The best beaches in Costa Rica

Excellent waves await at this stunning stretch of coastline on the Nicoya Peninsula, which is known among the hang-ten set as one of the best surf beaches in Costa Rica.

Beyond surfing, there are plenty of other options for active-minded beachgoers at Playa Santa Teresa: horseback riding, yoga and exploring nearby nature reserves. And if lounging on the sand is all you have in mind, this beach also delivers, with palm trees and lush tropical vegetation.

Taking its name from the Spanish word for shell, this spectacular beach in the Guanacaste province is best known for its sand made of pulverized shells. With brilliantly clear water, it’s also a lovely spot for snorkeling, swimming and paddleboarding (though the undertow can be strong, so it’s highly recommended to check the tide charts).

A couple of things to keep in mind: If you drive, you’ll likely need to pay to park near the town of Brasilito, and then walk approximately 20 minutes to reach the beach. In addition, Playa Conchal can get crowded on weekends and during the high season. But if you come early in the morning, you may just have its beauty all to yourself.

Nature and wildlife lovers, this one’s for you: Within the Ostional Wildlife Refuge, this beach’s four-plus-miles of black sand is dramatic enough on its own. But Playa Ostional is better known as one of the world’s most important turtle nesting grounds.

During the high season from August through October, approximately 90,000-plus turtles arrive in a single day to lay their eggs (in Spanish, it’s known as arribada, or arrival by sea). Olive ridley turtles are the main species that lay eggs, but you can also spot Pacific green and nesting leatherback turtles here, as well as many bird species. 

An entry fee is required, as is hiring a local guide to tour the refuge. In addition, peak nesting coincides with the rainy season. But it’s all worth it to witness one of the most awe-inspiring natural events in the world.

Located on the Pacific coast, Playa Espadilla offers a two-for-one: the northern part is open to the public, while the southern half can be reached through Manuel Antonio National Park. The southern beach is calmer, while the northern one is way buzzier, with plenty of water sports, vendors and beachgoers.

Along with beautiful Pacific views, you’re almost guaranteed wildlife sightings in the surrounding rainforest in the southern beach: squirrel monkeys, sloths, iguana and, from July to October, perhaps humpback whales.

Located in Guanacaste Province, Playa Avellanas is about a 30-minute drive south of Tamarindo, a lively beach town that’s become especially popular among the expat set as of late.

It’s also one of the best beaches in Costa Rica for families — especially for any surfers in the bunch. Wide, sandy stretches and serious swell year-round draw the surf set, who can take advantage of a variety of breaks for every skill level. Newbies can check out Avellanas Surf School.

For beachgoers craving a more relaxed experience, umbrellas and beach loungers are available for daily rentals. 

One of the best Caribbean beaches in Costa Rica, Playa Chiquita lives up to its name with a tranquil, relaxing vibe that feels like a local secret. Astonishingly clear water and a vibrant coral reef add extra wow factor, while ancient driftwood among the palm trees evokes a timeless feel.

Wild horses sometimes also meander among the trees. Come early enough, and it may just be you and these four-legged creatures enjoying Playa Chiquita’s abundant natural beauty.

This stunning strip of Ballena National Marine Park is a whale-watching hotspot. Fitting, then, that the unique sandbar that appears during low tide resembles a whale’s tail. Beachgoers can also spot the gentle giants during their twice-annual migrations. Low tide is when snorkeling is at its finest, as massive expanses of coral reef become more visible.

There’s a small entrance fee to get into the national park, but it’s well worth it for access to idyllic beaches like Playa Uvita (it’s one of four in the park). And for an even more adventurous beach day, consider a mile-ish hike to Playa Arco, which is also within Ballena National Marine Park. 

This relaxed stretch of shoreline has recently become better known among remote workers and digital nomads. Even so, its laid-back vibe and deep-rooted surfing culture beckon with true pura vida spirit. 

A variety of conditions and breaks for all skill levels, plus hotels that cater to the surfing set, are a big draw for anyone who wants to hit the waves. Meanwhile, dozens of surf schools offer a convenient way for beginners to get started. And for anyone who just wants to take a dip, natural swimming pools abound. 

This lovely beach community in Guanacaste lives up to its name, with warm water perfect for swimming, a laid-back vibe and knockout sunsets of the Papagayo Peninsula. This sleepy fishing village is increasingly popular with tourists from the U.S. and Canada. But it manages to retain a pura vida spirit, with the beach still as the beating heart of the community.

Beyond the beach, which is great for swimming, Playa Hermosa also has active-minded pursuits, such as catamaran tours, kayaking and paddleboarding. Finally, keep in mind that there are several beaches called Hermosa, so be sure to check that you’re headed to the right one before you go.

Perched on the Nicoya Peninsula in the northwest corner of the country, this mellow beach is a favorite among locals. It’s actually two beaches joined by a scalloped stretch of rocks and sand – a unique landscape you don’t see every day. There’s also an excellent viewpoint of the area on the top of the rocks that’s easily accessible via a short walk. 

Swimming and snorkeling is best at high tide, when the water covers the rocky sections of the beach. (Even so, water shoes can also come in handy.) The beach does have restrooms and a restaurant nearby, but it’s still relatively undeveloped. So be sure to bring your own food, water and beach essentials.

Playa Torguguero is one of the best beaches in Costa Rica for swimming – but not for humans. Every year between June and October, tens of thousands of green sea turtles return to this dark sand beach to lay their eggs. It’s the largest colony of nesting green turtles in the world, with 20,000 returning annually to more than 20 miles of protected shoreline.

As a result, Playa Tortuguero also is popular with eco-tourists who come to see this spectacular natural phenomenon. In addition, the a labyrinth of rivers and canals snake through the region, which are explorable via kayak or canoe.