Top 10 Beaches in Costa Rica
As one of the most eco-friendly countries globally, it is no wonder that amazing shorelines on both its Pacific and Caribbean coastlines are Costa Rica. With an untouched and untainted vibe, the nation’s shorelines are jaw-dropping; rainforests and jungle-coated slopes border their brilliant sands on one side and sparkling turquoise waters on the other. In expansion to the superb view, you can find a bountiful of amazing surfing spots that are perfect for some water sports. Costa Rica is living proof that paradise on earth isn’t an arduous task to discover.
With such an expansive shoreline, the beaches of Costa Rica are diverse. Every beach-goer will find the view fascinating – a beautiful white sand paradise lined with palm trees, black volcanic sand, or naturally rugged beach coves encompassed by tropical rainforest. But with so many choices, how can you possibly choose? Well, let me show you the top 10 best beaches in Costa Rica!
#10 Costa Ballena Beach (Whale Coast)
The seaside fortunes of Uvita Beach and Hermosa Beach line the dearest “Whale’s Tail” on Punta Uvita in Marino Ballena National Park on the South Pacific coast. An elevated flyover of the waterfront park uncovers a whale tail-formed shoal. This is fortuitously where humpback whales get back to penetrate each year from August through October and December through April. Ocean turtles additionally go to the recreation centers to settle from May to November. Book a whale watching visit and lease some snorkel stuff to investigate the extensive coral reef for full insight. Kayak and stand-up paddleboarding rentals are always accessible.
#9 Santa Teresa Beach
Only south of Guanacaste, the Nicoya Peninsula is a well-known beach terminus for surfers and yoga devotees. Malpais, Carmen Beach, Santa Teresa, Hermosa Beach, and Manzanillo Beach are the series of seashores that back up the small towns of Malpais and Santa Teresa. These wild seashores are champions that remain moderately outside of what might be expected. The delicate sand of Santa Teresa Beach is incredible for those searching for an unfrequented shore escape with extraordinary surfing. On the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, as shown in the picture (2021), Malpais Beach is a notable surf spot with stretches of white sand and rough lagoons.
#8 Nosara Beach, Nicoya Peninsula
Another tropical surfing and wellness destination on the Nicoya Peninsula is the coastal town of Nosara. Three beaches amalgamate together to form the Nosara Beach region: Garza Beach, Guiones Beach, and Pelada Beach. According to (Manzanillo, Limon – Costa Rica, 2021), Guiones Beach is a notable surf beach with consistent surf throughout the year and much less populated. Laid-back tourists make their way to Nosara every year for a couple of days within reach of some truly stunning beaches. Many people who stay in the area opt to rent a 4×4 vehicle.
#7 Tamarindo Beach, Guanacaste
Keen on surfing? Guanacaste is famous for having the best beaches in Costa Rica. Visit Tamarindo Beach, off the fiercely famous surf town of Tamarindo, where the perfect strike breaks right off the coast. Horizon Pacific (2021) states that Tamarindo Beach is incredible for beginners in surfing – so don’t be threatened by its surf town notoriety. Most inns can either set you up or direct you to a nearby water sports rental. Following an energetic seashore day, snatch supper in the gorgeous town of Tamarindo and set off to explore.
#6 Playa Conchal Beach
White sand and tiny seashells sprinkle the shoreline of Conchal Beach, a less frequented Guanacaste beach. A variety of coral and underwater discoveries can be made here – so bring your snorkeling gear! The beach backs up to the all-inclusive Westin Playa Conchal Resort and a variety of other rental properties. According to (K 2021c), it has been named after the billions of shells (conchas) that wash up on the shore. Playa Conchal’s shallow waters feature a vibrant turquoise that gradually turns into a deeper foam green..
#5 Punta Uva Beach
Punta Uva is the most beautiful sand beach on the Southern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica. The beach is located within Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge and backed by dense jungle where animals like monkeys, sloths, and many bird species. The coral reef located just offshore makes Punta Uva a fantastic snorkel beach. The calm waters are also great for families with kids. However, there can be no development within 50 meters of the high tide line. This rule has kept the beach clean and beautiful. Punta Uva means “Grape Point.” It gets this name from a sea grape tree that is located there.
#4 Manuel Antonio Beach
Manuel Antonio Beach is one of the most popular beach destinations in the country. This coastal gem borders Manuel Antonio National Park, a coastal rainforest with a surge of wildlife. If you’re up for some rainforest exploration, the park is interconnected by hiking trails leading to other beaches within the park. Regardless, it is very likely that you will see wildlife.
Don’t forget to wear your swimsuit and grab some snorkeling gear. The coral seascape is worth exploring and is sure to fulfill your adventurous desires (10 Best Beaches in Costa Rica, 2020).
#3 Flamingo Beach, Guanacaste
To the north of Conchal Beach sits the beautiful Flamingo Beach in the Guanacaste region. This beach gets its name from its dazzling pinkish-white sand. The hotels atop Flamingo Beach sit high up on a cliffside overlooking the bays and inlets of the Pacific. The sunsets over the Pacific Ocean on Flamingo Beach are exceptionally alluring and are an illustrious view to be enjoyed at dawn with your family or romantic partner. It is the best beach in Costa Rica according to many tourists and consists of the finest resorts!
#2 Ostional Beach, Nicoya Peninsula
The volcanic black sand beach of Ostional Beach within the Ostional Wildlife Refuge on the Nicoya Peninsula belongs to the turtles. If you love wildlife, turtles, in particular, don’t miss a night tour to Ostional to watch the olive ridley sea turtles’ annual nesting between July and October.
The arribada, or mass annual sea turtle nesting, happens anywhere between 4 and 10 times a year, and the timing can be relatively unpredictable.
#1 Manzanillo Beach, Southern Caribbean Coast
Lying on Costa Rica’s gorgeous Caribbean coast, Manzanillo is situated south of Puerto Limon in Limon province. The turquoise waters and the off-beat path of white sand beaches are the main attractions of the Southern Caribbean beaches. Visit the small, laid-back beach for the coral reefs and seaside tropical rainforest, especially during the less touristy months of September and October. Dive, snorkel, or explore by kayak. Because of the analysis made by (My Costa Rica, 2019).
The Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is one of the best places to visit in the Limon Province. The calm blue waters, exotic and lush flora, and fauna make it an ideal ecotourism destination. Make sure to include Gandoca Manzanillo on your next Costa Rica vacation. It is the nicest beach in Costa Rica. If you like to laze around during your vacation, this is the finest place for you!