Caribbean Coast Beaches

The Caribbean coast has an entirely different feel than the west coast. Its plentiful rainfall supports some of the richest and most diverse habitat in all of Costa Rica. 

The vast Caribbean lowlands extend inland from the coast providing habitat for hundreds of birds and animals.  The beaches are almost all bordered inland by dense forest and many beaches are famous for nesting sea turtles like the leatherback, loggerhead and green sea turtles.  

Coral reefs follow the southern coastline and provide wondrous exploration opportunities. Swimming and snorkeling can also be excellent in the south.  

Regional Information 

North Caribbean Coast Beaches

From Limon north to Nicaragua.... 

Miles and miles of undeveloped, protected beaches grace the north Caribbean coast's shore.  Most of the beaches here are used by the green sea turtle to lay eggs from July to October, with less frequent sightings of the loggerhead, hawksbill and leatherback turtles.   The currents are strong and, in general, not considered safe for swimming. 

 
North from Limon, the coast is mostly bordered by dense raffia palm forests and freshwater canals.  The beach in Tortuguero is beautiful and often completely deserted for as far as the eye can see. 

South Caribbean Beaches

The Caribbean's southern beaches, also bordered by dense green vegetation all year long, are more friendly to the beach goer.  The beaches literally change from the blackest sand you have ever seen to the most beautiful white sand beaches as you go from cove to cove.  

Some of the countries healthiest living coral reefs are off-shore, and one of the best surf spots in all of Costa Rica is in Puerto Viejo, the Salsa Brava.  The best time of year to visit the south Caribbean for snorkeling is March - May and again in September - November when the waters are most calm and clear.  

From Limon south to Panama...  

*Playa Negra (Cahuita)

*Playa Blanca (Cahuita)

*Puerto Vargas (Cahuita)

*Playa Negro (Puerto Viejo)

*Playa Cocles

*Playa Chiquita

*Punta Uva

Playa Manzanillo 

*Ned Creek and *Gandoca: Protected beaches in Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge

(* denotes Ecological Blue Flag recipient)

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