Retirees and other expats should know that Costa Rica has some of the best beaches in the world

Costa Rica’s natural beauty attracts both tourists and potential retirees. Part of the country’s lure are its many beaches on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Recently, FlightNetwork put together a list of the World’s Best Beaches for 2018 with the help of over 1200 journalists, editors, bloggers and agencies around the world who specialize in travel. The list ranks the 50 best beaches in Central America and the Caribbean areas. Manuel Antonio in the Central Pacific, Punta Uva on the south Caribbean coast, Conchal in the northwest Pacific and Play Sombrero in the Southern Pacific all made the list.

Of the four beaches mentioned Manuel Antonio was ranked number 8 on the list. This is not surprising because of its unparalleled beauty and abundante wildlife like sloths, monkeys and birds species. All one has to do is just check out the spectacular panoramic view from the Hotel Mariposa high above Manuel Antonio to appreciate the unparalleled beauty of this spot. On the beach portion of my relocation tours my guests and I view one of the most awesome sunsets in the world from this hotel. It truly has to seen to be believed.

Punta Uva is considered by many to be of the best beaches in the world because of its calm and crystal-clear water that offers perfect swimming conditions in a tropical setting. The white sand, abundant palms and offshore reefs all combine to attract retired expats, Costa Ricans and travelers from all over the world. The unique Caribbean-style culture and dishes are another plus the area affords visitors.

Playa Conchal’s beautifulwhite-sand beach is its drawing card. Visitors are amazed by the quantity of white shells (conchas in Spanish) which give the beach its name. Neighboring Play Brasilito is also worth a visit.

Playa Sombrero is a beach that is unknown even to many Costa Ricans because of its remote location at the south end of the Osa peninsula. It is a natural paradise surrounded by a rainforest, incredible views and is teeming with many species of exotic wildlife. Since Sombrero beach is off-the beaten-path, it is the perfect spot to get away from it all and relax while enjoying the scenery.

Of the four beaches mentioned,Manuel Antonio and Conchal are considered Blue Flag Ecological beaches. This is the highest honer bestowed to a beach and much like five-star hotel. The other two beaches have not been ranked yet, but also belong in the same category.

In addition to the four beach areas listed above the nation boasts nearly 300 beaches in all, each with a unique draw and distinct setting. Whether you want to just kick back and enjoy the scenery or take part in water sports like swimming, kayaking, surfing, or snorkeling, Costa Rica’s beaches have it all. A full list of beaches may be found at: https://www.govisitcostarica.com/travelInfo/beaches/beaches-list.asp

Visiting Costa Rica’s many beaches is just one of the activities expat retirees can enjoy to stay busy and happy in this wonderful country. Costa Rica is really a nature lover’s Disneyland, as one travel expert has described it.