If you’re planning to visit paradise on your next vacation, you won’t get much closer than Costa Rica. This peaceful country in Latin America is a beacon for others to follow – especially when it comes to tourism. Many of its top destinations are big on sustainable tourism, and you can find some awesome places to stay, as well as visit.

While you can hike volcanoes, bike through the rainforest, and zipline across mangroves, the best thing is arguably the beaches in Costa Rica. No matter what you expect from a tropical paradise, you’ll find it in Costa Rica. With both Pacific and Atlantic coastlines, it has a number of surfing destinations too. You can also enjoy wildlife watching – whether that’s birds or marine life.

In this post, we’ll look at seven of the best beaches in Costa Rica. No matter your travel style or tastes, one of them will be perfect for a few days (or who knows, weeks), while on your adventure. We’ll take a look at the best beaches in Costa Rica, and where to stay and what to do when you’re there. Welcome to your essential Costa Rica travel companion!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.










    When to Go to beaches in Costa Rica

    Most Romantic Place to Stay in Costa Rica for Couples

    The best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and April. This is the country’s dry season when the weather is at its finest and you’ll find many backpackers travelling through Cost Rica. The downside of visiting during their ‘summer’ is that prices for accommodation, travel, and tours are more expensive than the rest of the year. Having said that, Costa Rica is a great place to visit in August, June and July if you plan on hitting the beaches.

    When it comes to beaches in Costa Rica, it’s a little more complicated. That’s because the weather on the country’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts is different. High season is the best time to visit the Pacific Coast; however, that’s between March and September on the Caribbean side. Unless you’re visiting Caribbean beaches, Costa Rica is best avoided in September and October, when heavy rain is common.

    If you’re planning to combine beach visits with trips to the country’s rainforests, then June and July are a good time to visit. Rain showers are less frequent, and the country is bursting with beautiful green foliage – and you’ll be able to catch a tan during your beach time!

    Manuel Antonio
    • Who It’s For: Wildlife lovers who want to chill on the beach while spotting monkeys and birds in the jungle.
    • Don’t Miss: Any opportunity to see endangered squirrel monkeys, white-faced monkeys, and sloths. With or without a guide!

    One of the most popular beaches in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio Beach is a tropical paradise that’s part of a Costa Rican national park. The beach in question is a 30-minute walk from the park’s entrance, but it’s well worth the hike through the jungle. Make sure to pack beach gear including your snorkel and swimsuit, as it’s the perfect place to explore the coral reefs. Several hiking trails lead away from the beach, so it’s good for active families and adventurers.

    Apartamento Leon, Costa RicaBest Airbnb – Apartamento Leon

    With room for four guests, this is an excellent option for a small family or group of friends on their Manuel Antonio adventures! There’s a kitchen where you can whip up a feast.

     

    Hostel Plinio, Costa RicaBest Hostel – Hostel Plinio

    Fancy being woken up by the sounds of the jungle? Check out this awesome hostel in Manuel Antonio. It’s got a pool and restaurant to keep you busy while you’re on-site!

     

    Peace of Paradise, Costa RicaBest Hotel – Peace of Paradise

    There are some pricey resort hotels near MA Beach in Costa Rica, but Peace of Paradise isn’t one of them. Instead, this colourful and welcoming place is an affordable option near the beach – you can even hire bikes here!

    Beach Nest with Terrace, JapanBest Beach House for Couples – Beach Nest with Terrace

    Travelling with your other half? This romantic beach home in Costa Rica will give you the privacy you want without breaking the bank.

    Cathedral Point, Costa RicaCathedral Point

    Take a hike along this peninsula, which juts out like a whale’s tail. It’s just a mile long, but the walk is a great opportunity to see flora and fauna without a guide, and there are several viewing platforms. [source: Stefan Neumann (Shutterstock)]

    Marlin Restaurant

    The closest place to eat near Manuel Antonio National Park, this spot on the beach is open all day and has a sea view dining area.

     

    Zip Coaster, Costa RicaZip Coaster

    The only zip coaster in Quepos, this is better than your average zip line thanks to the twists and turns along the way!  [image credit]

    wildlife adventure, Costa Rica

    Explore Manuel Antonio National Park

    Come face to face with sloths, iguanas, and toucans on a wildlife adventure through Manuel Antonio National Park with a local guide.

     

    fun and educational private night tour

    Go On a Night Tour

    See the nocturnal beasts that call this place home with a fun and educational private night tour through the park.

     

    see the birds of Manuel Antonio

    Bird Watching

    Not bothered about the sloths, monkeys, and reptiles? Well, grab your binoculars to see the birds of Manuel Antonio with a local birder.

