draws them to Playa Guiones. Others are attracted to stay at one of the local yoga retreats just off the beach. But for everyone, the sheer and utter quiet beauty of this beach destination is the biggest attraction.With over 4 miles of pristine soft white sand and the stunning blue of the Pacific Ocean, it’s a perfect destination for surfers of any skill level, beach combing, taking a yoga class or two, or just decompressing.If you’re planning your Costa Rica trip between July and November, drive 8 miles up the coast to Ostional National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most important nesting beaches in the world for Olive Ridley turtles. The most active months are August through October when the turtles come ashore literally by the thousands.
There are many great places to stay in the area and one of the most popular is The Harmony Hotel which also has an excellent restaurant. Near the beach is the Beach Dog Cafe which serves great local cuisine.
Playa Hermosa
Recommended by Sarah of Costa Rica Vibes
Playa Hermosa is located about 35 minutes away from Liberia International Airport on the Northern Pacific Coast. This relaxed beach village is the perfect destination for families. The beach is a cove, so the waters are usually very calm and there is even a roped-off area for swimming.
Usually, there are locals walking the beach offering various services such as jet ski rentals, snorkeling trips, beach hopping boat tours, kayak rentals, and more! Several remote beaches in the area (including one with a cave) can be accessed by a several-hour boat tour.
There are a few restaurants that line the beach. These places offer delicious tropical cocktails and fresh fish. For a nice dinner, Roberto’s is always a great option. For cocktails and chilled-out vibes, head to Aquasport Bar & Restaurant.
For accommodations, Club & Hotel Condovac La Costa offers apartment-style rooms with amenities such as multiple pools, on-site restaurants, and evening entertainment. The hotel is slightly outdated, but the amenities make it a decent option for families. If looking for a more high-end experience, check out Hotel Bosque del Mar on the beach.
Playa Langosta
Recommended by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler
A beautiful hidden gem in Costa Rica is Playa Langosta, which has a gorgeous white sand beach. Next door to Tamarindo Beach, Playa Langosta offers a quieter alternative for visitors looking for a quiet retreat.
It’s a 5-minute drive or half-hour walk from one beach to another. There isn’t a lot of space for parking, so be careful when parking on the side of the street. The crescent beach has soft tan sand and welcomes you for your beach activities, whether that is surfing the ocean waves or just enjoying the sunshine.
Playa Langosta, a quiet retreat in the Guanacaste Region. There are a number of national parks and wildlife refuges nearby. It’s close to a number of wildlife refuges and national parks. Tamarindo has plenty of things to do, so you can enjoy some fun nights out in town and then come back to your quiet beachfront hotel in Playa Langosta. The Cala Luna boutique hotel is a small, family-run hotel with private rooms that make you feel like you’re in the jungle.
Of all the beaches, Playa Langosta is one of the best beaches in Costa Rica.
Playa Nicuesa
Recommended by Kat of World Wide Honeymoon
If you’re searching for one of the best beaches in Costa Rica located in the most biologically diverse part of the country, then opt for Playa Nicuesa. Located along the Golfo Dulce in the Osa Peninsula, Playa Nicuesa offers ample opportunity to spot wildlife as well as enjoy some beach time. Playa Nicuesa is the beach attached to Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge. This lodge has several tours you can take both in the jungle and along the coast.
For a bucket list-worthy thing to do in Costa Rica, definitely take a boat tour around the Golfo Dulce. This gulf is known as the world’s nursery for humpback whales and scalloped hammerhead sharks, meaning you’ll spot so much fantastic wildlife.
There are also 2 species of dolphins in the gulf, both of which can be seen in their hundreds! After exploring the Golfo Dulce, definitely take a few hikes in the rainforest for the chance to spot peccary, howler monkeys, toucans, macaws, tapir, and more!
And, of course, you have to enjoy some time on the beach. Only at this beach, you’ll very likely have it all to yourself. Pura Vida indeed.
Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge is just an incredible place to stay, and the cabins are all open-air with front row seats to the jungle! It is truly an inspiring experience for those seeking to get off the beaten path in this country.
Playa Puerto Viejo
Recommended by Dan & George of Backpacking Latin America
Puerto Viejo beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. It is here you can find silky sands, warm tropical waters, and even encounter cultures that are unique to the town and surrounding region. The laid-back relaxed vibe is the draw here, and with little in the way of infrastructure, you can expect a more virgin beach experience with ample opportunity to do a spot of surfing and snorkeling.
There are a few local restaurants and bars within walking distance, a popular one during the daytime is Bread & Chocolate for some tasty Breakfast and Brunch. Be sure to try their Caribbean pancakes, or the jerk chicken sandwich along with some freshly brewed coffee. For nearby places to stay, be sure to stop by Selina Hostel (even if you don’t stay there) for some party fun.
The nightlife in Puerto Viejo is worth staying over for and it is where the party starts. As you plan your travel around Costa Rica you will find that Playa Puerto Viejo offers a great introduction to the country’s Caribbean coast, as well as endless opportunities to fully kick back and relax.
