Conchal Beach (Playa Conchal)

Your reward for giving up direct access and plentiful amenities is Playa Conchal's castaway vibe. Bring snorkeling gear and swim with colorful reef fish, or explore the length of the beach on horseback at sunset. If you want more action, hang around the Westin resort where Jet Ski rentals and massage vendors bring Conchal to life. Many Guanacaste ATV tours also stop here for a joy ride on the flat, sandy shores.

• There are few amenities directly on the beach, so bring what you need for the day.

• Brasilito Beach at the north end has a small selection of bars and restaurants.

• Cabanas and umbrellas can be rented near the Westin resort.

• Look for the strolling vendors who offer budget-friendly beach massages.

• Watch children closely, as ocean currents can be strong, and there is no lifeguard.

Playa Conchal is located between Playa Flamingo and Tamarindo in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste province, an hour from the Liberia airport. There is no direct road or parking lot nearby. Many visitors park at Brasilito and take a scenic 15-minute stroll (about 1.2 miles or 2 kilometers). Alternatively, join an ATV tour for an off-road beach ride.

Costa Rica is beloved for its year-round beach weather, so there's no bad time to visit Playa Conchal. However, the dry season (June through November) is more likely to have sunny skies all day. Weekends get crowded, so visit on a weekday for a more secluded experience.

Guanacaste province boasts many of Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches, and you can get a sampler of sandy toes, swimming, and sunbathing at different spots without traveling too far. If you have access to a vehicle, you can drive the 12 miles (20 kilometers) from Playa Conchal to the famous surf spot of Tamarindo in about 30 minutes, while the serene Playa Flamingo is even closer. Many ATV and combo tours also stop at a handful of beaches along the Pacific Coast.