Guanacaste

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Often called Costa Rica's 'Little Hawaii', Playa Avellanas is a gorgeous stretch of golden sand framed by mangroves and wooden boardwalks. The warm Pacific water and vibrant local beach culture make it a beloved destination for coastal relaxation.

Access. A bumpy drive south from Tamarindo, accessible by car, shuttle, or bicycle.

Notes. Famous for heavy offshore surf breaks, though certain tide windows allow for relaxing wading.

Guanacaste

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Tucked away on the northern Pacific coast, Playa Blanca boasts exceptionally bright sand and remarkably clear, gentle waters. The lush green hills surrounding the cove create a secluded, postcard-worthy tropical retreat.

Access. Best reached via boat tour or a moderate coastal hike from nearby beaches in the Gulf of Papagayo.

Notes. Limited shade and no permanent facilities; visit with a day charter or pack accordingly.

Limón Province

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Located within Cahuita National Park on the Caribbean coast, this gorgeous white-sand beach is backed by swaying coconut palms and a thriving offshore coral reef. The warm Caribbean waters and vibrant surrounding jungle create an unforgettable tropical escape.

Access. A short walk from Cahuita village along the coastal park trail. Facilities are concentrated near the entrance.

Notes. Donations are requested at the park entrance; swimming near the coral reef is best done on calm days.

Guanacaste

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Instead of traditional sand, this stunning shore is entirely composed of millions of tiny, crushed white and pink shells that glitter in the sun. The gentle, crystal-clear turquoise waters make it an absolute paradise for swimming and snorkeling.

Access. Reached via a short scenic walk from nearby Playa Brasilito or through resort areas. Facilities available nearby.

Notes. Water shoes can make walking on the crushed-shell shoreline much more comfortable.

Puntarenas Province

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A dramatic Southern Pacific beach characterized by dark volcanic-tinted sand and powerful waves backed by towering green palms. It offers a raw, rugged beauty where the rainforest dramatically meets the ocean.

Access. Directly off the Costanera Sur highway with easy parking and nearby town amenities.

Notes. Primarily known for surfing; swimming requires caution due to strong undertows and heavy shore break.

Puntarenas Province

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A secluded tropical cove hidden within the lush headlands near Los Sueños, Playa Escondida delivers an untouched beach experience. Golden sands meet rolling Pacific waves in a dramatic amphitheater of dense jungle cliffs.

Access. Primarily accessed by boat charter from Marina Los Sueños or via a rugged jungle trail.

Notes. Completely undeveloped; visitors must pack out all trash and bring their own supplies.

Guanacaste

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A vast, wild expanse of golden sand stretching along the Pacific coast within Las Baulas National Marine Park. While famous as a vital nesting site for giant leatherback turtles, its steady waves also offer a majestic coastal atmosphere.

Access. Accessible by road via Matapalo or by a quick water taxi across the estuary from Tamarindo.

Notes. Protected area restrictions apply at night during turtle nesting season; artificial lights are strictly regulated.

Guanacaste

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True to its name meaning 'beautiful beach', this sheltered bay in Guanacaste boasts dark-golden sand, calm blue waters, and a peaceful atmosphere. It is exceptionally clean and rarely feels overcrowded.

Access. Easy paved road access from the main highway with plenty of parking and beachfront amenities.

Notes. Not to be confused with Playa Hermosa near Jacó, which is known for rough surf; this northern bay is great for swimming.

Puntarenas Province

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Famous for its strikingly calm, emerald-green waters and fine white sand, Playa Mantas is tucked into a sheltered cove on the central Pacific coast. A short walk through a shaded forest trail leads directly to the gorgeous shore.

Access. Reachable via road from Punta Leona with a short walk through a forested path.

Notes. Popular with local families on weekends; arrive early for the best parking and shade spots.

Puntarenas Province

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Set inside Costa Rica's famous national park, this pristine crescent beach features calm, turquoise waters and lush rainforest creeping right up to the sand. Keep an eye out for curious capuchin monkeys and sloths while relaxing in the shade of tropical almond trees.

Access. An easy walk from the national park entrance via flat jungle trails. Can get crowded during peak dry season.

Notes. Park entrance fees and operating hours apply; no food allowed on the beach to protect wildlife.

Puntarenas Province

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Located at the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Montezuma is a bohemian beach destination bordered by dramatic rocky outcrops and jungle. The coastline offers a mix of energetic surf breaks and peaceful tide pools to explore.

Access. Reachable via ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera followed by a scenic drive, or via local shuttle buses.

Notes. Some sections feature strong rip currents; swimmers should stick to the calmer zones near the village.

Puntarenas Province

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Located off the Nicoya Peninsula, this pristine white-sand beach boasts impossibly clear turquoise waters framed by dense greenery. It feels like a remote tropical island escape.

Access. Accessible primarily via boat tours and catamarans departing from Puntarenas, Curú, or Montezuma.

Notes. Day-trip boat traffic can peak around midday, but mornings offer serene island tranquility.

Puntarenas Province

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A striking stretch of golden volcanic-speckled sand backed by lush jungle hills on the Nicoya Peninsula. Known for its world-class surf breaks and spectacular sunsets over the open Pacific.

Access. Accessed via local roads through Santa Teresa village; walkable from many boutique eco-lodges.

Notes. Strong rip currents can occur; swimmers should pay attention to local surf conditions.

Guanacaste

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Framed by a sweeping crescent of golden sand and a protective offshore coral reef, Sámara offers exceptionally calm and safe swimming conditions. It retains a laid-back, welcoming beach-town vibe with palm trees lining the shore.

Access. Direct road access right into the town of Sámara with ample parking and beachfront dining.

Notes. Very family-friendly with gentle waves, though caution is advised further out beyond the reef.

Puntarenas Province

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Named for the massive sea caves carved into the cliffs at its southern end, Playa Ventanas offers a dramatic and scenic shore. At low tide, visitors can walk through the dark rock tunnels to explore hidden chambers and tide pools.

Access. Located just south of Ojochal along the Costanera Sur highway with a dedicated parking area.

Notes. Swimming is best during mid-to-low tide when the caves are accessible and the surf is manageable.

Limón Province

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Widely considered the crown jewel of the South Caribbean coast, Punta Uva features calm, crystal-clear water protected by a reef headland. Towering almond trees provide natural shade over the soft golden-white sand.

Access. Located a short drive or bike ride south of Puerto Viejo down a coastal dirt road.

Notes. The calm lagoon area near the point is exceptionally safe for relaxing swims and paddleboarding.