Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The easiest way to reach Conchal is to simply walk 15 minutes down the beach from
Playa Brasilito. You can also drive along the sandy beach road, though you'll be charged
US$2 to park.
Playa Grande
Playa Grande is a wide, gorgeous beach, famous among conservationists and surfers alike.
By day, the offshore winds create steep and powerful waves, especially at high tide. By
night, an ancient cycle continues, as leatherback sea turtles bearing clutches of eggs follow
the ocean currents back to their birthplace. The beach stretches for about 5km from the
Tamarindo estuary, around a dome rock - with tide pools and superb surf fishing - and
onto equally grand Playa Ventanas. The water is exquisite: warm, clear and charged with
dynamic energy. Even confident swimmers should obey those riptide signs, as people have
drowned here.
Since 1991, Playa Grande has been part of the Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas de
Guanacaste, which protects one of the most important leatherback nesting areas in the
world. During the day, the beach is free and open to all, which is a good thing as the
breaks off Playa Grande are fast, steep and consistent. At night, however, it is only pos-
sible to visit the beach on a guided tour, to ensure that nesting cycles continue unhindered.
Sights
Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas de Guanacaste
PARK
( 2653-0470; admission incl tour US$25; 8am-noon & 1-5pm, tours 6pm-2am)
Playa Grande is considered one of the world's most important nesting areas for the
baula
(leatherback turtle). The park encompasses the entire beach and adjacent land (700 hec-
tares), along with 220 sq km of ocean. In the evenings from October to March, rangers
lead tours for visitors to witness this amazing cycle of life.
The ecosystem is primarily composed of mangrove swamp, ideal for caiman and cro-
codile, as well as numerous bird species, including the beautiful roseate spoonbill. But the
main attraction is the nesting of the world's largest species of turtle, which can weigh in
excess of 400kg.
