
Playa Biesanz Manuel Antonio Costa Rica
A hidden gem beach with a scenic jungle path, calm waters, and abundant wildlife. Enjoy amenities like chair rentals and a beach bar.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More beach space

Playa Biesanz Manuel Antonio Costa Rica
Best Time
More beach space

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem beach with a scenic jungle path, calm waters, and abundant wildlife. Enjoy amenities like chair rentals and a beach bar.
"This beach is a hidden gem! The last 400 yards is a walk down a jungle path... it's worth it!"

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The jungle path is rocky and can be slick. Avoid flip-flops for a safer descent and ascent.
⏰ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be limited. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk to the trailhead.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tranquil Waters
Main swimming area
Calmer waves than nearby beaches, perfect for swimming and families. Enjoy the clear blue water.

Jungle Path Adventure
Trail to the beach
A scenic 5-10 minute walk through lush jungle, often with wildlife sightings. A unique way to reach paradise.

Wildlife Encounters
Along the path and beach
Keep an eye out for capuchin monkeys, squirrel monkeys, sloths, and toucans. A true Costa Rican experience.

Beachside Amenities
Along the shoreline
Rent chairs, umbrellas, kayaks, or enjoy cocktails and food from beach vendors. Resort-like convenience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Playa Biesanz
Tides and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The jungle path is rocky and can be slick. Avoid flip-flops for a safer descent and ascent.
⏰ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be limited. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk to the trailhead.
🌊 Check the Tides
Visit during low tide for the most beach area. High tide can significantly reduce the sandy space.
🐒 Look for Wildlife
Keep your eyes peeled on the path and beach for monkeys, sloths, and toucans.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The jungle path is rocky and can be slick. Avoid flip-flops for a safer descent and ascent.
⏰ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be limited. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk to the trailhead.
🌊 Check the Tides
Visit during low tide for the most beach area. High tide can significantly reduce the sandy space.
🐒 Look for Wildlife
Keep your eyes peeled on the path and beach for monkeys, sloths, and toucans.
💰 Bring Colones for Vendors
Vendors offer rentals and food. Having local currency is convenient for purchases.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Biesanz is praised as a beautiful, less crowded alternative to nearby beaches, offering calm waters ideal for swimming and a unique jungle path access. Visitors appreciate the available amenities like chair rentals and a beach bar, as well as the frequent wildlife sightings. However, the rocky terrain on the path and in the water requires caution and appropriate footwear.
"Really beautiful beach with amazing views but a lot of rocks. Be sure to wear water shoes. Definitely go at low tide or there won’t be much beach to lay on. Guys renting chairs or umbrellas if that’s your thing. Great price and could be useful with the lack of shade.
You do not have to pay for parking. Our car was fine both times we visited. The trek down to the beach can be quite slick. I wouldn’t advise wearing flip flops.
Pura Vida!"
CJ Blessing
"It is a public beach, seems like private because you have to do a small trek to go there. Swimming its easier than Espadilla beach (the waves are not that strong)"
Diego
"This beach is a hidden gem! The last 400 yards is a walk down a jungle path- which was awesome for my kids! But be warned if you are not in good shoes or not able to walk far distances as it is rocky and uneven. But if you are able to get there, it's worth it! There are some people down at the beach who rent out umbrellas, chairs, kayaks, stand up paddle board and snorkeling gear. There are also people who have a whole bar down there for juices and cocktails too! Additionally, they provided a menu when we got hungry and we ate delicious tacos, hamburger, and hot dog! Honestly, it was almost like being at a resort with all the amenities! We also saw capuchin monkeys and a sloth!"
Allie Gabelman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa Biesanz is accessible via a jungle path. You can park near a spot marked 'Hidden Beach' on Google Maps, then follow the trail. Locals might offer parking assistance for a small fee (around 2000 colones).
Yes, there is parking available, though it can fill up quickly. Some reviews mention paying around 2000 colones for parking. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends.
The hike is about 400 yards down a jungle path. It's uneven and rocky, so sturdy shoes are recommended. The descent takes about 5 minutes, and the ascent about 10 minutes.
While close to Manuel Antonio, Playa Biesanz is not directly accessible from within the national park. You'll need to travel by road to the beach access point.
