Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
40 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Carrillo: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +27.0°C, warms up to +29.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Carrillo: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Playa Carrillo: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 40 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa Carrillo: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 1 000 metres.
Playa Carrillo: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December. It ends in April. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa Carrillo: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Carrillo: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish (seasonal). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Carrillo: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking, kids playground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Carrillo: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Playa Carrillo: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: El Colibrí Steakhouse, Restaurants in Samara. Cuisines available: International. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Carrillo: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Food, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Headwear, Snorkel mask.
Playa Carrillo: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to visit is the dry season (December–April). Morning water is calmest.
Playa Carrillo: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming is recommended in calm water. Bring food and water with you. Keep the beach clean.
Playa Carrillo: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Carrillo: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to calm water protected by a reef and the absence of strong waves. Suitable for swimming, snorkelling and quiet relaxation. Not suitable for those seeking vibrant nightlife.
Playa Carrillo: what makes this beach unique?
Playa Carrillo is considered one of the most photogenic beaches in Costa Rica. Its long arc of white sand lined with palm trees and calm turquoise water create an almost Caribbean landscape, yet the beach is completely free of development.
Playa Carrillo: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Picturesque crescent-shaped bay, Protected by reefs on both sides, calm water, White sand and palm-lined beach, Excellent snorkelling conditions, Ideal for families with children, Plenty of shade and picnic tables, Free access. Cons: No infrastructure on the beach (no cafes or toilets), Can be crowded on weekends, You need to bring food and water with you, Limited natural shade in some parts, Road can be busy in high season.
Playa Carrillo: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Snorkelling, Samara Beach, La Selva Wildlife Refuge. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Carrillo: how do I get to the city of Sámara?
The beach is located near the city of Sámara. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Sámara.