Life on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast

From sun‑kissed shores to lush mangrove estuaries, Costa Rica’s Pacific coastline is a tapestry of golden beaches, hidden coves and vibrant surf towns. Snorkel in crystal‑clear bays, encounter dolphins off the Osa Peninsula and unwind beneath swaying palms on Playa Carrillo. Pristine parks like Manuel Antonio and Marino Ballena preserve coastal rainforests, coral reefs and nesting sea turtles—inviting adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Pacific Coast Treasures

Stretching over 1,200 miles, the Pacific shore shelters diverse ecosystems: sandy spits where scarlet macaws flit through mangroves, tidepools teeming with starfish and manta rays gliding just offshore. Adventure seekers hike coastal promontories at Marino Ballena, watch humpbacks breach in winter, or surf point breaks at Pavones—celebrated by Wikipedia and National Geographic alike.

“On the Pacific coast, every sunrise over the sea feels like a promise of discovery.”
— María Vargas, Marine Biologist

Santa Lucía Falls: Uvita’s Rainforest Oasis

Just a short drive inland from the coast, Santa Lucía Falls sits on private land near Uvita. Trek beneath towering palms and giant ferns to three thundering waterfalls and hidden emerald pools. Recharge with a homemade Costa Rican lunch of farm‑fresh rice, beans, yucca and tropical fruit. After dark, lantern‑lit Explora en la Oscuridad tours reveal glowing frogs and elusive reptiles under the canopy.

• Paraíso Verde: 4‑Hour Waterfall Trek
• Mañanas de Plumaje: Sunrise Bird‑Watching
• Explora en la Oscuridad: Night Hike

Plan Your Coastal & Jungle Escape

Combine the best of both worlds—surf and sun on the Pacific beaches, then cool off in Santa Lucía’s rainforest waterfalls. Browse our full tour calendar, subscribe for the latest coastal wildlife updates on News & Updates, and discover how your adventure supports Ecotourism & Conservation in Costa Rica.