Costa Rica Beaches

Costa Rica has quite an abundance of beautiful beaches due to the fact it is located between the Pacific ocean on one side and the Caribbean sea on the other. Which beaches to visit can be confusing unless your familiar with the qualities and attractions of each region’s beach.

In the north region, by Guanacaste, you will discover amazing beaches loaded with all sorts of human interactions with the natural resources. The famous beaches here are hotspots for travelers from all over. Those involved in surf sports most likely already know all about these beaches because some of the best surfing in the world happens here. One of the beaches known as Panama beach is half moon shaped with silvery sands and picture perfect tropical views. Another is Hermosa beach, a longer more activity oriented beach with surfing, fishing, and scuba diving. If this appeals to you, then the Flamingo beach is one which caters to tourism and has a variety of hotels, shops, and activities. For nature buffs, check out Grande beach for watching the nesting habitat of leatherback turtles. This is also a favorite surf stop.

Manuel Antonio National Park is host to beautiful beaches with living coral reefs. This area caters to travelers seeking nature experiences and education. Along with all the water activities there is also plenty opportunity for bird watching and checking out their museum. If coconut trees on dark sands is your calling, then opt to hang out in the sun at Bejuco beach. Many water sports await you. Herradura beach has a mirror of still waters and is located inside a spectacular bay with lush vegetation on a dark sand beach. Ideal for walks, and sunbathing. Punta Leona beach and Playa Blanca are two beaches for one. They are separated by a rocky point section. Carara Biological Reserve is only minutes away. If fishing is your sport, then consider visiting Puntarenas beach. This is a tourist beach with fishing from the wharfs or from the numerous jetties around it. They cater to traveler’s with their variety of available tourist services.

The South Pacific region of Costa Rica has to it’s fame Drake’s Bay. It is said, pirate Sir Francis Drake, hid his treasure here in a cave on Violin Island. On this beach, you can camp as well as water activities, bird watching, or nature walks. Tortuga beach is part of the Grande de Ten-aba River delta and is one of the widest beaches around this area. Beautiful scenery and accessible water activities make it a fun beach. Uvita beach is a smaller beach, with little swell it provides much recreational activities and water sports.

In the Caribbean sea part of Costa Rica right outside of Tortuguero National Park is Tortuguero beach is a fascinating place to visit for nature observation. The green and leatherback turtles use this area for breeding and nesting. Bird watching is also a popular pastime on this beach. Cahuita beach is divided into three different sections of use. One is for bathing and checking out coral reef, another if full of driftwood and algae, and the other for swimming activities.

Anywhere you do decide to visit in Coasta Rica, there are abundant beaches available with a variety of uses. Costa Rica’s beauty begins in its beaches and carries itself in to the lush tropical rainforests and cultural cities.