20 Best Beaches in Costa Rica

Iconic white-sand beach inside Manuel Antonio National Park. Excellent for swimming, snorkeling, and spotting monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds. Family-friendly with calm waters and easy access from the park entrance. One of Costa Rica’s most photographed beaches.

Unique beach made of crushed white shells that sparkle in the sun. Calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling in Guanacaste. Ideal for families with gentle waves and beautiful sunset views. A hidden gem with a luxurious feel.

Popular surf town beach with consistent waves suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers. Features lively restaurants, bars, and shops. Great for people-watching and vibrant sunsets. One of the most accessible beaches on the Pacific coast.

Long dark-sand beach known for strong waves and excellent surfing conditions. Very accessible with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and surf schools. Popular with backpackers and young travelers seeking an active beach vibe.

Beautiful remote beach on the Nicoya Peninsula with excellent surfing, yoga retreats, and a relaxed bohemian atmosphere. Offers pristine scenery, dramatic sunsets, and a healthy living vibe away from crowded tourist areas.

Quiet beach known for yoga, wellness retreats, and consistent surf. Part of the famous Blue Zone with a strong focus on healthy, sustainable living. Perfect for relaxation and connecting with nature in a peaceful setting.

Crescent-shaped bay with calm, protected waters ideal for swimming and families. Features a relaxed atmosphere with good restaurants and beach bars. One of the safest swimming beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula with beautiful sunset views.

Caribbean coast beach famous for its reggae vibe, fresh seafood, and excellent surfing at Salsa Brava. Strong Afro-Caribbean culture with a laid-back atmosphere. Perfect for authentic Caribbean experiences and great waves.

Protected beach inside Cahuita National Park with easy wildlife viewing of howler monkeys and sloths. Calm waters suitable for snorkeling and swimming. Offers a relaxed Caribbean feel with lush rainforest next to the sand.

One of the most beautiful Caribbean beaches with tall palm trees, crystal-clear water, and a very peaceful atmosphere. Excellent for swimming and relaxing under coconut palms in a nearly deserted setting.

Long dark-sand beach south of Jacó known for powerful waves and consistent surf. Popular with experienced surfers. Offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to busier neighboring beaches while still providing good facilities.

Upscale white-sand beach in Guanacaste with calm waters and luxury resorts. Great for swimming and enjoying beautiful sunsets. Features a more refined atmosphere with excellent dining options nearby.

Small picturesque cove beach with rocky outcrops ideal for snorkeling and diving. Quiet and intimate atmosphere with clear waters. Perfect for those seeking a more private beach experience.

Wide, shallow beach perfect for families and kayaking. Calm waters and beautiful views of the bay. Offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with good local restaurants nearby.

Small fishing village beach with calm waters and authentic local atmosphere. Great for a relaxed day by the sea with fresh seafood options. Less crowded and more genuine Costa Rican experience.

Long beach famous for leatherback turtle nesting and excellent surfing. Part of Las Baulas National Park. Offers pristine scenery and a more protected, natural environment.

Dramatic beach with natural rock arches and strong waves. Popular with experienced surfers and photographers. Features unique geological formations and powerful Pacific Ocean energy.

Remote, pristine beach with long stretches of untouched sand and excellent sunset views. Very quiet and undeveloped, perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Small hidden cove with crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Very peaceful and intimate with dramatic rocky surroundings. One of the most scenic secret beaches.

Dark volcanic sand beach near Cahuita known for dramatic scenery and excellent surfing conditions. Offers a wild, untamed feel with strong Caribbean character and beautiful sunsets.