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Costa Rica Beaches!
Excellent Costa Rica beaches can be found on both the Pacific Ocean side and the Caribbean side of this small Central American country! By the way, Costa Rica translated into English means "rich coast" or we might say, "the coast of many riches"! That is a good description of the beautiful beaches and coastal areas of Costa Rica. Some of the most beautiful and scenic beaches in the world are found in Costa Rica! You can find everything from secluded rocky beaches to palm lined white sandy beaches. There are also areas with brown sand, black or gray sand and pink sand. Which beaches you visit will probably result from your choice of activities and where you decide to stay while you are vacationing in Costa Rica. This small Central American country has 1,100 hundred miles (1,800 kilometers) of coastline. As a matter of fact 65% of Costa Rica's borders are on either the Pacific Ocean or the Caribbean Sea. There are 300 Costa Rica beaches or "playas as they are called in Spanish. Due to the warm tropical weather beaches in Costa Rica can be enjoyed year round. The most popular months are in the high season from December to April. The greatest number of beaches in Costa Rica are found on the longer Pacific Ocean side of the country with fewer coastal areas on the shorter Caribbean side. Many of the "playas" are located in areas that are not heavily populated so it is easy to find a beach that is quiet and secluded. Travel Tip! It is a good idea to ask the local people about the safety of the more secluded beaches. There are areas that have strong currents, rip tides, barely submerged rocks and sudden drop offs! Many are located within easy walking or driving distance to some of the country's many national parks and wildlife reserves. Costa Rica is narrow enough that you can drive from one coastline to the other in just a matter of a few hours. Here is a list of some of the activities available at many of the more popular Costa Rica beaches;
- snorkeling - sailing - para sailing - scuba diving - swimming - sea kayaking - coastal cruises - horseback riding - ATV tours - boogie boarding - beach hiking - jet skiing - deep sea fishing. The most popular Costa Rica beaches are found along what is called the "Gold Coast" which is located in the northwestern province of Guanacaste. This area has become quite popular with vacationers because it is warmer and drier than other areas of Costa Rica. It also has some of the most scenic beaches in the country. You will find along the "Gold Coast" first class hotels and resorts along with exclusive condos, scenic golf courses, fine restaurants and lots of shopping. The local stores even carry toiletries we are accustomed to having here in the United States. 
When you are visiting the Pacific Ocean side of the country, plan on being on the beach in the evening to watch some of the most spectacular sunsets you have ever seen! Make sure you have your camera with you.As you travel south from Guanacaste you will find less populated areas but many excellent places to swim, surf or just stroll along the beach. Travel Tip! Never leave belongings in your rental car while at the beach, not even wet towels! Don't leave personal items on the beach unattended. Take time to travel to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica as well. Even though the coast line is less extensive and the weather hotter and more humid you will find many excellent beaches, verdant rain forests and wildlife reserves to enjoy there. Many Europeans and young North Americans find this area of Costa Rica to their liking and so don't be surprised to hear a multitude of languages spoken in this area of the Caribbean coast. Also, take the opportunity to taste the unique cuisine that is typical of this region of the country. Travel Tip - It is easier to get a sunburn in Costa Rica due to the fact that it is located close to the equator the sunshine has more UV rays. Be careful to wear lots of sunscreen and to reapply it frequently! A Costa Rica vacation would not be complete without a visit to one of the coastal areas. As a matter of fact, there are so many beautiful Costa Rica beaches it is hard to decide which ones to visit. Listed below are our recommendations of the best beaches in Costa Rica to visit! Tambor Beach
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