Be very cautious when you go into any body of water in the country as tides and rip currents can be strong. Also, as much of the country is considered the rainforest, the weather can change dramatically on very short notice.

Swimming in the ocean in Costa Rica is generally safe, but it requires a high degree of "ocean literacy" due to the prevalence of strong rip currents, which are the leading cause of tourist drownings in the country. Many popular beaches, such as those in Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, and Dominical, can have powerful undertows even when the surface looks calm. It is crucial to look for red flags or signs indicating dangerous conditions; however, many remote beaches do not have lifeguards or signage, so you must use extreme caution. As of 2026, experts recommend only swimming at beaches with active lifeguard stations and never swimming alone or at night. If you are caught in a rip current, the golden rule is to remain calm and swim parallel to the shore rather than against the current. Additionally, be mindful of the Pacific and Caribbean tides; the Pacific coast experiences much larger tidal swings which can quickly change the safety profile of a cove or reef area within just a few hours of your arrival.