    Best Beach for Swimming in Costa Rica | Conchal Beach

    Conchal Beach, Costa Rica
    • Who It’s For: If you want to swim and snorkel without being disturbed by surfers, Playa Conchal is the place to do it.
    • Don’t Miss:  The incredible sunsets from the beach.

    One of the less busy beaches on Playa Guanacaste, the calm blue waters make this a swimmers’ and snorkelers’ paradise! You won’t need to head out too far to see coral reefs and marine life at this picturesque beach in Costa Rica. There’s a trade-off for the natural feel though: there’s only one hotel close by, and it’s quite expensive. However, we’d say it’s worth it to experience an unspoiled, beautiful beach.

    Pequeno apartamento en Brasilito, Costa RicaBest Airbnb – Pequeño apartamento en Brasilito

    This beachfront apartment comes with everything you need for your stay. Fifteen minutes from Playa Conchal, you’ll have a bed, a kitchen, and one hell of a view!

     

    Hotel Brasilito, Costa RicaBest Hostel – Hotel Brasilito

    In nearby Brasilito, you have this small hostel which also offers easy access to the busier Playa Brasilito. There’s a bar with a very long happy hour should you want to meet fellow travellers!

    Conchal Hotel, Costa RicaBest Hotel – Conchal Hotel

    This three-star hotel is an elegant choice in nearby Brasilito. When you wake up, choose between heading straight for your free breakfast at the Papaya Restaurant or a dip in the outdoor pool.

    Brasilito Beach House, Costa RicaBest Beach House – Brasilito Beach House

    The architecture of this wooden house matches the beauty of the beaches surrounding it. Ideal for a small group of friends or family – who wouldn’t want to come home to this?!

    Bar Imperial

    Head to the nearby Westin Hotel’s bar for a cocktail or beer with a view of the beach.

    Conchal Adventures Costa RicaConchal Adventures Costa Rica

    Get your fix for things to do in the area by going on a trip with Conchal Adventures. [image credit]

     

     

    La Casita del PescadoLa Casita del Pescado

    Westin Hotel a bit too upmarket? Check out this beachfront restaurant nearby and watch the sunset with a plate of freshly caught seafood!  [image credit]

    ATV tourAdventure Activities

    Don’t just stop at the beach, see the mountains too! And what way could be more fun than with an ATV tour?

     

    Learn how to make itJoin a Cooking Class

    Did you enjoy the food you’ve tried in Guanacaste? Learn how to make it and impress your family and friends when you get back home.

     

    horseback rideGo Horseback Riding

    Learn about life on a Costa Rican farm and take a horseback ride through the gorgeous countryside.

    Small Pack Problems? 😉

    My missus travels with all her clothes in ziplock bags: don’t be like my missus. UP YOUR PACKING GAME!

    Packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise its volume too so you can pack MORE.

    Or, y’know… you can stick to ziplock bags.

    View Our Fave Cubes Or Check Out the Sacks!

    Most Beautiful Beach in Costa Rica | Samara Beach

    Samara Beach
    • Who It’s For: Discovering this gorgeous tropical beach will delight any traveller who loves to get off the beaten track.
    • Don’t Miss: Kayaking out to the deserted Isla Chora nearby. You will be astounded by the birdlife!

    One of Costa Rica’s prettiest hidden gems, Playa Samara has seen an increase in popularity in recent years – but it’s still enough of a secret to feel special. Get to the powder white sands here while you can. The small town of Samara is a great place for a slice of authentic Costa Rican beach life too. It has plenty of restaurants and shops without feeling too touristy. Head to Samara Beach in Costa Rica while it stays like this!

    Birds Nest Cabin Costa RicaBest Airbnb – Bird’s Nest Cabin

    This wooden cabin is just a short walk from Playa Samara. Your local hosts will be more than happy to give you advice on the best things to do and see in the area!

     

    Matilori, Costa RicaBest Hostel – Matilori

    A sociable hostel with a choice of dorms and privates, whip up something to eat and meet other travellers in one of two communal kitchens.

     

    Cabanas Lamaite, Costa RicaBest Hotel – Cabañas Lamaite

    Boasting a swimming pool, this Cabana Hotel is a great choice if you don’t mind spending a little more without breaking the bank. Free parking is useful for those on a road trip.

     

    Casa Bea La Cassetta, Costa RicaBest Tiny House – Casa Bea La Cassetta

    The tiny house craze has reached Costa Rica! This lovely blue apartment is the perfect place for a couple to stay on Samara Beach.

