Costa Rica offers a wide variety of tropical beaches.
Costa Rica has over 600 miles of coastline and is known for its stunning beaches. The beaches range from dark volcanic sand to powdery white sand and offer a variety of activities such as surfing, snorkeling, and swimming, but you can also go whale and dolphin watching, witness the seaturtles lay their eggs or see the little ones come from under the sand and travel to the ocean…
White Sand Beaches
These beaches are characterized by their fine, powdery white sand, which is often found in the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. There are popular white sand beaches such as Manuel Antonio, Playa Blanca and Flamingo Beach.
Black Sand Beaches
These beaches feature volcanic black sand, which is common along the country’s Pacific Coast. The most famous black sand beach in Costa Rica is Playa Hermosa on the Osa Peninsula and Playa Negra at Puerto Viejo in the Carribbean.
Rocky Beaches
These beaches are characterized by rocky outcroppings and tidal pools. They are not ideal for swimming but wonderful for exploring the fascinating marine and rock life. Rocky beaches are popular on the Nicoya Peninsula; Playa Conchal is a different example, there you can find little pieces of shell in stead of rocks.
Wild and Remote Beaches
Some of the beaches are far-flung and accessible only by boat or a long hike but these hidden gems are worth the journey. They are often more secluded and less crowded than other beaches.
Surf Beaches
Costa Rica is a paradise for surfers, and it’s home to some of the best waves in the world. The North and Central Pacific Coast is the most popular for surfers, and you can find the best beaches for surfing at Tamarindo and Playa Negra. Or go further to Pavones or Which’ Rock…
Coral Beaches
These beaches are characterized by the presence of coral reefs close to the shore. The water is often clear and shallow, which is ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. Cahuita, Cano Island, Playa Ocotal and Playa Flamingo are well-known for their coral reefs.