Avoid Costa Rica Crowds At This Incredibly Beautiful, Remote Beach With Gorgeous Water

If your idea of paradise involves turquoise water, soft sand, and barely another person in sight, then Playa Minas should be at the top of your list. Hidden away on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica's Guanacaste province, this secluded cove is gorgeous and remote, and the perfect place to unwind. It's about an hour-and-a-half drive from Guanacaste Airport (LIR), and while the route includes rougher, unpaved stretches, the destination is worth the bumpy ride.

Also known as Playa Zapotillal, Playa Minas isn't surrounded by the typical tourist infrastructure you'll find at nearby beaches like Flamingo or Conchal. But that also means it's a lot less crowded. The shoreline is framed by rocky cliffs and coastal jungle, and the waves are gentler than many nearby surf beaches, making it ideal for swimming on calm days. However, currents in Costa Rica can always be dangerous, so be sure to keep an eye out for riptides, and never go out into the water alone.

What really sets Playa Minas apart is its locals-only feel. Even during high season, you might only share the entire beach with a handful of people. It's a local favorite for families and nature lovers looking for a low-key day of relaxing by the ocean. There's lots of space to spread out, get in snorkeling near the rocks, or just enjoy the quiet sound of the waves. Remember to bring your own shade, water, and anything you might need — there's nothing else around, exactly how regulars like it.

Costa Rica is often difficult for tourists to navigate, but finding Playa Minas is part of the adventure. From the main road to Huacas, continue toward Matapalo, then make your way through a series of side roads. Eventually, you'll see a dirt road that ends in a small parking area behind the beach. The final stretch can be rough, especially during rainy season (May-November), so a high-clearance vehicle or 4x4 is recommended — although hiring a driver would probably be easiest. For anyone driving, Waze is an essential tool for navigating Costa Rica's smaller towns.

Upon arrival, park wherever you find space. You may be greeted by a local attendant (a guachiman — sounds like "watchy-man") who charges a small fee for security. There are no facilities or restaurants within walking distance, so come prepared with snacks, drinks, and a convenient way to pack out your trash and take it with you. Many visitors bring a cooler, a hammock, and a beach umbrella to make a full day of it. This beach is also popular among locals for camping.

The best time to visit is during dry season from December-April, when skies are clear and roads are in better shape. Weekdays are typically the quietest. On weekends and holidays, you might see a few Costa Rican families enjoying picnics, but it doesn't get overrun the way Tamarindo or Playa Grande can. If you're lucky, you might even spot sea turtles — Playa Minas is considered a minor nesting site. However, always give wildlife plenty of space and never interfere. For the best chance of seeing turtles, consider booking a guided tour nearby. Sloth Tamarindo's Minas tour is $75 per person.

After a day at Playa Minas, you're only about 20 to 45 minutes from towns like Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, and Brasilito for dining, shopping, and accommodations. You can easily stay in one of those areas and make Playa Minas your go-to day trip for time away from crowds. Foodies wanting seriously good local food should check out Big Momma's Kitchen on the way to or from the beach. It's on the same road from Matapalo, and there's also a place to book horseback riding tours on the next street over.

About a 45-minute drive from Playa Minas, Tamarindo is the closest touristy town, with surf shops, nightlife, and a range of accommodations. It also hosts the world's longest whale-watching season, essentially from July to the following March. For something quieter, Playa Flamingo is known for its white-sand beaches, marina, and upscale accommodations, while Brasilito offers a more local vibe with authentic sodas (traditional Costa Rican restaurants) and affordable places to stay. If you're interested in snorkeling or boat tours, Flamingo is your best bet, and many tour operators offer excursions that pass by Playa Minas or anchor nearby for a swim.

You can also explore other off-the-beaten-path beaches in the area, like Playa Real or Playa Nombre de Jesús, both just south of Playa Minas. These remote beaches offer stunning scenery and great chances to spot wildlife. If you're up for a short hike, the viewpoint just south of Playa Minas has stunning panoramic views of the Pacific and the surrounding forest. Whether you're road-tripping across Guanacaste or just looking for a beach day off the typical tourist trail, Playa Minas is one of the region's best-kept secrets.