While the tide pools themselves are in Esterillos Oeste, the wide-open
beach of Esterillos Este offers something equally unforgettable —
horseback riding along the sand. Just five minutes away, our ranch
lets you experience the coastline from a whole new perspective.
There’s no better way to balance adventure and relaxation: spend the
afternoon with your family exploring the tide pools, then end the day
with a sunset horseback ride.
Reserve your horseback ride here and complete your perfect
Esterillos beach day.
Combine With a Horseback Ride in Esterillos Este
Combine With a Horseback Ride in Esterillos Este
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The Mermaid of Esterillos Oeste
Just a five-minute drive from Esterillos Este, you’ll find the famousmermaid statue of Esterillos Oeste. Rising from the ocean, she hasbecome a local landmark and photo spot for visitors passing through. The best time to see the mermaid is during low tide, when she’s moreaccessible and the surrounding reef and rocks are exposed. At sunset,the statue becomes a dramatic silhouette against the Pacific — perfectfor photographers and Instagram-hunters alike. Right around the mermaid, the shoreline forms tide pools that are safefor families. Kids love spotting tiny fish and crabs in the shallowwater. It’s a great contrast to the wider beaches of Esterillos Este,where the waves are stronger and not as suited for swimming.
Tide Pools and the Famous Mermaid
Right next to the tide pools sits the iconic mermaid statue ofEsterillos Oeste. At low tide, you can walk close to her and takephotos. Together, the mermaid and the tide pools create one of themost family-friendly and Instagram-worthy stops on Costa Rica’sCentral Pacific Coast. ⸻ How to Visit the Tide Pools • Location: Esterillos Oeste (5 minutes from Esterillos Este, betweenJaco and Manuel Antonio). • Best time to visit: At low tide. Check the tide schedule before yougo, since the pools are only accessible when the ocean recedes. • What to bring: Water shoes or sandals, sunscreen, water, and a camera. • Tip: Plan your visit for late afternoon — enjoy the tide poolsfirst, then watch the sunset by the mermaid statue.
Playa Hermosa: Costa Rica’s Surf Hub
Drive north from Esterillos and you’ll reach Playa Hermosa, one ofCosta Rica’s most famous surf beaches. Known for its consistent breaksand international competitions, it’s a must-visit for wave lovers.Even if you’re not planning to surf, it’s worth watching theprofessionals at work while enjoying a drink at one of the beachsidebars. Playa Hermosa’s surf culture makes a great contrast to the quieter,family-oriented feel of Esterillos Este and Oeste. Together, they givevisitors a full taste of Costa Rica’s beach life — from high-energysurf to tranquil sunsets.