When planning your Costa Rica getaway, it’s easy to get caught off guard by a fun fact. There’s more than one Playa Hermosa. In fact, two of Costa Rica’s most picturesque beaches share this name. One is in Guanacaste and another near Jacó.
But which Playa Hermosa is right for your vacation vibe? Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach escape, thrilling surf or a scenic catamaran cruise, this guide will help you choose. We even show you how to experience either beach from the best seat on a boat.
What Does “Playa Hermosa” Mean
In Spanish, Playa Hermosa literally means “Beautiful Beach”. It’s a name that more than lives up to the hype. Costa Rica has several beaches named Playa Hermosa, but two stand out for travelers:
- Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste is in North Pacific Coast
- Playa Hermosa, Puntarenas (near Jacó) is in Central Pacific Coast
While they share a name they can offer you very different travel experiences. Knowing the difference can help you make the most of your time on Costa Rica’s breathtaking coast.
Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste
This Playa Hermosa is found to the North of Playas del Coco in the Guanacaste Province. It is within half an hour to Liberia International Airport making it extremely convenient for you to arrive here.
- Why visit? It is ideal when you want a place to find serene waters, lack of people and when you want a relaxing vacation. It is best suited to swimming, stand up paddleboarding or sipping a cocktail.
- Indigenous roots: The Chorotega native people used to inhabit this region. They were also regarded as potters, traders and resisters of Spanish colonization. Chorotega crafts still can be found if you visit local markets nearby.
- History: Playa Hermosa was not substantially developed until the late 1900s when tourism began to expand up the coast out of Liberia. However, you see the growth did not make it lose its quiet charm though.
- Family-friendly: The waves are gentle so it would be awesome when you are visiting with your children or you are a first-time water enthusiast.
- Blue Flag Beach: Hermosa means Beautiful, and Blue flag is presented to such beaches that are clean and environment friendly. The beach will be your favourite in Costa Rica because of its environmental quality and cleanliness.
- Boat access: Our catamaran and snorkeling tours leave our nearby departure points Playas del Coco or Playa Panama. You might want to visit the Gulf of Papagayo, and it will be wonderful.
Book your shared catamaran tour now! If you want to visit Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches in style.
Playa Hermosa in Puntarenas (Near Jacó)
It is located just a 10-minute drive south of Jacó. This Playa Hermosa is a surfer’s paradise on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast. It is famous for its long, consistent beach breaks. This beach is a wilder stretch of sand where you can see fewer swimmers and more surfboards.
- Why visit? It’s home to consistent, powerful waves that attract pro surfers from around the world. If you’re into surfing or want to catch a pro-level wave show, this is the spot.
- Indigenous heritage: The Huetar people once lived throughout this region. They were known for their stone spheres and knowledge of coastal ecosystems. While much of their culture has been absorbed. But their legacy continues in Costa Rican oral history and local place names.
- History: This Playa Hermosa was relatively unknown until the 1990s, when Jacó’s development spilled south. Now it’s protected as a wildlife refuge, especially for sea turtle nesting.
- Surf capital: It runs the national and international surfing competitions such as the ISA World Surfing Games.
- Local culture: It is relaxed and surfer-based, without being too far away in Jaco in case you need more life, food, and shopping.
- Black sand beauty: The black volcanic sand of the beach and the dramatic waves of its sea leaves a moody picture that is definitely photogenic. This is beautiful when you are out walking or taking photographs at sunset but it can also be quite dangerous when you wish to swim as there are very strong currents.
- Boat tours nearby: You can take boat tours such as excursions to Isla Tortuga or island tours out of the Herradura Bay or Jaco.
Check out our guide on ‘5 Reasons to Visit Tortuga Island Costa Rica’
Explore Playa Hermosa by Private Boat or Catamaran
This is where your visit will go from being good, to being one you will remember. A catamaran tour will give a different dimension to your beach trip whether you are in Guanacaste or Puntarenas.
- You will be able to cruise up the dramatic coast of Costa Rica without any traffic.
- It allows you to have fun by snorkeling, watching dolphins, and admirable views from the water.
