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Playa Ocotal is a small, quiet cove southwest of Playas del Coco. It suits couples, families and divers who want quiet water and hill views, with Coco's restaurants next door. Think of it as Coco's peaceful neighbor.
Who it suits
Ocotal sits on an inlet bounded by hills, with grayish sand and low waves. The beach is only about 500 meters long, so it feels tucked away. Calm, clear water makes it a good choice for an easy swim with kids.
It also suits divers and snorkelers. Ocotal is one of the area's regular dive and snorkel spots, and Coco, Ocotal and Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste have a large cluster of dive operators. That Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste is just north of Coco, not the beach of the same name near Jacó.
If you want nightlife or a long beach walk, stay in Playas del Coco, next door, and visit Ocotal for the day.
Getting there
Ocotal lies just southwest of Playas del Coco, along the same stretch of coast. You can reach it all year. From Liberia and Guanacaste Airport (LIR), head toward Coco first. Our guide to getting to Coco and Ocotal covers routes, buses and transfers.
Shuttle companies list about 25 minutes to an hour for a private transfer from LIR to Coco, so plan a little extra time to reach Ocotal.
Nearby stays
Ocotal's stay styles reflect its small size and hills:
- Hillside with views: the high ground around the cove looks out over the whole Gulf of Papagayo.
- Near the beach: stays a short walk from the cove.
- Condo or vacation rental: a good fit for families or longer stays who want a kitchen.
If you book on the hill, ask how steep the walk or drive down to the sand is. Compare places to stay near Playa Ocotal with Coco and the other beaches.
What to do
Swim and relax. The low waves suit swimming and sunbathing. Dry forest, hills and rock formations wrap around the beach.
Snorkel and dive. Gentle water makes Ocotal a good place to start snorkeling. Read about snorkeling around Ocotal and Coco, including the boat sites and the rules.
Boat days. Dive and fishing trips are offered from points along this coast, and tour boats work out of both Coco and Ocotal. Pack a hat and water for a sunny day on deck.
Paddle. Stand-up paddleboarding is part of the local offer in both Coco and Ocotal.
Take in the view. Walk up to higher ground for a view across the gulf.
A simple Ocotal day
Start with a morning swim, when the water is often gentle. Snorkel near the rock formations at the edges, then head into Coco for lunch and errands. Come back in the late afternoon and walk up the hill for the view across the gulf.
Practical notes
Ocotal is a small beach community. Coco, next door, has a wide range of services, so plan errands there.
The cove is sheltered, but conditions still change with wind and tides. Keep an eye on children in the water and watch for any warning flags.
Always use reef-safe sunscreen. It protects your skin and the reefs you came to see.
Sea conditions and tour schedules change, so check current conditions with your host or operator before you go.