Playa Flamingo Costa Rica
A stunning white-sand beach in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, known for its calm turquoise waters, vibrant marina, and breathtaking sunsets.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunny days, low humidity, perfect beach weather.
Playa Flamingo Costa Rica
Best Time
Sunny days, low humidity, perfect beach weather.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning white-sand beach in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, known for its calm turquoise waters, vibrant marina, and breathtaking sunsets.
"Playa Flamingo is a beautiful, family-friendly beach with calm waters and a lively promenade."
Pack for the Sun! :sun_with_face:
Bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and light clothing. The sun is strong year-round!
Embrace 'Pura Vida' :ocean:
Relax and go with the flow. Things might move at a slower pace, so enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine White Sands
Playa Flamingo Beach
Sink your toes into soft, white sand and gaze at the turquoise waters. Perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.

Tranquil Waters
Playa Flamingo Beach
Calm, clear waters sheltered by sea walls make it ideal for swimming, especially for families and less confident swimmers.

Marina Flamingo
Marina Flamingo
A hub for luxury yachts, boat tours, and fishing charters. Stroll, dine, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Spectacular Sunsets
Pacific Ocean view
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the Pacific Ocean. A truly magical experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Pura Vida Pace
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for the Sun! :sun_with_face:
Bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and light clothing. The sun is strong year-round!
Embrace 'Pura Vida' :ocean:
Relax and go with the flow. Things might move at a slower pace, so enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Water Activities Galore :kayak:
Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or even learn to dive in the calm waters.
Sunset Views :camera_with_flash:
Don't miss the incredible sunsets over the Pacific. Find a good spot on the beach or at a beachfront restaurant.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for the Sun! :sun_with_face:
Bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and light clothing. The sun is strong year-round!
Embrace 'Pura Vida' :ocean:
Relax and go with the flow. Things might move at a slower pace, so enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Water Activities Galore :kayak:
Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or even learn to dive in the calm waters.
Sunset Views :camera_with_flash:
Don't miss the incredible sunsets over the Pacific. Find a good spot on the beach or at a beachfront restaurant.
Explore the Marina :sailboat:
Walk around Marina Flamingo, admire the yachts, and consider a boat tour or fishing trip.
Kid-Friendly Waters :child:
The shallow, calm waters are perfect for children and beginner swimmers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Flamingo is widely praised for its beautiful, calm white-sand beach and clear turquoise waters, making it ideal for swimming and families. The surrounding promenade offers convenient access to shops and restaurants, and the sunsets are consistently highlighted as spectacular. However, some visitors have noted a lack of direct beach services like restrooms and changing facilities, and a few reviews mention issues with specific accommodations.
"Such a lovely beach with a lot of shops near (coffee shop, or food and beach things like swimsuits). Had really great time here. No waves and shallow water on the start so good for kids and bad swimmers. You can also enjoy diving or learn to ride a kayak."
OrdinaceFan
"A really lovely little, manmade sandy beach. Protected by the walls the water is super calm.
Whilst the western edge is a bit rocky the eastern part of the beach is 100% sandy with zero issues walking in and our of the water. Lovely soft sand.
I stayed at TUI Blue Flamingo Beach which is the hotel right on this beach.
It can and does get busy but not too busy.
There are a couple shops, restaurants, bars, a cafe and an ice cream parlour overlooking the beach. It is served by a 13km promenade.
There are no services on this beach such as toilets, changing rooms or rentable sun loungers.
The mini marts have lockers you can rent."
D
"Where do I even begin? We made a terrible mistake by booking our holiday at Merry Hill Store. My husband, daughter, and I were all excited to go, especially after our agent highly recommended it.
We arrived late at night and were sent to a room the furthest away from anything, across a road. To make matters worse, the key cards didn’t work. I went back to reception and asked for a room closer to the front of the hotel, away from any open road. They gave me room A37, but the toilet was making noises like a T-Rex, and the shower didn’t work properly. These issues were reported on the first day.
