Some of the world’s most beautiful beaches are minutes from Geckoes Lodge on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. Each beach has it’s own character. Pick one depending on your mood that day, or get on your bike for some serious beach hopping.
Playa Negra
Named for its black sand, Playa Negra in Puerto Viejo has photogenic, rather dramatic views of the coastline. Its proximity to the village of Puerto Viejo offers numerous choices for lunch, dinner, a Margarita or an ice cream.
Playa Puerto Viejo
Situated in a bay, Playa Puerto Viejo is the perfect place to stroll around and watch pelicans or take a dip while you wait for the fishermen to arrive. Eat the fresh catch of the day at one of the seaside restaurants or buy a fish and throw it on your barbecue in Geckoes.
Playa Cocles
Famous for the Beach Break, this beautiful beach is a magnet for surfers and the place to be for the younger crowd! Regular Surfing tournaments attract both professionals and amateurs from all over the world. Take a surfing lesson, learn how to slackline, play volleyball in the sand or have a cocktail while watching the others sweat.
Playa Chiquita
A wide sandy beach, Playa Chiquita curves around the headland dotted with shallow coral rock pools. Add the ultimate in lazy sea bathing after snorkelling its colourful reef.
Playa Punta Uva – Arrecife
Punta Uva is where the rainforest drips from the shore into the sand. It has two gorgeous beaches, one on each side of the cliff: Playa Punta Uva and Playa Arrecife. And you should absolutely visit both – think turquoise calm waters and howler monkeys cavorting through the canopy. It is only a short walk to the top of the cliff , with beautiful views of both beaches.
Playa Grande
Palm-fringed, white sand Playa Grande has majestic views of the bay’s curving headlands in shades of blue. Good for surfing almost all year round and perfect for a long walk, with a nice swimming spot where the river meets the ocean.
Playa Manzanillo
Playa Manzanillo is a beach with a difference and full of local colour. You can climb on the stranded boat if you’re not afraid of tetanus or make a trip to go fishing or dolphin watching. Inside the Gandoca-Manzanillo Refuge, there are caves to explore and jungle trails leading to panoramic views and unequalled snorkelling spots.
