Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
grey
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
25 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
recommended
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
2 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Herradura: 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 Herradura: 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 Herradura: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 25 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. It is recommended to bring aqua shoes — parts of the bottom have rocks or corals. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa Herradura: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — grey. Texture — medium. Beach length — 2 000 metres.
Playa Herradura: 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 Herradura: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as moderate. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Herradura: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: crocodiles (in Tárcoles River). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Herradura: 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 Herradura: 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 Herradura: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Lanterna Italian Steakhouse, Bambú, Hook Up. Cuisines available: Italian, Seafood, Asian. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Herradura: 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 Herradura: 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. For sportfishing — from December to April.
Playa Herradura: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swim in the area marked by buoys. Do not leave litter. Follow water safety rules.
Playa Herradura: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Herradura: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to calm water in a sheltered bay. Suitable for swimming, SUP and water sports. Not suitable for surfers (small waves) or those seeking solitude.
Playa Herradura: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is part of an ecosystem home to scarlet macaws, toucans and monkeys. Carara National Park is nearby.
Playa Herradura: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Sheltered bay with calm water, Ideal for families and beginners, Near Los Sueños Marina with restaurants, Excellent conditions for SUP and kayaking, Scenic landscape with mountains, Close to Jacó (10 minutes), World-class sportfishing. Cons: Water not always clean (runoff), Dark sand, rocky in places, Crowded on weekends, Limited parking, Noise from boats and jet skis.
Playa Herradura: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Los Sueños Marina, Carara National Park, Jacó. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Herradura: how do I get to the city of Jacó?
The beach is located near the city of Jacó. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Jacó.