Playa Pavones, Southern Zone It sits at the southernmost end of Costa Rica near the border of Panama. Rich lush jungles back the black sand beaches and wildlife roam all about. This is another beach popular for surfing. It is lauded as the longest warm water left-hand wave in the world.

Black sand beaches are primarily found on the Pacific side of Costa Rica, particularly in the northwestern province of Guanacaste. The most famous example is Playa Carbon, known for having some of the blackest sand in the country due to its high concentration of iron oxide (over 80%). Because this sand is volcanic and metallic, it can become extremely hot to the touch in the afternoon sun. Other dark-sand beaches in the region include Playa Negra, a world-renowned surfing destination, and Playa Hermosa. While the Caribbean coast (the Atlantic side) is famous for its bright white or golden sands and turquoise waters, the Pacific coast's volcanic history created these dramatic, dark landscapes. These beaches offer a striking contrast to the lush green jungle and are highly prized by photographers and travelers seeking a more rugged, "untouched" aesthetic compared to the more traditional resort beaches found elsewhere in Central America.