Playa Cocles, Caribbean beach in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
Playa Cocles is a sandy Caribbean beach near Puerto Viejo with turquoise water and rows of palm trees along the shore. The beach has gentler conditions in some areas while developing more powerful waves toward the northern end.
The area began as a modest fishing settlement in the 1970s and gradually became part of Costa Rica's Caribbean tourism route from the 1990s onward. This shift brought significant economic and social changes to the region.
The area reflects a blend of Latino, Afro-Caribbean, and indigenous Bribri influences that you can see in local music, food, and daily life. This mix shapes how the community feels and functions today.
The beach has rental shops and instructors for water sports, along with lifeguards monitoring water conditions for safety. You can find natural shade under the palm trees and get up-to-date information about daily conditions from local operators.
The northern section attracts experienced surfers with stronger waves, especially during peak season. Many visitors focus on the calmer southern areas and overlook this wave-rich part of the beach.
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