Playa Grande

Playa Grande, Costa Rica, a small, low-key surf and conservation community on the northern edge of the Gold Coast, sits on the other side of the Tamarindo estuary from its more famous neighbor — separated by the Río Matapalo, accessible by boat or the longer overland route, and as a result a bit more insulated from most of Tamarindo's development pressure. It is simultaneously one of the most important sea turtle nesting beaches in the world and one of the most consistently excellent surf breaks on the Pacific coast, giving it a character that is part conservation biology field station, part surf camp, and part quiet beach escape.

Get the full Playa Grande guide

Members get the in-depth local guide, plus tools and a vetted provider network. Start with our quick quiz to see if Playa Grande fits your life.

Build My Custom Action Plan

5 Minutes · 11 Questions · Free Instant Results
Join 1000+ people who have mapped their move.

Explore more towns in Guanacaste.