Costa Rica
Costa Rica has beaches on two oceans, but it is on the Pacific that the sun sets into the sea every evening. From the surf towns of the Nicoya Peninsula to the calm bays of Guanacaste: here are the beaches, and where to stay.
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In short: where are the best beaches in Costa Rica?
For sunshine and calm bays, choose Guanacaste in the north-west, close to Liberia airport. For surf and yoga, head to Santa Teresa or Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula. Tamarindo is the liveliest beach town. Our first choice is Capitán Suizo, right on the beach in Tamarindo, rated 9.8.
Our first choice: Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel in Tamarindo. Check availability and prices
Picolo has been to Costa Rica's Pacific coast, and the selection below is our own.
Guanacaste: sunshine and calm bays
Guanacaste is the driest part of the country, and from December to April it barely rains. The beaches are scattered in bays between cliffs and small fishing villages.
Tamarindo
Tamarindo is a surf town with restaurants and surf schools along a long beach. The waves suit beginners, and the evenings are lively.
Where to stay: Capitán Suizo sits right on the beach, and guests especially praise the location. Breakfast is included, and more than 500 guests rate it 9.8. Check availability and prices
Tamarindo
From the terraces at Capitán Suizo it is only a few steps down to the sand.
Playa Conchal
The sand at Playa Conchal is made of crushed shells, and the water is clear enough for snorkelling on calm days. The beach is known for the all-inclusive resorts nearby. See all four in our guide to all inclusive in Costa Rica.
Where to stay: Westin Reserva Conchal is all inclusive, with a golf course and spa, and more than a thousand guests rate it 9.2. Guests especially praise the beach. Check availability and prices
Playa Hermosa and Papagayo
Playa Hermosa is a calm bay with sunsets over the sea, a short drive from Liberia airport. Further north is the Papagayo Peninsula with the most exclusive hotels.
Where to stay: Hotel Bosque del Mar sits right by Playa Hermosa, has a spa, and nearly a thousand guests rate it 9.4. For adults-only all inclusive, Secrets Papagayo is rated 8.8.
Bosque del Mar: Check availability and prices
Secrets Papagayo: Check availability and prices
Papagayo Bay
In Guanacaste the boats lie still in the bays for much of the year.
The Nicoya Peninsula: surf and yoga
Further south along the coast is the Nicoya Peninsula, with gravel roads and beaches where you often have space to yourself.
Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa has some of the best waves in the country and a sunset people gather for every evening. The town is small and dusty, with yoga studios and cafés along one main road.
Where to stay: Hotel Nantipa sits by the beach in Santa Teresa, has a spa and a terrace on every room, and guests rate it 9.4. Check availability and prices
Nosara
Nosara is quieter than Santa Teresa, with the long Playa Guiones and a strong yoga and surf scene. Much of the area is protected, and the houses are hidden in the forest.
Where to stay: The Harmony Hotel is near Playa Guiones, with breakfast included and a guest rating of 9.6. Check availability and prices
Tips for the beaches
Currents: strong currents occur along the Pacific coast, so swim where there are lifeguards or calm water.
Four-wheel drive: the roads to Santa Teresa and Nosara are partly gravel, especially in the rainy season.
Fly into Liberia: for Guanacaste, Liberia airport is much closer than San José.
Frequently asked questions about Costa Rica beaches
Where are the best beaches in Costa Rica?
Guanacaste has the sunniest beaches, while Santa Teresa and Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula are best for surfing.
Which beach in Costa Rica is best for families?
Playa Hermosa and Playa Conchal in Guanacaste have calmer water than the surf beaches.
Is it safe to swim in Costa Rica?
Many beaches have strong currents. Follow local advice, and swim where there are lifeguards or calm water.
When is the best time for Costa Rica's beaches?
The dry season from December to April brings the most sunshine. Read more in our guide to the best time to visit Costa Rica.
Where should you surf in Costa Rica?
Tamarindo suits beginners. Santa Teresa and Playa Guiones in Nosara have waves for more experienced surfers.