Culture
Lush rainforests, live volcanoes, incredible wildlife, spectacular golden beaches, delicious coffee… Costa Rica packs a lot into a very small space and deserves its reputation as one of the world’s great holiday destinations. Start planning your trip with our guide to the best areas to visit, places to stay and things to do. Plus, we suggest three tours for different budgets that best showcase this remarkable country.
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SAN JOSÉ, CENTRAL HIGHLANDS & VALLEYS
While it's tempting to skip Costa Rica’s buzzing capital and head straight to a rainforest or a gorgeous beach, take a day or two and get to know San José. The colonial city is worth exploring: discover areas like Barrio Amón, where historic buildingshave been converted into contemporary art galleries; Barrio Escalante has some of the best restaurants; and don’t miss the dazzling Pre-Columbian Gold Museum.
Drive out of the capital into the surrounding highlands and fertile valleys, where you can visit coffee plantations, go white-water rafting, and visit national parks and nature reserves. The enormous crater of Poás volcano is a must-see and one of Costa Rica’s most famous sights. From the viewing platform perched on top of the volcano, you’ll look down into the crater with its turquoise lake and occasional bursts of smouldering steam – an incredible and somewhat surreal sight.
El Silencio Lodge
Where To Stay
Luxe in San José: A converted colonial mansion on a quiet tree-lined street in the historic residential neighbourhood of Barrio Don Bosco, Hotel Grano de Oro oozes charm and elegance. All the rooms and suites are unique, individually decorated with wrought-iron beds, works of art and locally handcrafted furnishings. There is a rooftop deck area with a secluded garden, hot tubs and loungers. The restaurant is one of the best in San José, serving European food with a leaning towards Costa Rican specialities – opt for a table in the tropical courtyard.
Luxe in the Central Highlands: The eco El Silencio Lodge sits within its own reserve at Bajos del Toro in the Póas Volcano National Park. Scattered across hillsides and surrounded by foliage, cabins are spacious, with private terraces and small outdoor jacuzzis from which you can admire the cloud forest. Staff can organise jungle trails to explore nearby waterfalls, flora and fauna. Activities for the more adventurous include river rafting, horse riding, kayaking, mountain biking and forest canopy zip-lining. Or treat yourself to a massage in the spa beside the river. The Las Ventanas restaurant serves seasonal food, much of it from the hotel’s organic farm and greenhouse.
Hotel Grano De Oro
Hotel Grano De Oro
ARENAL & THE NORTH
The thick forests and rugged landscape of this conservation area contain half the known species of birds, mammals and reptiles in the country. Overlooked by the Arenal volcano, it offers activities such as waterfall abseiling, cycling, hiking, horse riding. The less active can soak in Arenal’s hot springs or swim below waterfalls.
Where To Stay
Affordable Luxe: Within easy reach of Arenal volcano, Finca Luna Nueva is a simple, yet comfortable, eco lodge on a working biodynamic farm. You’ll see first hand how they grow organic food, and how humans and forests can support one another. There are miles of hiking trails through the forest, farm and fields. You can also go on a safari up jungle rivers, white-water raft, bird watch, hike up a volcano and swim in crater lakes. Or just stay put, join a yoga session, then laze in the lovely pool and drift off in a hammock.
Uber Luxe: Nayara Springs is a Relais & Châteaux adult-only boutique property in the heart of the lush foliage of Arenal Volcano National Park. Its 35 villas are spacious and beautifully appointed with polished teak flooring and furnishings in earthy colours. Each has a private garden and plunge pool shaded by palms and flowering shrubs. You can join a yoga class every morning, hike the trails through a sloth preserve, take a nocturnal hike or unwind after a day out with the Signature Nayara spa treatment, a traditional massage with volcanic mineral-rich mud. There are four restaurants and bars, ranging from fine dining with live music to a more casual Latin bistro.
Hotel Belmar
MONTEVERDE & THE CLOUD FOREST
In northwest Costa Rica, this protected reserve is often swathed in mist, which creates a lush environment of humid vegetation rich in wildlife. Among the mosses and ferns, you are almost guaranteed to spot the many indigenous mammals and birds, including the iconic quetzal with its bright emerald green plumage. The area also has a huge variety of orchids.
