Tamarindo
#7 in Best Beaches in Costa Rica
Lauded for its terrific surfing and lively nightlife, Tamarindo, a town in the province of Guanacaste, is a popular destination for active travelers. Amateur surfers should head to Playa Tamarindo to take advantage of its warm waters and various types of breaks. It is not uncommon to see howler monkeys swinging from the treetops around this exciting beach. A less crowded alternative to Playa Tamarindo, Playa Langosta’s tide pools and varied seashells are perfect for families. Meanwhile, those hoping for a glimpse of nesting leatherback turtles should explore Las Baulas Marine National Park in Playa Grande.
Nosara
#8 in Best Beaches in Costa Rica
Nosara’s motto, no shirt no shoes Nosara, could not be more apt. Both locals and visitors flock here to soak up the sun and become one with their surf boards. With seemingly never-ending sandy stretches of coastline and an abundance of wildlife, it is no wonder this laid-back beach town has attracted such a tight-knit community of proud and permanent expats – mostly from the U.S., Canada and Europe.