    Mama GuiMama Gui

    This flamboyant restaurant serves food from across Europe in a NYC setting, all made with local ingredients.  [image credit]

     

    Samara Deep Sea Fishing, Costa RicaSamara Deep Sea Fishing

    Whether you want to practice fishing or just take a tour out onto the ocean, this is the place to do it. [image credit]

     

    Microbar SamaraMicrobar Samara

    Sample the local beers with a view of the beach. Life could be worse!  [image c

    wild macawsFind Macawas

    Get up close and personal with wild macaws at nearby Punta Islita.

     

    kayakGo Kayaking

    Take a kayak out to Isla Chora to see the birds. You can even have a go at snorkelling!

     

    scenic tourTake a Tour

    Enjoy a scenic tour of the Samara Coast, where you’ll hopefully come face to face with dolphins!

    Best Beach for Surfing in Costa Rica | Jaco Beach

    Jaco Beach, Costa Rica
    • Who It’s For: Surfers and backpackers will have Jaco Beach near the top of their Costa Rica itinerary. 
    • Don’t Miss: Jaco’s awesome nightlife.

    Right in the centre of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, Jaco is perfect for surfing and partying. When you’re not lounging on the beach or catching a wave, head to one of the legendary beach clubs – you’ll feel like a movie star pulling up a cabana and sipping on superb cocktails. Fancy a day away from the sands? There are several waterfalls in the area, so why not visit them on a jeep safari with a local company? This spot is one of our favourite beaches in Costa Rica and after your visit, you’ll feel the same!

    Beach Loft with AC, Costa RicaBest Airbnb – Beach Loft with AC

    A cute and inexpensive beach loft, this is part of one of Jaco’s best surf camps. You’ve access to a garden when you take a break from the waves!

     

    Room2Board Hostel and Surf School, Costa RicaBest Hostel – Room2Board Hostel and Surf School

    If you’re looking to have a go at surfing for the first time, you won’t find any hostel in Costa Rica better than this one! Oh, and it’s a lot of fun too!

    Hotel Ibiza, Costa RicaBest Hotel – Hotel Ibiza

    A romantic spot, Hotel Ibiza is literally just steps from the beach. If that’s not enough, it also offers water sports facilities and bike hire!

     

    Shipping Containers by Jaco Beach, Costa RicaBest Tiny House – Shipping Containers by Jaco Beach

    These industrial units make for a cool and comfy place to stay in Jaco. And something out of the box is just what you go to Airbnb for, right?!

    Tsunami RestaurantTsunami Restaurant

    Craving your sushi fix while in Central America? Look no further than Tsunami Restaurant.  [image credit]

     

    Jaco Blu Beach Club Costa RicaJaco Blu Beach Club

    Beach bar by day, nightclub after dark – a good time can be had here no matter what the clock says! [image credit]

    Miro Mountain Viewpoint

    This secluded mountaintop viewpoint gives a panoramic vista of Jaco from the south end of the beach. A great place to watch the sunset!

    Jeep safari tour, Costa RicaExplore the Waterfalls

    Head inland to Jaco’s waterfalls on this Jeep safari tour.

     

     

    night safariGo On a Night Safari

    Ditch the traditional nightlife of bars and clubs for frogs and tarantulas. This night safari will be unforgettable, and you won’t have a hangover!

     

    Jaco Pool PartyHead To a Pool Party

    Enjoy some day drinking and see what you can win at the competitions of the Jaco Pool Party.

    Is This the Best Daypack EVER???
    Osprey Daylite Plus

    We’ve tested countless day packs over the years, and now we’ve found our absolute favourite: the traveller-approved Osprey Daylite Plus.

    Want more deetz on why we love it so damn much? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

    View on Osprey View on REI

    Quietest Beach in Costa Rica | Santa Teresa Beach

    Santa Teresa Beach, Costa Rica
    • Who It’s For: Adventurous travellers who are willing to make the effort will be rewarded with their very own slice of paradise.
    • Don’t Miss: The surfing at Santa Teresa Beach – with the uncrowded waters, it’s a great place to learn.

    Santa Teresa is another of Costa Rica’s best-kept secrets. While most tourists flock to Tamarindo and Jaco, only the bravest and most adventurous bother with Santa Teresa – but what a reward it is! Surrounded by tropical jungle, this strip of white sand is perfect for snorkelling and swimming, and there are several hiking trails nearby, making it a must-visit beach in Costa Rica. Throw in two amazing surf spots – Suck Rock and La Lora – and it’s hard to see why there aren’t more people here. No complaints, though!

