Last updated: 13. December 2021
Costa Rica, meaning; rich coast, has some of the worlds most beautiful beaches. However, the beaches varies quite a lot. Som are more rockier than others. Some are more secluded and others more people. There is one coast towards the Atlantic ocean, and one towards the Pacific. This is the ultimate guide to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
Manuel Antonio has everything. Sandy dunes, cliffs, loads different activities available as well as one of the most renowned national parks. The public area of the beach is usually quite busy, with a lot of fun activities available. It is separated from the national park by some beautiful cliff formations.
The majestic sunset going down by the lone island outside the beach is fantastic. Like taken out of a Game of Thrones set.
Santa Teresa is the ultimate surfers paradise. 8 kilometer, surrounded by waves and jungle. The beach has a good balance of people, without feeling overpopulated. The place is renowned for it’s waves. Surfers come from all corners of the world. Either if you’re an avid surfer or a beginner, Santa Teresa is the place to be. If you don’t want to try surfing, you get a free front row seat to see some of the best athletes in the game.
Cabo Blanco is first and foremost a national Park. However, if you follow the Sueco Trail, about 2 km each way, you’ll find a beautiful secluded beach. Here you’ll come to the tip of the Nicoya peninsula. Crystal as far as the eye can see.
Five hours drive, north from Santa Teresa, is Nosara. An Yoga- and meditation Mecca. The nature is very beautiful. One of the special places on the beach, is the cliffs dividing Playa Pelada and Playa Guiones. If you dare climbing up there, you’ll be able to see the most beautiful sunset ever.
South of Santa Teresa is the less visited Mal Pais. Mal pais is translated “Bad land”. However there is nothing bad about it, unless you don’t like rocks. If you prefer sand over cliff formations, the other alternatives might be better for you.
Pavones is furthest south on the west coast, close to Panama. The beach is more secluded. If you drive, make sure you have a four wheel drive. Many see Pavones as a hidden gem. If you want the for more or less for yourself, go here during the rain season.
Jaco has a nice blend of the different qualities of a beach. Perhaps not as beautiful as Santa Teresa or exotic as Manuel Antonio, but more diversity when it comes to things to do. The wave are perfect for new surfers. The sandy beaches are nice, and parallel to the main street in town. Here you get a little bit of everything.
Sometimes called “Tamagringo”, this beach is almost like an American colony. Love it ot hate it, there’s few beaches with as many activities and products available. You get easy easy access to massage, horse rides, surf, sunglasses etc.
During the evening the nightlife is usually pretty wild.
Puerto Viejo is the main beach at the east coast. It’s the perfect place to be when it’s raining at det pacific side. Local differences makes the climate a bit different. If you travel during November, this is the perfect spot for you.
The Beaches in Costa Rica are defiantly some of the worlds most beautiful. There are plenty of options and varieties. When you want something else than sand, we recommend exploring Costa Rica in the height as well!