Costa Rica Beaches

Playa Negra

Playa Negra is a pristine, isolated and remote black sand beach located south of Tamarindo. The beach is one of Costa Rica’s most sought after surf locations. The dark colored sand beach is broken up by rocky outcroppings and many tide pools. At the southern end of the beach is a protected area ideal for swimming. Dirt roads and river crossings provide the only access, and a four wheel drive car is a must. In front of the surf break is the only beach front establishment, Hotel Playa-Negra. A kilometer inland is the laid back peaceful village of Los Pargos with lodging and restaurants.

The Surf Break

The surf break was made famous in the 1994 movie Endless Summer II. The break is consistent throughout the year, and attracts many pro surfers. The small take-off zone has a fast hollow right hand barrel, and has a well defined channel for paddling out. The best time to surf is during high tide as the surf rushes over a shallow rocky bottom. As the take-off zone is quite small, the break gets crowded easily.

Getting to Playa Negra

Playa Negra is located about 30 minutes south of Tamarindo. Cars can be rented in San Jose (4.5 hrs), Liberia (1.5 hr) and in Tamarindo (30 min), four wheel drive is highly recommended. The closest national airport is Tamarindo Airport, serviced by Nature Air and Sansa. Bus shuttles to Tamarindo can be arranged through Interbus and Grayline. Taxi service from Tamarindo to Playa Negra is readily available.