The 18 Prettiest Beaches in Costa Rica

Ready to uncover a slice of paradise? Look no further than the sun-drenched coastlines of Costa Rica, where jungle meets sea and every beach tells a story. From wild, windswept shores to serene coves perfect for swimming and snorkeling, Costa Rica beaches are among the most beautiful and diverse in the world.

With over 1,300 kilometers (800 miles) of coastline split between the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, there’s a beach here for every traveler — whether you’re chasing surf, seeking serenity, or simply soaking in the Pura Vida lifestyle.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 18 beaches in Costa Rica, spotlighting what makes each one unique — from surfing hotspots like Santa Teresa to hidden gems like Playa Biesanz.

Why Costa Rica Beaches Are Among the World’s Best

Costa Rica is home to an astonishing array of beach experiences — powder-soft white sands, wild black sand beaches, bioluminescent bays, and reef-protected swimming spots. Some are easily accessible and bustling with travelers, while others are so remote you’ll share them only with monkeys, scarlet macaws, or sea turtles.

Whether you're into surfing, snorkeling, eco-adventure, or pure relaxation, Costa Rica’s beaches deliver.

1. Manuel Antonio – Best Protected Cove

Located next to the famous Manuel Antonio National Park, this small village offers two stunning public beaches — Playa Espadilla and La Playita. Inside the park, you’ll find postcard-perfect white sands, turquoise coves, and abundant wildlife. Ideal for swimming, relaxing, or spotting monkeys in the trees.

2. Santa Teresa – Best for Consistent Surf

A favorite among surfers, Santa Teresa on the Nicoya Peninsula offers consistent swells, laid-back vibes, and miles of white sand. Surrounded by jungle and free of high-rise development, it’s a dream for those seeking natural beauty and a bohemian surf culture.

3. Malpaís – Best for Romantic Beach Walks

With dramatic sunsets and long, empty beaches, Malpaís offers an ideal escape for couples and nature lovers. Surfers love the waves, while beachcombers enjoy strolling for miles. The nearby Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve adds even more to explore.

4. Montezuma – Best Edge-of-the-World Vibe

Remote and wild, Montezuma combines boho charm with natural beauty. Perfect for adventurous travelers who want to connect with nature, spot waterfalls, or enjoy the relaxed rhythm of this off-the-beaten-path coastal gem.

5. Uvita – Most Unique Geographical Feature

Home to the iconic Whale’s Tail sandbar, Uvita is part of Marino Ballena National Park, a haven for humpback whale watching. It’s quiet, lush, and an amazing spot for eco-tourism, snorkeling, and kayaking.

6. Dominical – Best Sunsets in Costa Rica

A surfer’s paradise with a cool local vibe, Dominical offers rugged beauty, black sand beaches, and jaw-dropping sunsets. It's great for experienced surfers and laid-back travelers who appreciate a town with soul and scenery.

7. Carate – Best Wild Black Sand Beach

Tucked near Corcovado National Park, Carate is remote, untamed, and perfect for nature lovers. Stay close to the jungle, witness turtle nesting seasons, and explore one of Costa Rica’s last wild frontiers.

8. Tamarindo – Best Beach Nightlife

Tamarindo is Costa Rica’s most famous beach town for good reason: excellent surf, lively nightlife, and top-tier dining. Ideal for those wanting both adventure and luxury with plenty of day trip options nearby like Playa Langosta and Playa Conchal.

9. Punta Uva – Best Caribbean Vibe

Nestled on the Caribbean side, Punta Uva is a mellow beach village surrounded by jungle, calm turquoise waters, and Afro-Caribbean culture. It’s perfect for snorkeling, biking, and laid-back days on the sand.

10. Manzanillo – Best for Seclusion & Wildlife

At the southern tip of the Caribbean coast, Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is a biodiversity hotspot. Walk along empty beaches, hike jungle trails, or dive into vibrant coral reefs.

11. Playa Chiquita – Best for Calm Swimming

Just south of Puerto Viejo, Playa Chiquita offers sheltered coves ideal for swimming. Its tranquil, jungly vibe makes it a favorite for families and those seeking a quiet escape.

12. Playa Conchal – Best for White Sand & Snorkeling

Famous for its crushed-shell sand, Playa Conchal is one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches. Clear, calm waters make it a top snorkeling destination, with great marine life just offshore.

13. Playa Flamingo – Best for Sport Fishing

Known for its stunning marina and deep-sea fishing, Playa Flamingo is ideal for seafaring adventures. Charter a boat and fish for marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi, or relax in luxury resorts nearby.

14. Playa Langosta – Best for Beachcombers

Less crowded than Tamarindo, Playa Langosta is a peaceful, pristine beach great for long walks, tide pool exploration, and challenging surf. It’s a quiet contrast to its lively neighbor to the north.

15. Sámara – Best Local Vibe

Sámara offers wide sandy beaches, safe swimming, and a perfect mix of locals and expats. With shallow waters and palm-lined shores, it’s great for families, beginner surfers, and sunset lovers alike.

16. Nosara – Most Healing Vibe

A spiritual hub for yogis and surfers, Nosara is an eco-friendly town with wellness retreats, consistent surf, and unspoiled jungle beaches like Playa Guiones and Playa Pelada. The atmosphere here is calm, conscious, and connected.

17. Tortuguero – Best for Wildlife Encounters

Accessible only by boat or plane, Tortuguero is a nature lover’s paradise. With turtle nesting grounds, winding canals, and a vast national park, this area is a top spot for spotting monkeys, birds, and reptiles in their natural habitat.

18. Playa Biesanz – Best Hidden Gem

Just outside Manuel Antonio, Playa Biesanz is a tranquil bay unknown to most tourists. With calm turquoise water and soft sand, it's the perfect place to unwind in peace — and maybe even spot a sloth in the trees.

Whether you're seeking surf, serenity, or spectacular sunsets, there’s a beach in Costa Rica that’s perfect for you. From the remote shores of the Osa Peninsula to the lively coastlines of Guanacaste, these beaches showcase the best of what this tropical paradise has to offer.

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