20 of the Best Beaches—and Beach Resorts—in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s beaches are the kind of places that make you forget what day it is. With over 800 miles of coastline split between the Pacific and Caribbean sides, you’ve got everything from powdery white sands backed by jungle to black-sand stretches where howler monkeys provide the soundtrack. I’ve chased sunsets from Guanacaste’s dry northwest to the humid Caribbean south, and let me tell you—each coast feels like a different country. The Pacific tends toward bigger waves and luxury resorts, while the Caribbean offers laid-back vibes and coral reefs.

This list rounds up 20 of the absolute best beaches, mixing iconic spots with a few under-the-radar gems. I’ve paired many with standout beach resorts because let’s be honest: after a day of swimming, hiking, or surfing, collapsing into a plush bed with ocean views beats a basic hostel any day. Whether you’re after family-friendly shallows, killer surf, or pure seclusion, these picks deliver.

1. Playa Manuel Antonio – Central Pacific

This little crescent of white sand inside Manuel Antonio National Park is often called Costa Rica’s postcard beach. Framed by rainforest alive with monkeys and sloths, the water stays calm enough for easy swimming.

I’ve watched capuchin monkeys steal snacks right off towels here—hilarious until it’s your lunch. The national park entrance fee keeps crowds manageable, and the combo of wildlife and beach makes it unbeatable for first-timers.

Best Nearby Resort: Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
Direct access to two beaches, eco-luxury suites, and wildlife sightings from your balcony. It’s pricey but feels like a private slice of paradise.

Pros & Cons:

• Pros: Wildlife galore, safe swimming, short trails to viewpoints
• Cons: Park hours limit access, can get busy mid-day

2. Tamarindo Beach – Guanacaste

Tamarindo buzzes with energy—think surf schools, beach bars, and epic sunsets over long golden sands. It’s beginner-friendly for waves but has spots for lounging too.

My first surf lesson here ended with me laughing in the whitewater while locals cheered. The town’s walkable vibe means tacos and cold Imperials are never far.

Best Nearby Resort: JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
Sprawling pools, golf course, and a calm beach nearby. Great for families or groups wanting amenities.

3. Playa Conchal – Guanacaste

Famous for its crushed-shell sand that sparkles like tiny pearls under turquoise water. Snorkeling reveals colorful fish right offshore.

I once spent hours just floating, watching rays glide by—pure bliss. It’s protected, so waves stay gentle.

Best Nearby Resort: The Westin Reserva Conchal
All-inclusive luxury with golf, multiple pools, and direct access. Feels ultra-polished.

Comparison: Pacific North vs. South

Aspect	Guanacaste (e.g., Conchal)	Central/South Pacific (e.g., Manuel Antonio)
Water Temp	Warmer, calmer	Slightly cooler, more variable
Crowds	Moderate to high	High in parks, but trails help spread out
Wildlife	Birds, occasional turtles	Monkeys, sloths, frogs
Resort Style	Large luxury all-inclusives	Boutique eco-lodges

4. Playa Samara – Nicoya Peninsula

A perfect half-moon bay with calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming and kayaking. Palm trees line the shore, and the town keeps things low-key.

Family trip highlight: building sandcastles with zero fear of big waves. Sunset horseback rides along the beach are magic.

Best Nearby Resort: Hotel Villas Playa Samara
Beachfront villas with kitchens—great for longer stays or families.

5. Playa Flamingo – Guanacaste

Upscale white-sand beach in a sheltered bay. Clear waters great for snorkeling, and it’s less crowded than neighbors.

I love the marina vibe—grab fresh ceviche from a boat and eat with your feet in the sand.

Best Nearby Resort: Margaritaville Beach Resort Flamingo
Laid-back luxury with pools and ocean views.

6. Playa Santa Teresa – Nicoya Peninsula

Long stretches of golden sand meet world-class surf. Bohemian town full of yoga retreats and healthy eats.

Surfing here changed how I see waves—powerful but forgiving on good days. Even non-surfers love the sunset views.

Best Nearby Resort: Nantipa, a Tico Beach Experience
Boutique with beachfront bungalows and wellness focus.

7. Playa Cahuita – Caribbean Coast

Black-sand beach inside Cahuita National Park. Snorkel over coral reefs teeming with fish.

Spotting a three-toed sloth while snorkeling is peak Costa Rica weirdness—in the best way.

Best Nearby Resort: Atlantida Lodge
Simple, charming, right near the park entrance.

8. Playa Punta Uva – Caribbean

Crystal-clear waters, palm-fringed, and super calm for swimming. One of the prettiest on the Caribbean side.

