
Playa Chiquita Puerto Viejo Costa Rica
A secluded, tree-lined beach in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, offering tranquil waters, natural tide pools, and a jungle path for a truly enchanting escap...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Calm tide pools for relaxing

Playa Chiquita Puerto Viejo Costa Rica
Best Time
Calm tide pools for relaxing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded, tree-lined beach in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, offering tranquil waters, natural tide pools, and a jungle path for a truly enchanting escape.
"This is a lovely beach, quite secluded, so it almost feels private. "

👟 Trail-Ready Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for the jungle path; it can be uneven with roots and holes.
⚠️ Respect the Ocean
Be aware of rip currents and undertows. This is an unsupervised beach.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Secluded Jungle Beach
Playa Chiquita
Escape to a tranquil, tree-lined shore that feels like your own private paradise. Perfect for relaxation and soaking up nature.

Natural Swimming Pools
Playa Chiquita
Discover calm tide pools when the tide is low, offering a safe and serene spot to relax and enjoy the gentle waves.

Wildlife Encounters
Jungle trails to Playa Chiquita
Keep an eye out for toucans and listen for the majestic Great Green Macaws flying overhead near sunset.
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Planning Your Visit
Accessing Playa Chiquita
Ocean Safety First
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Trail-Ready Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for the jungle path; it can be uneven with roots and holes.
⚠️ Respect the Ocean
Be aware of rip currents and undertows. This is an unsupervised beach.
🚶♀️ Explore the Coastline
Bike from Puerto Viejo to Manzanillo, stopping at Chiquita, Punta Uva, and Cocles.
🌳 Seek Natural Shade
The jungle canopy provides excellent shade, especially from midday onwards.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Trail-Ready Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for the jungle path; it can be uneven with roots and holes.
⚠️ Respect the Ocean
Be aware of rip currents and undertows. This is an unsupervised beach.
🚶♀️ Explore the Coastline
Bike from Puerto Viejo to Manzanillo, stopping at Chiquita, Punta Uva, and Cocles.
🌳 Seek Natural Shade
The jungle canopy provides excellent shade, especially from midday onwards.
📸 Capture the Macaws
Look and listen for Great Green Macaws flying over the beach before sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Chiquita is a secluded gem offering a tranquil escape with its tree-lined shores and natural tide pools. Visitors love its peaceful atmosphere and the chance to spot wildlife, though caution is advised due to strong ocean currents and the rugged jungle access path.
"This is a lovely beach, quite secluded, so it almost feels private. At least when you walk a little bit along the shore to a quiet area. It's nice to just relax here in the shades, or not, if you like to get tanned. Beware of the rip tides, it was quite intense when we were there. There is no supervision, just warning flags and some rescue materials at certain points. No beach amenities, just one beach club to the north side of the beach."
Benjamin P
"Beach has a strong undertow. There is a warning sign when you get there. When the tide is in there is drop off and rocks to be aware of. This is an unsupervised beach. We had to walk down a path to get to the beach. The path has tons of holes with crabs. 🦀 At points we had to take a path cut through the jungle to stroll at length down the beach. Note this is not a “groomed” beachfront. It is lovely tho."
vani edwardson
"A hidden gem in Costa Rica. Inaccessible by road, you have to walk a trail through the rainforest to get to this beach which makes it all the more enchanting. I spent time over Christmas 2023 and New Year in this very area, and visited this secluded beach every day to soak up the tranquillity. The jungle lines the sand which provides shade from around lunchtime onwards. As it's hidden away it seems nobody visits here and you become quite attached to your own private beach. The Caribbean Sea is so clear here, so ideal for swimming and snorkelling. We carried body boards through the jungle on our 1st day, but the waves were too small for that, so I wouldn't bother. During swell season, the rip tides are no joke so be very careful. Every day, around a half an hour before sunset, a handful of Great Green Macaws fly over the beach, heading homewards for the evening. You could set your watch to it. What an amazing sight, although you will definitely hear them before you see them. This sight also makes the locals very happy, as only 10 years ago there was none of these magnificent birds left in the wild in this area. Conservation and a reintroduction program in the Puerto Viejo area have successfully brought these back from the dead and it is a joy to hear their calls over the sound of the waves while sitting on this beach. You can also see lots of other wildlife activity on the jungle walk to here - namely 3 different types of toucans which seem plentiful. Another world! This is the perfect place to escape the corporate grind and clear your mind."
Alan Egan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa Chiquita is located a short distance south of Puerto Viejo. The most popular way to get there is by biking along the coastal road, which takes about 15-20 minutes. You can also take a taxi or local bus. Remember, the beach itself is accessed via a jungle trail, not directly from the road.
While you can drive to the general area of Playa Chiquita, direct car access to the beach is limited. You'll need to park and walk a short jungle path to reach the sand. This adds to its secluded charm.
Finding the exact entrance can be a bit tricky for first-timers. Look for small signs or paths leading off the main road between Puerto Viejo and Punta Uva. Some locals might point you in the right direction.
