Flamingo Beach

55

This gorgeous beach more than lives up to its tropical-sounding name. Its sands are clean, golden and powder-textured, the sea matches the cobalt blue sky, and the backdrop one of soaring mountains and lush forests. Renowned for its blue flag status, Playa Flamingo has clean water and is safe for swimmers, so you can spend all day snorkelling amongst the abundant marine life, enjoying a variety of watersports or fishing, and in the evening, simply sit back and gaze on one of Costa Rica’s most famously glorious sunset vistas.

Playa Hermosa

PlayaHermosa_1_

Hermosa’s smooth, greyish sand and shallow, safe crystal waters are gentle on the eye and the vibe at the family end of this blue flag beach is equally laid back. Fringed by many species of trees and famous for local wildlife conservation efforts, it’s nevertheless large enough to offer a variety of seaside options down its length, with a selection of bars and restaurants to choose from along the promenade, a large faction of local and visiting surfers and a range of watersports available to those looking for a slightly less sedate experience.