Tamarindo to Playa Grande
Learn to surf with more elbow room
Book an exclusive offer with Frijoles Locos for a group surf lesson for all of the perks, plus! We are talking a nature rich boat ride, personalized instruction in the water and schedule flexibility for up to 4 people: $145.
Learn
Discover why Playa Grande is a world-class paradise for surfers, adventurers and vacationers alike. Keep up with our blog, check out the FAQ or read up on what makes Grande the gem of Costa Rica’s Gold Coast.
Watch
Our Playa Grande surf cam is always keeping tabs on the ocean. No matter where you are in the world, you can tune in daily to see sunsets, surf and gorgeous views of the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Plan
A vacation to Playa Grande isn’t going to plan itself. Check out our maps, travel guides, pro tips and more. In addition to providing loads of info, we’re happy to assist with booking tours and accommodations.
Play
Vacation is a magical time when you get to do what you want to do. From high energy water sports to a relaxing day poolside, if you’re staying in Grande, you’ll have plenty of activities to choose from.
Stay and Surf Playa Grande
Popular Hotels & Rental Houses
RipJack Inn Beaches Costa Rica
RipJack Inn is eco-tourism at its finest. From the towering hibiscuses to the freshest catch they’re serving UpStairs, RipJack Inn has created an atmosphere that can only be described as ‘tropically refined’.
Casa de Amigos Beaches Costa Rica
Casa de Amigos is a spacious, 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom uniquely designed property that was recently renovated to maximize the vacation experience for larger groups. The blue-tile pool out back is perfect for taking a dip or just lounging.
Pancho’s Villa Beaches Costa Rica
Pancho’s Villa provides a unique & private tropical setting that includes a lush and vibrant, colorful landscaping. The 2-bed/2-bath main house is perfect for a family of 4, or 2 couples. The 1-bed/1-bath casita is ideal for those who value peace & quiet.
Make Playa Grande Your Home Away from Home
Playa Grande beach is miles long of fine, pale sand; perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely beach stroll and a warm ocean breeze. It is important to note that the entire beach coast is protected and belongs to Las Baulas National Park, meaning you must take care with the soft upper part of the beach as it may contain delicate turtle eggs waiting to hatch. Additionally, the beach is off limits from 6pm to 6am October through March to avoid disturbing the unique rhythm of sea turtle lying; the only exception for night time visitors includes a park guide and turtle watching tours.
Playa Grande is packed with tour options and things to do! Explore the 1,500-acre estuary with a kayak and see the variety to mangroves and exotic animals, including aquatic birds and crocodiles that thrive there. Travel to the northern end of Playa Grande to Playa Ventanas and jump into beautiful snorkeling waters. Take care swimming in Playa Grande open sea, as the sea floor does drop steeply and rip currents can be strong.
Play Days Are Every Day in Playa Grande
MyPlayaGrande is your go-to guide to Playa Grande, a sleepy little surf town on the north Pacific rim of Costa Rica. Here you can find all the info you need about the area’s hotels, restaurants, activities and more to help you plan the ultimate vacation. Whether you’re looking for tasty barrels or eats, pretty sweet accommodations or an adventure to write home about, discover what’s going on in Playa Grande here at MyPlayaGrande.
Situated on the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Grande is a small surf town with a consistently great wave. Playa Grande is approximately a 22 km drive, or a quick boat ride across the estuary from bustling Tamarindo that offers a contrast of seclusion and tranquility. A haven for eco-friendly tourists, Playa Grande can be described as an escape for those who wish to avoid crowds, enjoy the estuaries, and some of the best surf in all of Costa Rica. The neighborhood is composed mostly of foreign investors with luxury vacation homes and hotels who often rent them to tourist during the holidays and peak seasons. From fusion dining to local cuisine, the Playa Grande area has several exceptional restaurants.
Sailing
Surfing
Fishing
Turtle Tours
Zip Lining
Snorkeling
What's Going on in Grande
-
MOREA Full Vacation Package for Mindful Travelers
Costa Rica is an epicenter for vacations for many reasons: the scenery, the adventures, the relaxation. But there is so -
MORETamarindo Travelers, Learn to Surf in Grande
Better Surf and Less of a Crowd at Playa Grande With so many people taking surf lessons in Tamarindo, the -
MOREFamily Fun at Frijoles Locos All Summer Long
What better way to celebrate graduation and show pride in your shiny new grad than a trip to Costa Rica? -
MORE7 Tips When Renting A Car in Costa Rica
Getting to Costa Rica has gotten so much easier since the opening and continual expansion of the Daniel Oduber Quiros -
MOREReturning Visitors | Meet Mark Allison
When you have a story, share it—especially if it’s about Playa Grande! For those that know the area, tourists come -
MOREMore Waves, Less People in the Line Up
No Doubt Playa Tamarindo Is a Hot Spot Tamarindo is one of THE hottest vacation destinations in all of Costa Rica. -
MORELearn to Surf the Locos Way
Ask a surfer, and they’ll tell you there’s no better place to be than in the water. But for those -
MOREExperience Palo Verde
Immerse yourself in the natural wonder of Palo Verde National Park with a guided Rio Tempisque river tour during your -
MORE
10 Reasons You’ll Love Staying at RipJack Inn
Nestled along three miles of Playa Grande coastline, RipJack Inn is a beautiful place to hang your hat, kick off