Where To Stay
Affordable Luxe: Jungle lodge El Sol, with its stunning panoramic views, offers delightfully rustic accommodation in a secluded cabin for two, in a larger family-sized cabin, or in the main villa. After a day out searching for quetzals in the cloud forest reserve, or horse riding to the waterfalls, you can dine on Costa Rican food in the privacy of your cabin. You can also spend lazy days swinging in the hammocks or taking a dip in the infinity pool. Either way, you’ll find it hard to leave.
Luxe: The family run Hotel Belmar, perched on a hillside within the cloud forest, was one of the first hotels to open in Monteverde. The two buildings are built in the style of a Swiss chalet and have an alpine feel, though views of the surrounding woodland, the Nicoya peninsula and nearby valleys from private balconies or panoramic windows are pure Costa Rican. The spacious guest rooms are decorated with locally handcrafted wooden furniture and some also have a hot tub. Staff can arrange tours of the forest by day or night, led by local guides along trails which start from the hotel's doorstep. The restaurant overlooks the Pacific Ocean and serves creative interpretations of traditional Costa Rican dishes, using ingredients grown on the hotel's own organic farm.
STOCKSY/JEREMY PAWLOWSKI
STOCKSY/RAYMOND FORBES LLC
CARIBBEAN COAST
Eastwards from San José and the coffee-growing highlands, you’ll come to the banana plantations that line the Caribbean coast and its volcanic beaches. This region has a different feel to the rest of the country. Mostly English-speaking and with an Afro-Caribbean culture, it is more informal and relaxed. The beaches are arguably the most beautiful in the country, with warm turquoise water and pale golden sand – the very best are at Cahuita and Puerto Viejo. Head to Tortuguero National Park, which is accessible only by boat, to see the giant leatherback turtles. Its lagoons and swamps are also alive with monkeys, iguanas, otters, sloths and hundreds of species of birds.
Where To Stay
Affordable Luxe: The beachfront Hotel Banana Azul, which you’ll find a mile north of the sleepy town of Puerto Viejo on Playa Negra, is a small, simple and charming boutique hotel. It makes a great base from which to explore the local wildlife, beaches and coral reefs. Most of the 25 guest rooms are on the second floor of the main building and open out onto a large veranda with views of the ocean. A meandering pond inhabited by fish and turtles flows through the tropical gardens, where you can relax in brightly coloured hammocks while listening to the sound of waves crashing against the shoreline. The beach is lovely and ideal for a sundowner. The restaurant serves Caribbean food – think fajitas and jerk chicken – as well as sushi and steaks.
Uber Luxe: Hotel Aguas Claras is an elegant colonial-style, adult-only boutique hotel just moments from the coral reefs and soft sands of Chiquita Beach in Puerto Viejo. Built using reclaimed timber and natural materials in the style of a Caribbean banana plantation house from the Victoria era, the accommodation consists of six suites and six bungalows, filled with carefully curated works of art by local Costa Rican artists and the owner herself. The Papaya restaurant’s menu spans local and international dishes, all made using seasonal ingredients. If you can tear yourself away from the oasis-style pool within lush jungle foliage, there are plenty of activities here, including surf lessons. You can also hike in the Cahuita National Park to see the local town and wildlife. If you really want to unwind, Casa Gandhi is a dedicated yoga and meditation area tucked away in the jungle gardens.
STOCKSY/MAURO GRIGOLLO
PACIFIC COAST
Unlike the sheltered volcanic beaches of the Caribbean, the wide golden beaches of the Pacific coast are pounded by rolling waves. Halfway down the coast is Manuel Antonio National Park, a tropical fairyland of palms, creepers and swamps. You can kayak or paddle through the flora and fauna rich mangroves and estuaries, and soar between platforms high up in the jungle canopy on zip lines. The focus here is on adventure, but there's also a good chance of spotting plenty of wildlife – white-faced and squirrel monkeys, marmosets, sloths, toucans, raccoons and armadillos. And, of course, the waves make this coast a surfer’s paradise.
Where To Stay
Uber Luxe: Along with its stunning views and easy access to the beach, the eco-chic Arenas del Mar is within walking distance of the Manuel Antonio National Park. Set in an 11-acre private rainforest reserve, it’s the perfect place to stay if you want to get close to nature in luxe accommodation. The hotel's 38 rooms and suites are housed in seven three-storey buildings, all camouflaged on a hillside that slopes down to a golden beach. Rooms are tropical chic, with cool yellow tile floors, rattan furniture and paintings by local artists. Most have large verandas with a hot tub and views of the ocean. After a day out in the jungle or on the beach, you can eat in El Mirador, which serves Costa Rican fusion food in an open-air palapa overlooking the Pacific, or you can choose a lighter menu in Playitas, a casual café next to the beach.
