Playa La Macha
Beach · Central Pacific · hidden gem



A small hidden beach below Manuel Antonio with a sea stack offshore. It is reached by a steep, muddy forest trail with fixed ropes, and at low tide there is plenty of sand and almost nobody around.
- Cost
- Free
- Time there
- 2 h
- Best time
- morning
- Kids
- 1 / 10
- View
- 7 / 10
- Crowds
- 1 / 10
- Swimming
- 3 / 10
- Effort
- 7 / 10
- Location
- 9.41577, -84.16473 — Google Maps
- Ratings
- 4.3 on Google (250)
Tip
Go at low tide in the morning in shoes with real grip (not flip-flops) and check tide times before you start.
Be careful
The trail is steep and slippery, especially after rain, and the beach can shrink or vanish at high tide, so leave enough time to climb back.
Getting there
Unsigned trailhead and a steep descent with ropes; not suitable for small children or for rainy days.
Places nearby
- Vista Dorada, Chicharronera y MiradorFood & CoffeeA small local spot up a rough side road near Ronny's Place, with sunset ocean views, generous chicharrón platters and a very Tico atmosphere, sometimes with karaoke or live music.
- Ronny's PlaceFood & CoffeeHilltop restaurant on a 90-acre farm above Manuel Antonio (open since 2003) with a huge open dining hall, sunset views over the coast, a seafood-focused menu and live music some evenings.
- El LagartoFood & CoffeeWood-fired grill house where meat and seafood are cooked over open flames in front of you, with sunset views from the dining room.
- El RanchitoFood & CoffeeRestaurant in El Cerro, on the road from Quepos up to Manuel Antonio, known for fresh catch of the day, friendly service and macaws that drop by.
- Soda El AngelSodas & Local FoodSmall local soda on the road to Manuel Antonio, across from the ocean and the forest, serving fish and chicken casados and vegetarian burritos at everyday prices; parakeets and falcons often pass by.
- Brisa Elegante (wooden sailing ship)Surf, Boats & DivingDay cruises aboard a classic wooden sailboat from Marina Pez Vela, with swimming, paddleboards and kayaks, and food on board.
Sources: OpenStreetMap way/32514456 · https://www.openstreetmap.org/way/32514456 · https://www.google.com/maps/search/Playa+La+Macha+Manuel+Antonio