Sailing Serenity: Exploring Costa Rica’s Coastal Charms.
There are many ways to enjoy the water. Not everyone that comes to Costa Rica is a surfer or yogi. Some come for the beautiful sailing. If you’re a fan of spending time on the ocean and relaxing, then sailing is something you should give a try. You can rent a boat in many of the beach towns or take a chartered tour with some of your favorite friends around the bay while you watch the sunset across the horizon. Let your imagination run wild with possibilities on the water as you drink cocktails, sail across the waves and get some sunshine. The ocean breeze is sure to satisfy you while you’re enjoying sailing across the ocean.
Costa Rica borders both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean ocean so there are a lot of opportunities to grab a boat and sail away! As a matter of fact, the coastline of Costa Rica is one of the best places to go sailing in the world and should be on all of your bucket lists. Here are our picks for Top Spots to Cruise in Costa Rica:
Golfo de Nicoya
The Golfo de Nicoya is a good first stop as you make your way to Montezuma. Then once you reach the southern end of the Nicoya Peninsula, your eyes will be delighted with wonder as you take in all of the beauty that surrounds you. The Southerly swell will pull you across the water. You will also have access to stop in the picturesque area that has a Pura Vida feel and a bustling art scene. Nicknamed Montefuma because the villagers offer a unique breakfast of seeds, a variety of nuts, herbs and yoga as the sun comes up. Get up early and take a hike to the amazing waterfall that you can then take to the river that is immersed in the jungle and rainforest.
Bahia Ballena is just a short distance just to the North of the famous Montezuma is a top spot to park when sailing through Costa Rica. Boats that plan to pass through the Golfo de Nicoya should anchor on the southern side of the bay. From here, it is just a short walk by foot on a jungle path through the lush foliage to the secluded beach.
The Golfo de Papagayo
The Golfo de Papagallo, sometimes compared to the similarities it has to that of the Gold Coast in Australia, is a popular place for international visitors looking for something different to explore here in Costa Rica. This area is well equipped for any tourist, boasting amazing supermarkets, casinos, great internet access, epic beaches and little remote islands to explore.
A little island to explore nearby is called the Bahia Culebra. It consists of a half a dozen tiny coves each covered in golden sand. The beaches are secluded, private and meet the rainforest should you need shade on your epic, sunny beach adventure.
However, please be mindful that there are some regulations in place to protect the local environment. Under Costa Rican law, the beach front has no buildings constructed within 50 meters of the high tide mark. This is purposely done to protect the ocean and is a designated public space. This creates a healthy coastline that is abundant with wildlife and greenery,preserving the unspoiled beauty of Costa Rica.
It is probably quite likely that you do not own your own private sailboat to take to Costa Rica. Renting or chartering a boat is super easy and affordable if done in a group setting. There are a bunch of options available that offer affordable rates. The Pacific coast is a good place to start your sailing adventure or day boat trip. There are many types of charters to choose from and prices will vary. Pick a charter that meets your needs, whether you plan to tan, fish or cruise the bay — there will be a boat for you. These beaches are untethered, unbothered and absolutely have a unique vibe unlike anywhere else on the globe. You will not want to leave the sandy beaches and getting in a surf and sunbathe will be your new routine. It is other-worldly on the beaches of Costa Rica.
Northwest of Playas del Coco, the Bat Islands are also a great spot to sail around for interesting scenery. These islands reside within the Santa Rosa National Park. This area is rich in nature and is yet to be developed and commercialized to the degree of its neighboring beach towns. Stop in the bay at the eastern end of the island. It is a beautiful epicenter of aquamarine life. Take a dip and explore below in the warm and tranquil waters to witness the underwater wonders. This is a perfect place to take a break to play in the ocean and snorkel around the reef. You will witness a variety of fish species that are used to snorkelers in the area and will come right up to you. It is worth the stop and is only a small fee to anchor your sailboat.
Playas del Coco, on the northern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, is a sweet place to stop. Its natural beauty will blow you away! Sailing to Playas del Coco, you will find beautiful beaches, delicious food and kind smiles. This area of Costa Rica is great for people of all ages.
Sailing is a really great activity to take part in if you want to witness the magical life of the creatures that reside within the ocean. It is also very peaceful to sun on the deck and then cool off swimming through the warm, sparkling water. Sunsets are meant to be enjoyed with a nice cold beverage and some friends. A sailing trip is a great option and offers new paths to new adventures and gives you the ability to reach remote and unique parts of Costa Rica.
Our last little tip for Sailing in Costa Rica, is to head to Tortuga Island, which is famous for small, wild pigs who are roaming free and super friendly to tourists who flock there to enjoy this interesting and odd setting. The Mal Pais offers activities outside of sailing, such as fishing, surfing and pristine beaches (which are only accessible by boat).
When you take the leap of faith to take a sailing adventure in Costa Rica, you will never look back. You will see things that not many other tourists will see on their resort vacations here on the coast. These sailing adventures will promote you from Tourist to Traveler, and we have a suspicion that coming back to land will feel foreign upon your return… Take your vacation in Costa Rica to the next level. way.
If you think it is a little too far out of your comfort zone to become a vagabond, fly by the set of your pants traveler — then we suggest a day trip to get your feet wet (no pun intended) with the professionals and locals that run day trips out of Tortuga Island. Here you will be privileged to experience blue skies meeting blue water — separated only by your little white sailboat. Take in the scene, the grand ocean views, cocktails and live music.
Chartered boats, local tropical fruits, fresh coconut water and refreshing cocktails are all part of the package as you slip across the Pacific, enjoying an experience that feels truly surreal while you are in it. To top it off you can explore the island where you can take a dip or sunbathe on the peaceful beach. There are also many water sports tours offered in this area. Tortuga Island is 120 hectares of beautiful jungle surroundings. Right before Tortuga Island, there is San Lucas Island which in the past was a security prison where no human rights existed and thus a dark age in Costa Rica´s history.