OSA PENINSULA
At the far south-westerly tip of Costa Rica, the remote Osa Peninsula is swathed in rainforest. The remote Corcovado National Park is a wilderness of lagoons, mangrove swamps, rivers and forest along the coastline. It’s a mecca for wildlife enthusiasts and home to tapirs, jaguars, ocelots, sloths, peccaries, otters, anteaters and all four Costa Rican monkey species. The rivers and lagoons are home to caiman, crocodiles and bull sharks, and you’ll often spot an iconic poison dart frog in the trees. The Caño Island Biological Reserve is the best place to go snorkelling on the Osa peninsula – you’ll see eels, manta rays, turtles and a vast array of tropical fish. Dolphins and humpback whales can be seen off the coast at certain times of the year.
Where To Stay
La Leona Eco Lodge is a family owned beachfront hotel five minutes from the entrance to Corcovado National Park. This is simple accommodation, but in a truly idyllic setting – a fabulous option if you want to embrace nature. The 20 raised tent cabins have a wooden structure: several are on the beach, some just behind, while others are high up in the forest. Don’t expect all your creature comforts here – each cabin is simply furnished and has a private decked veranda, its own garden bathroom and outdoor shower. Staying here is a unique experience where the emphasis is on eco-tourism and sustainability, with solar-powered lights and candles in the evenings.
Arenas Del Mar
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
Affordable Luxe
On Exodus Travels’ ten-day ‘Natural Highlights of Costa Rica’, you’ll visit multiple habitats – rainforest, mangroves, lava fields and cloud forests – and see abundant wildlife. You’ll also discover the tranquil waterways of Tortuguero and enjoy a boat safari in the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. From £2,599pp including flights from London, transfers, 7 nights in comfortable hotels and lodges, some meals, a tour leader and travel by air-conditioned bus and boat. Click here for full details.
Luxe
Black Tomato’s 12-night ‘Ultimate Costa Rica: A Jungle To Beach Adventure’ includes a night in the Hotel Grano de Oro in San José followed by turtle spotting in Tortuguero. Then there are stays in Hotel Manatus in the heart of the Caribbean rainforest, Pacuare Lodge in the Talamanca Mountains, Arenal Nayara Hotel in the Arenal volcano area, and finally the Florblanca resort on the pristine beaches of the Nicoya peninsula. From £3,500pp excluding flights from the UK. Click here for further details, but every Black Tomato trip is tailored to exactly what you want to do.
Uber Luxe
Audley’s 14-day ‘Luxury Costa Rica’ trip will give you the chance to see some of the country’s best wildlife and experience adventure activities around the Arenal Volcano. Hike through jungle trails in search of monkeys, sloth and toucans in the remote Osa Peninsula. Relax by your infinity pool or go whale and dolphin watching in Uvita. And escape the crowds in a boutique hideaway in the cloud forest. From £6,400pp including flights from the UK, domestic flights, transfers, activities and excursions and all accommodation. Click here for full details.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT?
Despite its small size, Costa Rica has a variety of microclimates. The best time to travel is usually considered to be from December to April on the Pacific coast when the weather is at its driest and brightest, and between March and September on the Caribbean side. September and October are the wettest months, but there is no really bad time to travel, and you should be prepared for some rain no matter when you visit. Temperatures average between 28 and 32 degrees Celsius all year round.
*DISCLAIMER: Travel restrictions are changing daily, so please check the latest government advice before you book. VisitGov.ukfor more information.
DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at info@sheerluxe.com.
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FAQs
What is the best part of Costa Rica to go to? ›
Manuel Antonio is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica because of the Manuel Antonio National Park that is famous for its cute sloths and pristine beaches. It's very touristic but for a good reason – it is downright beautiful. Quepos is the local town near Manuel Antonio.
What is the best side of Costa Rica to stay on? ›If you go by what the locals say, the Caribbean coast wins. Well-traveled Costa Ricans love to visit the area south of Limon with its most famous beach towns of Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, and Manzanillo. It is less crowded, not as expensive, and known for a great food scene.
