The Guanacaste Province of Costa Rica is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country—and some of the most visited. Towns like Tamarindo attract large crowds, with their lively beachfronts, bustling surf shops, and high-end resorts. But if you’re searching for a quieter escape with a more laid-back, off-the-beaten-path feel, Playa Negra Costa Rica is an excellent choice.
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Located on the North Pacific Coast in the small community of Los Pargos, Playa Negra is a scenic stretch of black sand beach known for consistent surf, a peaceful vibe, and a growing reputation as a wellness and retreat destination. While Playa Negra technically refers to the beach and Los Pargos is the surrounding town, the two are often used interchangeably.
This area holds a special place in our hearts—Max grew up just 2 km down the road, and we now return multiple times a year. After more than a decade of exploring Costa Rica, we’ve come to know this neighbourhood intimately and always look forward to reconnecting with its slow rhythm and natural beauty.
Playa Negra Costa Rica lies about 23 km (14 miles) south of Tamarindo and 55 km (34 miles) from Liberia International Airport. If you’re flying into San Jose International Airport (179 km or 111 miles), a domestic flight to Tamarindo can significantly shorten the drive.
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About The Neighbourhood
Much like the neighbouring Playa Avellanas, Playa Negra is a small beach community with a rustic charm. Nestled in Puerto Viejo (not to be confused with Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean coast), it’s the kind of place where you can experience the true pura vida lifestyle.
The town is accessible via dirt roads, but infrastructure has improved immensely in recent years. Unless there’s been a heavy storm, a 4×4 rental car is no longer necessary. In fact, city water and fibre optic internet now serve the entire area, making Playa Negra more connected than ever—without sacrificing its laid-back, rural feel. These developments make the town increasingly appealing for digital nomads, wellness travellers, and those seeking a remote landscape with modern comforts.
Things to Do in Playa Negra
Catch A Wave
Catch A Wave
If you love to surf, you’ll feel right at home in Playa Negra Costa Rica. This beach is famous for its world-class waves and was even featured in the classic surf film Endless Summer II. The main break is a fast, right-hand reef break that’s especially popular among advanced surfers, but there are smaller breaks nearby suitable for beginners as well.
The waves here are known for their consistency, especially during the dry season (Dec–April). For board rentals or a lesson, head to Pargos Adventures, a trusted local outfitter in the area.
READ NEXT: Where to Find the Best Surfing in Costa Rica
Relax On A Beautiful Black Sand Beach
If surfing isn’t your thing, don’t worry—Playa Negra is still a fantastic place to kick back and soak up the natural beauty. This beautiful black sand beach is wide and uncrowded, perfect for a peaceful stroll or an afternoon under the shade of the trees that fringe the shore. Some days, it might feel like you’ve got the whole beach to yourself.
For a refreshing dip, head a few kilometres south to Playa Lagartillo, a more sheltered beach that’s great for swimming, especially during low tide.
READ NEXT: Best Beaches in Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Join A Yoga Class Or Wellness Retreat
Playa Negra Costa Rica is a magnet for travellers interested in wellness, yoga, and intentional living. The area is home to a growing international community drawn by its peaceful surroundings and nature-forward lifestyle. Many come specifically to join a retreat or daily class at Peace Retreat, one of the best yoga retreats in Costa Rica. Prefer a casual drop-in? Check out Playa Negra Yoga, which offers barre yoga at their studio and beachside vinyasa classes with an epic view of the black sand beach. Both studios cater to all experience levels.
Try Horseback Riding Along The Coast
One of the most memorable ways to experience the remote landscape around Playa Negra is on horseback. Guti Tours, a local family-run eco-tour agency, offers scenic coastal rides through jungle trails and along the beach. You can even ride between Playa Avellanas and Playa Negra at sunset for a truly unforgettable outing.