Yes, Playa Chiquita is part of a beautiful stretch of coastline. You can easily bike or walk to it from neighboring beaches like Cocles Beach, Punta Uva, and even Manzanillo if you're up for a longer excursion.
The path is generally a jungle trail, which can be uneven with roots and occasional holes. It's not a paved walkway. Wearing appropriate footwear like sneakers or sturdy sandals is recommended, especially if you plan to explore further.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Playa Chiquita is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy its natural beauty for free.
Playa Chiquita is largely undeveloped. You won't find public restrooms, showers, or extensive facilities. There might be a beach club or restaurant nearby, but it's best to come prepared with your own water and essentials.
As a natural beach, Playa Chiquita is accessible at all hours. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate its beauty.
Yes, there are several charming villas and guesthouses located very close to Playa Chiquita, some offering jungle settings and easy beach access.
While the tide pools can be great for kids when the tide is low, the ocean can have strong currents. Parents should exercise extreme caution and supervise children closely. Some reviews mention the beach access not being ideal for very young children.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
Playa Chiquita's calm waters and reefs make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling when the conditions are right. However, be very cautious of rip currents and undertows, especially during high tide or swell season. Always check local conditions and heed warning signs.
The jungle surrounding Playa Chiquita is teeming with life. You might spot various types of toucans and, if you're lucky, Great Green Macaws flying overhead, especially near sunset. Keep an eye out for monkeys and other creatures on the jungle trails.
Yes, the clear waters and reefs at Playa Chiquita make it a good spot for snorkeling, particularly when the sea is calm. You can explore the underwater world right off the shore.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a towel. Since amenities are scarce, packing a small first-aid kit is also a good idea. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery!
Playa Chiquita is known for its secluded feel, especially if you walk a bit along the shore. It's generally less crowded than some of the more popular beaches in Puerto Viejo, offering a more peaceful experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Directly on Playa Chiquita, options are limited. There's a mention of a beach club on the north side. For more variety, you'll find restaurants and cafes in nearby Puerto Viejo or along the coastal road.
Just a short bike ride away in Puerto Viejo, you'll find a wide array of restaurants offering local Caribbean cuisine, international dishes, and Italian options like pizza.
Absolutely! Playa Chiquita is a perfect spot for a picnic. Pack your own food and drinks to enjoy amidst the natural beauty. Remember to pack out everything you pack in to keep the beach pristine.
Yes, El Nido e' Pulecenella in Playa Chiquita is highly recommended for authentic Neapolitan pizza, offering a taste of Italy in Costa Rica.
Don't miss out on traditional Caribbean dishes like 'rice and beans' cooked in coconut milk, 'patí' (spicy meat pastry), and fresh seafood. Many local sodas (small eateries) offer these authentic flavors.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lush jungle meeting the sea, the tranquil waters, and the unique tide pools. The secluded nature of the beach offers a sense of untouched beauty. Don't miss the chance to photograph the Great Green Macaws if you spot them!
While the beach faces west, offering potential for beautiful sunsets, the dense jungle canopy might obscure direct views. The golden hour light filtering through the trees can create magical shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive jungle and beach scenery. If you're hoping to photograph wildlife, a telephoto lens would be beneficial. Waterproof protection for your gear is advisable due to the humidity and potential for rain.
The jungle trails themselves offer unique perspectives, with glimpses of the ocean through the trees. Walking along the shoreline also provides various angles of the beach and its surroundings.
Drone regulations can vary in Costa Rica. It's best to check the latest rules and regulations regarding drone usage in protected natural areas before flying. Respecting wildlife and privacy is paramount.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Jungle Trails
Keep your eyes peeled during your walk, as the jungle is alive with activity. You might encounter various types of toucans, and if you're lucky, you could spot other wildlife. The journey through the lush greenery is as much a part of the experience as the beach itself, offering a true immersion into Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Understanding Ocean Safety
When the tide is high, there can be a significant drop-off and submerged rocks to be mindful of. Visitors are advised to swim with caution and stay within safe limits. If you're looking for a calmer experience, visiting during low tide can reveal natural tide pools that offer a more serene place to relax and enjoy the water. Always prioritize safety and be aware of the conditions before entering the water.
Wildlife Wonders of Playa Chiquita
Beyond the macaws, keep an eye out for different types of toucans on the jungle trails leading to the beach. The sounds of the rainforest and the occasional flash of color from a bird's plumage add an extra layer of enchantment to your visit. It's a reminder of the rich biodiversity that makes Costa Rica so special.






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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit