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Central America for the Beach Bum

Central America is a beach bum's paradise. White sand beaches lined by coconut trees, turquoise Caribbean waters, warm Pacific swells, and deserted islands are just some of the area's sun-saturated attractions, and we're here to tell you where to find them.
Beaches in Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s beaches rank among the best in the world. And since nearly two thirds of Costa Rica’s borders are coastline, there are a whole lot of beaches to explore, from Manuel Antonio to Playa Tamarindo, Jaco Beach to Montezuma. Let’s get started!
Top Beaches in Central America
The majority of Central America's travelers make a beeline straight to the beach. Because of the region's warm waters, flourishing marine life, and soft sands spanning two diverse coastlines, the epicenter of ithe tourism industry is along the edges. From Pacific shores to Caribbean isles, Central America's beaches are truly unbeatable. Here are some of the best ones.
Island Paradises in Central America
Forget Jamaica. Forget St. Martin. The islands of Central America are just as beautiful, even easier to access, and can be enjoyed at a much better price. From the local and lively (Ambergris Caye, Belize) to the amazingly remote (Cocos Island, Costa Rica), Central America’s islands offer every kind of paradise.
San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua
San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua is the quintessential Central America beach: low-key and uncrowded, yet boasting lively Caribbean attractions like surfing, Scuba diving, snorkeling and sailing.
Travel Profile: Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Manuel Antonio National Park is located on the Pacific coast, in the Costa Rican province of Puntarenas. Though small, it’s the most visited park in Costa Rica -- and one of the most beautiful.
Playa Tamarindo - Costa Rica
Travel guide to Playa Tamarindo, one of Costa Rica's most popular beaches for international travelers.
Central America Islands - Atolls and Archipelagos
Why travel to one Central America island when you can visit many? Central America is home to a number of island groups, from tiny islets to larger island paradises, all with palm trees, pristine beaches, and waters perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Costa Rica's Unique Island Reserves
All about Costa Island's beautiful topical island paradises: Cocos, Cano, and Tortuga. Though these national parks and reserves don't offer accommodations, they offer matchless ecotourism, wildlife viewing, snorkeling, diving, and watersports opportunities.
Lesser Known Island Escapes
Infoprmation all about Central America's islands that are less frequented by tourists. Though it means less of a selection when it comes to accommodations and amenities, it also means uncrowded beaches, lower prices, better wildlife viewing, and more local culture!
Central America's Most Popular Islands
When you picture Central America's most popular islands, you imagine coconut palms, reggae beats, and sandy beaches lapped by stunning Caribbean waters. All possess considerable permanent populations, and offer lodging, dining, and nightlife options for every budget.
Travel Profile: Placencia, Belize
Belize is famous for its laid-back attitude, and Placencia is the perfect place for travelers celebrate it. Sit on the beach before the beautiful Caribbean, and relax like you’ve never relaxed before!
Stay at South Water Caye, Belize
Belize's South Water Caye is a dream destination for vacationers seeking seclusion from nosey tourists, a remote tropical island surrounded by some of the most incredible marine life in the world.
Photo Gallery: Big Corn Island, Nicaragua
Beautiful photos of Big Corn Island, off Nicaragua's Caribbean coast, Central America.
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