READ NEXT: Best Things to Do in Playa Avellanas, Costa Rica
Go Paddleboarding On The Nandamojo River
If you’re looking for a peaceful way to explore the area’s waterways, head out on a paddleboard with Pargos Adventures. They offer guided SUP tours through the mangrove tunnels of the Nandamojo River, just 12 minutes from Playa Negra. Along the way, your guide will help you spot birds, monkeys, and other native wildlife in this vibrant ecosystem.
Take A SUP Yoga Class
SUP yoga (Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga) is a unique wellness experience you can try while visiting Playa Negra. Pargos Adventures pioneered the practice locally and offers sessions led by certified instructors. Depending on the tides, the classes take place either out on the ocean or in the calm waters of the Junquillal Estuary, about 20 minutes away. It’s a wonderful way to connect movement, balance, and nature.
Snorkel In The Tide Pools
While Playa Negra isn’t known for traditional snorkelling, the rocky edges of its black sand beach create ideal conditions for discovering tide pools. At low tide, head out with Pargos Adventures for a guided 2-hour snorkelling session in one of the small tide pools along the coast. These natural pools are shallow, calm, and home to over 15 species of Pacific marine life—making it a great, low-impact adventure for families or beginners.
Take A Day Trip To Ostional Wildlife Refuge
Roughly an hour from Playa Negra lies Ostional Wildlife Refuge, a protected area best known for its incredible sea turtle nesting events. The beaches here are one of the world’s only sites where arribadas occur—when tens of thousands of olive ridley sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs. While this natural phenomenon doesn’t happen every month, guided tours are available year-round and offer insight into the refuge’s coral reefs, mangroves, and conservation work.
READ NEXT: Witnessing Turtle Nesting at the Arribada in Playa Ostional, Costa Rica
Best Restaurants in Playa Negra
Villa Deevena Restaurant
Villa Deevena Restaurant is a long-time favourite of ours in Playa Negra Costa Rica. Located within walking distance of the black sand beach, this upscale yet relaxed restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and creative dishes. Chef Patrick Jamon, who has cooked for U.S. presidents, sources high-quality local ingredients to craft a refined but approachable menu. It’s a must for foodies visiting the area.
Mycelium
Created by Chef Kamu, Mycelium serves plant-forward Asian fusion cuisine in a unique jungle setting. Their menu is vegan- and gluten-free-friendly, with locally sourced ingredients and bold flavours. Try the mahi-mahi fish and chips with smoky yuca croquettes or a nourishing brunch bowl. Open Wednesday to Sunday for brunch (9am–2pm) and dinner (6pm–10pm).
Kon-Tiki Pizza
Kon-Tiki Pizza has been serving handcrafted pies near Playa Negra Costa Rica since 1994. Their brick oven pizzas are hearty, organic, and filling. We recommend the Pizza n’ Love or Margarita Special. It’s a relaxed, family-style joint that’s open Tuesday to Sunday from 5pm to 9pm.
Hotel Playa Negra Bar & Restaurant
If you’re looking for a true beachfront restaurant, Hotel Playa Negra offers open-air dining with views of the surf. Set under a large thatched roof “rancho,” it serves classic Costa Rican dishes alongside international favourites like lobster, steak, and vegetarian meals. Open from 7am to 9pm, this spot is a great place to unwind with a cocktail while watching surfers ride the waves.
La Vida Buena
La Vida Buena is a family-run pizzeria and one of the most-loved restaurants in Playa Negra Costa Rica. Known for its wood-fired, thin-crust pizza, the restaurant also serves pasta, salads, and a solid selection of wine and beer. The casual vibe and warm hospitality make it great for groups or relaxed dinners after sunset.
Corazon Surf Cafe
If you’re in search of great coffee and a wholesome brunch, check out Corazon Surf Cafe. Their house blend, Café Corazon, is roasted locally and available in cups, cans, or cold brew bottles. The menu features smoothie bowls, pancakes, and acai or pitaya bowls—ideal for fuelling up before a surf session. They’re open Tuesday to Sunday from 7:30am to 2:30pm.
