Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
moderate
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
20 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
desirable
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 500 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Cocles: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity moderate, average temperature +28.0°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Cocles: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 1.5 m.
Playa Cocles: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — moderate. The shallow area extends for 20 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable.
Playa Cocles: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — medium. Beach length — 1 500 metres.
Playa Cocles: 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 Cocles: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Cocles: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish (seasonal), stingrays (rare). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Cocles: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Cocles: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Playa Cocles: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurants in Puerto Viejo, Beach Bars. Cuisines available: Caribbean. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Cocles: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Headwear, Cash, Insect repellent.
Playa Cocles: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to swim is morning, when the water is calmer. For surfing — depending on the tide.
Playa Cocles: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swim only in patrolled areas. Caution, strong currents. Keep the beach clean.
Playa Cocles: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Cocles: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers. Suitable for lovers of beach holidays with well-developed infrastructure. Not recommended for small children or inexperienced swimmers.
Playa Cocles: what makes this beach unique?
Playa Cocles is considered one of the best surf spots on Costa Rica-s Caribbean coast. Its powerful and consistent beach break makes it popular among both locals and foreign surfers. There are sections with calmer water for beginners.
Playa Cocles: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Wide sandy beach, Excellent surf waves, Well-developed infrastructure: restaurants, bars, shops, Lifeguards on the beach, Snorkelling opportunities on calm days, Picturesque Caribbean atmosphere, Near the Jaguar Rescue Center. Cons: Strong waves and currents, Can be crowded in high season, Rip current danger, Limited natural shade, Parking can be limited.
Playa Cocles: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Jaguar Rescue Center, Puerto Viejo, Punta Uva Beach. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Cocles: how do I get to the city of Puerto Viejo?
The beach is located near the city of Puerto Viejo. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Puerto Viejo.