Whether you're planning a long-term stay in Costa Rica or visiting for holidays, Conchal Beach- better known as Playa Conchal, should be on your list of must-visit destinations. Located in the northwest of the Guanacaste Province, Playa Conchal is considered as one of the most beautiful beaches of the country, a true dream for beach lovers!
Anyone expecting another one of those basic sand beaches should be surprised: The beach's ground consists of 98% white sea shells- so tiny one could mistake it for real sand. With its stunning turquoise waters, vibrant marine life such as manta rays, and sunny location, Conchal is a real beach-gem, loved by tourists and locals.
So whether you're a backpacker, traveling with your family, or a solo adventurer, Conchal Beach offers something for everyone. However, the tide and waves can get pretty strong, so be careful while swimming and never underestimate the water.
In this blog, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about this beautiful remote beach in Guanacaste—from reasons to visit and how to get there to the best activities, accommodations, and restaurants in the area. Let’s dive right in!
What makes Conchal Beach, Costa Rica unique?
Conchal Beach is located near the popular town of Tamarindo and constantly voted as the favorite beach by world travellers. Different aspects make it unique and a standout in the region:
Its most unique feature is its incredible white sand, which in reality is composed of white seashells that give the beach a sparkling and unique appearance, like nowhere else in the country.
The ocean glimmers bright turquoise in contrast to the white shells, a truly breathtaking panorama! The warm and deep waters are a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and a variety of water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or sportfishing.
The northwestern area of Guanacaste is rich in nature, offering travelers a chance to experience the local flora and fauna, and spot local wildlife such as tucans, reptiles, sloths, and marine life. However, if one wants to experience more intense wildlife, the best opportunities to do so are in the nearby Palo Verde and Rincon de la Vieja National Park.
How to get to Conchal Beach?
Getting to Conchal Beach can be a bit tricky, as there is no general access but the effort is more than worth it! Your journey will depend on where you're coming from:
From Liberia Airport:
Liberia International Airport (LIR) is the closest major airport to Conchal Beach, just about 75 minutes away by car.
There are several ways to reach Playa Conchal from the airport:
Private or shared Shuttle: Pre-booking a private (around $140 + tax) or a shared shuttle (around $50 + tax) will take you directly from the airport to your accommodation in around 1 hour.
Public Bus: If you're traveling on a budget, you can take a bus from Liberia to the nearby town of Brasilito, which takes approximately 2 hours. There you'll have to walk across the beach for about 20 minutes to reach Conchal Beach.
From Tamarindo:
Tamarindo is about 30 minutes away from Conchal Beach. You can take a taxi or Uber, rent a bike, or even walk if you’re up for it!
By Car
If you’re renting a car, use Google Maps or even better, Waze, for directions. The road to Conchal Beach is well-paved, and parking is available at several spots. We recommend parking at the Brasilito parking lot in the town center and then taking a 20 minute walk across Brasilito beach to get to Playa Conchal. Another parking option is Puerto Viejo on Conchal, which is the west side of Conchal beach, and from where you'll have to walk for approximately 30 minutes to get to the famous seashell beach.
Things to do at Conchal Beach
Conchal Beach is not just for sunbathing! There are various activities to enjoy at this beautiful destination:
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
The crystal-clear waters of Conchal Beach are perfect for snorkeling. Visitors can rent snorkel gear at the beach and spot a diverse range of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and, if you're lucky, manta rays. The best place to do so is on the eastern end of the beach. If you're into scuba diving, several nearby dive shops are offering guided tours.
Water Sports
For those who love adventure, Conchal Beach offers plenty of water sports, from jet skiing to stand-up paddleboarding, or kayaking. Equipment can be rented at the beach and many locals offer jet skiing tours.
Visit Playa Flamingo
Right next to Conchal Beach is Playa Flamingo, another stunning beach known for its golden sands and calm waters. This is a great spot for scuba diving and fishing or simply enjoying a peaceful beach day. If you want more information about Playa Flamingo, check out our blog article: Flamingo Beach, Costa Rica: your ultimate guide.
Wildlife Watching
If you're lucky, you may spot howler monkeys, iguanas, sloths or other wildlife near the beach. You can also take a wildlife tour in the nearby areas like the Marino Las Baulas National Park, home to leatherback turtles.
Best Restaurants near Conchal Beach: where to eat?
After a day of sun, sea and shells, the best way to end the day is by trying delicious local cuisine at diverse restaurants in the area. Some of the top restaurants near Conchal Beach are:
Papaya Restaurant
Located near Playa Conchal in Brasilito, Papaya Restaurant offers a delicious selection of local Costa Rican dishes like ceviche, fresh seafood, as well as steaks and vegetarian options. The relaxed atmosphere and "best margarita in Costa Rica" make it a perfect place to enjoy dinner after a long day on the beach.
The Beach House Restaurant
Situated on Playa Flamingo, The Beach House serves upscale, Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a beautiful setting. Whether you want to enjoy a delicious salad,a bowl or a burger, it’s perfect for those seeking a romantic dinner with an incredible ocean view.
La Casita Del Marisco
Located near Brasilito, this seafood restaurant offers fresh catches of the day and delicious Costa Rican dishes. Guests can choose between different fish options to choose from. From lobster and squid, to shrimp and mixed platters. Even though it is a one hour drive from Playa Conchal, it is more than worth the visit!
Hotels near Conchal Beach: where to stay?
There are several accommodation options near Conchal Beach, ranging from luxury resorts to more budget-friendly choices. Here are some recommendations:
The Westin Reserva Conchal
Phone: +506 2654 3500
Location: Guanacaste, Playa Conchal
Hotel Type: Luxury All-Inclusive Resort
If you’re looking for a luxury All-Inclusive experience, the Westin is the place to stay at! The resort offers high-end amenities including one of the biggest freshwater pools in Central America, a golf course, gourmet dining, and a spa to relax and end a beach day at. With direct access to the beach, and its own kids club, it is the perfect destination for families or anyone looking for a bit of pampering and relaxation.
Conchal Hotel
Email: info@conchalcr.com
Phone: +506 8749 2197
Location: Guanacaste, Brasilito
Hotel Type: Charming Hotel
For a more budget-friendly option, Conchal Hotel is a charming three-star hotel with easy access to the beach. All of their 12 rooms have either a garden or pool view, and this family-owned gem inhabits the papaya restaurant in its building. It’s perfect for solo travelers or couples who want a relaxed, affordable stay near the Pacific coast.
Airbnb and Vacation Rentals
If you prefer a more personalized experience, there are plenty of Airbnb options available near Conchal Beach. From small and cozy apartments to ocean-view villas, you’ll find accommodations that suit your budget and personal preferences.
Final Thoughts
With its breathtaking natural beauty, sea-shell sand and access to different adventure activities, Conchal Beach is a slice of paradise in Costa Rica, and a must-visit in the Guanacaste area. So whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with your family, Conchal Beach is a destination that welcomes all types of travelers to enjoy a beautiful beach day. So pack your bags and enjoy the Pura Vida lifestyle!
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Playa Conchal?
The dry season in Costa Rica runs from December to April, making it the best time to visit Conchal Beach for sunny days and clear skies. However, if you don’t mind a little afternoon rain, the green season (May to November) is quieter and offers a green rainforest landscape. We recommend visiting during the week, as it gets really crowded on weekends.
What to bring to Playa Conchal?
Is Playa Conchal safe?:
How to get to Playa Conchal from Tamarindo?
Are there sharks in Playa Conchal?
How is the access to Playa Conchal?
How far is it from Brasilito to Playa Conchal?
What is the most beautiful beach in Guanacaste?
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