Tag Archive for: Costa Rica Tours

Tamarindo Costa Rica Beaches

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Imagine yourself surrounded by white sand and crystal-clear waters. Picture yourself watching the most breathtaking sunsets you can imagine and being able to explore some of the best beaches in Tamarindo, Costa Rica.

Tamarindo is one of the most popular beach towns in Costa Rica for a reason – with miles of stunning coastline, plus endless charms like fishing spots, surf breaks, lush jungles, eclectic nightlife, and delicious cuisine – there is something here for everyone!

Whether you’re looking for a secluded tropical paradise or an action-packed adventure by the shoreline – one of the beaches located in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, truly has it all. Keep reading to discover why this small coastal town should be your next getaway destination!

 

Playa Conchal

If you’re looking for a stunning beach near Tamarindo, Costa Rica, add Playa Conchal, or Shell Beach, to your list. Unlike some of the crazier wave-filled beaches nearby, Playa Conchal has calm waters ideal for swimming and kayaking. Don’t worry, snorkelers – head towards the rocks at the beach’s northern end.

The soft, rose-colored sands are a sight for sore eyes, and the palm trees provide a picture-perfect backdrop. When hunger strikes, grab some fresh grilled seafood from the pop-up restaurant right on the beach.

If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a panga with the locals for a lobster or fishing trip. Whether staying at one of the nearby hotels or just spending a day trip here, Playa Conchal won’t disappoint.

Playa Langosta

Beaches in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, are unique and picturesque, but Playa Langosta stands out with its serene and laid-back vibe. The beach is just a mile south of Tamarindo, and getting there won’t take much effort. Whether you want to drive, walk, or take a bus, it’s easily accessible.

Langosta Beach is less crowded and quieter than its more famous neighbor, Tamarindo Beach. Don’t worry; you don’t have to give up amenities to escape the crowds. You can expect:

  • Restaurants
  • Surf shops
  • Other amenities

The crystal-clear water is ideal for swimming, so don’t hesitate to get in the sea and explore the underwater beauty. If you are a surfer, you will love Langosta Beach too.

The waves during high tide are manageable, but be careful, the ocean floor is a bit rocky, and there is coral. Last but not least, you can quench your thirst while playing beach volleyball or looking at the waves with the cold beer or refreshing coconut the vendors sell.

Playa Grande

If you’re on the hunt for some beautiful Tamarindo, Costa Rica, beaches, you’ve got to check out Playa Grande. This beach is a hidden gem within the Las Baulas National Marine Park.

While it’s only separated from Tamarindo Beach by a river, getting there can take a little effort. Trust us. The struggle is worth it! Once you arrive, you’ll find a long stretch of sand, perfect for beach walks and catching some waves if you’re an advanced surfer.

Remember to keep an eye out for the leatherback turtles who use this beach as a nesting site! While there’s only a small taco stand and a few board rental shops in the area, Playa Grande is the perfect spot for peaceful beach time away from the hustle and bustle of more popular sites.

Playa Avellana

If you’re hunting for some of the best beaches near Tamarindo, Costa Rica, Playa Avellana should be at the top of your list. Fair warning, this beach is not for the faint of heart. El Estero de Avellanas is a world-renowned surfing spot that attracts some of the best surfers from around the globe.

With waves reaching up to 18 feet, it’s definitely not a place for newbies. However, if you’re up for the challenge, you’re in for a thrilling ride. What’s more, Playa Avellanas is a beautiful and peaceful location with crystal clear water and white sand that feels like powder.

You won’t find the crowds you see on other beaches, so you’re guaranteed a peaceful and relaxed time. Besides soaking up under the heat of the sun, you can enjoy:

  • Local food
  • Grab a drink
  • Relax in a hammock
  • Participate in pickup beach soccer game

And the best part? If you’re driving, parking is a breeze, with a large lot in front of the main entrance.

Playa Flamingo

When it comes to the best beaches in Tamarindo, Coat Rica, Playa Flamingo should be noticed. Located just a forty-minute drive north, this beach has it all. The fine light sand and crystal-clear water make it an absolute paradise for swimming, sunbathing, and strolling along the shoreline.

