Playa Doña Ana, North Puntarenas

Playa Doña Ana waves to the north

For tourists who want to experience what Costa Rica is all about, the beaches of Playa Doña Ana in North Puntarenas could be an ideal destination. Located a little over eight miles from the city of Puntarenas and around a mile from the port of Caldera, the beaches of Playa Doña Ana are a surfer's paradise. Home to an annual wave riding competition, the rocky coves and strong currents attract surfers from all over the world.

Surfing at Playa Doña Ana

The swells of Playa Doña Ana make surfing here challenging, even for experienced riders. The riptides can be deceptively strong, so visitors heading to the area to surf should be aware of the potential risks. During the week and throughout the off season, Playa Doña Ana is less crowded, but the strong swells and challenging coastline attract both tourists and locals on weekends and during the high season between November and April.

Isolated Perfection

Visitors who prefer to stay on dry land will also find much to see in this idyllic region. Although located a convenient distance from major tourist hubs like Puntarenas, Playa Doña Ana retains a remote and isolated atmosphere that may prove tempting for adventurous tourists seeking to get away from the crowds of more popular areas.

Playa Doña Ana is one of two beaches in the region, the other being Playa Boca Barranca, which happens to be a very famous surf spot. However, only Doña Ana has been developed for tourists. Facilities are sparse, meaning that visitors expecting lavish amenities may prefer to venture elsewhere. However, for travelers who want to experience the real Costa Rica, Playa Doña Ana offers a wealth of opportunities.

Map of the Area

Click to enlarge map - Map of the Area

Authentic Tico Cuisine

The surrounding area is perfect for tourists who want to savor the tastes of authentic Tico cuisine, and there are several small bars and restaurants serving a variety of local dishes and drinks. Playa Doña Ana is a great place to get to know the locals and experience a glimpse of the relaxed Tico lifestyle that attracts visitors from around the world. Travelers who want to pick up a unique souvenir will also have plenty of options, as there are a variety of locals selling authentic handmade arts and crafts right off the beach.

Offering visitors great surf, authentic local culture and a quiet, relaxed atmosphere close by to Puntarenas, Playa Doña Ana could be perfect for travelers who want to get off the beaten path during their visit to Costa Rica.