"Surfing Mecca The Gold Coast is a legendary surfing destination, and veteran surfers make pilgrimages from all over the world to catch these waves. Playa Grande is the granddaddy of all Costa Rican surfing beaches, and it doubles as a nesting ground for leatherback sea turtles. Other popular surf spots in the area are Playas Avellanas & Negra (where the 1994 surf classic The Endless Summer II was filmed), and Tamarindo. If you're a beginner or novice and need lessons, Point Break Surf is a great option."
This was a fun drive in Tamarindo into Playa Grande. But I'll tell you I sure am glad I'm driving a rental on these roads LOL the beach was beautiful absolutely stunning no trash whatsoever anywhere lots of Driftwood and there is absolutely no shade on the beach so bring shade or be prepared to soak in the beautiful sun
Nesan Lawrence
Google
Expansive beach, much less touristy due to proximity to national park. Easy parking and close to many restaurants which are a short drive away.
GSB
Google
Great beach to walk in the early morning or at sunset. Takes a good 3 hours to walk from Tamarindo to the end and back. Very little shade so wear lots of sunscreen.
Ivan Nikola
Google
Long and beautiful! Loved pelicans and frigates.
Also, there is a nice smaller beach with black sand if you go to the right.
MJLB
Google
Beautiful beach- quiet and clean.
Great spot for surfers- popular time around 4pm to see some action.
You can walk the beach to Tamarindo (1 hour) just be prepared to cross the “river”section.
If you want a secluded spot- walk the other direction and you’ll have the beach to yourself!
LJ Hos
Google
Soft sand. Regular medium sized waves that are great for learning to surf.
Andrea Mahon
Google
We love Playa Grande! Beautiful beach with spectacular sunsets. It's a quiet, relaxed area where you can listen to the surf, and enjoy the ambiance.
Suddha Sircar
Google
Great beach away from the business of Tamarindo yet only a 25 minutes drive to Tamarindo. We really enjoyed spending 4 nights in Playa Grande. There were barely anyone on the beach when we used to go for a morning walk along the beach. It felt like our own private beach. Great place to surf and boogie board.