James Kaiser: PHOTOS: 16 "Secret" Costa Rican Beaches

Over the past decade, Costa Rica has exploded in popularity. What was once the rugged domain of surfers and backpackers now attracts a steady stream of “fun-and-sun” tourists on all-inclusive package tours. As Costa Rica went mainstream, condos and timeshares popped up along the coast, and a handful of formerly quaint beach towns officially became “touristy.”

The good news? The vast majority of Costa Rica’s spectacular coastline remains as lovely and untouched as ever.

Over the past five years, I’ve explored virtually every inch of Costa Rica researching my new guidebook, Costa Rica: The Complete Guide. During that time I’ve discovered dozens of stunning, hidden beaches. Perhaps most amazing, many of these “untouched” beaches are just a short drive from some of the country’s most popular destinations. With a rental car and a willingness to explore, any visitor can find their own slice of paradise in Costa Rica.

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• Playa Arcos

  One of the most hidden beaches in Costa Rica, Playa Arcos is surrounded by steep hills covered in dense jungle. The beach is part of Marino Ballena National Park, and the easiest access is via La Cusinga Eco-lodge, which is perched on a nearby hill and maintains a short hiking trail to the beach.

• Playa Ventanas (Ojochal)

  This local favorite gets its name, Ventanas (“Windows”), from two adjacent sea caves that you can explore at low tide. The beach is located near the village of Ojochal, and it is accessible via the farm of a local family that charges a few bucks for parking.

• Playa Barrigona

  This stunning beach, located just north of the popular town of Sámara, is one of the best-kept secrets in Costa Rica. Mel Gibson owns 500 acres of jungle surrounding Playa Barrigona (which he recently put on the market for $30 million), but the beach itself is open to the public and accessible via a bumpy dirt road.

• Playa Carrillo

  Located just south of Playa Sámara, Playa Carrillo is smaller, prettier and far less crowded. Development is limited to hammocks strung between palm trees and pushcart vendors selling cold coconut water.

• Uvita

  Uvita’s “Whale Tail” might be the most “hidden” beach in Costa Rica. Everyday at high tide, this long, sandy strip is completely submerged. When low tide exposes the golden sand, you can walk to the rocky tip and enjoy its calm, protected waters.

• Cahuita

  Cahuita National Park protects some of the most beautiful beaches on Costa Rica’s lush Caribbean coast. Although the western beaches near the park’s main entrance are often crowded, a short hike to the eastern side of the park offers equally beautiful beaches with virtually no crowds.

• Isla de Caño

  This uninhabited island, located 10 miles off the northern tip of the Osa Peninsula, is popular with scuba divers and snorkelers. Boat trips to the island offer the chance to explore the island’s pristine, untouched beaches.

• Playa Cocalito

  Located a short hike from Drake Bay, Playa Cocalito is the perfect place to play castaway. The trail to Cocalito, which crosses a suspension bridge and passes through lush jungle, is a great place to spot monkeys and parrots.

• Papagayo Peninsula

  The spectacular Papagayo Peninsula is home to two of the loveliest beaches in Costa Rica: Playa Blanca and Playa Virador. Although the peninsula has been commandeered by the $1,000/night Four Seasons Hotel—and therefore “hidden” from the masses—both beaches are technically open to the public if you’re willing to hike to them.

• Islas Tortugas

  These uninhabited islands, which lie just off the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, are home to powdery white sand and warm turquoise water. Boat tours to Islas Tortugas (“Turtle Islands”) depart from the village of Montezuma.

• Playa Matapalo

  Although situated between the popular beach towns of Manuel Antonio and Dominical, Playa Matapalo has somehow managed to stay under the tourist radar. If you’re looking for peace, quiet and spectacular sunsets, you’ll find them here.

• Playa Ventanas (Playa Grande)

  Locals know that Playa Grande offers a far more relaxed experience than its famous neighbor Tamarindo (aka “Tama-gringo”). But venture beyond the northern tip of Playa Grande and you’ll discovered rarely-visited Playa Ventanas, a magnificent crescent of golden sand.

• Punta Uva

  Puerto Viejo is the Caribbean coast’s most happening destination, and its beaches are lined with bars and restaurants. To escape the hustle and bustle, head five miles west to Punta Uva, which is set back from the main road and surrounded by lush jungle. The beach is gorgeous, and a beautiful coral reef lies just offshore.

• Esterillos

  Although located halfway between Jacó and Manuel Antonio—two of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica—Playa Esterillos is a big, beautiful beach with virtually no development.

• Ostional

  Located just north of Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula, this rarely-visited beach is home to mass nestings of olive ridley sea turtles, which visit once a month between August and November.

• Playa Biesanz

  Manuel Antonio is home to some of Costa Rica’s most famous—and popular—beaches. To escape the crowds, head to nearby Punta Quepoa, a small peninsula that shelters lovely Playa Biesanz. A short trail to the beach starts near the Hotel Parador.

• Costa Rica: The Complete Guide

James Kaiser: PHOTOS: 16 "Secret" Costa Rican Beaches