Playa Grande is popular the world over because it’s one of the top international surfing spots and is home to the endangered leatherback turtles who nest here. Of course apart from its claims to fame, this beach has drawn tourists worldwide because of all that’s to do and see.

Despite it being surrounded by commercialized areas like Playa Tamarindo, Playa Grande is still able to preserve their being a peaceful, laid-back and natural ambiance as well as surroundings.

This beach of pale sand and crystal blue warm waters with a background of cast and lush vegetation which naturally made a form of a cone that’s just mesmerizing.

Surfing in Playa Grande

Apart from the Witch’s Rock and Playa Jaco & Hermosa, Playa Grande is home to the most consistent waves and good breaks all surfers want to experience. If you’re coming to Costa Rica and want nothing more than a quiet and intimate bonding time with the waves, this beach is perfect for you.

Playa Grande has a sandy bottom, making it easier for rookie surfers to learn more about the basics of surfing. The waves here are big and flow all the way through a river mouth. With powerful breaks and huge hollow waves, you’ll be finding yourself chasing one wave after another.

Playa Grande Surf Camp

Conveniently located 100 meters away from the main beach of Grande, Playa Grande Surf Camp is owned by couple Patrick and Margo Gilhool and Gerry, Patrick’s brother. It used to be known as Jammin’ Surf Camp.

They allow rentals of both longboards and shortboards. They are open to teach all levels of surfers where they will find their learning experience fun and exhilarating.

Marino Las Baulas National Park

Playa Grande is actually a part of the refuge Marino Las Baulas National Park. It is a beach site where leatherback turtles nest between the months of October-May. But the declining number of these turltes that turn out every year is alarming that’s why more and more efforts are being done to protect these endangered species.

There are no hotels facing the beach and no night life in Playa Grande considering it is part of a nature haven which aims to preserve, conserve and protect the biodiversity that is very abundant in Costa Rica.

It encompasses an entire 445 hectares of mangrove swamps and coast lines with occasional sightings of various animals, insects, reptiles, amphibians, birds and many more.

Other Activities

In this quaint beach town, Playa Grande offers more than just surfing and learning more about preserving Mother Earth. Those who want the thrill of the outdoors can get their adrenaline fix through kayaking, horse back riding, canopy tours, scuba diving, atv tours and many more.

Costa Rica is one country you’ll never regret going to and find yourself wanting to go back to. SO if you’re in the province of Guanacaste and want a beach town that will make you feel like you’re home even if you’re hundreds of thousands of miles away from where you live, Playa Grande is the place you’ve been looking for.