What is the number one place in Costa Rica? ›1. Manuel Antonio National Park. Set on the edge of the town of Manuel Antonio, Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica's top destinations for wildlife viewing. It also has the added bonus of being home to beautiful soft-sand beaches.
What's the best month to travel to Costa Rica? ›The best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and April, when the weather is at its driest and brightest. We'd also recommend traveling in the country's green season, from May to June or in November. This is when you catch the seasons in transition, and the national parks are quieter.
Is Costa Rica expensive? ›Compared to other Central American countries like Nicaragua or El Salvador, Costa Rica is generally more on the expensive side. It's pretty well-developed and has a thriving tourism industry, so things do cost more.
Do you need a car in Costa Rica? ›Do You Need to Rent a Car in Costa Rica? Technically no, you can get around by public buses, tours, or a private shuttle. Buses are cheap and safe but certainly not convenient. Especially when it comes to travelling between tourist destinations.
How much is $1 US in Costa Rica? ›Dollar to Costa Rica Colon Exchange Rate Today, Live 1 USD to CRC = 615.5467 (Convert Dollars to Costa Rica Colon)
Where do most people stay in Costa Rica? ›San Jose – The Capital and Heart of the Country. We had to include the capital city of San Jose on our list. The most populous city in Costa Rica sees hundreds of visitors daily from all around the world. San Jose in the center of the country so you can easily access many other major towns and tourist centers from here ...
Is Costa Rica cheaper than Hawaii? ›In general, your money will go further in Costa Rica than it will in Hawaii, as Costa Rica is a poorer nation than the U.S. For budget travelers it's easy to stay cheaply at some amazing mid-range accommodations in Costa Rica, but you can also splurge on luxury accommodations in the country too, like beachside resorts ...
What is the cheapest month to fly to Costa Rica? ›The cheapest months to book a flight to Costa Rica: August and July, followed by November. Booking a flight in August can result in an average 2% savings compared to the average yearly flight price.
How many days do you need in Costa Rica? ›
We recommend spending 10 days to two weeks in Costa Rica, as this timeframe will give you enough time to cover all the major highlights while also including time for traveling from one destination to another. A two-week Costa Rica itinerary will guarantee you see everything the country has to offer.
Is Liberia or San Jose better? ›Liberia is closer to some of the best surfing beaches in the country but flights can be more expensive. San Jose is closer to nature activities and the hustle and bustle of the capital city with generally cheaper flights, but has more expensive local transportation.
Is it better to fly into Liberia or San Jose? ›You can pick the airport and itinerary that works best for you. I personally recommend to fly into Liberia Airport because it's much easier to drive from there than San Jose. But if you fly into San Jose, you can take the Puntarenas Paquera ferry over to Paquera/Tambor/Montezuma/Santa Teresa.
Does the US dollar go far in Costa Rica? ›...
The U.S. dollar will go far in these 20 international cities.
| Location | Currency Exchange | Average Cost of Daily Expenses |
|---|---|---|
| San Jose, Costa Rica | 1 USD = 567.494 CRC | $49 |
Average Temperature in Costa Rica
The cool season lasts for 2.6 months, from May 16 to August 4, with an average daily high temperature below 77°F. The coldest month of the year in Costa Rica is July, with an average low of 53°F and high of 75°F.
September and October are Costa Rica's rainiest months, with rainfall lasting nearly all day. If you happen to book a trip during these months, not to worry: These are the most beautiful months along Costa Rica's Caribbean coast.
How much money do I need for a week in Costa Rica? ›A week of vacation in Costa Rica costs between $850 and $1,450 for an average traveler in mid-priced hotels, lodges or rental houses and doing standard tours (assuming double occupancy). Beachfront accommodations and high dollar activities like deep sea fishing will quickly push the budget over $2,500.
Should I take cash to Costa Rica? ›Credit cards are accepted in Costa Rica nearly everywhere in the country so you don't have to bring a ton of cash. However, it is always good to have some cash on hand. Keep in mind that some businesses may not accept credit cards.
How much does a 2 week trip to Costa Rica cost? ›A 2-week Costa Rica itinerary will cost you anywhere between 2000 – 3000 USD. For example, this includes going out for lunch and dinner, accommodation, attraction tickets, and your rental car. However, if you travel with two or more people, you can split accommodation and transport costs.
