Costa Rica’s most beautiful hidden beaches are difficult to find – that’s why they’re called hidden beaches! However, they are unquestionably worthwhile the effort.

You may easily avoid the crowds and find your own bit of paradise if you have the right tools and a sense of adventure.

Playa Arcos

Playa Arcos is one of Costa Rica’s best-kept secrets and is considered to be one of the country’s best-hidden beaches. It is located near Uvita, Costa Rica, and is surrounded by steep hills covered in deep jungle. It is a component of Marino Ballena National Park. The most convenient way to get there is through the La Cusinga Eco-lodge, which is set on a neighboring hill. From the lodge, there is a short hiking track that leads to the beach. It is recommended that you visit this beach during low tide.

Playa Ventanas

The name “Playa Ventanas” (Windows Beach) comes from two adjacent sea caves that can be explored at low tide, giving the beach its name. The beach, which is located near the community of Ojochal, can be reached by visiting the farm of a local family, who asks a little fee for parking. The beach is large and attractive when the tide is low. When the water is high, it is scarcely visible. Make sure to schedule your visit in advance of your arrival.

Playa Barrigona

One of Costa Rica’s best-kept secrets is the secluded Playa Barrigona, which is located just north of the renowned beach town of Sámara. Mel Gibson had owned 500 acres of jungle surrounding Playa Barrigona, which he sold to fund his movie career. However, despite the fact that the beach is bordered by private land, it is open to the public and may be reached through a bumpy dirt road. It is possible that a tiny waterfall will occur on the rocks near the shore, especially during the wet season.

Playa Cocolito

Playa Cocalito, which is a short stroll from Drake Bay, is the ideal area to get away from the people and pretend you’re a castaway. The walk to Cocalito, which includes a suspension bridge and a section of thick jungle, is an excellent site to watch white-faced monkeys and scarlet macaws in their natural habitat.

Playa Matapalo

The small beach village of Playa Matapalo has managed to remain undiscovered by tourists despite its location between the popular beach communities of Manuel Antonio and Dominical. It is certain that you will find the peace and quiet you want, as well as stunning sunsets, in this area of the world. It’s even possible to find a few modest, fairly priced hotels near the beach, where you can fall asleep to the sound of breaking surf.

Playa Ventanas (Playa Grande)

Locals are well aware that Playa Grande provides a significantly more calm experience than its famed neighbor Tamarindo (also known as “Tama-gringo”). Those who continue beyond the northern tip of Playa Grande will find the rarely visited Playa Ventanas, an enchanting crescent of golden sand that is worth the trip alone.

Playa Esterillos

However, despite the fact that it is positioned halfway between Jacó and Manuel Antonio — two of Costa Rica’s most popular tourist sites — Playa Esterillos is a large, gorgeous beach with virtually little development.

Playa Biesanz

There are some of Costa Rica’s most famous and popular beaches in Manuel Antonio, and they are all located in the area. If you want to get away from the crowds, head to adjacent Punta Quepoa, a little peninsula that protects the beautiful Playa Biesanz. A small trail leads down to the beach from the Parador Hotel, which is nearby.