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
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Grande: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, 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 Grande: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 1.2 m.
Playa Grande: 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 Grande: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 3 000 metres.
Playa Grande: 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 Grande: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Grande: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: Strong currents (dangerous for swimming), Crocodiles (river mouths), Iguanas (harmless), Capuchin monkeys (steal food), Sea turtles (protected). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Grande: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Playa Grande: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Cocolores, El Sano Banano Restaurant, Ylang Ylang Restaurant. Cuisines available: International, Costa Rican. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Grande: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Food, Towel, Swimsuit, Cash, Hat, Sunglasses, First aid kit, Hiking shoes.
Playa Grande: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to visit is low tide, as the beach can be covered at high tide. Swimming season is from December to April.
Playa Grande: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
There are no lifeguards — swim with caution. Bring your own water and food. Do not leave litter.
Playa Grande: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Grande: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for seekers of solitude, hiking enthusiasts and surfers. Suitable for couples and experienced travellers. Not suitable for families with small children or people with limited mobility.
Playa Grande: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is part of a nature reserve and requires a 30-minute hike through the jungle. Nearby is El Chorro waterfall, which falls directly into the ocean.
Playa Grande: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Picturesque secluded beach, White sand, Excellent waves for surfing, Surrounded by tropical jungle, Abundant wildlife, Free access, El Chorro waterfall nearby. Cons: Access only on foot (30 minutes), No infrastructure, No lifeguards, Strong currents in some areas, Beach can be completely covered at high tide.
Playa Grande: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: El Chorro Waterfall, Montezuma. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Grande: how do I get to the city of Montezuma?
The beach is located near the city of Montezuma. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Montezuma.