Costa Rica is one of the Worlds most beautiful countries for nature lovers. Visit the Arenal volcano, the cloud forests or take a trek and spot the unique wildlife found here. However once you are done you will be needing the ultimate Costa Rica beach guide around Carillo for some relaxation! The beaches around this area vary greatly in their composition and activities which are on offer. There is something for everyone whether you are a sports nut or are looking to just chill out and read a book. Costa Rica beach holidays are right up there with the best. So where are the best beaches in Costa Rica? Well around Carillo I would recommend the following:
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Playa de Matapalo
We made this Costa Rica beach our base as we were staying at the Rio Palace Hotel situated right on the beach. With dramatic lava rocks at each end and forming rock pools it looks stunning at sunrise and sunset. We were particularly jet lagged for the first few days and were wide awake for out first sunrise. No-one had told us we would be able to see turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. This was absolutely amazing, a privilege to watch (from a distance I can assure you).
Playa del Coco
The next bay to the north is Coco beach which also has a thriving little town for you to walk around. We hired a local boat to take us and then collect us a few hours later. There are some cool bars here with tree terraces where you literally hang out with the wild monkeys whilst playing a game of pool. The weather took a turn for the worst (no beach photo), all I can say is it looks lovely in the sunshine!
Playa Conchal Costa Rica
Conchal Beach is ever so slightly uncomfortable to walk on you won’t be surprised to hear. As the name suggests the whole beach is made up of shells. Most of which are broken and stick in to your feet, so keep your flip flops on. It’s very pretty though, especially if you pick up a handful of the ‘sand’. Local stalls provide you with refreshments along the roadside.
Playa Flamingo Costa Rica
Flamingo beach was my favourite in this area of Costa Rica, with its golden soft sand and turquoise sea. I could have hung out here for hours. Again there are stalls along the roadside to get a drink and a snack, the beach seems to go on for miles.
Playa Tamarindo Costa Rica
This beach is brilliant for windsurfing and other sports as the waves here are completely different from the others. In Costa Rica Tamarindo beach is famous world wide as one of the best surf spots. We saw plenty of action whilst we were here, I love to people watch. The whole area has a different vibe as there are more bars & restaurants to choose from. It was by far the busiest beach we went to. It seemed safe, although we had to watch our bags here more than the other ones. There seemed to be a few more people showing an interest. However nothing bad happened and we had a great time in the surf with our friends. We then eat some fantastic food and went back to the hotel very happy.
Where To Stay in Costa Rica – Carillo
I can highly recommend the Rui Palace as being one of the best beach resorts in Costa Rica. It’s huge so you never feel like you are on top of other people. There is always plenty going on to keep you occupied. If peace and quiet is what you are after there are quiet pools to relax by too. You will be spoilt for choice with the number of amazing beaches Costa Rica has to offer. Get bay hopping like we did and see them all!
Love South American nature? Have you ever swam with fish in a sink hole? No? Head to Mexico not only for the white sandy beaches, but find a huge variety of unique experiences.
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