When you imagine Costa Rica you are probably fantasizing about palm tree lined beaches, blue waters and wild tropical scenery. And here you are not mistaken. The country boasts of some of the most beautiful coast lines anywhere in the world. In fact these beautiful beaches in Costa Rica run along two beautiful shores; the Pacific and the Caribbean.
Are you a beach enthusiast, an adventure traveler or someone preparing the ultimate catamaran escape. This guide will help you to find the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. And how you can enjoy them from a whole new angle by boat.
Why Costa Rica Is Known for Its Beautiful Beaches
Beach lovers have it all at the Costa Rica stretch of the Pacific to the Caribbean coast. The country has more than 800 miles of coast. And it has everything between crowds of people in surf towns and remote coves filled with wildlife.
Why are Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches so significant? It is the diversity. You will have smooth white beaches, volcanic black beaches and even pink-lined seashell beaches. The surrounding lands include green jungles, as well as rocky cliffs. It can provide you with a very beautiful contrast that cannot be matched everywhere.
Top 6 Most Beautiful Beaches in Costa Rica
Let’s dive into six of Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches, each offering something unique for you. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure there’s a beach here for you:
1. Playa Conchal
Located in the Guanacaste region, Playa Conchal is famous for its pinkish-white shore made entirely of crushed seashells.
- Great for: It’s perfect for you to snorkel, swim and relax in calm waters.
- Why Visit: This beach is famous for its pinkish-white shore made entirely of crushed seashells. You can’t find any typical sand here!
- Fun Fact: The name “Conchal” comes from the Spanish word concha, meaning shell. It’s like you are walking on natural sea glass!
2. Playa Flamingo
You can find this beach just a short distance from Playa Conchal. Playa Flamingo is a crescent-shaped beach. It’s also a top launching spot for catamaran tours.
- Best for: You can find here upscale vibes, sport fishing and romantic sunset cruises.
Why Visit: It is located near Conchal and offers you a luxurious, crescent-shaped escape with golden sands and calm surf. - Interesting Fact: Playa Flamingo was one of Costa Rica’s first resort beaches, developed in the 1980s as a luxury destination.
- Bonus: It’s one of the top launching points for catamaran tours, so you and your crew can enjoy the best of land and sea.
Check our guide on ‘Why Is Flamingo Beach Costa Rica So Popular for Tours’
3. Playa Biesanz
This beach is hidden near the bustling Manuel Antonio area. Playa Biesanz is a small, tranquil cove that feels like your own private escape.
- Marine Life: Known for beginner-friendly snorkeling. You can enjoy colorful reef fish and gentle waters.
- Why Visit: Tucked away near the busy Manuel Antonio area, this beach feels like a hidden cove you stumbled upon.
- Pro Tip: Bring your snorkel gear. It’s one of the most peaceful spots you can find to swim in the area.
- Fun Fact: Locals call it a “secret beach” even though it’s gaining popularity thanks to its quiet charm.
Check our guide on ‘What Makes Snorkeling Costa Rica So Special’ The clear waters and gentle waves make it ideal for beginners and marine life lovers.
4. Playa Samara
Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Samara is known for its laid-back vibe and safe swimming conditions. The beach town itself is super welcoming, making it great for family vacations.
- Best for: it is best if you are with family or for the travelers looking for a relaxing beach town vibe.
- Why Visit: The beach is wide and flat with warm, shallow water perfect for your little ones to splash around safely.
- Interesting Fact: Playa Samara’s coral reef offshore helps break strong waves, making the water incredibly safe for swimming for you.
- Bonus: Boat tours to Isla Chora often include dolphin spotting; you might even see sea turtles along the way.
5. Playa Uvita
Uvita is part of Marino Ballena National Park, established in 1990 specifically to protect marine mammals and coral ecosystems. It is famous for the natural whale tail-shaped sandbar that appears during low tide.
- Great for: If you are into whale watching, exploring marine parks and nature photography this one is for you.
- Why Visit: You are going to be amazed this beach features a natural whale tail-shaped sandbar
- Fun Fact: Between July–October and December–April, you can witness humpback whales migrating through these waters.
This beach is a hotspot for whale watching tours and a must-visit if you’re in Costa Rica by catamaran.
