Top 15 Beaches in Costa Rica | Ultimate Beach Guide 2025
Costa Rica is home to some of the most breathtaking and diverse beaches in the world. Whether you're a surfer chasing the perfect wave, a nature lover looking for secluded shores, or a traveler seeking vibrant nightlife by the ocean, there’s a beach for you. This guide covers the Top 15 Beaches in Costa Rica, ranging from remote paradises to bustling coastal towns.
1. Playa Conchal – The Seashell Beach
✨ Best for: Snorkeling, swimming, and luxury stays
Playa Conchal stands out with its unique seashell-covered shore instead of sand. Its calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. If you're looking for an upscale experience, Reserva Conchal offers luxurious accommodations nearby.
2. Playa Tamarindo – The Surf & Party Haven
🌊 Best for: Surfing, nightlife, and beginner-friendly waves
Playa Tamarindo is a vibrant surf town known for its consistent waves, lively nightlife, and great restaurants. It’s a top pick for beginner surfers, thanks to its gentle, rolling waves and abundance of surf schools.
3. Playa Flamingo – Luxury & Tranquility
🏝 Best for: Upscale relaxation, sailing, and deep-sea fishing
Playa Flamingo offers pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and an exclusive, laid-back vibe. It's a hotspot for luxury travelers, sailing trips, and world-class deep-sea fishing excursions.
4. Playa Santa Teresa – The Bohemian Escape
🧘 Best for: Surfing, yoga, and organic dining
Nestled in the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Santa Teresa retains its bohemian charm while offering some of Costa Rica’s best surf breaks. Wellness enthusiasts will love the yoga studios and organic cafés in town.
5. Playa Uvita – The Whale Tail Beach
🐋 Best for: Whale watching, nature lovers, and photography
Part of Marino Ballena National Park, Playa Uvita is famous for its whale tail-shaped sandbar, best seen at low tide. Visit between December and April for some of the best whale-watching opportunities in Costa Rica.
6. Playa Nosara – Surf & Wellness Paradise
🌿 Best for: Surfing, yoga retreats, and eco-friendly travel
Playa Nosara is a haven for yogis, surfers, and nature lovers. The town promotes sustainability, with many wellness retreats, organic restaurants, and wildlife rescue centers nearby.
7. Playa Samara – The Family-Friendly Gem
👨👩👧👦 Best for: Families, swimming, and beginner surfers
Playa Samara has calm waters, a laid-back vibe, and a friendly local community—making it perfect for families and first-time surfers. Take a kayak trip to Isla Chora for great snorkeling.
8. Playa Dominical – A Surfer’s Dream
🏄 Best for: Experienced surfers, beach bars, and nature lovers
With powerful waves and a rugged coastline, Playa Dominical is a surfer’s paradise. The town also offers laid-back beach bars, yoga studios, and eco-retreats.
9. Playa Matapalo – A Hidden Jungle Retreat
🌴 Best for: Wildlife spotting and solitude
For those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, Playa Matapalo is a remote, unspoiled beach surrounded by lush jungle. It’s an excellent place for wildlife watching and escaping the crowds.
10. Playa Tortuga – The Turtle Nesting Beach
🐢 Best for: Seclusion and turtle watching
Named after the turtles that nest here, Playa Tortuga is ideal for nature lovers. Visit between July and November to witness baby turtles hatching and making their way to the ocean.
11. Playa Negra – Perfect Waves & Less Crowds
🏄♂️ Best for: Experienced surfers and stunning sunsets
Playa Negra is a famous surf spot with consistent, powerful waves. Unlike Tamarindo, it’s less crowded, making it a great place for surfers looking for a challenge.
12. Playa Manzanillo – A Serene Sunset Spot
🌅 Best for: Romantic getaways and peaceful beach days
Located on the Caribbean coast, Playa Manzanillo is a quiet, picturesque beach with golden sand and palm trees. It’s an ideal spot for watching breathtaking sunsets.
13. Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste) – A Swimmer's Paradise
🏊 Best for: Swimming, snorkeling, and family trips
With gentle waves and crystal-clear waters, Playa Hermosa is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s also less crowded than nearby beaches, making it a peaceful getaway.
14. Playa Penca – The Local Secret
🌊 Best for: Hidden gem seekers and quiet relaxation
Playa Penca is a small, secluded beach with soft white sand and turquoise waters. It’s a favorite among locals, offering a peaceful escape from touristy spots.
15. Playa Pavones – Home to One of the Longest Waves
🌊 Best for: Surfing enthusiasts and adventure seekers
Playa Pavones is legendary for having one of the longest left-hand waves in the world. If you’re a surfer looking for an unforgettable ride, this is the place to be.
Costa Rica's Beach Paradise Awaits
Costa Rica’s coastline is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re surfing world-class waves, spotting sea turtles, or unwinding on a secluded shore, there’s a beach tailored to your vibe. From the laid-back surf culture in Tamarindo to the untouched jungle beauty of Playa Matapalo, each destination tells its own story.
For thrill-seekers, Playa Pavones offers legendary waves, while Playa Uvita’s whale tail sandbar is a nature lover’s dream. If you crave luxury, Playa Flamingo and Playa Conchal deliver white sand, turquoise waters, and indulgent beachfront dining. Families will love Playa Samara’s gentle bay, while wellness travelers can soak up the bohemian vibes of Santa Teresa and Nosara.
With so many incredible beaches, the hardest part is choosing where to start. Will you chase waves, seek solitude, or dive into Costa Rica’s vibrant beach towns? No matter your adventure, paradise awaits.
Stay inspired with more travel guides and adventure tips at Review Beach Magazine!
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