Playa Mansita holidays

Holidays to Playa Mansita show off a calm side of Costa Rica. In place of zip lines and water rafts are pashmina-soft sands and peaceful countryside.

Costa Rica’s sleepy side

Lots of people associate Costa Rica with adventure, namely because of popular pastimes like zip-lining and river tubing. But Playa Mansita is the exception. This pocket of land is on the country’s quiet west coast, sandwiched between a ribbon of sand and acres of horse ranches.

Playa Mansita

The beach here is out-of-this-world pretty, but not in the tropical postcard sense. It’s wild and rugged, and pummelled by surfer-friendly waves and bookended by craggy rock formations. Visit before dinnertime and you’ll catch the sunset – it’s one of the best places to see it for miles.

Playa Tamarindo

If you’re after more than peace and quiet, it’s a 20-minute drive north to Playa Tamarindo, one of Costa Rica’s liveliest resorts. Witch’s Rock, a world-renowned surf spot, draws those who like to catch a wave. To cater to the crowds, beach bars, shops and international restaurants stack up behind the sands.