Playa Hermosa: Jaco’s Chilled Neighbour

by Matt Lloyd in Costa Rica

Photo by PriceTravel

Play Hermosa meaning beautiful beach in Spanish is located only a few kilometers from Jaco but has a very different vibe from its neighboring town. You will find a more chill and tranquil atmosphere here with only a few restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels lining the almost 7 km coastline. It is a great place to escape to when you are searching for a less populated, laid-back beach day.

This beach offers a volcanic black sand beach with wide-open space to walk and listen to the waves with many surf camps and lessons along the way. Playa Hermosa is known for its surf, attracting expert surfers from all over the world, and hosts the Quicksilver’s International Surf Championships. However, you don’t need a love for surfing to enjoy all this small town has to offer.

There are several great restaurants along the shore with fresh food to savor after spending your day at the water. Vida Hermosa Bar & Restaurant situated directly on the beach offers dining experiences upstairs on the patio or below at the water's edge. One of the special things Vida Hermosa has to offer is live music.www.facebook.com/VidaHermosaPlayaHermosa/

During the afternoon talented artists will be jamming live upstairs and later in the evening a beach party with a live DJ right at the water's edge so you can dance in the sand as the sun sets behind you. The food is the best show with many fresh fish dishes. One of the favorites is the teriyaki bowl whether you choose chicken or fish, you will not be disappointed in either as the flavor is bursting with goodness.

Las Olas is also found on the coastline and is a beachfront hotel and restaurant offering 8 fun named rooms such as Sloth or Macaw and a yoga study that is available for guests. www.lasolashotelcostarica.com/

Dining is offered with a perfect view of the surfers and you can choose from ceviche, sushi, or the popular Casado, a Costa Rican dish which is a large plate of either chicken, fish, or beef typically served with rice, beans, and salad.

Playa Hermosa is a tranquil small town where one can come to unwind, escape the crowds and simply relax in peace whether it be having a cold drink on the patio under the palm trees or walking into the colorful sunsets of pinks and oranges. This town allows you to stop and breathe, be stress-free and take in the natural beauty of this diverse country.