Arco Beach, South Pacific Travel Guide
Discover Arco Beach in Puntarenas: a hidden tropical paradise with golden sands, clear waters, and stunning natural beauty within Costa Rica's Marino Ballena National Park.
Arco Beach, or Playa Arco, is a hidden gem within Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica, near Uvita and Dominical. Known for its natural arch, crystalline waters, and lush surroundings, it offers a tranquil escape and diverse activities within Marino Ballena National Park.
A brief summary to Arco Beach
- Puntarenas Province, CR
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Arco Beach.
- Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Check the tide schedule, as the beach is best visited during low tide.
- Wear appropriate footwear for walking on dirt paths through the jungle.
- Explore local eateries for authentic Costa Rican dishes, especially seafood.
Do you manage this location?
Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo
Activate your presenceOther nearby places you may find interesting
The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.
Explore Arco Beach on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Arco Beach, mapped for you.
Getting There
-
Walking
Arco Beach is accessible by walking from neighboring beaches Uvita and Ballena, as there is no direct access from the coastal road. Depending on the tide, the walk can be along the beach or through trails. Check tide charts before you go.
-
Public Transport
To reach Arco Beach via public transportation, take a bus from San Jose to Uvita. Buses depart regularly from Terminal 7-10 in San Jose; the fare is approximately $10. From Uvita, you can take a local bus or taxi to the entrance of Marino Ballena National Park, and then walk to Arco Beach. A taxi from Uvita to Playa Arco will cost around $15-$20. Confirm the fare before starting your journey.
-
Car
If driving, head towards Uvita, about 40 km south of Dominical. From Uvita, take the Costanera Sur Highway (Route 34) south. After about 15 km, look for signs to Playa Arco. Parking is limited and may cost around $5.
Discover more about Arco Beach
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
Explore More of South Pacific
Looking beyond Arco Beach? Discover South Pacific for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore South Pacific
Experience Uvita's charm at this eco-friendly hostel near Marino Ballena National Park, offering comfort, community, and sustainable living.
Experience luxury and nature at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa, near Uvita, Costa Rica. Ocean views, rainforest trails, and national park adventures.
