Playa Espadilla Sur

Playa Espadilla Sur is the long, sandy Pacific beach on the park side of Punta Catedral, across a natural sand bridge from Playa Manuel Antonio. Visitors often describe it as roomier and quieter than that central beach, so I’d make the walk if you want more space and a longer shoreline. The surf is more exposed here, though, and swimming conditions can change.

You reach it on foot after entering the park; this isn’t a drive-up beach. The sandy Sendero Playa Espadilla Sur comes in near the Manglar side, and trails also connect the beach with Playa Manuel Antonio around Punta Catedral. Leave time for that walk when you plan your park day.

Punta Catedral is joined to the mainland by a tombolo—a natural sandy bridge between the two bays. Playa Espadilla Sur and Playa Manuel Antonio face opposite sides of it, so walking between them gives you two different stretches of coast in one outing.

Coastal trees give parts of the shore shade, but the water is more open and can be rough. Visitor accounts disagree about how calm it feels; some warn that high tide and stronger surf can make swimming unsafe. Decide after you see conditions, and follow any park guidance on the beach. Monkeys sometimes investigate unattended bags and food, so keep your things zipped and close by.