Sunset
From the rocks.
Christopher Crouzet — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Vixitaly — CC BY 3.0 · Vixitaly — CC BY 3.0
A long, pale-sand beach on the west coast of the Nicoya Peninsula, broken by black volcanic rocks and small tide pools, shaded by almond and palm trees, with green hills behind. In recent years it has become one of Costa Rica's best-known surf towns while keeping a simple, laid-back feel. Its highlight is the sunset: every evening people gather on the sand and rocks to watch the sun sink into the ocean, the sky turning orange and pink and the silhouettes of surfers and fishermen standing out on the rocks. A single dirt road runs along the beach, lined with cafés, small restaurants, surf and yoga schools, linking it with neighbouring Mal País and Playa Carmen. At low tide the pools hold little fish and crabs. The road is dusty in the dry season and muddy in the rain. Rip currents are strong on many Pacific beaches, so swim only where others do and keep away from river mouths.
From the rocks.
Little fish.
Simple cafés.
West coast of the southern Nicoya Peninsula, about 30 minutes from Montezuma
Waves and currents are strong in many parts, so it suits surfing and strolling more; swim only where others do.