The postcard-worthy beaches of Costa Rica are easily some of its biggest attractions. My favorite thing about beach-hopping here was the stunning variety: from smooth, pebble-filled shores to dramatic cliff backdrops, and sand ranging from coal black to stark white. If you want to find the best beaches in Costa Rica, you’ll have to be more specific about what you’re looking for, as every one of them is great in its own right.
I’ve put together a list to help you choose which to visit, with some that are ideal if you want to go for a swim, others that are awesome surfing spots, plus family-friendly shores and off-the-beaten-path options too.
What are you waiting for? Let’s find out what the best beaches in Costa Rica are…
Best for Swimming
13. Playa Espadilla Norte, Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio is one of the most popular places to visit in Costa Rica and an absolute must for a first-time itinerary. It has a handful of beaches that are ideal for swimming, but my choice would be Playa Espadilla Norte over and over again. The water there is clear, the sand is buttery soft, and the waves gently lap you as you wade further in. I love hanging out in my chair with a book and taking occasional dips to swim, so this beach was perfect for me.
It’s impossible to miss, as the entrance is right before the national park. Get there early if you want to snag a spot, as chairs can fill up. Expect to pay $10-15 for a chair for the whole day. There are bathrooms and changing rooms nearby, with lots of food stands and restaurants close to the beach as well.
Where to stay near Playa Espadilla Norte:
- Budget: Teva Hotel & Jungle Reserve is just a 15-minute bus ride from the beach; you can score a dorm bed for around $29/night. Book here.
- Mid-range: Espadilla Gardens Hotel is steps from the beach. Rooms start around $187/night. Book here.
- Luxury: Jungle Beach Hotel is in the perfect location in Manuel Antonio: smack-dab between the beach and the jungle. Rooms start around $300/night. Book here.
12. Playa Uvita, Uvita
This beach is part of Marino Ballena National Park, meaning there are no hotels or restaurants on the shore. I prefer this beach to others near Uvita for swimming because of the ultra-soft sand and gentle waves. There aren’t any beach chairs to chill out in, but I had a great time relaxing on my towel in the shade of the palm trees between swims. Even though the national park is hugely popular, the beach is vast, and there’s plenty of…
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