Surfing at Esterillos Beach
Esterillos on the Central Pacific Coast is known for offering surfers the most consistent and clean waves, perfect for riding. Waves break here practically year-round, making it very attractive for surf enthusiasts. Experts rate Esterillos Oeste as the best spot, especially when the tide is rising, creating large and powerful waves for experienced surfers.
La Sirena
Esterillos Oeste is associated with La Sirena, also known as such because at the northern end of the beach stands the famous sculpture "La Sirena," just 900 meters from Hotel Costa Pacífica. The mermaid in this bronze monument, uniquely beautiful, is seated on rocks gazing towards the sea horizon. When the tide rises, it seems to emerge from the depths of the Pacific Ocean and float in its waters. The sculptor Avilio Valverde, also known as Villo and originally from Puriscal, created it. Legend has it that a fisherman who owned a restaurant in Playa Esterillos saw the mermaid during one of his fishing trips, and from then on, he always heard her song when he went fishing. The artist recreated her based on the fisherman's description.
Playa Esterillos is a beach located on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, about 124 km from San José, the capital city, and near the town of Jacó.
Playa Esterillos Oeste is located in the district and canton of Parrita, in the province of Puntarenas, Costa Rica. It features small streams and promontories, excellent for wildlife observation and lush landscapes. The beach is accessible year-round and has been awarded for its conservation efforts and the protection of the Blue Flag Ecological Program, certifying its high environmental and safety standards.
Geographical Features
Playa Esterillos is an extensive and beautiful beach stretching almost 7 km, with grayish sands, crystal-clear blue waters inviting for a swim, and rich natural beauty along the coastline with palm trees and almond trees lining the forest edge.
Esterillos Oeste is characterized by rocky promontories and small streams where wildlife such as iguanas, crocodiles, and a variety of birds can be observed. It is separated from Playa Hermosa by Punta Judas. There is a rocky section with strong waves during high tide, while the western side has a sandy bottom. Towards the north of this beach, rocks form natural pools where fossil remains can be found.
This extensive beach, 6,500 meters long, showcases natural richness along the entire coast, with straight characteristics, grayish sands, and an open coast with strong waves, so swimmers are advised to take precautions. Mangroves are found towards the east and center parts of the beach.