Legally, public drinking is prohibited on Costa Rica's beaches under Law 9047. The law explicitly forbids the consumption of alcoholic beverages in public spaces, including streets, parks, and shorelines, except during specifically authorized municipal festivals. In practice, however, enforcement is often "tolerant" in popular tourist hubs like Tamarindo or Santa Teresa, provided there is no disorderly conduct, glass bottles are avoided, and no minors are involved. Local police have the authority to confiscate alcohol or issue warnings at their discretion. It is important to distinguish between "tolerance" and "legality"; while you might see people with a beer on the sand, doing so near family-oriented areas or during high-security holidays can result in fines. To stay safe, many visitors stick to beach clubs or licensed "chiringuitos" where alcohol service is legally permitted within their designated beachfront property.