Playa Grande

Real Estate in Playa Grande. This long white beach to the south of Tamarindo has, until now, been a low-key backpacker and surfer destination with just a few small hotels, residences, and surf schools. Although located adjacent to bustling Tamarindo, the natural barrier of an estuary means it’s only accessible either by a 30-minute drive through Villa Real, Huacas and Matapalo, or by a foot ferry which runs only when there’s enough traffic.

Its secluded location and the existence of Las Baulas National Marine Park – which includes a large swath of ocean, as well as the beach 50 meters inland to protect the nesting grounds of the endangered leatherback turtle – has kept development to a minimum. Access to the beach at night is closed to all but tour guides with visitors there to watch the turtles laying their eggs.