Beaches - Nicoya Peninsula Region

The beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula Region encompass water of both the Pacific Ocean and the Nicoya Gulf. The Water Activities are endless and the beaches range from populated city beaches to isolated and empty. Some roads in the area are not paved and are in bad condition, but there are a few airports in the region. If you decide to rent a car or take a private transfer, the trip could be half the fun.

Playa Ostional is a nesting ground to the endangered olive ridley turtle and a great beach to visit during these events. The beach has brown sand and powerful waves. There is a swimming hole at the north end of the beach.

Playa Nosara is very popular, the waves are usually pleasant and the views gorgeous. The town is almost 3 miles from the beach but the beach village does offer a few restaurants and hotels.

Playa Guiones is a surfers paradise that enjoys spectacular sunsets and great ocean views. The sleepy little town has some upscale hotels and restaurants and has received the Banda Azul (Blue Flag) which is given to beaches to recognize their efforts to conserve the natural beauty of the beach. If you want a relaxed adventure in a pristine setting, this could be your beach.

Playa Garza is best known for its calm waters perfect for amazing fishing, swimming and snorkeling. There is a reef off shore that is protected and a river on the south side of the beach that forms a small mangrove. This is more of a fishing village than a town so most services are not available.

Playa Samara is an ideal place to relax or to enjoy one of the many activities such as fishing, scuba diving, paragliding, or horseback riding that are available right on the beach. The mellow waves and gorgeous surroundings have drawn many people to Samara, the friendly locals, many hotel options and amazing cuisine keep people coming back.

Playa Carrillo is a white sand beach shaped like a horseshoe with crystal clear blue water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Carrillo is less developed than other beaches and is rarely crowded other than on major holidays. There are not many services on the beach but hotels, shops, and restaurants are close by.

Playa Camaronal is a gray sand beach with inviting blue waters that bring endangered turtles to the shore each year to lay their eggs. This protected beach is perfect for swimming, surfing fishing and camping.

Playa Bejuco is a secluded and mostly overlooked beach that is perfect for swimming and surfing. There is a large mangrove area that extends down the river that empties into the sea here.

Playa Coyote is nearly 10 kilometers long and is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. it is also very hard to get to so it is usually uncrowded. If you are looking for an out of the way adventure this could be the place for you. There are two rivers that empty into the ocean here which makes it perfect for fishing or surfing.

Santa Teresa was once a small fishing village but it's inherent beauty has drawn people to its shores and now it has become a exciting and bustling town. The constant waves are perfect for surfers and the tree lined sands are great for beach walkers. All amenities are available in town with a wide variety of accommodations.

Mal Pais has been touted as one of the top 10 beaches in the world by Forbes magazine. When you visit you will see why. The consistent waves make for great surfing and the emerging town has everything you could want without the crowds. Hotels and restaurants are in the area tucked away on sandy beaches and luscious palm sights.

Playa Montezuma is one of the most popular beaches in Costa Rica because of the it's laid back bohemian feel and natural beauty. Walk north along the beach and find 3 waterfalls to cool you down, or go hit the great waves that roll on shore. The bustling town has an alternative feel that attracts younger tourist.

Playa Tambor sits in a protected bay with tranquil aquamarine colored water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The 1.5 kilometer long beach is perfect for taking a stroll or relaxing and working on your tan. The whales that migrate to Costa Rica annually can often be seen from shore. If you are looking for a relaxing day in an amazing setting, Tambor may be the place for you offering a great selection of beachfront hotels and restaurants.

Photo Credits: [costa rica landscape] supplied by [istockphoto] / thinkstock, [tropical land and sea in costa rica] supplied by [istockphoto] / thinkstock, [sailing off into the sunset] supplied by [istockphoto] / thinkstock

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