La Sirena & Esterillos Oeste Tide Pools

Tip

Turn right on the paved road after the Super Sol market and drive to the end: you'll park right in front of the tide pools.

Be careful

The open beach has rough waves and rip currents, so swim only in the larger tide pools. Please don't climb on the statue. Don't leave valuables in the car.

Getting there

You can only walk out to the mermaid at low tide; at high tide the surf surrounds her. Check a tide chart first.

Places nearby

• Soda MargaritaSodas & Local FoodRustic palm-roofed soda at the north end of Esterillos Oeste, near the tide pools, for a traditional breakfast or lunch.
• Los AlmendrosFood & CoffeeLaid-back restaurant under almond trees a block from the beach in Esterillos Oeste, with Asian-Caribbean dishes, the day's fresh fish and vegan options.
• The Riding AdventureTours & AdventureBeach horseback rides since 2005 on an almost empty beach at Esterillos Este, guided by a local cowboy and his mustangs.
• CR Beach Barn (Horseback Riding on the Beach)Tours & AdventureBeach horseback rides at sunrise, morning or sunset along Esterillos, with well-trained horses, fresh coconut drinks and a guide who takes good photos.
• Ocean Ranch ParkTours & Adventure · takes 2 h–7 h · from $55A huge private river valley just outside Jacó where you can zipline, rappel beside a waterfall, ride horses or ATVs through the rainforest and finish with lunch, all in one day.
• Hotel Playa Bejuco — Sunsets RestaurantFood & CoffeeSimple, locally run hotel a minute from Playa Bejuco whose poolside restaurant serves Costa Rican plates like arroz con pollo and casados.