Top 8 Beaches in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is packed full of diversified landscapes, including some of the world’s most ravishing beaches and oceansides. Not only are the coastlines stunning, but each beach has a unique quality and a valuable contribution to offer. The following are the top 8 beaches in Costa Rica and what makes them worthwhile.
1. Playa Santa Teresa
Playa Santa Teresa is assuredly one of the best surf beaches in Costa Rica. The surf conditions here are consistent and there’s a mix of types of surf break, making it optimal for surfers of all levels to enjoy their rides year-round.
Santa Teresa is a thriving, friendly community and is known for being among the most popular beaches in the region, offering other recreational ventures along the shoreline.
2. Playa Avellana
Near Tamarindo, Playa Avellana is another beach with high-quality surf, and there’s a school to educate eager newbies on how to surf. If you’d really just rather unwind with your latest book or sun-bathe, you can put your feet up and take in the blissful sound of the waves and white sand.
Playa Avellana requires driving on a dirt road and is relatively remote, but it makes for an unforgettable trip. This beach is mellow, pleasant, and has stunning sunsets. There are a few restaurants and bars nearby the playa.
3. Playa Cocles
Playa Cocles is a vibrant beach near Puerto Viejo, known for the long, white sand shoreline. There are palm trees that rest along the coast, providing shade from the hot sun.
Locals like this beach, which means they bring a variety of fun activities there. You have the chance to meet many different people by surfing, playing beach volleyball, or doing yoga near the waves. The best part of this playa is that it is off the edge of a jungle and is surrounded by animated wildlife.
4. Playa Hermosa
The Spanish name Playa Hermosa translates to “Beautiful Beach” in English. The water is mild, serine, and lusciously blue. It is also extraordinarily clean and very welcoming to families and pets.
This playa is near many other beaches and even close to a national park. It is easily accessible and close to the airport so you don’t need to wait to start your vacation! Everything you need for the ideal vacation is minutes away from Playa Hermosa, including hotels, restaurants, bars and opportunities to interact with new people.
5. Playa Ventanas
Playa Ventanas means “Windows of the Beach,” and for good reason. This is because it has stunning cliffs with tunnel-like formations at the foundation. These formations create sea caves that appear like windows. There are many opportunities to kayak and explore these unique caverns.
This is a somewhat secluded area that draws many locals to the playa, and it seems to be a hidden gem among tourists.Visiting this beach will certainly help you get a taste of Costa Rican culture!
6. Playa Jaco
Playa Jaco is a black sand beach that is very spacious. This is an ideal area for beginners to try their hand at surfing, and because of the location this is the perfect place to fish.
The mountains and rainforests are directly adjacent to Jaco, so after a day of relishing in the warm ocean waves, there are many other adventures nearby. Additionally, the town of Jaco offers restaurants, shops, and a taste of culture.
7. Playa Carrillo
Neighboring the busy Samara beach, Playa Carrillo is the perfect playa for a relaxing day. This beach is more of a quiet scene, and the calm waters with limited rocks make it perfect for swimming. It is excellent for families and young children who want to play in the water. There is not much background noise, allowing visitors to really absorb the sound of the ocean.
Playa Carrillo is also incredibly picturesque and makes for stunning photos. There are trees everywhere that not only allow you to cool off, but also take ideal pictures.
8. Playa Conchal
Playa Conchal translates to “Shell Beach” in English. This is because seashells are all along the coast. Some of the sand on the beach was made from seashells that have been crushed and worn down over time.
The waters are clear, allowing you a view of the shells underwater. Sometimes they glimmer in the sun, making the beach literally sparkle! This playa also has a spectacular view of volcanoes at the bay, making the sunsets pristine.
Costa Rica has a collection of striking beaches to choose from. However, the 8 beaches listed above were ranked as some of the best because of their charm, beauty, and unique qualities. Taking the chance to explore these Costa Rican beaches is worth the journey!