Playa Mansita

Tip

Little is published about this spot: go early and ask locals about access and conditions.

Be careful

Watch for rip currents and check tides; many beaches have no lifeguards.

Places nearby

• Hacienda Pinilla Beach ClubDay Passes & Hot Springs · from $10Beachfront clubhouse inside the gated Hacienda Pinilla community, with a pool, restaurant and a surfable beach.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Guti Tours Horseback RidingTours & Adventure · from $80Small-group horseback rides along the beaches south of Tamarindo, galloping on the sand and crossing volcanic rock.
• Hotel Capitán SuizoStays · from $10Long-running beachfront hotel on the quieter south end of Tamarindo beach, with bungalows and suites set in tropical gardens.