Playa Blanca and Playa Mantas are two famous beaches on the central Pacific coastline of Costa Rica. They are right next to each other in front of Punta Leona’s Touristic Complex. The main difference between them is that one of them (Playa Mantas) has public access while the other beach (Playa Blanca) has more private access.
Punta Leona is a Touristic Complex with hotels, restaurants, pools, and fun activities. There is a public road that crosses Punta Leona (on that road you’ll find a small supermarket in case you need something, an ice cream place and several places to park your car. I recommend going until the end and parking your car where the public road ends. You’ll have Playa Mantas right next to it.
Related Post: One Adventure at Playa Mantas
Playa Mantas Summary:
- Location: Playa Mantas Location
- Nearby beaches: Playa Blanca, Playa Jacó, Playa Hermosa
- Access: Any car
- Parking: Yes
- Nearby Facilities: The only facilities nearby are from the Touristic Complex.
- Sand Color: White
- Waves (1/5):
- Hidden Gem Score (1/5):
If you want to access Playa Blanca, you have two options: pay for the day pass (around $30). Or go to Playa Manta, walk to the left side of the beach, and climb a few rocks to reach Playa Blanca.
Personally, and I think this is the same for everybody that has been to both, Playa Blanca is the best beach out of the two beaches. This is because the water is almost crystal clear, and there are fewer boats around than in Playa Mantas.
These beaches are located almost one hour away from San José. So, during a weekend, it’s probable that both will be full of locals. If you have the chance, I recommend going to either of these beaches during the week so you’ll be able to enjoy the beach more. But if you like crowds and a nice atmosphere, try going during the weekend.
Playa Blanca (Punta Leona) Summary:
- Location: Playa Blanca Location
- Nearby beaches: Playa Mantas, Playa Jacó, Playa Hermosa
- Access: Any car
- Parking: Yes (Same parking lot as Playa Mantas or a parking lot inside Punta Leona.)
- Nearby Facilities: The only facilities nearby are from the Touristic Complex.
- Sand Color: White
- Waves (1/5):
- Hidden Gem Score (1/5):
