Packing a punch with its abundant incredible biodiversity and a rich culture is one of Central America’s most-loved vacation destinations. Carpeted with thick rainforests and enveloped in a perfect climate, the state is an abyss of endless opportunities to unwind. Costa Rica straddles the Mesoamerican isthmus between North and South America, carving out its place as hip yet strongly rooted in indigenous cultures. The state’s zen-like atmosphere, its alluring beaches, thriving food scene, and plenty of recreational options are only a very few of the many reasons it should land on your travel bucket list. And, while you get planning, here are the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica that you ought to experience.
1. Nacascolo Beach
Posted by Samuel Hidalgo on Monday, 24 June 2019
Enveloped in lush greenery of its surroundings and boasting crystal-clear waters washing down the beach’s soft sands is the Nacascolo Beach, perched along the Gulf of Papagayo. The water here is gentle, so makes for an ideal spot for snorkelling. It is also very safe for kids. The beach can only be accessed via the Four Seasons Costa Rica resort; do keep in mind its opening and closing hours before heading. And, also note that there are no commercial vendors at the main beach, so carry along anything you think you might need at the beach or be prepared to walk up to the boardwalk, which is about a 100 m (330 ft) away. The beach is rife with animals and birds, so you are especially recommended to not flaunt whatever you’re carrying for the risk of being attacked. Rest assured, once here, you’ll not want to leave!
Nacascolo Beach
Address: Guanacaste Province, Liberia, Costa Rica
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
2. Conchal Beach
Yes, the name rightly rung bells in your head. Conchal Beach is named so because it is not a bed of sand that makes up this beach, but finely crushed seashells, or conchs! Sparkling off sunshine, they make a real treat for the eyes and contrasted against the sea’s warm waters, make visitors instantly fall in love with the place! Apart from soaking in the beach’s sheer beauty, most head there to enjoy swimming or snorkelling. Else, for the more adventurous souls, there’s scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and a host of other activities to indulge in as well. Do keep in mind that the waves tend to get slightly strong at times, so be careful if you’re heading there with little ones.
Conchal Beach
Address: Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica
3. Montezuma Beach
The primary reason why Montezuma would find a place on a traveller’s bucket list is because of its beaches – they’re pristine, sprawling, and every bit stunning. The golden sunshine makes every grain of the beach’s sand glitter and azure blue waters of the sea twinkle, making the place look almost surreal. If for nothing else, you must head there to admire and believe this beauty! Don’t be surprised if you find kingfishers, pelicans, parrots, and an array of other animals casually sauntering around, chilling. If you’re there at the beginning of the rainy season, you might even get to see the beach dotted with millions of bright purple and orange jungle crabs! Walk a little farther from the main beach area and a hike through the Romelia National Wildlife Refuge or a swimming session at Piedra Colorada might also be equally interesting. There’s also quite a bit of other stuff for you to enjoy at the Montezuma Beach, so don’t miss this one at all!
Montezuma Beach
Address: Puntarenas Province, Santa Fe, Costa Rica
Website: Montezuma Beach
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4. Samara Beach
Posted by Samara Beach, Costa Rica on Sunday, 27 November 2011
Sitting along the southern Pacific coast of the Nicoya Peninsula, in Guanacaste Province, is Samara Beach, the town’s crowning jewel. It is touted to be among the safest Costa Rican beaches. The 5 km- (3 miles) long stretch of the beach is home to a variety of exotic flora and fauna, all of which you can head off to check out. Else, hitch a boat ride to the nearby Isla Chora and leave yourself to be stunned by its gorgeousness. The beauty of Samara Beach remains in the fact that it is a lot less crowded and commercial than some of the other beaches in Costa Rica.
Samara Beach
Address: Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica
5. Manuel Antonio Beach
Located inside the Manuel Antonio National Park (closed on Mondays) is the stunning Manuel Antonio Beach, known for its spectacular views. It is a perfect spot to be if you’re looking to get away from the crowd and admire the natural beauty. The light-sand beach is ideal for spending time, unwinding, heading in for a refreshing swim, going in to explore underwater life, snorkelling, or undertake surf lessons. If you’re done with the beach, you can also go around hiking through the national park, which is home to a myriad animals and exotic flora.
Manuel Antonio Beach
Address: Puntarenas Province, Quepos, Costa Rica
6. Tamarindo Beach
Superb for surfing and a host of other water activities is the Tamarindo Beach. You’ll find plenty of shops and companies offering surfing lessons as well, so if you don’t know how to already, you can always enrol yourself in one of the private or group lessons and return home boasting a new skill. Else, hitch a horseback ride. Also offering, right on the beachfront, are several cafes and restaurants some great food amidst a beachy ambience. If you’re heading to the beach during summertime, stay on till the evening and leave yourself to be bedazzled by a spectacular view of the sunset.
Tamarindo Beach
Address: Tamarindo, Santa Cruz canton, Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
7. Dominical Beach
Posted by Costa Rica Surf & Paddle on Monday, 15 July 2019
Drawing surf fans from across the world is the excellent Dominical Beach, where waves rise up to 3 m (10 ft) high. Surfers, many times, also set camp at the beach and Dominical’s superb climate makes the experience all the more wonderful. Do note that the water currents and tides are strong and maybe slightly overwhelming for the inexperienced. But, you can book yourself in for a surf lesson and partake in the main fun activity of the beach!
Dominical Beach
Address: Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
8. Flamingo Beach
One of Costa Ricans’ favourite and drawing vacationers by the hordes is the Flamingo Beach. Although you’re unlikely to actually spot flamingos at the beach, it is an ideal spot for packing in some typical beach fun, such as sunbathing. Plus, other activities, such as deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, sailing, and diving among others.
Flamingo Beach
Address: Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica
9. Nosara Beach
Stretching about 7 km (4.3 miles) is the Nosara Beach, occupying the coastline of Nicoya Peninsula and posing as a superb surfing destination. Very well maintained and boasting sparkling white sand, the beach makes for a perfect spot to make yours an unforgettable tropical getaway. You’ll not find too many commercial activities at the beach, so it is relatively quiet and excellent for rejuvenating. However, the beach is most famous for the many surfing schools you’ll be able to find here, so even if you’re not a pro-surfer, you’re likely to have fun learning.
Nosara Beach
Address: Playa Guiones, Nosara, Costa Rica
Website: Nosara Beach
10. Uvita Beach
Posted by Sergio Andres Zeledon Rojas on Saturday, 13 April 2019
Costa Rica’s Uvita Beach is perhaps the best place for nature lovers. Surrounded by lush mangroves and blessed with pristine, warm waters of the sea, the beach offers some of the striking sightings of marine life. You can also indulge in some snorkelling, kayaking, scuba diving, or horseback riding at the beach. Else, relax your soul while lounging away to glory.
Uvita Beach
Address: Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
An eco-traveller's paradise
It may come as news to you, but Costa Rica is among the world’s foremost destinations pioneering eco-friendly, sustainable travel. The state’s environmental conservation and education efforts reflect in the pristine state of its landscape, which you can easily experience at these most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. Travel along; let’s see if you don’t fall in love.
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