Published 1st Feb. 2025
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Sandwiched between Panama and Nicaragua, among deliciously verdant greenery, lies the happiest country on earth: Costa Rica. Overflowing with exotic wildlife, misty volcanic peaks and surfers’ havens, it’s no wonder this pocket-sized country has become increasingly popular with travellers. A craggy chain of towering volcanoes act as a spine, running through the country’s middle and separating the two palm-fringed coastlines that feature on many a bucket list. But which coast suits your Costa Rican adventure? Read on to discover the battle of the coastlines: Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast vs. Pacific…
The Caribbean coast is perfect if wild and wonderful is what you’re after. Although it is a little more difficult to get to, Costa Rica’s southern coast is packed full of authenticity, with few big restaurant chains or hotel resorts and buckets of Caribbean charm. It’s all about drowsy, sun-soaked beauty, with tropical forest-fringed beaches and aquamarine seas, as well as the odd beautifully rustic beach bar lighting up the early hours of the morning. Put your sandy feet up at Playa Punta Uva, or don a snorkel and mask at Playa Chiquita and enjoy the tranquil beachscapes that fill the Caribbean coast.
While Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is equally as beautiful, it’s home to both world-class and beginner friendly surf breaks, making it more of a hub for hustle and bustle. Akin to the California of Costa Rica, there are plenty of surf shops and schools, yoga spots and chic boutiques lining the beaches between the swaying palms. Stay in beautiful beachside hotels off Playa Tamarindo or Playa Hermosa so that you never miss a wave.
Verdict: Despite their different vibes and levels of development, Costa Rica’s beaches are beautiful along both coastlines, so trying to decide between the Caribbean coast vs. Pacific is a tricky one. If surfing is your thing, then the Pacific may be more up your street, but if total R&R and tranquil beauty is for you, then head to the Caribbean coast. This round is a tie. One all.
Image by Tiago_Fernandez / Getty Images.
Although there are more national parks along the Pacific coast, Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is renowned for its incredible array of wildlife. Tortuguero National Park is a haven for nesting sea turtles, and is one of the most important sites for endangered green turtles in the Western hemisphere. If you’re lucky, you may also spot leatherback, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles nesting within the black sandy shores. Cahuita National Park is another fantastic spot, boasting some of the best coral reefs in the country. You might also fancy popping into the Tree of Life Wildlife Rescue Centre or the Jaguar Rescue Centre for another dose of animal spotting adrenaline.
The Pacific coast’s national parks are equally spectacular, featuring white sandy beaches that are home to monkeys and sloths. The entire coast is a haven for wildlife – think lowland rainforests, bustling jungle floors and stunning beaches waiting to be explored. Corcovado National Park is a must when on the Pacific coast; thought to be one of the most diverse places on the planet, it plays host to all kinds of monkeys, as well as elusive jaguars and scarlet macaws. Or, for the ultimate way to discover the Pacific coastline, why not take a private cruise through Ballena National Park to spot shimmering whales and dolphins?
Verdict: The battle of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast vs. Pacific continues, but the decision hasn’t become any clearer. Although the Caribbean coast has fewer national parks, it is home to spectacular nesting turtles, while the Pacific coast boasts seemingly endless parks, making animal spotting opportunities easy. This round is also a draw. Two all.
Image by Tobias Hausea/laif-REA.
Rain can certainly make a beach less appealing, even if the sea is crystal clear and the sand as white as snow, so venturing to Costa Rica’s coastlines at different times of year is key. The Caribbean coast is known for its heavy rainfall, especially between May and November. During these months, downpours are common, making the dense jungle wet and lush. The dry season (December to April) has more sunshine, but there may still be a chance of rain.
The Pacific coast, on the other hand, has a dry season which runs from May to November, filled with sumptuously sunny days and limited rainfall. The rainy season is a little more turbulent (with rainfall every day), and there are often microclimates along the coast so beware: you may encounter a shower or two.
Verdict: This is a tough one. Both areas endure heavy rainfall, but due to the Caribbean coast’s infamous torrential showers, this round earns the Pacific coast an extra point. The battle of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast vs. Pacific is 2-1 to the Pacific.
Image by MS.Perceptions/stock.adobe.com.
The results are in: Although the Pacific coast won this (only just, let’s add), we’ve concluded that there’s no point choosing between the coastlines. Spend a few days lounging under the shade of swaying palm trees on the Caribbean coast after exploring the gems beneath the sea, before heading to the Pacific coast to live out all of your ‘surfer dude’ fantasies. If that’s not paradise, we don’t know what is.
Written by Immy Kelly
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