    There’s some great hostels in Santa Teresa to stay in for backpackers here too.

    Jane's Safari Tent, Costa RicaBest Airbnb – Jane’s Safari Tent

    Looking for a romantic alternative to the standard hotel? This safari tent might just do it. It’s also great for two friends travelling together!

     

    Casa del Mar Surf Destiny, Costa RicaBest Hostel – Casa del Mar Surf Destiny

    Just 50 metres from Santa Teresa Beach, this hostel boasts an open garden kitchen and a wood-fired restaurant.

     

    Hotel Meli Melo, Costa RicaBest Hotel – Hotel Meli Melo

    This budget hotel gives you the privacy of your own room, but there are also features including a shared kitchen and tropical gardens.

     

    The Banyan Tree House, Costa RicaBest Tree House – The Banyan Tree House

    When you’re staying in the jungle, you may as well go the whole hog and stay in a treehouse in Costa Rica. Here’s one that won’t break the bank; it offers an experience that’ll stay with you forever!

    Restaurante Al Chile Viola, Costa RicaRestaurante Al Chile Viola

    Your evening meal is sorted at this excellent seafood restaurant in the centre of town. [image credit]

     

    Zwart CafeZwart Cafe

    Take a break and catch up with a piece of work or your latest book at Zwart Cafe. [image credit]

     

    Pranamar Villas

    A gorgeous open-air space and one of the best places to practice yoga in Santa Teresa.

    first surf lessonsLearn To Surf

    Take your first surf lessons at the nearby beach of Playa Hermosa.

     

    animal sanctuaryVisit The Wildlife

    Get up close and personal with deer, bears, and more endemic Costa Rican wildlife at an animal sanctuary.

     

    mountain bikingGo Mountain Biking

    Head over to Montezuma and go on one of the most exhilarating adventures there is – mountain biking! 

    Best Party Beach in Costa Rica | Tamarindo Beach

    Tamarindo Costa Rica
    • Who It’s For: Backpackers and flashpackers looking for lively nightlife and lazy days on the beach will be delighted with Tamarindo.
    • Don’t Miss: The sea turtle nesting season in nearby Las Baulas National Park.

    Another of Guanacaste’s epic beaches, make a beeline for Tamarindo if you fancy dancing the night away as it’s one of the best party beaches in Costa Rica. It’s not just great for nightlife though – it’s also a haven for beginner surfers. With a perfect break just off the coast, it’s ideal for catching your first waves. You also have Las Baulas National Park on your doorstep. If you’re visiting between October and February, you’re likely to see nesting sea turtles.

    Pipe House by the beach, Costa RicaBest Airbnb – Pipe House by the beach

    These unique pods make for one of the coolest places to stay in Tamarindo. There’s a wooden jungle gym where you can keep fit, too.

     

    La Botella de Leche, Costa RicaBest Hostel – La Botella de Leche

    “The Milk Bottle” is a hip hostel in Tamarindo for flashpackers at a backpacker price. There are board games that you can play with those you meet in the swimming pool!

    Hotel Palapa, Costa RicaBest Hotel – Hotel Palapa

    You won’t find a better base in Tamarindo than Hotel La Palapa. It’s right on the beach, and you can cool off in the shade in one of the huge hammocks!

     

    Family Tipi in Glamping Surf Camp, Costa RicaBest Tipi – Family Tipi in Glamping Surf Camp

    Don’t want the restrictions of a hotel room? This family tipi will allow you to truly connect with nature, with a little bit of luxury thrown into the mix!

    El Be Club RestaurantEl Be Club Restaurant

    No matter the time of day, there’s always something going on at the awesome El Be Club. [image credit]

     

    Waffle Monkey, Costa RicaWaffle Monkey

    Digital nomads can use the free Wi-Fi to send off emails over a cappuccino or a mocha. [image credit]

     

    Las Baulas National Marine ParkLas Baulas National Marine Park

    One of the most important leatherback turtle nesting sites in the world! [source: chrisontour84 (Shutterstock)]

    local surf expertGo Surfing

    Catch your first waves with the supervision of a local surf expert!

     

     

    turtle watching tourCheck Out The Turtles

    Take a turtle watching tour at one of the most important nesting sites in Costa Rica.

     

    scuba divingScuba Dive

    Go scuba diving and come face to face with the world’s largest fish – the gentle giant that is the whale shark!

    Best Beach for Wildlife in Costa Rica | Tortuguero Beach

    Tortuguero Beach, Costa Rica
    • Who It’s For: Those who make it to Tortuguero Beach can see tapirs, ocelots, and manatees in the National Park of the same name!
    • Don’t Miss: A guided safari – you will see a lot more when it comes to wildlife when accompanied by an expert pair of eyes!

