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
moderate
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
20 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
recommended
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
780 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Espadilla Sur: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, 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 Sur: 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 Sur: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — moderate. The shallow area extends for 20 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. It is recommended to bring aqua shoes — parts of the bottom have rocks or corals.
Playa Espadilla Sur: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 780 metres.
Playa Espadilla Sur: 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 Sur: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. 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 Sur: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: capuchin monkeys, stingrays. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Espadilla Sur: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Espadilla Sur: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming. A first aid station is available.
Playa Espadilla Sur: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: La Terraza Café Bar, Baldi-s Fresh. Cuisines available: International, Costa Rican. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Espadilla Sur: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Hat, Sunglasses, First aid kit, Snorkel mask.
Playa Espadilla Sur: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for swimming is the dry season from December to April. In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people. The park closes at 16:00.
Playa Espadilla Sur: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Do not feed the monkeys and do not leave belongings unattended. Swim with caution due to currents. Do not leave litter.
Playa Espadilla Sur: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Espadilla Sur: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking quiet relaxation. Suitable for snorkelling and swimming on calm days. Not suitable for families with small children due to strong currents and monkeys.
Playa Espadilla Sur: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is part of Manuel Antonio National Park and is known as "Playa Dos" or "Playa Segunda". Capuchin monkeys live here and often check visitors- bags for food.
Playa Espadilla Sur: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Scenic beach inside the national park, White sand, Crystal clear water, Plenty of natural shade from palm trees, Rich wildlife (monkeys, sloths, iguanas), Fewer people than Norte, Excellent snorkelling spot. Cons: Paid admission (national park entry $6), Park closes at 16:00, Strong currents and waves, Many monkeys that may steal belongings, No lifeguards.
Playa Espadilla Sur: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Manuel Antonio National Park, Punta Catedral, Manuel Antonio Beach. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Espadilla Sur: does the beach have a Blue Flag?
Yes, the beach holds the international "Blue Flag" certification. This means the beach meets high standards of water cleanliness, safety and infrastructure.
Playa Espadilla Sur: 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.