The Best Costa Rican Beaches in 2025: Top Picks for Families, Surfers & Nature Lovers

From white-sand shores to surf breaks and jungle-backed coves, Costa Rica is a paradise for beach lovers. Whether you’re traveling with kids, chasing waves, or seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, there’s a perfect spot for you.

In this guide, we’ve curated the best Costa Rican beaches, categorized by travel style to help you find your ideal destination in 2025.

Best Beaches in Costa Rica for Families

Traveling with kids? You’ll want beaches with calm waters, easy access, and plenty of activities nearby.

1. Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste)

  • Why it’s great: Gentle waves, nearby restaurants, close to Liberia Airport
  • Best for: Swimming, snorkeling, family picnics
  • Bonus: Shaded areas and low crowds make it a peaceful family spot

2. Playa Samara

  • Why it’s great: Warm, shallow bay with a laid-back vibe
  • Best for: Young kids, safe swimming, paddleboarding
  • Nearby: Turtle sanctuaries and wildlife tours

3. Playa Blanca (Punta Leona)

  • Why it’s great: Calm, clear water and white sand
  • Best for: Day trips from San JosĂ©
  • Access note: Requires passing through a gated resort—check access ahead

Best Costa Rican Beaches for Surfing

Costa Rica is a surfer’s dream, with consistent swells year-round and waves for all levels.

1. Playa Tamarindo

  • Why it’s great: Surf schools, long beach breaks, vibrant town scene
  • Best for: Beginner and intermediate surfers
  • Bonus: Great nightlife and food after your session

2. Playa Santa Teresa

  • Why it’s great: World-class breaks and a bohemian vibe
  • Best for: Advanced surfers, digital nomads
  • Tip: Go early—afternoons bring stronger winds

3. Pavones

  • Why it’s great: One of the world’s longest left-hand waves
  • Best for: Experienced surfers
  • Remote: Bring what you need—services are limited

Best Costa Rican Beaches for Adventure

Looking to mix your beach time with adrenaline-filled activities? These beaches are perfect bases for adventure.

1. Playa Dominical

  • Why it’s great: Surfing, rafting, waterfall hikes
  • Best for: Active travelers
  • Nearby: Nauyaca Waterfalls and whale-watching in Uvita

2. Playa Matapalo (Osa Peninsula)

  • Why it’s great: Untouched jungle meets rugged coast
  • Best for: Ziplining, jungle hikes, surfing
  • Adventure level: High—ideal for off-grid explorers

3. Playa Flamingo

  • Why it’s great: Deep-sea fishing, catamaran tours, scuba diving
  • Best for: Ocean-based thrill seekers
  • Pro tip: Book tours in advance, especially during high season

Best Beaches in Costa Rica for Nature & Wildlife

Costa Rica’s beaches aren’t just for sunbathing—they’re also hotspots for turtle nesting, bird watching, and rainforest encounters.

1. Playa Ostional

  • Why it’s great: Famous for turtle arribadas (mass nesting events)
  • Best time: August to December
  • Tip: Visit with a certified guide to protect wildlife

2. Playa Cativo (Golfo Dulce)

  • Why it’s great: Accessible only by boat, surrounded by rainforest
  • Best for: Eco-tourism, birdwatching, snorkeling
  • Wildlife: Dolphins, monkeys, exotic birds

3. Playa Grande (Tamarindo area)

  • Why it’s great: Part of Las Baulas National Marine Park
  • Best for: Nature lovers and conservation-focused travelers
  • Wildlife: Leatherback turtles (October–March)

🚐 Getting to Costa Rica’s Best Beaches with RideWise

No car? No problem.

With RideWise Costa Rica, you can get to even the most remote beaches safely and comfortably. Whether you’re flying into San JosĂ© (SJO) or Liberia (LIR), we offer door-to-door shuttle services to the country’s top beach destinations.

Why travel with RideWise?

  • ✅ Clean, air-conditioned private vans
  • ✅ Experienced drivers
  • ✅ Free child seats on request
  • ✅ Eco-conscious travel

🌮 Your Beach Adventure Starts Now

No matter your travel style, these top beaches in Costa Rica deliver unforgettable experiences. Let RideWise Costa Rica take the stress out of getting there—so you can focus on sunshine, waves, and pura vida.

👉 Get a quote now for private beach transportation

📍 Explore our popular shuttle routes to coastal destinations

📞 Questions? Contact us for custom beach trip planning on WhatsApp +1 (786) 307-1727