Is the Pacific side of Costa Rica safe?

Both sides of Costa Rica are excellent places to visit for all tourists. Although we recommend visiting both coasts of Costa Rica if possible, it is not as easy due to long travel times.



People Also Ask

The safest places to stay in Costa Rica are:
  • Drake Bay – a good family destination.
  • Tamarindo – great for an all-encompassing beach experience.
  • Puerto Viejo – a romantic destination.
  • Liberia – near the wonderful Nicoya peninsula.
  • Jaco* – rich in expat communities (see notes)


MORE DETAILS

With the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Caribbean Sea pounding the other side, Costa Rica's beaches are famous for having big waves and fast currents. These are perfect for surfing, but not so much for gentle, safe swimming.

MORE DETAILS

Choosing between the two coasts is not easy. Both coasts are amazing and we especially like the Central and Southern Pacific Coast. The South Caribbean Coast is best for those looking for a bit of fun under the sun a bit off the beaten path. So, the answer really depends on various factors.

MORE DETAILS

Any talk of the best beaches in Costa Rica inevitably involves Manuel Antonio on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. With 4 white sand beaches inside the famous national park and 1 outside, you will be left in awe of its beauty. It's clear why Manuel Antonio is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica!

MORE DETAILS

The best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and April, when the weather is at its driest and brightest. We'd also recommend traveling in the country's green season, from May to June or in November.

MORE DETAILS

The Papagayo Peninsula — on Costa Rica's Pacific coast — is the best place to stay in Costa Rica if you're looking for an upscale resort experience. Aside from being undeniably beautiful, the Papagayo Peninsula has seen massive development since the 1990s, with luxurious resorts now dotting the picturesque landscape.

MORE DETAILS

Be careful in certain areas – San Jose is mostly used as a stop-over point as people travel the country. While it's generally safe during the day, be careful at night. Specifically, avoid the areas of Desamparados, La Carpio, Los Guido, Pavas, El Carmen, and Leon XIII.

MORE DETAILS

September and October are Costa Rica's rainiest months, with rainfall lasting nearly all day. If you happen to book a trip during these months, not to worry: These are the most beautiful months along Costa Rica's Caribbean coast. Plan to head to Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, or Tortuguero.

MORE DETAILS

If you're wondering “Is Costa Rica expensive?”, the answer is yes and no. Compared to other Central American countries like Nicaragua or El Salvador, Costa Rica is generally more on the expensive side. It's pretty well-developed and has a thriving tourism industry, so things do cost more.

MORE DETAILS

Best Beaches in Costa Rica For the Ultimate Beach Vacation
  • Flamingo Beach (Guanacaste) ...
  • Samara Beach (Guanacaste) ...
  • Santa Teresa, Playa Carmen and Hermosa Beach. ...
  • Montezuma Beach. ...
  • Tamarindo Beach (Guanacaste Province) ...
  • Uvita Beach (Costa Ballena, Puntarenas) ...
  • Tortuga Island. ...
  • Playa San Juanillo (Guanacaste)


MORE DETAILS

The two destinations don't really compare well. If you want to see some spectacular nature reserves, rivers and wildlife, Costa Rica is the place. Barbados is more easily accessible, offers a great variety of restaurants and beaches and the east coast is renowned for its surfing.

MORE DETAILS