Playa Hermosa curves along a protected bay in Guanacaste, 7 kilometers north of Playas del Coco. This Blue Flag beach stretches 2 kilometers, known for its calm swimming waters and regular wildlife sightings along the palm-lined shore.
Unlike its namesake near Jaco, this Hermosa offers peaceful swimming conditions rather than surf breaks. The grey sand beach maintains a quieter atmosphere than neighboring Coco, while still providing modern services along the beach road. Both the Bosque del Mar and Margaritaville hotels mark the beach’s ends.
Morning hours bring clear, calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling near the rocky points. Local wildlife, particularly howler monkeys and scarlet macaws, frequently appear in the beach almond trees. The protected bay position means better swimming conditions than most nearby beaches.
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Start In Town
We start our Walk on Route 159 at Segunda Ent. Playa Hermosa. Route 159 is the main corridor through town. If you head south you’ll reach Playas del Coco, and if you head north you can reach the beaches of Playa Panama, Playa Buena & Playa Bonita. The primary supermarket is also slightly south on Route 159.
When we walk down Segunda Ent. Playa Hermosa, we’ll find many restaurants and hotels. This road is the primary road which allows cars to access the beach and other beachfront hotels. There are higher end hotels at the beginning of the road like Villa Acacia, Mangabay, Huetares Hotel & Villas. These hotels are well within walking distance to the beach. Further towards the beach, you’ll find more cabins and hostels.
We’ll reach an intersection with a road the runs north/south, which is parallel with the beach. You’ll find lots of advertisements for various activities on these signs, so be sure to check here if you’re looking for an adventure.
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Beautiful Beach
On to the beach, which is magnificent and very long. The beach has white sand and at the time of filming the water was very calm. The bay is flanked by two mountainous ranges. On the south one you can see the beaches of Poor Calzon and Playa Pence (which we have previously explored).
All along the beach there are hotels and restaurants which feature a picturesque view of the water, sunset and mountains. You can also set up anywhere for a picnic and play for the kids.
Towards the north end of the beach, there’s Condovac, which is a large area of rental units. There’s a small area of shops just off the beach on a street that is well marked. Then on further you’ll find the rocks. These rocks are covered on high tide, but when the water rescinds it provides a great walking area. You’ll see all kinds of crabs and small fish in the tide pools that remain.
Chill Vibes
Overall, Playa Hermosa is well worth the visit and a great location to stay for the duration of your trip if you’re seeking a calm and relaxing experience. It has a great beach and is still close to Coco and Liberia for amenities and shopping.
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Playa Hermosa Guanacaste FAQ: Blue Flag Beach Guide
Q: Where is Playa Hermosa located?
A: 7 km north of Playas del Coco. 30 minutes from Liberia Airport. Curved bay with 2 km grey-sand beach. Mountain backdrop views. Quieter than neighboring Coco.
Q: What makes this beach special?
A: Blue Flag beach status. Protected swimming bay. Morning calm waters. Good snorkeling at north and south ends. Natural palm shade. Less crowded than nearby beaches.
Q: What facilities exist?
A: Beach town basics: Small markets, Beachfront restaurants, Dive shops, Medical clinic, Tour offices. Bosque del Mar and Margaritaville mark beach ends.
Q: What activities are possible?
A: Swimming in protected bay. Snorkeling near rocks. Sunset sailing trips. Beach walking. Stand-up paddling. Scuba diving. Morning wildlife watching.
Q: What wildlife appears?
A: Regular sightings: Howler monkeys in trees, Macaws flying over, Iguanas on beach, Pelicans diving. Best viewing early morning. More active green season.
Q: How’s transportation?
A: Paved roads throughout area. Local buses connect to Coco. Taxis readily available. Walking good for beach area. Water taxis to hidden beaches.
Q: When to visit?
A: Morning hours calmest water. Dry season (December-April) most predictable. Green season has reliable mornings. Weekdays quieter than weekends.
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