    The only beach on this list on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast, Tortuguero is part of a national park that has an endless wealth of wildlife watching opportunities. It’s tricky to get to Tortuguero Beach and getting around the area isn’t easy either; you can only access this beach by boat from Limon or a flight from San Jose! It’s well worth the effort though. Accommodation can be expensive, so look into multi-day tours where everything is included.

    Casa Los Chilamates, Costa RicaBest Airbnb – Casa Los Chilamates

    Enjoy your own space in the jungle with this bright and beautiful house!

     

    Aracari Garden Hostel, Costa RicaBest Hostel – Aracari Garden Hostel

    One of the cheapest places to stay in Tortuguero, this small hostel has a range of rooms suitable for all budgets. There’s a common area and kitchen – great if you’re travelling solo.

     

    Los Amigos Jungle Hotel Tortuguero, Costa RicaBest Hotel – Los Amigos Jungle Hotel Tortuguero

    With a pool and views of the Tortuguero River, you’re surrounded by water here. Some rooms have a terrace or a patio!

     

    Rainforest Cabin, Costa RicaBest Hut – Rainforest Cabin

    If you want to be close to the entrance of the national park, this is the place to stay. You can also enjoy a chocolate tour from your host!

    Tortuguero National Park, Costa RicaTortuguero National Park

    To see all the fascinating flora and fauna of the area.

     

    Dorling Bakery

    Open from 5 am. Pick up some baked snacks to keep you going on a day hike through the national park.

     

    Budda Cafe, Costa RicaBudda Cafe

    Enjoy tasty food and a drink after an exciting day in the national park. [image credit]

    3-day adventure from San Jose3 Day Adventure Tour

    One day in Tortuguero will feel rushed. However, a 3-day adventure from San Jose will help you see a lot more.

     

    some time with themVisit The Turtles

    Tortuguero is named after the “tortugas” (turtles) that live here. It’d be rude to come here and not spend some time with them!

     

    nocturnal animalsExplore at Night

    Seeing Tortuguero during the day is only half the story. There are loads of nocturnal animals too – but who says you have to miss them?!

    Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Costa Rica

    A banner creative for World Nomads travel insurance

    World Nomads’ mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently.

    They’ve been doing it since 2002 – protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you.

    Get a quote below or read our in-depth review!

    World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

    Costa Rica Packing List

    best travel money belt

    1. Security Belt with Hidden Pocket: I never hit the road without my security belt. This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off. This is hands down the best way to hide your cash.

    Grayls Geopress Water Bottle

     2. Travel Water Bottle: Always travel with a water bottle – it’ll save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl geopress is a true behemoth amongst water bottles acting as a purifier AND temperature regulator – so you can enjoy a cold red bull, or a hot coffee, no matter where you are.

    Matador NanoDry Packable Shower Towel

    3. Microfibre TowelIt’s always worth packing a proper towel. Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

    Headlamp

    4. Headtorch: Every backpacker should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must. Currently, I’m using the Petzl Actik Core rechargeable headlamp – an awesome piece of kit! Because it’s USB chargeable I never have to buy earth polluting batteries.

    Eno Hammock

    5.HammockTaking a tent and pad on a road trip are not always practical but hammocks are lightweight, cheap, strong, sexy, and allow you to pitch up for the night pretty much anywhere. Right now, I’m rocking an Eno parachute hammock – it’s light, colorful and tough.

    AR Toiletry Bag

    6. Toiletry Bag: I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super efficient way to organise your bathroom stuff. Well worth having, whether you are hanging it from a tree whilst camping, or a hook in a wall, it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

    Final Thoughts on the Best Beaches in Costa Rica

    Now that you know more about Costa Rica’s beaches, you’ll probably have an idea about which one is the most suitable for you. Remember what we’ve seen – with Manuel Antonio National Park, you’ve not only got a gorgeous white sand beach on your doorstep but also acres of pristine rainforest perfect for wildlife watching.

    Tamarindo is a place where you can let loose and soak up the awesome nightlife, while Tortuguero gives you a chance to get off the beaten track for a tan and a spot of turtle watching. We’ve left no stone unturned in finding the best beaches in Costa Rica; all that’s left is for you to decide which one you’re going to visit first.

    Be sure to leave some time to go hiking in Costa Rica, sample exquisite farm-to-table restaurants, and indulge in the county’s pura vida. We hope you have a great time!


    And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!