Do I need a visa to go to Costa Rica? ›US nationals do not require an entry visa to Costa Rica. However, they must have a current valid passport and a return ticket to exit Costa Rica within 90 days. (Either to return to your country or to go to another country). US passport must be valid for a minimum of one day from the day you enter Costa Rica.
Can you Uber in Costa Rica? ›
There is Uber in Costa Rica (in some cities)
As in many places, Uber has faced some challenges in Costa Rica. It's always available in cities like San Jose (and somewhat in Liberia) and can be a good option for getting into town from the San Jose airport.
In Costa Rica, all you need is a valid driver's license from your home country to operate a vehicle. Also be sure to have your passport or a copy handy in case you get pulled over. There is no requirement for an international driver's license. What is this?
What food is Costa Rica known for? ›Pinto and beans are a staple of Costa Rica and common denominator among different culinary tastes in different regions of the country. As a whole, the three most famous dishes of the country are Casado, Gallo Pinto and Arroz con Pollo.
How far does 100 dollars go in Costa Rica? ›So $100 may get you around 50–75% of what it would in the US. Tourism and food is less expensive than US and most of Europe, so it may get you a nice 1 day beach tour, often with breakfast and lunch. Or you could also get one one night at some all-inclusive resorts for about that some times.
Can you drink the water in Costa Rica? ›Can you drink the water in Costa Rica? The short answer is yes. You can drink the tap water in Costa Rica safely in most every part of the country. In some rural areas, including the Caribbean and in non-touristy places, you may want to stick with bottled water.
Is the Caribbean side of Costa Rica worth visiting? ›The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica may not be as well-known as the Pacific side, but it's an outdoor adventure that should not be overlooked if you seek an exotic location packed full of nature, wildlife, and white sandy beaches.
How do you get around in Costa Rica? ›Buses are the most common way of getting around Costa Rica, and the public bus system is excellent, inexpensive and relatively frequent, even in remote areas. Privately run shuttle buses offer quicker but pricier transfers, while taxis are decent value for groups.
Is Tamarindo Costa Rica worth visiting? ›If you are planning a trip to Costa Rica, Tamarindo is likely a stop on your itinerary and for good reasons. While it can be busy and touristy, Tamarindo does offer a convenient way to experience the Guanacaste region and some of its top activities so you'll never be wondering what to do in Tamarindo.
What is the safest part of Costa Rica? ›Tamarindo, Puerto Viejo and Drake Bay are the safest areas in Costa Rica. You'll hardly find any crime here apart from the typical pickpocketing.
Which side of Costa Rica is best for beaches? ›For beaches:
Although, the Pacific Coast has the greatest diversity in beaches. The Northern Coast is the dryest- with beaches backed by dry forest and cacti. As you move south, the beaches get lusher and wilder – with more wildlife. There are so many different beaches to discover in Costa Rica.
Can you swim at the beach in Costa Rica? ›
Beaches in Costa Rica are diverse and offer different experiences for travelers. People come here to surf, swim, soak up the sun, or simply enjoy the laid-back beach towns sprinkled along the coasts.
Is Puerto Rico or Costa Rica better? ›It comes down to what kind of activities do you want to explore. If you are a nature and adventure lover then Costa Rica is a better option whereas Puerto Rico is a better option if you want to explore a diverse range of activities ranging from history, beach activities to outdoor activities.
Is Jamaica or Costa Rica cheaper? ›Costa Rica is 18.0% more expensive than Jamaica.
Is Costa Rica safer than Hawaii? ›Hawaii and Costa Rica both are undoubtedly excellent vacation destinations. However, when it comes to family vacations, we believe Hawaii is a far superior option over Costa Rica. Hawaii is a safer place to visit than Costa Rica.
Do I need a passport for Costa Rica? ›Do I need a passport to travel to Costa Rica? Yes, U.S. citizens must have a current valid passport and evidence of onward travel to exit Costa Rica (either to return to the U.S. or travel to another country).
What type of money is used in Costa Rica? ›Colones. The colón is the official currency in Costa Rica. The coin is named after Cristobal Columbus—the admiral that discovered Costa Rica in 1502—and was established in the first decades of the 20th century.
