Playa Negra, Surf beach in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica
Playa Negra is a beach with dark sand along the Guanacaste coast, where rock formations extend into the water and create distinct areas for surfing and exploring tide pools. The coastline features a rocky underwater structure that produces consistent wave patterns suitable for different skill levels.
The beach gained international attention from a 1994 surf film that highlighted its waves and conditions to audiences worldwide. This exposure led to growing interest in the location and visits from surfers around the globe.
The nearby village blends everyday Costa Rican life with a laid-back surf community, where local shops and family-run restaurants serve both residents and visiting surfers.
A car is needed to reach the beach, as public transportation is limited and the nearest airport is roughly 1 hour away by road. Visitors should check for available accommodations ahead of time, as the area is somewhat remote.
The wave breaks consistently over a reef formation, producing right-hand barrels that attract surfers of varying skill levels throughout the year. This reef structure remains active year-round and offers reliable conditions.
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