Playa Samara
Recommended by Ella of Many More Maps
On Costa Rica’s pacific coast you’ll find the awesome beach of Playa Sámara. It’s one of the best surf beaches in Costa Rica, but is surprisingly quiet compared to its more popular neighbors in tourist-heavy destinations like Tamarindo.
Located in the laid-back town of Sámara, Playa Sámara is a long, sandy beach dotted with palm trees perfect for sunbathing under. It also has plenty of beach bars and restaurants to visit if you’re seeking refreshments.
The main reason people visit Sámara is to go surfing, so head over to C&C Surf School to take a lesson, or rent a board. The best time to surf for beginners is low tide, with the more advanced surfers paddling out at the high time.
During low tide, when the ocean is calmer, you can also head out on the water to go snorkeling or stand up paddleboarding.
At sunset, groups of friends gather at the beach to share drinks together and paddle in the ocean. You’ll also often see groups of horse riders walking along the shore, and there’s probably no better way to watch the sun go down in Sámara than joining one of these tours!
Tamarindo
Recommended by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler
One of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica is located in Tamarindo. Located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Tamarindo has some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. Since the town is approximately four hours away from San Jose, most visitors arrive at the airport in Liberia.
Tamarindo beach is a long peaceful beach. Naturally separated for surfers and swimmers, it’s easy to enjoy the water at your own pace. On the beach, you’ll find seat and umbrella rentals, drinks being offered, and small souvenirs by street vendors.
Other than lounging by the beach, there are plenty of things to do in Tamarindo, so be sure to stay at least three days to explore the surrounding areas. There’s plenty of nature near Tamarindo – from horseback riding, tubing down the Blue River, sloth safaris, or even scuba diving at the Las Catalinas Islands. Ziplining is a classic way to get your heart racing in Costa Rica and there are plenty of options near Tamarindo. You can even go on a catamaran cruise or go fishing for Mahi Mahi – some of the restaurants will cook your catch for you!
Hotel Diria is located on the beach and within walking distance of downtown – making it the perfect place to stay in Tamarindo.
Uvita Beach
Recommended by Victoria of Guide Your Travel
Uvita Beach is arguably one of the most famous beaches in all of Costa Rica and a must-visit location for a number of reasons. This palm tree-lined beach is not only stunningly beautiful but also known for its incredible aerial view. The tidal sandbanks form a whale tale during low tide which is a perfect fit, considering Uvita is a prime location for whale watching.
Unfortunately, on the beach, it can be tricky to see the actual whale tale and you might need a drone to see it properly from above. The beach is still well worth a visit though and even on busy days, you’ll be able to find a quiet corner. There are also some beautiful hiking places located nearby that let you explore the national park at your own pace.
If you’re looking for an affordable place with a great location close to Uvita Beach, the Blue Sunshine Hostel will be a great choice. There are both private rooms and dorms available and the prices are absolutely fantastic considering Uvita can be quite expensive. Head to Falafel Uvita for delicious food right at the entrance to the beach. Just keep in mind that the entrance to the national park is $6 per person which includes the beach.
Did your favorite beach in Costa Rica make the list? If not, let me know in the comments and I’ll add it!
Read More About Costa Rica:
Best Things to do in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
20+ Costa Rica Bucket List Ideas
Top 10 Things to do in San Jose, Costa Rica
Pin “Best Beaches in Costa Rica” for Later
I loved Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. It definitely deserves being a top 10 beach. The sunsets were extraordinary.
I love beaches and especially the last one, Uvita, is a beach to my likening. How cool is it that you can walk around in Costa Rica and casually bump into a sleeping tapir? I would also check out Montezuma, but only for the novelty fact that there’s a chocolate brand in the UK called Montezuma and I would be intrigued if it had any relations to the beach area in Costa Rica.
Carolin | Solo Travel Story
The beaches are so scenic! We would totally love to visit the country and explore the beaches and spend a few days hiking around.
What a gorgeous round-up of beaches! Thanks for putting these gems on my radar. I especially love Playa Nicuesa. A rainforest lounge also sounds incredible!
The beaches in Costa Rica are absolute magic. I’ve never found a bad beach there. Great piece here -you’ve transported me to that stunning sunset at Uvita beach.
I’m seriously dying to visit Costa Rica! It’s among my top three countries high on my bucket list. All these beaches look super inviting too!
There is quite a selection of great beaches here.and lots of helpful info to help you chose the best one. I couldn’t select the best but was amazed at how peaceful and idyllic they all looked. I’ll refer back to this post when I eventually get to Cats Eica
I haven’t been to Costa Rica before but it looks stunning, and is somewhere I’d love to visit. I like the idea of some of the quieter beaches, the more secluded ones a little further from the busier tourist areas. Especially if there’s more chance of seeing some local wildlife there
Planning a summer trip after our wedding and saving this list! So many cool beaches to visit and explore!
I’ve not been to Costa Rica but always hear such great things. This is a great round up of beautiful beaches, but how do you ever pick a favourite? I will always be a fan of more secluded beaches, away from the crowds, and a sunset is a must.
Costa Rica is just full of beautiful and scenic beaches. It would be amazing to visit any one of them!
We loved Puerto Viejo & Uvita as well as Dominical – although the beach isn’t the best in Dominical, the town is great.