The TUI team on site, on the chat, and the hotel staff advised us multiple times that maintenance would fix it, but they never did. They didn’t even go to our room at any point. On the morning of day 5, they offered to move rooms, but it was day 5 of a 7-day stay! I was given a key for another unsafe and isolated room, just as bad as the first.
The ceiling had been replaced multiple times and looked like it had been lifted and shifted out of Baghdad. There were cracked tiles everywhere that people could get hurt, and multiple chunks of concrete steps were missing from areas, leaving raised metal drains that could cut open people’s feet.
The entire hotel was dirty. From the eatery to the stairs leading to the rooms, there was rubbish and hair everywhere. It was clear that the hotel needed money spent on it rather than TUI sending that money elsewhere.
The food was also a major issue. There was fish in the cheesey pasta, undercooked food, and basic hygiene was missing from the dirty plates. Hair was even found in the food as it was placed on the surface. It was just disgraceful.
On another day, a child was sick in the food area, and the family was not seen for a few days after.
I requested a downgrade of our food option, as evidenced by the photo I have (it’s £934). Multiple placards around the hotel advertised the costs of upgrading. The place is a health and safety hazard. We’ve spent over £1000 eating out of the hotel because of its poor quality and dangerous conditions.
Why can’t you downgrade if you can upgrade? It’s the same process in reverse!
After speaking to other people, I discovered that the entire hotel is in the same state, and the staff are fully aware of it. The TUI rep, Dylan, offered to sort my late check-out, but it was only until 2 pm because they had others coming into our room. I asked how he could possibly put people in the room knowing its condition, but he said that was his problem to sort out if they complained. He’s sent me a link to refund me the 20 euros to the wrong mobile number, which seems like it’s been done on purpose, I’ve asked the TUI team on the app a number of times to correct this and they still haven’t.
An hour until we leave, and the receptionist recommended using the ‘spa’ shower, advising us to book it quickly as they get booked up. We went down to use them, and my 9-year-old daughter and I went to the ladies’ room. Next thing, there was a crash, and the shower door came off, hitting my daughter. She slipped and fell onto the raised basin, where there was a rusty latch or screw that had broken off. She has severe bruising and is screaming. I ran to the receptionist, who said she had told the hotel and TUI staff that they were not safe repeatedly, but her advice had been ignored. This clearly indicates that despite being told that there’s clearly no care from either TUI or hotel management.
The TUI manager and the deputy hotel manager came down to speak to us. I asked the hotel manager to fetch a doctor, and he got the doctor to check Scarlett’s ribs to make sure they weren’t broken.
This hotel is dangerously unsafe. I’m horrified that there’s no accountability or ownership of the issues we raised. Multiple laws are being broken, and it ended with my child sustaining a serious injury.
I have photos of every point I’ve made above, including the injury she sustained."
Laura Richardson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to fly into Liberia International Airport (LIR), which is about an hour's drive from Playa Flamingo. Alternatively, you can drive from San Jose (approx. 4-5 hours) or take a bus. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Guanacaste.
Playa Flamingo itself is quite walkable, especially along the promenade. For exploring further afield in Guanacaste, renting a car is recommended. Taxis and shuttles are also available.
The drive between Playa Flamingo and Tamarindo is about 30-40 minutes. You can drive yourself, take a taxi, or arrange for a shuttle service.
While there are public buses that connect major towns in Guanacaste, they may not go directly to Playa Flamingo. It's often more convenient to arrange private transport or rent a car for direct access.
Roads in Guanacaste are generally paved and well-maintained, especially the main routes. However, some smaller roads can be unpaved or rough, so a 4x4 vehicle might be beneficial if you plan to explore off the beaten path.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Playa Flamingo beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand and sea for free.
While the beach itself is free, services like sun loungers and umbrellas are typically rented from vendors. Some shops near the beach offer lockers for rent.
It's advisable to book accommodations and popular tours (like catamaran trips or fishing charters) in advance, especially during the peak dry season, to secure your spot.
