Playa Matapalo (Guanacaste)

Tip

Ask locally where the public access and parking are before you drive in, and bring your own water and shade.

Be careful

Rocks at both ends are slippery at low tide, and there is no lifeguard on duty.

Places nearby

• Costa Rica Amazing TripsTours & AdventureLicensed local tour desk covering the Papagayo coast, with combos to Rincón de la Vieja, rafting, diving at Playas del Coco and sailing.
• Diamante Eco Adventure ParkTours & Adventure · takes 4 h–8 h · from $15An all-in-one adventure park on a private bay near Playa del Coco: an almost mile-long dual Superman zipline with Pacific views, a free-fall jump, ATVs, and a sanctuary with sloths, big cats, toucans and butterflies, plus lunch and a beach with kayaks and paddleboards.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Pura Vida Ride (Las Catalinas)Surf, Boats & DivingOutdoor shop in car-free Las Catalinas that rents mountain bikes, kayaks and paddleboards and guides rides on the town's trail network, with a coffee stand on Playa Danta.