
But the pristine beach, tucked away in Costa Rica’s north western upper reaches, is most famous for the millions of pink crushed seashells that line its shore. With no direct access by car, Conchal Beach has a more secluded feel than many of its coastal counterparts across the country. Or for a slightly more affordable option, the 3-star Jungle Beach Hotel Manuel Antonio is similarly well positioned, a short walk form the park and also close to Manuel Antonio Beach. Where to stay: Situated at the entrance to the Manuel Antonio National Park, the 4-star Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa combines some luxurious amenities with easy access to the hotel’s captivating surroundings.

As for accommodation, one of the area’s best hotels is the 3-star Hotel Playa Espadilla, positioned just a minute’s walk from the beach and featuring a swimming pool and tennis courts. Needless to say, with its buzzing atmosphere, stunning scenery, and some of the best wildlife spotting opportunities to be found anywhere in the country just moments away, Espadilla can consider itself a worthy inclusion on this list. The beach is shielded by an imposing rocky headland, helping keep the water calm and drawing large numbers of families every year, as well as novice surfers.


Situated within Manuel Antonio National Park on Costa Rica’s north-western coast, this idyllic crescent-shaped beach is dotted with swaying palm trees and frequently plays host to parties and festivals. Below we’ve picked out 12 of the most charming beaches that Costa Rica has to offer. With long, winding expanses of coast on both its east and western shores, and stretching from south to north, where dark-sand beaches are set among mangroves, visitors have a huge choice of beaches to pick from, many of which back onto vibrant resort towns and national parks teeming with exotic creatures. Perhaps best known for its rugged rainforest and incredible wildlife, this captivating Central American country is also a haven for beach-lovers.
