Beaches

Playa Carmen. This Blue Flag beach, sometimes referred to as El Carmen, is just a stone's throw from the commercial development along the beach road, so it tends to attract more people. There's a parking lot and palm trees for shade. The waves offer excellent surfing for all levels, with dozens of beach breaks scattered along the wide, sandy strand. The sea grows rough and dirty during the May-to-December rainy season, with frequent swells that sometimes make it impossible to get out on a surfboard. Swimmers need to be careful of rip currents. Lifeguards are on duty year-round on weekends, from 9 am to sunset; more days during holiday periods. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: surfing. Playa Carmen, Santa Teresa, Puntarenas.

Playa Malpaís. South of the bustle of Playas Carmen and Santa Teresa, this Blue Flag beach is quieter and rockier, with interesting volcanic formations. The tougher surfing here was the original attraction that drew surfers from around the world, with a challenging break over a rock platform. Swimming is not advised, but the dramatic scenery is unbeatable. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: surfing; sunset. Malpais, Malpais, Puntarenas.

Playa Santa Teresa. Playa Carmen seamlessly segues into Playa Santa Teresa, about 1 km (½ mile) to the north. This flat, sandy Blue Flag beach is edged by forest and punctuated with rocky sections and tide pools at low tide. It's usually a calmer option for surfers, but swimmers need to take care, especially since there are no lifeguards here. The farther north you go, the less crowded the beach is. Beachfront hotels include Trópico Latino, Latitude 10, Florblanca and Pranamar; Rancho Itauna provides food and entertainment facing the beach. Amenities: none. Best for: surfing; walking. Santa Teresa, Santa Teresa, Puntarenas.