Flamingo Beach
Things to do at Flamingo Beach
Playa Flamingo, which a lot of people call Flamingo Beach, is a white-sand bay with calm, swimmable water and a sunset most nights. You can spend a whole day on the sand, and the marina puts boats, dives and fishing trips close by.
On the beach
An easy beach day
Swim the bay
Soft sand and usually calm water make this one of the easier swimming beaches on the coast. It's quieter than Tamarindo too, especially outside peak season.
Set up for the day
No need to haul gear. You can rent chairs and umbrellas on the sand and stay put for the afternoon.
Walk to the marina
The Flamingo Marina is where most boat trips leave from. Good for a look around and a cold drink after the beach.
Stay for sunset
The sun drops behind the Catalina Islands most evenings. Grab a spot on the sand or a table at Coco Loco across the road.
From the marina
Get out on the water
Snorkel trips, dives, fishing charters and sunset sails mostly leave right from the Flamingo Marina, so there's no long transfer. See all activities.
By season
Beach days all year
The beach works any month. It just feels different depending on when you come.
Dry season, December to April
Sunny all day and the calmest seas. It's also the busiest time, so book boat trips ahead.
Green season, May to November
Bright mornings and afternoon showers, so do the beach early. Keep a few rainy day ideas handy for the afternoons.
Semana Santa
The week before Easter is one of Costa Rica's busiest holidays. The beach fills up with families, so go early to get a good spot.
Respect the sun
It's strong all year. Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and some shade go a long way. Here's what to pack for a day out.
Check the water first
The bay is usually calm, but conditions change with the tide and swell. Swim where others are swimming and keep an eye on little ones.
Carry some cash
Beach vendors and a few small spots only take cash, in dollars or colones.
Planning the rest of the trip?
Our homes a short walk from the beach are on Stay With Colibri, along with a guide to getting around Flamingo.