Unlike the open beaches of Esterillos Este — where waves are stronger
and the current isn’t ideal for swimming — the tide pools in
Esterillos Oeste create calm, shallow areas perfect for wading.
Here’s why visitors love them:
• Safe for families: The rock formations block the waves, creating
small, natural “pools.”
• Teeming with marine life: Children (and adults!) can spot tiny
fish, crabs, and even starfish.
• Great for relaxing: The pools warm up in the sun, making them feel
like natural Jacuzzis.
• Perfect for photography: With the ocean as a backdrop, the pools
look amazing in photos, especially at sunset.
What Makes the Tide Pools Special
What Makes the Tide Pools Special
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Easy to Combine with Other Family Adventures
Esterillos is perfectly located between Jaco and Manuel Antonio,making it easy to plan a full day of activities. Here’s one idea forfamilies: • Morning: Explore the tide pools of Esterillos Oeste (great for kids). • Afternoon: Take a short drive to the Guamalotillo waterfall for arefreshing swim. • Evening: End the day with a sunset horseback ride in Esterillos Este. It’s a family itinerary that balances adventure with relaxation.
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.
Combine With a Horseback Ride in Esterillos Este
While the tide pools themselves are in Esterillos Oeste, the wide-openbeach of Esterillos Este offers something equally unforgettable —horseback riding along the sand. Just five minutes away, our ranchlets you experience the coastline from a whole new perspective. There’s no better way to balance adventure and relaxation: spend theafternoon with your family exploring the tide pools, then end the daywith a sunset horseback ride. Reserve your horseback ride here and complete your perfectEsterillos beach day. Click here