Playa Frijolar, a pristine coastal paradise tucked away in Costa Rica, remains one of the country’s best-kept secrets. This idyllic beach offers travelers a retreat from the hustle and bustle of more popular destinations, making it the perfect destination for those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a taste of authentic Costa Rican life.
This wonderful secluded beach has an incredible particularity in which instead of sand the beach has small rocks or shell pieces. An amazing place near the small town of Marbella. While many tourists flock to popular destinations like Manuel Antonio or Tamarindo, Playa Frijolar has managed to maintain its pristine beauty and untouched appeal.
Although it is known as Marbella, its real name is Frijolar beach. In this destination in Santa Cruz of Guanacaste the sand is gray, waves are strong and the road leading to the beach is hidden and private.
You will have plenty of spots to park your car in front of the sea and enjoy this place, perfect for surfers who want to enjoy the waves in solitude. Here, you won’t find large crowds or rows of resorts, but rather a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The beach stretches for miles, providing ample space to walk along the shore, collect seashells, or simply relax while listening to the soothing rhythm of the waves.
Local Experience
One of the most remarkable aspects of Playa Frijolar is its proximity to local communities. The nearby town Marbella , just 2 kms distance offers a glimpse into authentic Costa Rican life. You can visit small, family-run restaurants serving delicious and authentic Tico cuisine. Try some of the local specialties, such as “gallo pinto” (rice and beans) or fresh seafood dishes. Engaging with the friendly locals will undoubtedly enhance your experience.
Surfing
Frijolar Beach is great for beginner and intermediate surfers, as it is known for its easy paddle outs and hollow waves with barreled sections. Due to its shifting sandbars, the waves at Frijolar are better ridden on a right position. Here, breaks are best ridden at mid tide.
How get there?
To reach Playa Frijolar, you can fly into Liberia’s Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport and then take a scenic drive along the Pacific coast. Be sure to check road conditions and plan your trip with us, as this area is more remote compared to the well-traveled tourist hubs in Costa Rica. We recommend visiting the beach in a 4×4 car, as there are tracts of the road that are in poor conditions.
Where to stay?
Playa Frijolar is a pristine and relatively untouched beach in Costa Rica, which means you won’t find a wide range of hotels and resorts right on the beach. However, there are accommodation options available nearby, and staying in the vicinity allows you to enjoy the tranquility of Playa Frijolar while still having access to amenities. We know very well the area so we can give you some insights of hotel and vacation rentals in the area. We can find a variety of options to suit your preferences and budget
Playa Frijolar, Costa Rica, embodies the untouched beauty and tranquility that many travelers dream of. If you’re seeking a peaceful escape from the crowds and a chance to immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s natural wonders and local culture, this hidden gem should be at the top of your travel list. It’s a place where the soul can rejuvenate amidst the serene beauty of the Pacific coastline.