If that’s not enough to convince you, the lush flora surrounding the beach provides the perfect backdrop for all your Instagram-worthy shots. What sets Playa Flamingo apart are the hidden lagoons nestled in the mountains that tumble into the sea. If you’re looking for adventure, you can also explore:

  • Snorkeling
  • Diving
  • Sailing
  • Fishing
  • Surfing

You won’t regret adding Playa Flamingo to your list of must-visit Costa Rica beaches in Tamarindo.

Pirates Cove

If you’re looking for a peaceful and secluded beach, Pirates Cove or Playa Piratas is the perfect spot. This hidden gem is a drive from Tamarindo, but the 40-minute journey is well worth it. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the tranquil sound of waves lapping against the shore.

The rocky islands nearby charm this hidden cove, making for impressive views. With calm waters, swimming in the ocean is a must-do activity during your visit. Step away from the tourist trail and experience the serenity of Pirates Cove.

Let Caravan show you Tamarindo, Costa Rica’s best beaches

The beaches of Tamarindo, Costa Rica, offer a staggering range of things to explore, from breathtaking views to stunning surf spots. Whether you’re looking for a lazy day lounging on the shore or an exciting vacation filled with activities, this paradise is perfect for any traveler.

For your next getaway, Caravan is the ideal partner for your Tamarindo, Costa Rica beach adventure. Our knowledgeable guides provide incomparable English language tours tailored to your needs and desires.

From surfing escapades to snorkeling excursions–Caravan has got you covered! To top it off, they promise a hassle-free experience every step of the way. So why wait? Call us at 1-800-CARAVAN or +1-312-321-9800, and let Caravan replace your dreams with great experiences!

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Best Surfing Destinations in Costa Rica

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Are you looking for the perfect waves, relaxation, and a legendary surf session? Look no further than Costa Rica! This stunning country is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations for avid surfers. With miles of coastline boasting beautiful beaches with epic waves, sun, and sand, there’s something for everyone in this amazing South American paradise.

Whether you are an experienced surfer or just starting out learning how to ride the waves – Costa Rica has it all. Read on to learn more about where you can find the best beaches for surfing in Costa Rica.

 

Playa Santa Teresa

Playa Santa Teresa is the place to be if you want to catch your first wave. It is one of the best surfing destinations in Costa Rica for beginners, located on the stunning Northern Pacific coastline.

Many beachfront areas have become too commercialized, but Playa Santa Teresa has avoided this. This means you can enjoy the beauty of the area without feeling like you’re in a tourist trap.

The beach is one of the best for folks just learning to surf, with its long stretch of soft, sandy goodness and crystal-clear blue water. When you’re not out in the waves, take some time to admire the green jungle that meets the beach, creating a scenic backdrop that will take your breath away.

The December/January timeframe is the best time to visit if you’re a beginner surfer, and you’ll be able to take advantage of the shorts-and-t-shirt weather that’s present year-round. Just remember that the dry season runs from December to April, while May to November is the rainy season — but even that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the wonders of this surf town!

Pavones

Pavones is the place to be if you want to ride some epic waves! Known as the second-longest left point break in the world and one of the best beaches for surfing in Costa Rica, this spot is not for the faint of heart.

Only intermediate to advanced surfers need to apply. Need to know what point-break etiquette is? You better learn before you paddle out! If you follow the rules, the wave is consistent, and there’s enough for everyone.

On big swells, things get busy, but with some patience, you might catch the best wave of your life. Wax up your board, throw on some sunscreen, and get ready to shred some serious gnar at Pavones!

Playitas

If you’re looking for the best beach for surfing in Costa Rica for beginners, Playitas should be on your radar. Located in the stunning Manuel Antonio, this beach offers a fairly empty lineup with friendly locals to help you improve your skills. Surrounded by white sandy beaches and lush rainforest, including the National Park, you’ll feel like you’ve found paradise.

When is the best time to visit? March to October is perfect for beginners. Don’t worry if you’re not a newbie – the shorts weather all year round with an average temperature of 30ºC makes it a great spot for anyone who loves the surf.

