Costa Rica is tucked into the shorelines of the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean. The shoreline is expansive, and the beaches are diverse, with white, golden and even black sand, lined with palm trees and tucked in amongst tropical rainforests. How could you possibly choose just one?
The beaches of Costa Rica are among the best attractions the country has to offer, and of course you will want to experience as many of them as possible. Here are some of the best beaches in Costa Rica.
Manuel Antonio Beach
This is one of the most popular beaches of Costa Rica, and with good reason. If you want to do more than just relax on the sand and paddle in the surf, you’ll appreciate the fact that this beach borders the rain forest, and is replete with wildlife. You’re almost guaranteed to see monkeys and other animals.
Tamarindo Beach
This beach boasts huge waves, so it’s ideal for surfers. If you’re not all that adventurous, you can still relax on the warm sand and watch as others take to the waves.
Conchal Beach
This beach has lots of white sand, and also lots of things to discover under the water. If you want to check out coral and other undersea life, this is where you want to be. It’s one of the best beaches of Costa Rica if you love snorkeling.
Flamingo Beach
This pretty beach has lovely pinkish sand, and is set up high on a cliff. It offers a commanding view of the many inlets and bays in the area.
Nacascolo Beach
This beach is hidden on the Papagayo Peninsula. It’s a stretch of golden sand that’s very private, and perfect for snorkeling. It’s also one of the most popular beaches of Costa Rica for paddle boarding and kayaking.
Dominical Beach, South Pacific
This beach is well off the beaten path, and ideal for surfing. If you want to bring your kids to this beach, you’ll appreciate the fact that it has lifeguards on duty all the time – this is not the case with all of the beaches of Costa Rica.
Costa Ballena (Whale Coast), South Pacific
This is a beach that humpback whales are known to frequent. They come every year, from August through to October. Sea turtles also frequent this beach.
Nosara Beach, Nicoya Peninsula
This is another beach that is known for surfing. It’s pretty rocky, though, so it’s best for experienced surfers.
Ostional Beach, Nicoya Peninsula
This is a volcanic sand beach, known for black sand and high surf. It’s easily one of the most spectacular beaches of Costa Rica, and well worth a visit.
General Information
Costa Rica’s beaches are known for high surf and rip tides, so exercise caution and leave children unattended on Costa Rica’s beaches. Swimming alone is also not advised. If you do get caught in a rip tide, swim toward shore at a 45 degree angle, and keep in mind that rip tides most often occur 2 hours before, and 2 hours after, the low tide. Therefore, it’s pretty much a given that you shouldn’t swim at high or low tide if you’re vacationing in Costa Rica.
If you’re not confident that you can handle yourself in the water, stay close to shore and don’t put yourself in danger. It just makes sense not to place yourself in a positon that could become problematic. After all, you want to experience the beauty of the beaches of Costa Rica, and then arrive home safely with only pleasant memories of your Costa Rican vacation.