Not strictly known for its beach, Tortuguero National Park lies on the northern part of Costa Rica's Caribbean coastline, and it's beautiful Playa Tortuguero (turtle-catcher beach) is a naturalists dream. Known for its many turtle hatcheries, many visitors come here between July to October to see these fascinating creatures emerge from the sea to form their nests, and weeks later to watch the newly hatched turtles race down the beach to begin life in the Caribbean Sea.

Playa Tortuguero backs onto the waterways and trails of the national park and it's one of the best parts of the country to visit to experience its biodiversity. This peaceful 5km stretch of sand is only accessible by air or by water and usually visited for its abundance of wildlife, but it is devoid of sun-loungers, bars and the usual sights you'd find on beaches elsewhere. I recommend staying at one of the tranquil eco-lodges in the area which have fully inclusive touring packages for the perfect opportunity to spot all the local fauna by boat or by foot (don't forget your binoculars!). The area has become known for having some of the best beaches in Costa Rica and is a destination that should be included on every trip!

Up on the north west coast of Guanacaste province you'll find the west-facing Playa Grande sitting just outside of the lively beach town of Tamarindo. A well known spot for those partial to riding the waves, Playa Grande is billed as one of the best surfing beaches in Costa Rica. 

There are many other great beaches in this part of Costa Rica too; the pink sands of Playa Flamingo are only a 10 minute drive away where you can enjoy many water-based activities on offer along the beachfront. At only an hour from Liberia airport, this area should be considered a beach destination in its own right. So should you fancy hitting the surf, snorkelling in the clear waters of the bay, or enjoying a sundowner made from the local rum then Playa Grande is the Costa Rica beach for you!

Probably the most famous of Costa Rica's national parks and popular amongst locals and tourists alike, Manuel Antonio is a stunning stretch of the Pacific coastline consisting of mangrove forest bordered by beautiful white sand beaches punctuated with rocky outcrops. To avoid the crowds you'll find on the black sands of nearby Playa Espadilla, the local government have put a limit on how many people can enter the national park and there's a $16 entrance fee per person. Trust me, it's well worth it!

Take a relaxing walk along the decked walkways through the mangrove to reach the beach and you'll see, jutting out from the sand, a small peninsula which harbours a cheeky monkey population. So be aware taking any food to the beach! If the monkeys aren't lurking and waiting to steal something, then the raccoon-like coatis will be! However, should you fall afoul of them, you can always nurse your pride at one of the many colourful bars along the beach.

A must-see if only coming to Costa Rica for a short trip, the beach life here is one of the best examples of 'Pura Vida' (as the locals say) that the country has to offer.

One of the most uniquely shaped beaches in Costa Rica, or even the world, Whale Bay (as it's known in English) is located on the south western Pacific coastline. Actually two beaches merged in the centre forming a sandbank in the shape of a giant whale's tail, this interesting bay is situated next to the pretty coastal village of Uvita. Definitely one of Costa Rica's fastest growing tourist destinations along this coast, Uvita is a lovely little spot with something going on to suit everyone.

Due to the area being surrounded by a marine national park, fishing is prohibited which allows for fabulous snorkelling opportunities just off the coast. Staying in the vicinity, you can easily visit the scenic Osa Peninsula a short drive to the south and, if you're feeling lucky, grab a guided tour of the reserve and you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive jaguar. The best time to visit here is between December and April when you can board one of the local catamarans and head out into the bay for an unforgettable whale watching experience.

Hidden away on the remote western coast of the Nicoya peninsula, the chic little surf town of Nosara and the gorgeous beach of Playa Guiones reward those who can brave the long journey from the capital and the winding jungle-lined roads with stunning sugar-white sands and unforgettable sunsets. Whether catching a wave at dawn or horse riding along the shoreline at dusk, the beachlife here is aimed at those who like to get up early and be active, which makes up for the lack of nightlife.

With easy road accessibility to the rest of the Nicoya, you can spend a day walking the canopied wildlife trails of Cabo Blanco or watching the turtles laying their nests at the Ostional Wildlife reserve. If you fancy something a little more low-key then maybe take part in one of the local beach yoga lessons. Most travellers dont make it this far west, so it is perfect for those looking for a little rest and relaxation away from the crowds on one of Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches.

Travellers familiar with the palm-studded coastlines of the Caribbean might feel more at home in Puerto Viejo, with its picture postcard white sand beaches and reggae playing beach bars. Influenced by the Jamaican immigrants that came to the province in the last century, you'll find English being spoken and Caribbean food stalls lining the streets.

Playa Cocles is one of the prettiest of the beaches in this region of Costa Rica with its graceful palm trees blending into the rainforest. Punta Uva to the south of the town has an easily accessible coral reef situated just offshore, perfect for snorkelling. Elsewhere in the area, stroll along the black sands or dive amongst the shipwrecks of Cahuita National Park to the north, but should you have a bit more time to kill then why not include a visit to Panama on your itinerary and head just over the border to visit the stunning Bocas del Toro islands?

Whether you are a wildlife lover, a surfer, or just like to relax with a cocktail in hand, there is a beach in Costa Rica just for you! If you'd like to learn more about this wonderful country, take a look at our Costa Rica Holidays pages.