It's marked on Google Maps as 'Hidden Beach.' Locals often guide visitors to the trailhead, so it's usually not hard to locate, though the trail itself requires attention.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Playa Biesanz is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee. You only pay for parking and any services you choose to use on the beach.
As a public beach, Playa Biesanz does not have official operating hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to enjoy the amenities.
There are no major restrictions mentioned, but it's a natural beach. Be mindful of the environment and any vendor rules if you use their services.
It's generally not necessary to book in advance. Vendors are usually present on the beach and offer rentals on a first-come, first-served basis.
Some reviews mention a price for showers and bathrooms, but their functionality is not always guaranteed. It's best to be prepared to go without or inquire upon arrival.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The beach has a mix of sand and rocks. It's recommended to wear water shoes, especially if you plan to swim, as there are rocks in the water.
The waves are generally mild and calmer compared to other beaches like Espadilla, making it a good spot for swimming and families.
You can swim, snorkel (though fish sightings can be limited), rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, and relax on rented chairs and umbrellas.
It can get crowded, especially during peak times. Arriving early or visiting on a weekday can help avoid the largest crowds.
Yes, it's common to see capuchin monkeys, squirrel monkeys, and sometimes toucans and sloths along the jungle path and near the beach.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no formal restaurants, vendors on the beach offer food like tacos, hamburgers, and hot dogs. There's also a bar for juices and cocktails.
Yes, there is a bar on the beach that serves juices and cocktails. You can also find other vendors selling refreshments.
You can find casual beach fare such as tacos, hamburgers, and hot dogs from the vendors.
Prices are not specified, but it's generally expected that beach vendors will have prices comparable to tourist areas. Bringing your own snacks and water is an option.
There are no explicit rules against bringing your own food and drinks, which can be a budget-friendly option.
📸 📸 Photography
The jungle path with lush greenery, the scenic beach views with calm waters, and any wildlife encounters offer great photo opportunities.
It's generally safe, but as with any beach, be mindful of your belongings. The hike can be slippery, so secure your gear.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light for photography. Wildlife sightings can happen at various times.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in Costa Rica.
The unique jungle path leading to the beach and the contrast of the calm blue water against the green foliage are signature shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Spotting monkeys and other wildlife on the path is a huge hit with children. While the path requires sturdy footwear, the reward of a beautiful, amenity-rich beach with gentle waves is well worth the effort. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, but know that food and beverages are also available for purchase from beach vendors.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Focus on enjoying the natural beauty, swimming in the calm waters, and the thrill of the jungle path hike. Declining chair and umbrella rentals will significantly cut down on expenses. The main cost will be parking, which is relatively inexpensive.
💑 Couples
Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard for a shared activity on the water. Enjoying a cocktail from the beach bar as the sun begins to set can create a memorable experience. It's a great spot for a peaceful day away from the busier tourist hubs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Jungle Path to Paradise
This unique approach to reaching the beach adds to its 'hidden gem' appeal. It filters out those not prepared for a bit of a walk, often resulting in a more serene experience once you arrive. The lush vegetation and the sounds of the jungle create an immersive prelude to the coastal beauty that awaits. It's a stark contrast to the more easily accessible beaches, making the effort feel truly rewarding.
Beach Amenities and Services
Beyond rentals, there's a beach bar serving a variety of juices and cocktails, perfect for cooling down. Food options are also available, with vendors offering items like tacos, hamburgers, and hot dogs. While there might be a fee for showers and bathrooms, their availability can vary. These services contribute to the beach's popularity, offering convenience and comfort for visitors who want to relax and enjoy their day without needing to pack everything themselves.
Wildlife Encounters at Playa Biesanz
Keep your eyes scanning the canopy, as toucans with their vibrant beaks are known to frequent the area. If you're particularly lucky, you might even spot a sloth moving slowly through the branches. These encounters add an extra layer of magic to the beach experience, reminding visitors of the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica. It's a fantastic spot for nature lovers and families looking for an educational and exciting outing.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit