A haven for nature enthusiasts with some of the world’s most beautiful and biodiverse landscapes, Travel & Leisure’s 2024 trip of the year is a veritable paradise. It’s difficult to imagine a trip to Costa Rica without spending time at the beach, even though the country’s rain forests, cloud forests, chocolate plantations, volcanoes, and mineral-rich hot springs are among the greatest places to visit. Beautiful Pacific and Caribbean coastlines may be seen in Costa Rica. Numerous villages that have sprung up around its best beaches and waves are now popular holiday spots with gorgeous beach resorts, top-notch hotels, excellent dining options, and an abundance of outdoor activities, including yoga, ziplining, and stand-up paddling, in addition to surf instruction.
Are you prepared to catch some waves or just relax on the beautiful beach? The top ten beach communities in Costa Rica, as rated by locals, are listed below. Surfers were drawn to Santa Teresa by the waves even before the main road was constructed. Word of its palm-lined beaches, verdant vegetation, and vibrant sunsets spread throughout time. These days, an in-the-know group of people who surf waves, bathe in warm water, practice downward facing dog while overlooking the ocean, have a drink at sunset, and dine at the numerous informal foreign restaurants frequent this off-the-beaten-path village on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula. To commemorate my son’s first birthday, we spent a month in Santa Teresa, which we believed perfectly embodied the pura vida way of life.
The CEO of il Viaggio Travel, Emilio Zuniga, says, “Focused on wellness and eco-tourism, Nosara, on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula — one of the world’s Blue Zones — appeals to travelers seeking a holistic experience centered around Pacific beaches, yoga retreats, surf schools, and unspoiled nature.” Head to Playa Guiones, a lengthy beach break within a protected nature sanctuary, to surf the reliable waves all year long. From July to December, enthusiasts of wildlife may even glimpse olive ridley marine turtles. At the environmentally conscious Sendero Hotel, relax with mocktails or drinks after a day at sea and surf.
Tamarindo, which is on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast in Guanacaste, is well-known for its beaches and surfing. “If you’re interested in learning to surf in Costa Rica, I suggest taking a class in Playa Tamarindo. According to Esteban Guillén, director of communications of the Federación de Surf de Costa Rica, “the gentle waves are ideal for beginners.” Beyond boarding, the bustling resort town has plenty of possibilities to get back in touch with nature, as well as breathtaking sunsets and a vibrant nightlife. Howler monkeys and crocodiles live at Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge, while leatherback turtles lay their eggs on Playa Grande.
Located close to the mouth of the Barú River and surrounded by breathtaking scenery, Dominical offers great waves, eco-adventures, and a laid-back vibe. Adventure-seeking visitors may engage in activities such as trekking through the rain forest, horseback riding, off-roading, kayaking, and snorkeling. It’s also quite acceptable to post up on Playa Dominical and stop for a snack at one of the neighborhood soda fountains. Budget and backpacker tourists love it for its excellent value, with fairly priced lodging and inexpensive dining options.
“Playa Puerto Viejo, known for its Afro-Caribbean culture, is a vibrant and interesting destination with waves, a lively atmosphere, and diverse wildlife,” says Zuniga. The Jaguar Rescue Center offers guided tours that allow guests to get up close and personal with wild cats, monkeys, sloths, snakes, and anteaters in addition to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rewilding animals. Surfers with more experience go to Salsa Brava, where strong waves smash over the reef. Not feeling up to the tough challenge? On Playa Negra’s dark sands, visitors may sunbathe and go swimming in the tranquil waters.
