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Playa Jícaro (Papagayo Peninsula)

Beach · Guanacaste · hidden gem

A pretty cove inside Bahía Culebra on the Papagayo Peninsula, one of the boat-only beaches that tours visit for a swim and snorkeling around the rocks.

Time there
1.5 h
Best time
morning boat trip
Kids
6 / 10
View
8 / 10
Crowds
2 / 10
Swimming
8 / 10
Effort
2 / 10
Location
10.619, -85.67727 — Google Maps

Before you go

Tickets
Better to book ahead
Checked
2026-10

Tip

Ask for it on a private half-day boat tour from Playas del Coco.

Be careful

Rip currents are common on Costa Rican beaches and most have no lifeguard: swim only where locals do, never alone, and stay away from river mouths.

Getting there

Boat access only.

Places nearby

  • Roberto's (La Gaviota Tropical)Food & CoffeeBeachside restaurant at La Gaviota Tropical on Playa Hermosa, open from breakfast to late dinner; known for fresh fish and local cocktails.
  • Restaurante Mar AzulFood & CoffeeSeafood restaurant and fish market in Playas del Coco where you pick your fish, preparation and sauce from the day's catch brought in by local artisanal fishermen.
  • Mar & Tierra Restaurante Doña FlorSodas & Local FoodA friendly local restaurant a couple of blocks off Coco's main road, good for real Costa Rican food at fair prices: gallo pinto for breakfast, casados, fried rice and fresh fish later in the day, plus burgers, sandwiches and tacos.
  • Soda TeresitaSodas & Local FoodLively family soda on the road into Playas del Coco, with fish casados and kid-friendly fried chicken and fish fingers at soda prices.
  • Soda Jardín TropicalSodas & Local FoodSimple soda near the beach in Playas del Coco serving casados, grilled fish and big breakfasts all day; good value and generous portions.
  • Villa Buena OndaStays · from $110Private micro-resort near Playas del Coco that hosts one group at a time, with eight suites on six secluded acres.

Sources: OpenStreetMap way/544924387 · https://www.ict.go.cr/flipbook/guias/flip-en/GUIA_GUANACASTE_NORTE/files/basic-html/page43.html · https://vamosrentacar.com/blog/playas-del-coco-boat-tours/