Tranquil Paradise: Matapalo Beach
Discover the pristine beauty and tranquility of Matapalo Beach, a hidden gem on Costa Rica's southern Pacific coast, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Matapalo Beach is a stunning, serene destination on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Known for its golden sands and vibrant sunsets, it offers visitors a slice of paradise perfect for relaxation, adventure, and exploration.
A brief summary to Matapalo Beach
- 9PJ7+48J, Puerto Jiménez, Matapalo, Puntarenas Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best beach experience and stunning sunsets.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities can be limited on the beach.
- Consider renting surfboards or booking a lesson if you're interested in trying out the waves.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially in the surrounding trees and bushes.
- Respect the environment by cleaning up after yourself and avoiding single-use plastics.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start from the entrance of Corcovado National Park. Head southeast on the main road towards Puerto Jiménez. Continue for approximately 15 kilometers until you reach the town of Puerto Jiménez. From there, take Route 245 heading south towards Matapalo. The road will become unpaved as you approach the beach, so be prepared for rough conditions. After about 12 kilometers, you will reach Matapalo Beach. Look for the sign indicating the beach entrance. Parking is available near the beach.
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Public Transportation
To reach Matapalo Beach using public transportation, start at the park entrance and take a bus or shuttle to Puerto Jiménez. Buses typically run several times a day. Once in Puerto Jiménez, you can catch a local bus or taxi heading towards Matapalo. The bus should drop you off near the beach entrance. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance, as services may be limited, especially on weekends.
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Walking
For a more adventurous option, if you're already in the vicinity of Matapalo Beach, consider walking from nearby accommodations or attractions. Follow the unpaved trails that lead towards the coast, but ensure you have a map or a guide, as the trails can be less defined. This option is best for those familiar with the area, as it may take several hours to reach the beach on foot.
Discover more about Matapalo Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Encanta la Vida
1.7 km
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Casa Bambu Beach Resort
2.1 km
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Lapa Rios Lodge
2.2 km
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El Remanso Rainforest Lodge
2.3 km
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Ojo del Mar Ecolodge
3.3 km
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Expore Osa Tours
4.0 km
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Boca Sombrero
4.7 km
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Blue Osa Yoga Retreat and Spa
7.3 km
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Blue Osa Beach Resort
7.3 km
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Four Monkeys Eco Lodge
7.7 km
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Playa Tamales
8.8 km
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Finca Bijagual
10.3 km
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Maze Lodge
12.1 km
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COPROT Tortugas de Osa
15.3 km
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Osa Jungle Hostel
15.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
King Louis Waterfall
0.3 km
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Casa Dos Rios
3.4 km
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Rancho Tropical
3.9 km
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Ave de Azul de la Osa
13.6 km
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Playa Preciosa
14.7 km
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Preciosa beach
15.1 km
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Playa Platanares
15.2 km
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Tortugas Preciosas de Osa
15.4 km
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Playa Pavones
16.4 km
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Reserva Biológica Isla del Caño
16.5 km
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Pavones Boat Tours
16.9 km
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Osa Interactive Gardens
17.3 km
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Playa Puerto Jiménez
17.9 km
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Corcovado National Park - El Tigre Trail
21.1 km
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Osa Cacao Chocolate Factory - Organic Farm Tours
22.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Buena Esperanza
3.1 km
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Pearl of the Osa
14.5 km
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Restaurante El tucan
16.5 km
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TIERRA A LA MESA
17.3 km
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El Rinconcito Sabroso
17.6 km
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Soda Deli Corcovado
17.6 km
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Italian Restaurant y Pizzeria Carolina
17.6 km
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Iguana Iguana
17.8 km
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Marisquería Corcovado Seafood
17.9 km
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Rancho Y Cabinas La Cuna
24.4 km
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La Cuna del Golfo
24.8 km
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Soda Leila
34.0 km
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Cruce de Bahia Drake
40.2 km
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Marisqueria Vista Mar
41.3 km
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Ventana al Golfo
43.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
El mercadito de Osa
16.5 km
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Bello Stile
16.9 km
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Osa Natural
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Cool Store Puerto Jiménez
16.9 km
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Corcovado Outlet
17.0 km
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Mercado Verde Osa
17.0 km
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Tienda Yorly
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Puerto Jimenez Suovenir Shop
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Lakos Surf Shop
17.2 km
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BM Jiménez
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Artes De Osa
17.3 km
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Mima Market
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EarthCo fine jewelry and more
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Verdulería El mercadito de osa
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Jagua Store Arts & Crafts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mar Luna Lodge
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Aventuras Café
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Driza Bar & Grill
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Jordy’s Bar
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La Esquina Sport Bar & Grill
17.6 km
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Soda Jiménez Colectivo
17.6 km
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El Garaje
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Soda Marbella
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Bar La Purruja
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La Casona Doña Tere
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Rancho Pika Pika
33.0 km
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Playa Blanca Beach Bar
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Osa Palmas Bar & Restaurante
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Bar los amigos
35.1 km
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Bar y Restaurante Chicharronera El Cedro
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