Ken Cedeno
By Eliot Greenspan
With more than 1,200km (750 miles) of shoreline on its Pacific and Caribbean coasts, Costa Rica offers beachgoers an embarrassment of riches. Here are six beach destinations where surf and sand are the specialty.
One of the most picturesque beaches in the country, this short, straight stretch of soft white sand is bound on either end by rocky headlands. Rarely crowded, this is a great place to lay out a beach mat and enjoy the solitude. Just be careful, as the surf can sometimes be a bit rough for casual swimming.
Photo Caption: Playa Flamingo is one of Guanacaste's prettiest beaches.
This whitesand beach has long been a favorite haunt of surfers, locals, and those in-the-know. Why? Because Playa Avellanas stretches on for miles, backed largely by protected mangrove forests. The beach is on the verge of being discovered, but as yet there
Peninsula. Playa Sámara itself is nice enough, but if you venture just slightly farther afield, you will find several of this coastline's most stunning stretches of sand. Take the time to explore and enjoy such hidden gems as Playa Barrigona and Playa Carrillo. And don't miss a chance to take to the skies on an ultralight flight with the folks at Flying Crocodile
While the secret is certainly out, there's still time to visit Costa Rica's newest hot spot before the throngs and large resorts arrive. This is the place to come if you're looking for miles of deserted beaches and great surf. Don't miss out.
Photo Caption: Relaxation at the Flor Blanca Resort.
Located south of Puerto Viejo, these beaches offer up some true Caribbean splendor, with turquoise waters, coral reefs, and soft white sand. Tall coconut palms line the shore, providing a shady respite for those who need a break from the sun. You can also cool off with a refreshing dip -- the water is usually quite calm and good for swimming.
With more than 1,200km (750 miles) of shoreline on its Pacific and Caribbean coasts, Costa Rica offers beachgoers an embarrassment of riches. Here are six beach destinations where surf and sand are the specialty.
Photo Caption: Playa Flamingo is one of Guanacaste's prettiest beaches.
Photo Caption: Relaxation at the Flor Blanca Resort.