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Beaches in Costa Rica offer an unparalleled tropical escape, with golden sands, turquoise waters and dense rainforests. These form the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re looking for popular beaches or secluded beaches, this Central American paradise has something for everyone. From surfing hotspots to serene coves, these coastal spots cater to every traveller’s dream. Ready to explore the beautiful beaches? These coastal gems defining this tropical wonderland are waiting for you.
Top 10 Beaches In Costa Rica
Whether you seek adventure, romance or a peaceful retreat, these famous beaches in Costa Rica are worth adding to your itinerary:
1. Manuel Antonio Beach
Photo: Eric T Gunther / Wikimedia Commons
Manuel Antonio Beach is a true gem among the popular beaches in Costa Rica, blending tropical beauty with adventure. Nestled within Manuel Antonio National Park, it boasts soft white sands and turquoise waters. It also has a backdrop of lush rainforest teeming with wildlife. As you relax on the shore, don’t be surprised if a curious monkey or sloth makes an appearance! The calm waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling or even a peaceful kayaking session.
Location: Manuel Antonio National Park, Puntarenas
Distance From Juan Santamaría International Airport: 158 km
Accommodation Options: Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort, Parador Resort & Spa
2. Tamarindo Beach
Photo: Tamarindowiki / Wikimedia Commons
One of the best beach destinations in Costa Rica, Tamarindo Beach, is famous for its golden sands. Its major highlights are world – class surfing, and lively nightlife. It’s a hotspot for both beginners and experienced surfers, with plenty of surf schools along the shore. The town offers a mix of luxury resorts, budget hostels, and delicious seafood restaurants. If you love vibrant coastal towns, this is one of the best spots to visit.
Location: Guanacaste Province
Distance From Juan Santamaría International Airport: 245 km
Accommodation Options: Cala Luna Boutique Hotel, Jardin del Eden Boutique Hotel
3. Conchal Beach
Photo: Saraedum / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re looking for beautiful beaches with a unique twist, Conchal Beach should be on your list. Instead of soft sand, the shoreline glistens with tiny crushed seashells, creating a one-of-a-kind coastal experience. The crystal-clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling or paddleboarding. Unlike the busier Tamarindo, Conchal offers a peaceful escape. This makes it the ideal spot to unwind and soak in Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
Location: Guanacaste Province
Distance From Juan Santamaría International Airport: 249 km
Accommodation Options: The Westin Reserva Conchal, W Costa Rica
4. Santa Teresa Beach
Photo: Haakon S. Krohn / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Santa Teresa Beach is a true gem among the famous beaches, drawing surfers and yoga lovers. With its golden sands and consistent waves, it’s a dream spot for catching the perfect ride. If relaxation is more your style, beachfront yoga retreats and eco-lodges offer a peaceful escape. The town’s laid-back vibe, stunning sunsets, and friendly atmosphere make it an unforgettable destination. This is for adventure and solitude seekers alike.
Location: Puntarenas Province
Distance From Juan Santamaría International Airport: 156 km
Accommodation Options: Nantipa: A Tico Beach Experience, Hotel Tropico Latino
5. Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste)
Photo: NaBUru38 / Wikimedia Commons
Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste is a true gem among the top beaches in Costa Rica. It offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. Its calm, crystal-clear waters make it perfect for snorkelling and family-friendly swims. Unlike the busier tourist hubs, this beach maintains a laid-back vibe, ideal for unwinding under the sun. With breathtaking sunsets painting the sky every evening, Playa Hermosa is the perfect spot for serenity by the sea.
Location: Guanacaste Province
Distance From Juan Santamaría International Airport: 229 km
Accommodation Options: Bosque del Mar Hotel, Villas Sol Hotel & Beach Resort
6. Playa Avellanas
Photo: DanielaAvila26 / Wikimedia Commons
Playa Avellanas is one of the best-kept secrets among Costa Rica beaches. Known for its pristine beauty and excellent surf breaks, it’s often referred to as “Little Hawaii” due to its powerful waves. The beach is also home to Lola’s, a famous beachfront restaurant with delicious food and a relaxed vibe. This is one of the preferred beaches for those looking for adventure away from the crowds.
Location: Guanacaste Province
Distance From Juan Santamaría International Airport: 247 km
Accommodation Options: Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel, Latica Lodge
7. Montezuma Beach
Photo: Cephas / Wikimedia Commons
Montezuma Beach perfectly captures the bohemian spirit of Costa Rica. With its golden sands, swaying palm trees, and nearby waterfalls, it’s a dream destination for nature lovers and free spirits. Whether you’re swimming in the warm Pacific, hiking jungle trails, or exploring tide pools, adventure is everywhere. The laid-back town of Montezuma adds to the charm, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica.
Location: Nicoya Peninsula
Distance From Juan Santamaría International Airport: 144 km
Accommodation Options: Ylang Ylang Beach Resort, Hotel Amor de Mar
8. Playa Uvita
Photo: Alfarjores / Wikimedia Commons
Playa Uvita, located inside Marino Ballena National Park, is a must-visit for anyone exploring the famous beaches. Its most iconic feature? A natural sandbar shaped like a whale’s tail, fitting since humpback whales migrate here twice a year. You can enjoy here while spotting dolphins, strolling along golden sands or just soaking in the peaceful vibes. This beach, being pure magic, is the perfect mix of wildlife, scenery and relaxation.
Location: Puntarenas Province
Distance From Juan Santamaría International Airport: 212 km
Accommodation Options: Oxygen Jungle Villas, Hotel Cuna del Angel
9. Playa Negra
Photo: G. Edward Johnson / Wikimedia Commons
Playa Negra is a dream spot for surfers, known for its fast, powerful waves that attract thrill-seekers from around the world. As one of the most famous beaches in Costa Rica, it’s a paradise for those chasing the perfect ride. The striking volcanic black sand gives it a unique edge. This makes it just as appealing for beach lovers to relax and soak in the stunning coastal scenery.
Location: Guanacaste Province
Distance From Juan Santamaría International Airport: 244 km
Accommodation Options: Playa Negra Surf Lodge, Hotel Playa Negra
10. Punta Uva Beach
Photo: Jaimedelamata / Wikimedia Commons
Punta Uva Beach is a true gem on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. With its crystal clear waters, swaying palms, and colourful coral reefs, it’s one of the most breathtaking beaches in Costa Rica. Whether you’re swimming, kayaking or snorkelling among tropical fish, every moment here feels like paradise. Besides, the nearby Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge offers a chance to spot exotic wildlife. This makes it a dream destination for nature lovers and beachgoers.
Location: Limon Province
Distance From Juan Santamaría International Airport: 240 km
Accommodation Options: Hotel Shawandha Lodge, Almonds and Corals Lodge
Beaches in Costa Rica offer something for everyone, whether you’re chasing waves, strolling along shorelines or unwinding at beautiful locations. With their pristine sand, crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings, these beaches create the perfect backdrop for adventure and relaxation. From lively surf spots to peaceful retreats, Costa Rica’s coastline never disappoints. No matter what kind of beach experience you crave, this tropical paradise has it all. Book your trip with TripXL and experience the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica beaches.
Cover Photo: Atanas Malamov / Unsplash
