hidden· beach
Playa Lagarterito
A small, relatively hidden beach on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast in Guanacaste
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Santa Cruz
A small, relatively hidden beach on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast in Guanacaste
Playa Lagarterito is a rugged, largely undiscovered beach on Costa Rica's Guanacaste coast, where dark volcanic sand meets rocky tide pools and dramatic Pacific swells. The remote location near Santa Cruz maintains an authentic fishing-village character, drawing adventurous travelers seeking solitude rather than the crowded scenes of nearby Tamarindo or Nosara. Arrive in late afternoon to experience the beach's signature attraction—fiery sunsets that illuminate the jagged coastline and rough seas. The strong surf and rugged terrain reward exploration, while the sparse development preserves the wild, untamed feel of this corner of the Nicoya Peninsula.
Plan your visit for late afternoon to catch the beach's signature fiery sunsets across the jagged coastline, and arrive prepared for strong surf and rugged terrain that demand careful exploration. Expect dark volcanic sand, rocky tide pools, and sparse development—bring water and snacks, as services are limited, and note that roads may require higher clearance especially during rainy season.
Best Time to Visit
Visit December–April for calm seas, clear skies, and dry conditions ideal for swimming and sunbathing; expect moderate crowds, especially weekends. May–November brings rougher surf, afternoon rain, and fewer tourists—good for surfers and solitude seekers. Early morning (6–8am) offers the calmest water and fewest people year-round.
What Changes Through The Year
Dry Season (Dec–Apr)
Landscape becomes dusty golden hills with dry forest and cactus-like vegetation; intense sun exposure is characteristic of this period.
Green Season (May–Nov)
Everything turns intensely green; roads may become rougher and require higher clearance due to rainy season conditions.
Getting There
From Santa Cruz, head west toward the coast. The beach is accessible via local roads from Santa Cruz, approximately 20-30 km away. Road conditions vary; inquire locally about current access routes.
What to Bring
Safety Considerations
Who This Is For
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Wildlife
Leatherback turtles nest here in darkness — the beach is theirs first
Swimming
A beach made entirely of crushed shells — no sand, only conchitas
Swimming
One of the most famous surf beaches and beautiful stretches of coastline on the Central Pacific
Hidden Gems
A small hidden beach near Manuel Antonio and Quepos
Hidden Gems
One of the wildest and most biodiverse destinations
Living traditions near this place
🫘 Harvest Life
Purple corn ground on a volcanic stone, fermented three days in open clay — older than the word corn
🪡 Artisan Traditions
One of the last surviving links to an Indigenous civilization that shaped much of Guanacaste's cultural identity
🪡 Artisan Traditions
The gourd vessel that predates pottery in the region — still carved with achiote and charcoal pigments
🥘 Markets & Food
The cattle arrive on foot every Saturday — this is what a working livestock market looks like