Feels like your own private lagoon. I floated for hours without a care.

Best Nearby Resort: Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel
Eco-chic with pools and easy beach access.

9. Playa Jaco – Central Pacific

Lively town beach with consistent surf. Great for beginners and people-watching.

Nightlife spills onto the sand—think fire dancers and cold beers.

Best Nearby Resort: Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort
Nearby marina, golf, and easy access to Jaco.

10. Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste)

Quiet sister to Tamarindo—long, wide sands with gentle waves.

Perfect escape when Tamarindo feels too hectic. Great for long walks.

Best Nearby Resort: Hotel Bosque del Mar
Luxury boutique right on the sand.

11. Playa Carrillo – Nicoya Peninsula

Gorgeous half-moon bay next to Samara. Super clean, calm waters.

Locals’ favorite—feels authentic and relaxed.

Best Nearby Resort: Hotel Guanamar
Clifftop views over the bay.

12. Playa Negra (Caribbean)

Famous black-sand surf beach near Cahuita. Waves draw pros.

The contrast of black sand and turquoise water is striking.

Best Nearby Resort: Le Cameleon (nearby)

13. Playa Montezuma – Nicoya Peninsula

Bohemian vibe, waterfalls nearby, and tide pools.

Hike to Montezuma Falls then cool off in the ocean—classic.

Best Nearby Resort: Hotel Amor de Mar
Rustic charm with ocean views.

14. Playa Uvita – South Pacific

Whale-tail-shaped sandbar at low tide. Part of Marino Ballena National Park.

Whale watching from shore in season—mind-blowing.

Best Nearby Resort: Kura Design Villas
Luxury with infinity pools overlooking the beach.

15. Playa Cocles – Caribbean

Near Puerto Viejo—golden sand, good surf, laid-back.

Bike from town, grab reggae tunes and patacones.

Best Nearby Resort: Le Cameleon

16. Playa Potrero – Guanacaste

Calm bay, great for families. Nearby Flamingo for dining.

Underrated gem—peaceful with good amenities close by.

Best Nearby Resort: Flamingo Beach Resort & Spa

17. Playa Biesanz – Manuel Antonio area

Hidden cove with calm waters. Snorkel right off the beach.

Short hike down feels like discovering treasure.

Best Nearby Resort: Arenas Del Mar (nearby access)

18. Playa Grande – Guanacaste

Leatherback turtle nesting site. Long beach with surf.

Nighttime turtle tours are emotional—pure nature.

Best Nearby Resort: Hotel Bula Bula

19. Playa Langosta – Guanacaste

Quiet extension of Tamarindo. Estuary for birdwatching.

Less crowded, great for sunrise yoga.

Best Nearby Resort: Capitan Suizo

20. Playa Dominical – South Pacific

Powerful surf, black sand, rainforest backdrop.

For adventure seekers—waves and waterfalls nearby.

Best Nearby Resort: Costa Paraiso Boutique Hotel

People Also Ask

What is the most beautiful beach in Costa Rica?
Playa Conchal often tops lists for its unique shell sand and turquoise water—pure eye candy.

Which side of Costa Rica has the best beaches?
Pacific for variety and luxury (Guanacaste, Nicoya); Caribbean for relaxed, reef-protected swimming.

What are the best beaches in Costa Rica for families?
Samara, Conchal, and Manuel Antonio—calm waters, amenities, and wildlife.

Are there white sand beaches in Costa Rica?
Yes—Conchal, Flamingo, and parts of Manuel Antonio stand out.

What is the best time to visit beaches in Costa Rica?
Dry season (December–April) for sun; green season for fewer crowds and lush scenery.

FAQ

Q: How do I get to these beaches without a car?
A: Shuttles like Interbus or shared vans work well; many resorts offer transfers from SJO or LIR airports.

Q: Are Costa Rica beaches safe for swimming?
A: Most listed are—check riptide flags, especially Pacific side. Caribbean spots like Punta Uva are calmer.

Q: What’s the best all-inclusive beach resort?
A: Westin Reserva Conchal or JW Marriott Guanacaste—great value with food, pools, and beach included.

Q: Can I see wildlife at these beaches?
A: Absolutely—Manuel Antonio for monkeys/sloths; Guanacaste for turtles; Caribbean for reef fish.

Q: How crowded do these beaches get?
A: Peak dry season sees more people; shoulder months (May, November) offer balance.

Costa Rica’s beaches aren’t just sand and sea—they’re where jungle meets ocean, where you might spot a scarlet macaw or catch your first perfect wave. Pick one that matches your mood, book that resort with the killer view, and go live a little pura vida. You’ve earned it.