Arco Beach — Attraction in Puntarenas Province

Wild, exotic, and secluded beach! Playa Arco can be accessed at low tide only, so you'll need to pay attention to the tide schedule. Get there as soon as low tide starts to maximize the few hours you'll have. As soon as high tide comes in it covers the beach, making an exit nearly impossible. Playa Arco is part of Marino Balleno National Park, and you can get a $10 ticket to access this area.

We opted to have a meal at La Cusinga, as they have a private trail down to the beach that you can access if you dine at the restaurant. It took us about 16 minutes to get to the beach from this trail, but hiking shoes are a must as it's slippery and steep in places. Just tell the guard when entering La Cusinga that you're wanting to eat at the restaurant and then go to the beach. They will direct you to the restaurant and then the beach trail access after your meal.

We visited on a Saturday in early August and we saw maybe two other groups the whole time. It's...

Playa Arco is a spectacular area. In sand and waves and rocky exploration it does not disappoint. BE AWARE this is a High Crime area. Do not take anything to this beach that you cannot wear on your body while playing In the waves. We had dropped our packs at the waters edge while we played in the waist high surf. Then we watched as two Ticos emerged from the forest tree line - ran straight for our packs and grabbed them - and ran back into the forest. We chased them into the forest - pleaded with them to return our bags - nothing. Everything is gone - our money, our passports, our credit and debit card, eyeglasses, car keys - everything. (Don't leave your valuables in the car right?). Word of caution - be very VERY careful when visiting this or any other beach...

After seeing mixed reviews, beauty versus safety? I still wanted to try Arco beach on my drive South from Manuel Antonio. I read about the crime so prepared in advance and hid most valuables in the car. I read where the best access was through the restaurant. When I pulled in the parking lot I got one of the last parking spaces. When I got out of the car and was getting ready for my trek to the beach I watched two locals smash the side window of a rental car parked about 3 cars away. Funny because there were people and cars everywhere but no intervention. I have found everywhere in Costa Rica to be safe for exploration and adventure. Arco Beach as beautiful as the pictures look is one place I...