Flamingo Beach (Playa Flamingo)
Ranked among Costa Rica’s most beautiful and easy-to-reach beaches, Playa Flamingo lures with its sugary shorelines and Pacific sunsets. Come for comforts such as lodging and plenty of outfitters for sailing and snorkeling among the family-friendly waves, and appreciate that it's less developed than neighboring Tamarindo.
The Basics
Laid-back Playa Flamingo is a place for the “pura vida” pleasures of swimming and sunbathing on the wide, flat beach. Take advantage of the mild waves and engage in water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling among Pacific coral gardens. To see more of the Guanacaste coast—and open-ocean wildlife including dolphins and whales—join a sailing tour. Most sailing charters include stops to swim and snorkel as well as a sunset view.
Things to Know Before You Go
Try to time your beach visit to include the sunset.
Be sure to pack sunscreen, swimsuits, and beach towels.
Beach chairs and umbrellas can be rented from beachside vendors.
Nearby Tamarindo is a surfer’s haven while Playa Flamingo has calmer shores.
There's no lifeguard on duty, so be aware of ocean conditions and use caution in the water.
How to Get There
Playa Flamingo is located in Guanacaste province. It’s about a 30-minute drive, or 14 miles (23 kilometers) from Tamarindo and about 37 miles (60 kilometers) or an hour's ride to Liberia’s airport. Most visitors reach the beach by car, approaching from the south along roadways 155 and 180.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
For the best beach-going weather, visit during Costa Rica’s dry season (November to April), Rainy season peaks in September with periodic floods, but the wet weather means there are fewer crowds.
Beachfront Dining
One of Playa Flamingo’s few truly beachfront restaurants, popular outpost Coco Loco at the beach’s south end dishes up French-Caribbean fusion and fresh seafood along with unbeatable sunset views. Cool off with the eatery’s signature coconut cocktail or a frozen mojito.
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- Conchal Beach (Playa Conchal)
- Diamante Eco Adventure Park
- Tamarindo Beach
- Pura Aventura
- Palo Verde National Park
- Santa Rosa National Park
- Llanos de Cortés Waterfall
- Rio Negro Hot Springs
- Vida Aventura Nature Park
- Rincon de la Vieja National Park
- Dino Park Blue River
- Las Pumas Rescue Center
- Miravalles Volcano
- Tenorio Volcano National Park (Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio)
- Celeste River (Río Celeste)