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Costa Rica beaches

Q: When to go in Costa Rica?

The climate of Costa Rica is tropical, with the country experiencing both a dry season and a rainy season. The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, between December and April. It is noticeably hotter at the coast than in the center of the country. Coastal areas are hot, with temperatures of around 30 degrees, whereas the central area remains temperate all year round and experiences temperatures of around 17 degrees. Costa Rica is a superb country to discover and explore, consisting of mountains, forests and heavenly beaches, and with one of the most favorable climates you could wish for.

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What to do in Costa Rica?

Welcome to our tours page of Costa Rica. You are about to set foot in one of the world’s most beautiful ecological gems. The land which Christopher Columbus named the “rich coast” is now seen as one of the safest and most progressive countries in South America. The only thing to be found in Costa Rica is the Pura Vida (literally “pure life”), an optimistic zest for life in all circumstances… The Costa Ricans (or Ticos for insiders) are constantly cheerful and welcoming to visitors! Costa Rica was also the first nation in the world to dissolve its army, a testament to their commitment to peace and prosperity above all else. It is regularly classed as one of the top countries for standards of living, and has a remarkable development model that prioritizes education, health care and protection of the environment. If you are a nature lover, you will find yourself in heaven… Costa Rica is a pioneering country in the field of ecotourism, and has an extremely rich biodiversity. Several unique species can be found in some of the country’s 33 national parks and reserves: no less than 25% of the Costa Rican territory is protected! To visit Costa Rica is to discover a wild paradise in which people are truly happy – what more could you want?

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When to go in Costa Rica?

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Start planning your beach vacation in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a Central American paradise, famous for its unspoiled beaches, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife. The country is blessed with two coastlines fronting the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're looking for some waves along the Nicoya Peninsula or want to go sunbathing with sea turtles in Tortuguero, Costa Rica has a beach for you.

What makes Costa Rica a great beach destination?

Beaches in Costa Rica are as diverse as its countryside, and the sheer choice is what attracts most visitors. There's picture-perfect tropical golden sands and swaying palm trees, or unique volcanic black sand beaches. There's over 300 beaches along the Pacific Coast alone, ranging from active stretches with watersports galore, to secluded slices of paradise.

The best beaches to visit in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s abundant sandy beaches means there’s an endless range of possibilities for your beach vacation. All beaches in Costa Rica are public, so there’s no stretch of sand that’s off-limits. Here are some of the best.

Catch some waves in Playa Guiones

Playa Guiones, in the western part of Costa Rica, is famous for its huge Pacific waves. Experienced surfers can head straight for the breakers, while surf schools provide lessons for beginners. The area is also important for wildlife, with a large nesting site for turtles close by.

While the day away in Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a great choice if you're looking to get off your feet. Rent an umbrella and lounge chair and spend the day people watching or sipping cocktails. Las Baulas National Marine Park and its leatherback sea turtles are nearby if you feel like stretching your legs.

Sit on Cahuita's black sands

Over on Costa Rica's eastern coast is Cahuita, where the volcanic black sand beach provides a brilliant contrast to the country’s mostly white, sandy stretches. The gentle waves here are perfect for snorkeling among the coral reefs. After getting out of the water, discover the area's distinct Afro-Caribbean culture and cuisine.

Discover biodiversity at Manuel Antonio National Park

Make the walk through Manuel Antonio National Park to get to its beaches, and you'll be richly rewarded. Surrounded by rainforest, with lots of monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds, Manuel Antonio is a fantastic spot for some snorkeling, or to catch the sunset.

Get up close with Tortuguero's turtles

Reached only by boat or plane, this secluded beach is known for its tranquility. Take the trail along the water's edge here to see the nesting sites of sea turtles before you lay out on the sand. Or head out in a kayak to see the beach from a different perspective.

Tips for planning a beach vacation in Costa Rica

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the drier months between December and April. Expect an average of six hours of sunshine, so pack plenty of sunscreen. Bring sturdy walking shoes or sandals, and pick up local maps for treks to the secluded spots.