Just bear in mind, Playitas has a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November, so plan your trip accordingly. Trust us; this beach is a real hidden gem!

Playa Tamarindo

As one of the best surfing spots in Costa Rica, Playa Tamarindo caters to both novices and seasoned surfers alike. The beach is home to several breaks, including a river-mouth break that can produce incredible waves. What’s more, the bay is well-protected and catches most swells, so there’s almost always a great wave to catch.

Thanks to the sand bottom, it’s also an excellent place to learn how to surf, with numerous schools and camps offering lessons. If you’re wondering where to find Playa Tamarindo in Costa Rica, you can quickly locate it as one of the best surfing destinations on the Costa Rica map. Grab your board and head to Playa Tamarindo for unforgettable surfing experiences!

Playa Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is a little gem of a surf spot located in Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula. This laid-back town is a favorite among surfers, offering several breaks suitable for all levels. You’ll find:

  • Surf camp
  • Surf schools
  • Surf shops

These make it easy to catch waves or learn to surf. Taking a surf lesson is a great idea for first-timers, as the ocean can be quite powerful. Remember to respect the local surfers when you’re out there. Santa Teresa is definitely one of the best surfing destinations in Costa Rica, and if you’re planning a surf trip, make sure to include it on your map!

Playa Naranjo

Playa Naranjo, known as Witch’s Rock, is a must-visit surf spot in Costa Rica. Located to the north, it is a 45-minute boat ride from Playas del Coco. This beach is perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers seeking the country’s finest breaks.

Witch’s Rock boasts world-class waves with beach breaks on both the left and right sides. The sandy floor is an ideal surfing spot during mid to high tide.

The best months to surf here are from December to April, offering 1-3 ft waves and bigger swells. From May to November, get ready for more giant waves. Witch’s Rock is the ultimate destination for surfers for these sceneries:

  • Golden sands
  • Stunning mountain backdrop
  • Impressive tubes and barrels

Once you arrive at Witch’s Rock, be prepared for constant waves that cater to surfers of all levels. The A-frame waves break both left and right, providing plenty of options. During the dry season, smaller waves are consistent, while the rainy season brings larger waves.

Swells are frequent, causing an increase in both wave height and frequency. Take advantage of the incredible and memorable surfing experience offered by Witch’s Rock, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic and best surfing spots in Costa Rica!

 

We make finding the perfect Costa Rican surfing adventure easy – without all the hassle!

Costa Rica is a great destination for the casual surfer or the more experienced wave-rider. With Caravan, you can opt for a fully guided tour or choose your tailor-made excursion to any of the country’s amazing surfing spots.

We understand that planning your trip may be overwhelming, but with Caravan, even avid travelers can find an easy and affordable way to experience this fantastic destination. Our tours are English-language based, so there are no barriers between you and the ultimate surfing experience.

So don’t wait – make today, tomorrow, or some other day soon a day to remember by booking your next surf getaway through Caravan! Call us at 1-800-CARAVAN or +1-312-321-9800 and start planning your perfect peeling glassy barrel escape!

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Best Beaches in Costa Rica

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Calling all beach lovers! If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, experience the beaches in Costa Rica with its crystal-clear waters and lush jungles. With so many gorgeous coastlines in this South American paradise, knowing where to start can take a lot of work.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best beaches in Costa Rica for sunbathing, snorkeling, or surf lessons — all selected due to their incredible beauty and unforgettable experiences. Keep scrolling to find out which luxurious strips of sand are certain to sweep you off your feet!

 

Tamarindo Beach

Tamarindo Beach, located on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, is renowned for its modern amenities and vibrant atmosphere. Due to its consistent yet gentle waters, it attracts both anglers seeking marine treasures and surfers of all levels. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore nearby lagoons and even glimpse majestic leatherback turtles. The beach offers various activities such as:

  • Windsurfing
  • Sailing
  • Beach cruises
  • Snorkeling
  • Scuba diving
  • Jet skiing

At night, visitors can salsa dance at La Barra or mingle with a younger crowd at Pacifica. Tamarindo embraces both modernity and traditional Costa Rican culture, with local markets offering authentic goods.

Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio is Costa Rica’s top beach destination on the Central Pacific Coast and one of the best beaches in Costa Rica. With its rich biodiversity and numerous activities, it offers some of the best beaches in the country.

Manuel Antonio Beach is renowned for its magnificent scenery, perfect for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. While hiking through the rainforest, the national park also provides opportunities to encounter wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and iguanas. Keep in mind that only a limited number of visitors are allowed daily.

Costa Ballena

Stretching across three towns in Costa Rica—Dominical, Uvita, and Ojochal—Costa Ballena is a must-visit destination. With its white sand shores and majestic humpback whales, this beach offers a picturesque setting for wildlife enthusiasts.

Explore the Central Pacific Coast to discover boutique hotels like Playaballena Spa Hotel and upscale restaurants with stunning views. Don’t miss out on whale watching at Marino Ballena National Park or engaging in water activities like:

  • Diving
  • Surfing
  • Kayaking
  • Snorkeling

Thrill-seekers can also try canopy tours, tree climbing, and sport fishing.

Punta Uva

Punta Uva is one of the finest beaches in Costa Rica, with stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and a serene atmosphere. Accessible via a winding dirt road south of Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast, this small fishing spot offers an immersive experience.

Located within the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, the beach provides ample opportunities for spotting sloths, monkeys, and birds. Its calm waters make it perfect for swimming, while snorkeling and scuba diving showcase a vibrant marine ecosystem. Kayaking along Playa Punta Uva allows for turtle and bird sightings.

Ostional Beach

Ostional Beach is famous for its clear waters and protected wildlife, particularly the turtles. Visitors often interact with local Costa Ricans, known as Ticos, who live there. The beach is a must-see, but the real stars are the Olive Ridley turtles that lay their eggs during the rainy season from August to November.

Note that these turtles are endangered, so keep a safe distance. After turtle-watching, enjoy water activities like surfing, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or scuba diving.

Playa Guiones

Another Costa Rica beach is Playa Guiones, located in Nosara, a stunning beach known for consistent surf and various activities. This eco-friendly town has prioritized green spaces, sustainable lodging, and preventing large resorts.

Whether you’re a beginner surfer or not interested in surfing at all, the beach offers scenic walks, yoga classes, and nearby mangroves for paddleboarding.

Playa Negra

Playa Negra Beach is renowned as the top beach in Costa Rica due to its black sand resulting from volcanic activity. It is a popular place for both locals and visitors to enjoy long walks and swim in the Caribbean Sea, thanks to the lush green forests that provide shade from the midday heat.

Despite its popularity as Cahuita’s premier surfing destination, Playa Negra maintains a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal place to relax and indulge in paradise.

Playa Conchal

Playa Conchal, located south of Brasilito in Costa Rica, is a stunning beach with pink sand and palm-fringed shores. It is often rated as one of the best beaches in the country. The name “Conchal” comes from the billions of crushed shells naturally mixed with the sand, creating a turquoise color that gradually deepens to emerald green in the shallow waters.

During the peak tourist season, Playa Conchal can get crowded, as it attracts many visitors. One of the reasons why it is so popular is the wide range of water activities available, such as snorkeling, jet-skiing, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and kayaking.

Playa Dominical

Playa Dominical in Costa Rica is a must-visit if you’re a keen surfer. This Costa Rica beach is known globally for its excellent surf breaks. The remote beach on the South Pacific Coast offers a great spot to improve your skills. Its stunning white sand, palm trees, and various delicious eateries make it the perfect place to relax and enjoy local cuisine.

Notably, it is also one of the safest and best Costa Rica beaches, with year-round lifeguard services. It is highly recommend visiting Dominical Beach for relaxation, exercise, adventure, and culinary delights.

 

Discover the best beaches in Costa Rica with Caravan

Costa Rica contains some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and Caravan is the perfect tour company to discover them. From stunning stretches of sand on both coasts to palm-fringed shores and rocky bays, there’s a beach for every kind of traveler.

When you book with Caravan, you have access to an almost infinite number of vacation options, from relaxing retreats in the Caribbean or the Pacific to exciting recreational activities and adrenaline-pumping experiences.

