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Playitas Beach: A Secluded Paradise in Manuel Antonio

Discover Playitas Beach: A tranquil escape with pristine sands, turquoise waters, and excellent surfing near Manuel Antonio National Park.

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Escape the crowds at Playitas Beach, a hidden gem near Manuel Antonio National Park known for its pristine sands, turquoise waters, and tranquil atmosphere. Perfect for swimming, surfing, and soaking up the sun in a more secluded setting.

A brief summary to Playitas Beach

  • Quepos, Puntarenas Province, CR

Local tips

  • Check the tide schedule before visiting, as access to Playitas Beach may be limited during high tide.
  • Bring your own snacks and drinks, as there are no shops or restaurants directly on Playitas Beach.
  • Consider visiting during the week for a more peaceful experience, as weekends can be more crowded.
  • Negotiate parking fees with vendors if driving, or use the limited paid parking available.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the main entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park, walk towards the main trail. Follow the paths for approximately 1.5 kilometers until you reach Playa Espadilla. Continue walking south along Playa Espadilla for 15-20 minutes until you arrive at Playitas Beach. Be mindful of the tide schedule.

  • Public Transport

    From Quepos, take the local bus towards Manuel Antonio. The bus will drop you off near the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park. From there, follow the walking directions to reach Playitas Beach. The bus fare is approximately 300-500 CRC.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi from your accommodation in Manuel Antonio or Quepos. Inform the driver you want to go to the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park or Playitas Road. From the park entrance, follow the walking directions. Taxi fares from Quepos to Manuel Antonio National Park range from 3,560 to 6,676 CRC. Taxis within Manuel Antonio can range from 5,000-7,000 CRC.

  • Driving

    If driving, take the main Manuel Antonio road (Route 618) toward Manuel Antonio National Park. Turn right before Plaza Vista Manuel Antonio onto Playitas Road, a dirt road approximately 1.5km long. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended. Park before the beach or on the beach itself, ensuring you park high enough to avoid the tide. Parking fees may apply.

Unlock the Best of Playitas Beach

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Discover more about Playitas Beach

Playitas Beach, also known as Playa Playitas, is a small, immaculate beach located on the northern end of Playa Espadilla in the Manuel Antonio area of Costa Rica. This secluded paradise offers a tranquil escape from the more crowded beaches in the area, with its delicate white sand and intensely turquoise waters. Playitas Beach is known for its gentle waves, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It's also a popular spot for surfing, especially for intermediate surfers. The beach's unique rock formations provide stunning photo opportunities and add to its picturesque charm. Historically, Playitas Beach has been a favored gathering spot for the LGBTQ+ community. While nudity is no longer permitted, the beach retains a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Keep an eye out for local vendors offering souvenirs, jewelry, and delicious snacks like fresh ceviche. You might also spot monkeys and other wildlife in the surrounding vegetation.

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