Playa Avellanas
Beach · Guanacaste
A long, laid-back surf beach backed by mangroves and dry forest, with several breaks for every level — and a famous local pig that sometimes wanders into the shallows.
- Cost
- Free
- Time there
- 2.5 h
- Best time
- afternoon
- Kids
- 6 / 10
- View
- 8 / 10
- Crowds
- 5 / 10
- Swimming
- 5 / 10
- Effort
- 2 / 10
- Location
- 10.22895, -85.83856 — Google Maps
Tip
The parking lots charge a small fee in colones; at low tide the rock platform in front of the main lot is great for tide-pooling.
Be careful
Watch for rocks and sea urchins on the reef breaks and for rip currents on bigger days.
Places nearby
- Lola'sFood & CoffeeOne of Costa Rica's best-known beach restaurants: wooden tables right on the sand under palms and almond trees at Playa Avellanas, with surfers in front and postcard sunsets.
- La Esquina de AvellanasFood & CoffeeA small open-air food court and meeting spot in Playa Avellanas with a few restaurants, a natural-food store, a clothing boutique and artisan kiosks; it sometimes hosts live music and community events.
- Il RusticoFood & CoffeeA casual Italian restaurant on the main road in Playa Avellanas, run by a couple from central Italy: homemade pasta, pizza and salads with good ingredients – the prosciutto pizza comes with freshly shaved parmesan.
- Hacienda Pinilla Beach ClubDay Passes & Hot Springs · from $10Beachfront clubhouse inside the gated Hacienda Pinilla community, with a pool, restaurant and a surfable beach.
- Guti Tours Horseback RidingTours & Adventure · from $80Small-group horseback rides along the beaches south of Tamarindo, galloping on the sand and crossing volcanic rock.
- Corazón CaféFood & CoffeeSurf cafe near the Playa Negra turnoff that roasts its own beans; smoothie and açaí bowls for after the session.
Sources: OpenStreetMap way/518442272 · https://www.twoweeksincostarica.com/playa-avellanas-area-off-beaten-path-guanacaste/ · https://www.mondo.surf/surf-spot/playa-avellanas/guide/11958 · https://www.surf-forecast.com/breaks/Las-Avellanas