The Marina Flamingo is generally accessible for strolling and enjoying the views during daylight hours. Specific businesses within the marina will have their own operating hours.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting Playa Flamingo beach. However, always be mindful of local regulations and respect the environment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim, sunbathe, kayak, paddleboard, and snorkel in the calm waters. Boat tours, fishing charters, and diving excursions are also popular from Marina Flamingo.
Yes, Playa Flamingo is excellent for families. The shallow, calm waters are safe for children, and the soft sand is perfect for playing.
Absolutely! The promenade along Playa Flamingo is lined with charming restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops selling beach essentials.
Visiting during the shoulder seasons (May, November) or on weekdays can offer a less crowded experience. Early mornings are also generally quieter.
Yes, you can typically rent beach chairs and umbrellas from vendors along the beach. Some nearby shops may also offer these services.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of dining options, from casual beachfront cafes serving local Costa Rican fare to restaurants offering international cuisine. Seafood is a popular choice.
While specific recommendations can change, the promenade offers many choices. Look for places with ocean views for a great dining experience.
Many restaurants are accommodating and offer vegetarian or vegan dishes. It's always a good idea to ask your server about options.
Yes, there are small supermarkets and convenience stores near the beach where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and basic groceries.
Prices can vary, but expect mid-range to slightly higher prices, especially at restaurants with prime beachfront locations. Casual eateries will be more budget-friendly.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the white sand, turquoise waters, the marina with its yachts, and especially the vibrant sunsets over the Pacific. Palm trees add a tropical flair.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. Midday can be harsh due to the strong sun.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the marina management before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant marina shots. Don't forget waterproof protection for your gear.
Look for the 'Love Locks' on the beach, the colorful buildings around the marina, and the unique textures of the palm trees. The reflections in the marina water can also be striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the beach, the promenade offers a pleasant stroll with access to ice cream parlors and casual eateries that cater to younger palates. Consider booking a family-friendly boat tour from the marina for a memorable day on the water. Remember to pack plenty of sun protection, as the tropical sun can be intense.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack snacks and drinks purchased from local supermarkets to save on daily expenses. Enjoy the free beach access and the stunning natural beauty. For dining, explore local 'sodas' (small, traditional Costa Rican restaurants) outside the main tourist strip for authentic and budget-friendly meals.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider a sunset catamaran cruise from Marina Flamingo for an unforgettable experience, complete with drinks and stunning ocean views. For dining, choose one of the beachfront restaurants for a romantic dinner with the sound of the waves as your soundtrack.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Playa Flamingo's Sands
The beach is approximately 1.5 kilometers long and is complemented by a vibrant promenade. This walkway is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a lively atmosphere without detracting from the beach's serene beauty. Visitors can easily access amenities and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
While the beach itself is a natural wonder, it's worth noting that some reviews mention a lack of direct services like public restrooms or changing facilities directly on the sand. However, nearby shops often provide locker rentals, and the promenade offers convenient access to facilities within establishments.
Marina Flamingo: A Hub of Activity
Beyond its role as a nautical hub, Marina Flamingo offers a sophisticated atmosphere for strolling, dining, and shopping. Upscale boutiques and diverse restaurants are situated along the marina, providing visitors with opportunities to indulge in retail therapy or enjoy a meal with stunning views of the boats and the ocean. The area buzzes with a sense of exclusivity and vibrant coastal life.
For those interested in fitness, Flamingo Fitness is located within the Marina Flamingo, offering state-of-the-art equipment and training facilities with beautiful marina views. This adds another dimension to the marina's offerings, catering to active travelers who wish to maintain their fitness routines while on vacation.
Experiencing the Famous Flamingo Sunsets
To best experience these sunsets, find a comfortable spot on the beach, a beachfront restaurant, or a vantage point along the promenade. The calm waters of Playa Flamingo often reflect the sky's dramatic colors, adding to the magical ambiance. Many visitors describe it as a truly unforgettable part of their Costa Rican experience.
It's worth noting that sunsets can occur relatively early, often around 6 PM, especially during certain times of the year. Planning your evening around this natural phenomenon will ensure you don't miss out on this iconic Playa Flamingo moment.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit