Playa Grande: A Surfer's Paradise and Turtle Sanctuary

Playa Grande, or "Big Beach," is a significant part of the Las Baulas National Marine Park, established in 1990 to protect the nesting grounds of leatherback turtles. This 4.5-kilometer stretch of tan-colored sand and sparkling blue waters offers a tranquil escape from the bustling town of Tamarindo, just a short distance away. Playa Grande is renowned for its consistent surf breaks, attracting surfers of all levels. The main break, located south of the beach access point at Hotel Las Tortugas, features fast, powerful waves suitable for shortboarders. For longboarders, the Casitas point or the estuary/river mouth at the south end of the beach are popular spots. The dry season (December-April) offers smaller, cleaner waves, while the rainy season (May-November) brings bigger swells and fewer crowds. Beyond surfing, Playa Grande is a crucial nesting site for leatherback sea turtles, the largest of the sea turtles, with nesting season typically running from October to March. Visitors can witness the nesting and hatching process by taking a guided nighttime tour with a national guide, which requires registration at the MINAE office with a passport and a fee. These tours are essential to protect the turtles and their nesting grounds. The area also boasts diverse ecosystems, including mangrove forests and estuaries, perfect for bird watching and wildlife exploration. While the currents can be strong, the northern end of the beach offers access to Playa Ventanas, a smaller beach with a bay ideal for swimming and snorkeling.