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
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 600 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Espadilla Norte: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity moderate, average temperature +29.0°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Espadilla Norte: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Playa Espadilla Norte: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 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 Espadilla Norte: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 3 600 metres.
Playa Espadilla Norte: 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 Espadilla Norte: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Espadilla Norte: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: stingrays. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Espadilla Norte: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, Wi-Fi, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Espadilla Norte: 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 Espadilla Norte: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurante Buena Vista Plus, Casi Cielo, Casa Planta. Cuisines available: International, Costa Rican, Vegetarian. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Espadilla Norte: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Hat, Sunglasses, First aid kit, Surfboard.
Playa Espadilla Norte: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for swimming is the dry season from December to April when waves are smaller. In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people. For surfing, the best conditions are in the morning.
Playa Espadilla Norte: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swim in the area marked by buoys. Do not leave valuables unattended. Do not leave litter.
Playa Espadilla Norte: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Espadilla Norte: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for beginner surfers and families with children. Suitable for swimming, surfing and wildlife watching. Not suitable for those seeking solitude due to the large crowds.
Playa Espadilla Norte: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is part of a 3.6-km shoreline divided by an estuary into two sections: Norte (public) and Sur (inside the national park). Iguanas and monkeys can be seen right on the beach.
Playa Espadilla Norte: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Long sandy beach (3.6 km), Gentle waves, ideal for beginners, Surf schools and equipment rental on the beach, Scenic views of tropical forest, Wildlife watching (iguanas, monkeys), Many restaurants and cafes nearby, Free access. Cons: Crowded in high season, Pushy vendors, Limited parking, Strong rip currents in green season, Risk of scams at nearby cafes.
Playa Espadilla Norte: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Manuel Antonio National Park, Playa Playitas, Quepos. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Espadilla Norte: how do I get to the city of Manuel Antonio?
The beach is located near the city of Manuel Antonio. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Manuel Antonio.