Book your shared catamaran tour in Costa Rica today
6. Playa Manuel Antonio
Ranked among the top beaches in Central America. Playa Manuel Antonio is located inside a national park and surrounded by lush jungle.
- Best for: You can have wildlife encounters, hiking and bucket-list beach days.
- Why Visit: Located inside Manuel Antonio National Park, this beach is famous for its emerald water and surrounding jungle. You can experience interaction with wildlife.
- Wildlife Sightings: You’ll likely see monkeys, sloths and iguanas just steps from your towel.
Best Time to Visit Costa Rica’s Beaches
If you are planning to visit Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches and want to know about the best time to visit. has two main seasons: the dry season (December to April) and the green season (May to November).
Dry Season
It is the best beach for you to beach hopping, sunbathing and catamaran sailing with clear calm waters. If you love sunny skies and golden sunsets, this is the perfect time to visit Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo and Playa Conchal. It’s also the ideal season for you to book a sunset catamaran tour. This time of year you experience no rain interruptions, just smooth sailing and maybe even dolphin sightings along the way. If you’re into sport fishing, whale watching, or sunset cruises, this beach has it all.
Book your private catamaran sunset tour now! For a romantic escape with your special one.
Green Season
Great for fewer crowds, lush scenery, and you can enjoy whale sightings especially in Uvita
Are you looking for something quieter and more naturally dramatic? You can visit Dominical, Santa Teresa or Uvita during the green season. You’ll often find the beaches nearly empty, perfect for a peaceful walk or a romantic picnic. If you’re lucky, you could spot humpback whales off the coast of Uvita between July and October. Just pack a light rain jacket and you’re all set.
Check our guide on ‘Best time to see whales in Costa Rica’
Quick Tips for Visiting Costa Rica’s Beaches
If you’re planning to explore the beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, a little preparation goes a long way. Whether you’re sailing in or soaking up sun onshore, here’s how to enjoy your experience responsibly and comfortably.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen
Limit environmental damage to the delicate coral reef and marine life and apply reef safe sunscreen. This is a minute adjustment that will allow you along with your family swim without damaging the ocean that you are here to explore - Leave no trace
Never leave trash anywhere and never take things of value with you to the beach. The aim is to leave Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches as beautiful as you found them. - Respect the wildlife and tide conditions
The coast of Costa Rica is loaded with unbelievable biodiversity including howler monkeys in the trunk of woods. And the sea turtles in the waves. Watch your back, obey signs and watch tide charts to make sure you do not run into an uncharted current. - Choose eco-friendly tours
You are encouraged to become a tourist using responsible tourism. It can be done simply by registering to use eco friendly catamaran and beach tours. Your trip will be even more satisfying because you are contributing to the safeguarding of those areas you have travelled to. - Bring comfortable beach gear
Take a big-rim hat, a refillable water bottle and comfortable sandals. When you find yourself striding along soft sand miles to the beach or stepping off a boat on to paradise. You will be happy you did it - Stay hydrated and snack smart
The tropical sun may sneak on you, especially when you are drinking cocktails or wandering all day long. Take water and light refreshments with you and remain full of energy throughout your day at the beach.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches are more than just a backdrop for your vacation photos. They’re gateways to unforgettable experiences. From the pink sands of Playa Conchal to the jungle-backed shores of Manuel Antonio, there’s a beach here for every kind of traveler.
And the best way to enjoy them? By catamaran, of course. Book your coastal adventure with us at Boat Trips Costa Rica and let the ocean lead the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prettiest beach in Costa Rica?
Playa Conchal is often considered the prettiest beach in Costa Rica. Located in the Guanacaste Province. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning, this beach feels like a postcard brought to life.
What is the clearest beach in Costa Rica?
If crystal-clear water is what you’re after, Playa San Juanillo on the Nicoya Peninsula tops the list. It’s less crowded, giving you and yours a peaceful, picturesque beach day.
Where are the white sand beaches in Costa Rica?
You’ll find the best white sand beaches primarily along the northwestern Pacific coast in Guanacaste. Top picks include Playa Flamingo, Playa Conchal and Playa Hermosa.
Which Costa Rica beach has pink sand?
Costa Rica doesn’t have a true pink sand beach like those found in the Bahamas or Greece. However, Playa Penca, near Potrero in Guanacaste, can appear to have a slight pink or rose gold hue during sunrise and sunset.