Costa Rica: where rainforests meet crystal clear waters.
Ever imagined paddling through lush jungle or alongside teeming marine life?
The best places to paddle board in Costa Rica are waiting for you.
Immerse yourself in paradise and let’s discover Costa Rica’s tranquil shores together. Are you in?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Costa Rica
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Tamarindo Beach
- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Tamarindo Beach Public Access (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, gentle ocean swell, ideal for beginners
- Popular Seasons: Year-round
- Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, turtles, tropical fish
- Landmarks & Views: Tamarindo coastline, beautiful sunsets
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Stay alert for watercraft, remain within the designated swimming area
Tamarindo Beach, on the Pacific coast, is known for its pristine white-sand shores and warm waters perfect for paddle boarding.
Beginners will appreciate the calm surroundings, while advanced paddlers can explore nearby coves.
#2 Tortuguero National Park
- Location Type: River
- Access Point: Tortuguero Village (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, gentle currents, sheltered from winds
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Manatees, crocodiles, monkeys, toucans, nesting sea turtles
- Landmarks & Views: Rainforest, lush riverbanks, diverse flora and fauna
- Safety, Environment and Rules: No motorized boats, guided tours recommended, respect wildlife
Tortuguero National Park offers a unique paddleboarding experience within rivers and mangroves.
Glide through the calm waterways and take in the beauty of the flourishing rainforest and diverse wildlife. Some areas may require a guided tour due to their sensitive ecosystems.
#3 La Fortuna Lake
- Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: La Fortuna Beach (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, occasional winds
- Popular Seasons: Year-round
- Wildlife Encounters: Tropical birds, turtles, fish
- Landmarks & Views: Arenal Volcano, lush green hills
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Weather precautions, respect private properties
La Fortuna Lake sits at the base of the majestic Arenal Volcano. Paddlers can enjoy picturesque views of the volcano and the surrounding lush landscape from the serene turquoise waters of the lake. T
he tranquil environment is ideal for a relaxing paddling session.
#4 Manuel Antonio National Park
- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Espadilla Beach (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Variable conditions, changing with tides and seasons
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, sea turtles, tropical fish, monkeys, sloths
- Landmarks & Views: Jungle, tidal coves, protected marine habitats
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect marine life, be cautious of tides and currents, no-motor zones
Manuel Antonio National Park is an enchanting paddleboarding destination for nature enthusiasts.
Set on the Pacific Coast, adventure awaits paddlers as they explore vibrant waters filled with marine life. Glide along the rugged coastline and discover private coves, or observe monkeys and sloths nearby.
#5 Puerto Viejo
- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Black Beach (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Mild currents, afternoon winds can pick up
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, sea turtles, tropical fish
- Landmarks & Views: Lush green vegetation, unique black sand beaches
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for surfers, be aware of riptides, respect marine habitats
Puerto Viejo coastline offers an enticing mix of Caribbean charm and thriving marine life.
Paddleboarders can enjoy serene waters at Black Beach and savor the unique black sand landscape. Glide along with dolphins and sea turtles as you explore this small piece of paradise.
#6 Sámara Beach
- Location Type: Bay
- Access Point: Sámara Public Beach (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm bay waters, mild ocean swell
- Popular Seasons: Year-round
- Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, sea turtles, tropical fish
- Landmarks & Views: Chora Island, palm-fringed shoreline, golden sand beaches
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boats, respect marine habitats
Sámara Beach is a tropical haven on the Pacific Coast with its sheltered bay, palm-fringed shoreline, and sparkling turquoise waters.
The calm sea conditions are ideal for paddleboarding from the golden sand beaches to the nearby Chora Island. It’s a family-friendly spot that allows for a laid-back, leisurely paddle experience.
#7 Lake Arenal
- Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Arenal Lake Montezuma Dock (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, occasional strong winds
- Popular Seasons: Year-round
- Wildlife Encounters: Tropical birds, monkeys, sloths
- Landmarks & Views: Arenal Volcano, surrounding hills with forests
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be prepared for weather changes, respect local rules
Lake Arenal offers a refreshing paddle boarding experience amidst a breathtaking backdrop of Arenal Volcano and lush green hills.
The lake’s size and beauty promise an exciting and adventurous trip for paddlers of all skill levels. Just be mindful of wind conditions during your journey.
#8 Papagayo Gulf
- Location Type: Bay
- Access Point: Playa Hermosa Beach (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm bay waters, perfect for beginners
- Popular Seasons: Year-round
- Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, sea turtles, tropical fish
- Landmarks & Views: Papagayo Peninsula, pristine beaches
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, respect marine habitats
Papagayo Gulf, located on thNorthth Pacific coast, is known for its calm waters and beautiful shoreline.
Paddleboarders can explore the bay at a leisurely pace, taking in the picturesque views of the nearby Papagayo Peninsula, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life.
#9 Ballena National Marine Park
- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Playa Uvita (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, tidal influence
- Popular Seasons: December to April
- Wildlife Encounters: Humpback whales, dolphins, sea turtles
- Landmarks & Views: Whale’s Tail formation, tropical coastline
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect marine life, adhere to park regulations
Ballena National Marine Park, on the southern Pacific coast, offers a unique paddleboarding experience. Glide through the tranquil waters along the coastline, admiring the distinctive Whale’s Tail formation, a result of a natural sand convergence.
The park is famous for its humpback whale migrations, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife encounters.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Costa Rica?
Popular spots to paddle board in Costa Rica include Tamarindo, Nosara, Manuel Antonio, and Lake Arenal.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Costa Rica?
No, there is no requirement to register paddle boards in Costa Rica.
When is the best time to paddle board in Costa Rica?
The best time to paddle board in Costa Rica is between December and April during the dry season.
