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Playa Espadilla Sur

Shared BeachFinder spot: compare live conditions, water temperature, wind, UV, waves, currents, amenities and nearby alternatives before you leave.

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Weather and marine data: Open-Meteo

Playa Espadilla Sur

Playa Espadilla Sur extends along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in immediate proximity to Manuel Antonio National Park, in the province of Puntarenas. Located about 160 kilometers south of San José, this beach is part of a string of sandy coves that line the coast between the tropical jungle and the Pacific Ocean. The coastline here features a succession of small bays separated by rocky headlands, a typical characteristic of this region where the coastal mountain range plunges directly into the sea. The waters, relatively calm in the dry season, bathe a coast dominated by mangroves and breadfruit trees. This fine golden sandy beach extends for about 400 meters, framed by dense vegetation that reaches down to the tide line. Only 400 meters from Playa Manuel Antonio and 700 meters from Playa Gemelas, Espadilla Sur occupies an intermediate position in this constellation of park beaches. Unlike its neighbor Manuel Antonio, often more crowded, this beach retains a quieter character, although regularly visited by tourists seeking to swim. The slightly sloping sand offers gradual access to the water; rocky and coral seabeds appear quickly, making swimming pleasant but requiring some vigilance. No lifeguard service is provided on site. Access remains free but without specific facilities: no toilets, showers, or dedicated parking. The beach does not fly the Blue Flag label. Visitors should plan their visit by stocking up in Manuel Antonio, where restaurants and shops are concentrated. Accessibility for people with reduced mobility is not guaranteed, as the natural terrain lacks adapted facilities.

About this spot

The name "Espadilla" likely derives from the Spanish "espadilla," a diminutive of "espada" (sword), possibly referring to the elongated shape of the beach or the rock formations that delimit it. This region, integrated into Manuel Antonio National Park since 1972, represents one of the most preserved coastal areas in Costa Rica despite growing tourist influx. Geologically, these beaches result from the erosion of volcanic formations in the coastal range, a process that has created the characteristic rugged landscape. Local fishermen regularly frequent these waters rich in fish and crustaceans, while marine biologists study the coral ecosystems regenerating since the 1980s.

Updated 5/9/2026

Before you go

Conditions

Compare water temperature, air temperature, feels-like temperature, UV index, wind, waves and currents. Surf-focused data appears when a marine model covers the spot.

Amenities

BeachFinder checks parking, showers, toilets, accessible places and restaurants around the spot with OpenStreetMap and shows them in the counters and map.

Playa Espadilla Sur water temperature today | Wind, UV, Surf & Water Quality | BeachFinder