Which airlines fly directly to Costa Rica? ›Which airlines offer direct flights to Costa Rica? United, American Airlines, jetBlue, Air Canada, Delta, Alaska Airlines, KLM and Spirit Airlines all fly non-stop to Costa Rica.
› practical › budget › how-m... ›How Much Does Costa Rica Travel Cost?
Best Times to Visit Costa Rica | U.S. News Travel
Costa Rica Travel: How Much Does it Cost to Visit in 2022?
Zarcero. A short drive from San José or Naranjo, Zarcero is one of Costa Rica's most picturesque towns. Located in the Alajuela province in the San José Highlands, it has just over 4,000 residents.
Is Liberia or San Jose better? ›Liberia is closer to some of the best surfing beaches in the country but flights can be more expensive. San Jose is closer to nature activities and the hustle and bustle of the capital city with generally cheaper flights, but has more expensive local transportation.
What side of Costa Rica has the best beaches? ›
Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches are located in northwest Costa Rica (Guanacaste, the Nicoya Peninsula) and the southern Caribbean (Puerto Viejo, Cahuita). In both regions you'll find light sand, warm tropical water, and — when conditions are right — great surfing.
What is the most beautiful beach in Costa Rica? ›Playa Conchal
Arguably the most beautiful beach in Costa Rica, tiny yet never understated Playa Conchal is covered in a fine sprinkling of crushed seashells. As you wade through crystalline water in search of a memorable souvenir, pause for a moment to reflect on how wonderful it is to be in paradise.
Pinto and beans are a staple of Costa Rica and common denominator among different culinary tastes in different regions of the country. As a whole, the three most famous dishes of the country are Casado, Gallo Pinto and Arroz con Pollo.
Which city in Costa Rica has the best beaches? ›Tamarindo. For the best sand, surf and sun, you can't beat the beautiful town of Tamarindo. Located along the scenic shores of the North Pacific Coast, Tamarindo is one of the best surf towns in Costa Rica.
Why is Costa Rica famous? ›Costa Rica is known for its incredible national parks, where tourists can enjoy some thrilling activities like river rafting, canyoning, cave tubing, and zip lining. It's also one of the best places for animal lovers to discover some interesting wildlife like macaws, sea turtles, and adorable sloths.
Where should I start in Costa Rica? ›The best areas to stay in Costa Rica for first-timers are the beautiful neighborhoods of San Jose, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde, Puerto Viejo, Manuel Antonio, and Tamarindo Beach. These city are vey popular with tourist that offers a wide variety of tourist attractions and amenities.
What is the best way to travel around Costa Rica? ›The best way to get around Costa Rica is by bus, which is reliable, navigable, inexpensive and frequently runs through San José, Costa Rica's capital. Driving on your own is not highly recommended as some roads are tricky (speckled with potholes and ambiguously marked intersections).
How long is the drive from Liberia to San Jose? ›How long is the drive from Liberia, Costa Rica to San Jose, Costa Rica? The total driving time is 3 hours, 11 minutes.
Where do most people stay in Costa Rica? ›San Jose – The Capital and Heart of the Country. We had to include the capital city of San Jose on our list. The most populous city in Costa Rica sees hundreds of visitors daily from all around the world. San Jose in the center of the country so you can easily access many other major towns and tourist centers from here ...
What is the safest part of Costa Rica? ›Tamarindo, Puerto Viejo and Drake Bay are the safest areas in Costa Rica. You'll hardly find any crime here apart from the typical pickpocketing.
Is it worth going to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica? ›
The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica may not be as well-known as the Pacific side, but it's an outdoor adventure that should not be overlooked if you seek an exotic location packed full of nature, wildlife, and white sandy beaches.
Which beach has the clearest water in Costa Rica? ›Calmest Swimming Beach: Playa Chiquita
Nestled just south of Puerto Viejo on the beautiful Caribbean coast, Playa Chiquita is an area known for its pristine jungle-fringed beaches and sparkling clear waters.
Beaches in Costa Rica are diverse and offer different experiences for travelers. People come here to surf, swim, soak up the sun, or simply enjoy the laid-back beach towns sprinkled along the coasts.
Are there swimmable beaches in Costa Rica? ›One of the most popular swimming beaches in Costa Rica is Playa Punta Uva, located 5 miles (8.5 kilometres) away from Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast. It is the best place to go if you are looking for a quiet holiday, far from noisy crowds, with calm waters and beautiful white sand.