Jalapeño Eatery & Market
Jalapeño Eatery & Market is a local gem located at Playa Negra Surf Lodge. The husband-and-wife owners prepare everything in-house, including handmade tortillas, hot sauce, and what many consider the best burrito in town. Their Pico de gallo is made fresh daily, and smoothies are always refreshing. Open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 4pm.
Café Playa Negra Restaurant
Café Playa Negra offers a stylish take on Peruvian cuisine right in town. Expect everything from ceviche to grilled seafood, plus cocktails and homemade desserts. They also serve freshly baked pastries, perfect for a mid-morning snack or light breakfast. Great for couples or anyone looking for a slightly elevated meal in a casual atmosphere.
La Ventana
La Ventana is a cosy, vegetarian-friendly spot at the end of the road in Los Pargos. Their farm-to-table menu focuses on organic, locally sourced ingredients, with plenty of gluten-free and vegan options. Smoothies and desserts are local favourites, and the vibe is chill and welcoming—ideal after a yoga class or beach session.
Best Hotels In Playa Negra
Café Playa Negra Hotel
Café Playa Negra Hotel is a laid-back boutique stay just a short walk from the black sand beach and local restaurants. With bright, air-conditioned rooms, private bathrooms, and colourful décor, it’s a comfortable and central place to stay in Playa Negra Costa Rica. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant, outdoor pool, small spa, and a lush garden perfect for lounging between surf sessions.
Villa Deevena Hotel
Located just steps from the beach, Villa Deevena Hotel offers a stylish, tranquil retreat in the heart of Playa Negra Costa Rica. The boutique property features six modern rooms with tropical décor, either king or queen beds, A/C, ceiling fans, and pool-facing views. The hotel is also home to one of the best restaurants in Playa Negra, making it a top choice for those who appreciate great food and service with their beach getaway.
Playa Negra Surf Lodge
Playa Negra Surf Lodge is a family-run boutique hotel located in the heart of town, just a 9-minute walk from the beach. Rooms come equipped with A/C, private bathrooms, kitchens, and WiFi. Guests can relax by the outdoor pool, swing in a hammock, or enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant. It’s a popular choice for those in town to surf Playa Negra or simply enjoy the laid-back pace of life here.
Other Nearby Eco Lodges
If you’re open to staying just outside of Playa Negra, there are a few wonderful eco-friendly accommodation options worth considering.
La Tica Lodge
La Tica Lodge is about five minutes from Playa Negra, offering a peaceful, off-grid retreat set on 988 acres of untouched land. Rooms feature king or twin beds, A/C, hot water, and repurposed vintage furnishings. The property includes a pool, garden, yoga space, and a “pura vida” social area with bonfires—perfect for guests seeking nature and tranquility.
Mundo Milo Eco Lodge
Mundo Milo Eco Lodge is situated about 10 minutes south in Playa Junquillal. This small lodge features seven globally themed cabinas with private terraces, mini-fridges, and hot water showers. Surrounded by tropical forest and walking distance to the beach, it’s an ideal choice for travellers looking for a sustainable hotel close to Playa Negra.
Vacation Rentals In Playa Negra
In addition to traditional hotels, there are dozens of accommodation options available on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. Whether you’re after a minimalist beach bungalow or a luxury villa with ocean views, there are rentals to suit every style and budget. Many are managed by locals and offer added privacy and space—great for families, groups, or long-term stays.
Whether you’re drawn by the world-class waves, the peaceful black sand beach, or the sense of community that runs through this small coastal town, Playa Negra Costa Rica offers something special for every traveller. It’s a destination where you can slow down, connect with nature, and enjoy the kind of laid-back lifestyle that makes the Guanacaste Province so unique.
From surf sessions and yoga retreats to eco-lodges and sustainable restaurants, Playa Negra is a place to unwind and stay awhile. If you’re looking to go beyond the tourist trail in Costa Rica, this charming corner of the Pacific Coast is well worth a visit.
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