- Our private tours are guided in small groups with no stress.
- If you book a private catamaran it will be great for families, couples and small groups
Book your private catamaran tour now! To enjoy the coast the way it was meant to be seen from the sea.
Where to Stay Near Each Playa Hermosa
Whether you’re a luxury traveler or a surf-chasing backpacker, both beaches offer something that fits your style. The key is knowing what kind of vibe you want. A laid-back luxury and calm seas in Guanacaste, or untamed waves and surf culture near Jacó.
Guanacaste’s Playa Hermosa
This Playa Hermosa is made for travelers like you who want a peaceful beach escape. And just the right amount of comfort and class.
- Boutique beachfront resorts: Imagine waking up to ocean views, sipping your morning coffee just steps from the sand, and ending your day with a sunset cocktail. You’ll find elegant, low-rise resorts like Hotel Bosque del Mar and La Gaviota Tropical. They are offering personalized service and eco-conscious design.
- Upscale eco-lodges: For something immersive, you can stay at an eco-lodge tucked into the tropical dry forest. Many properties are certified by Costa Rica’s CST (Certification for Sustainable Tourism). They can offer you yoga, organic meals and nature tours just outside your room.
- Family-friendly villas: If you are traveling with your family. You’ll love the spacious beach villas with private pools and full kitchens. Many are within walking distance of Playa Hermosa’s calm waters, so your little ones can swim while you unwind.
Playa Hermosa near Jacó (Puntarenas Province)
This Playa Hermosa has a more adventurous, surf-town vibe. It is perfect if you’re chasing waves or want to stay somewhere with a rustic, jungle-meets-beach aesthetic.
- Budget surf hostels: Are you traveling solo or on a shoestring? You’ll feel right at home in one of the laid-back surf hostels like Cabinas Brisa del Mar or Surf Inn Hermosa.
- Cabinas and bungalows: These are the ultimate Costa Rican experience if you want something affordable yet private. Most cabinas are just a few minutes’ walk from the beach and cost around $30–$60 a night. You can also have tropical gardens and the sound of waves as your background.
- Jungle eco-lodges: If you want to stay somewhere off-grid and close to nature. The hillside lodges here can offer you stunning ocean views, howler monkeys at dawn and refreshing outdoor showers. Many also offer surf guiding or yoga classes as part of your stay.
What to Pack for Playa Hermosa
Getting ready for your beach getaway? Whether you’re heading to Guanacaste or Jacó’s Playa Hermosa, having the right essentials will make your trip safer.
- You should try to pack reef-safe sunscreen to keep you as well as the ocean safe.
- You should bring extra swimwear and a beach hat for protection from the sun.
- We recommend flip-flops or water shoes for a comfortable walk in your entire trip.
- A camera or GoPro to capture marine life will be a good idea.
- You should have cash with you because ATMs may be limited in remote areas.
Final Thoughts
No matter which Playa Hermosa you choose Guanacaste for calm and luxury or Puntarenas for surf and soul. You’ll be surrounded by Costa Rica’s signature natural beauty and warm hospitality.
And if you want to make it truly unforgettable you can book a catamaran or private boat tour to go. It’s not just how you get there, it’s how you experience it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica known for?
The beach of Hermosa in Guanacaste is famous for its amazing marine wildlife. And one of the possibilities to enjoy this maritime world is by snorkeling, sport fishing, and scuba diving.
Is Playa Hermosa a good place to stay?
This town is small and popular amongst people who want to rest in the peaceful atmosphere. Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste does not get heavily populated. There is hardly a time when you can not get your special place on the sand.
Is Playa Hermosa good for surfing?
Jaco Playa Hermosa is a surfing show place. And it is a great place to stay when you want a down home chill beach feel.
What to do in Playa Hermosa?
Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste is the option to swim in the calm waters, spend time and dine at the beaches and a catamaran tour of the pacific. At the beach of Playa Hermosa in Jaco, you will find intense waves, dynamic seaside restaurants, and fantastic waterfall exploration starting points.