To discover the best beaches in Costa Rica and have an unforgettable trip, call us at 1-800-CARAVAN or +1-312-321-9800! With a fully guided tour, nothing quite compares to the feeling of sand between your toes and summer in Costa Rica.

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5 Can’t Miss Rainforest Costa Rica Tours

Travel all-inclusive with Caravan Tours and enjoy rainforest tours in Costa Rica. Costa Rica in Central America is home to over 10,000 species of different plants and trees making it one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world. As much as 5% of the world’s diversity can be found in Costa Rica! The forestation […]

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The History and Growth of Costa Rica Banana Industry

Be sure to visit a banana plantation in Costa Rica if you ever travel there.

Bananas have been one of the most popular and versatile fruits in history. The banana is actually a native species of Asia that has been transported to other tropical locations around the globe, including Costa Rica.

Costa Rica and indeed, the Central American economy, include an important sector focusing on this fruit, with Costa Rica banana plantations providing a significant part of the export business. Read more

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Attractions at Braulio Carrillo National Park Costa Rica

Braulio Carrillo National Park is not currently part of our Caravan Costa Rica tour but it is definitely worth visiting if you get the chance.

What is unique about Braulio Park in Costa Rica is the wide range of elevation. It ranges from just 160 feet above sea level to as high as over 9,500 feet in elevation.

Have you ever imagined yourself as an early explorer discovering a new world of tropical virgin rainforests with luscious emerald green in all its glorious shades? Perhaps it is slightly overcast with a warm mist that is brightened up by rare and beautiful orchids that somehow blend naturally with the fauna and flora of the area.

This is exactly what you will feel as you trek through Braulio Carrillo National Park in Costa Rica. This fauna and flora sanctuary was created in 1978 and is easily accessible from San Jose Costa Rica (the capital), which is just over 12 miles away.

Here are some of the park attractions that you can enjoy. Read more

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Guanacaste & Liberia Costa Rica

Guanacaste Costa Rica is one of seven provinces in this tiny central American country.  The provincial borders roughly define certain regions by geography, government, and population.

The province of Guanacaste is located in the northwest part of Costa Rica on the Pacific Ocean. It shares a border with Nicaragua and is the least populated province in the nation. Read more

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Caravan All Inclusive Costa Rica Tour

A Caravan all inclusive Costa Rica tour is the ultimate tropical vacation with all the exotic trappings that you would expect and more.

The name “Costa Rica” means “Rich Coast” and the pure, untamed beauty of Costa Rica’s Pacific and Caribbean coastlines reveal unspoiled eco diversity like nowhere else on earth.

This diversity is possible partly because Costa Rica abolished the military decades ago and used that funding for the preservation of their natural heritage. Today, over 23% of Costa Rica is now protected in National Parks, refuges, and wildlife preserves.

In this article we will answer four of the common questions about our Caravan all inclusive Costa Rica Tour. Read more

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Travel to Costa Rica – #1 for Tourism

Come travel to Costa Rica with Caravan Tours! You will soon understand why this peaceful and friendly little country (with a thriving democracy) was voted one of the best places in the world to live.

Costa Rica is one of those delightful places where you can truly enjoy your vacation, whatever your preferences may be. This tropical paradise is full of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and incredible varieties of exotic flora and fauna, plus rare birds and wildlife. Read more

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Coffee Plantations In Costa Rica

Taking a Costa Rica coffee plantation tour is at the top of the list for most coffee loving tourists when visiting this small Central American country. Even those who don’t drink coffee find the guided coffee tour to be very informative and interesting.

Along with bananas, oranges, and pineapple plantations, Coffee is one of the most important sectors in the Costa Rican economy, rivaled only by tourism and various other agricultural products.

Did you know that Costa Rica coffee production now accounts for more than 10% of the country’s export business and Costa Rica ranks number fifteen out of the Top 20 coffee-producing countries?

In fact, hundreds of thousands of Costa Ricans are employed in the Costa Rica coffee industry; from planting, growing and harvesting to processing and exporting Costa Rica coffee. Read more

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