Coco Beach

Coco Beach, also known as Playas del Coco, has the unique distinction of being a tourist destination as well as a local hangout. Locals flock there for a bit of R&R because of its proximity to Liberia and its international airport, while foreign vacationers to Costa Rica take advantage of its calm waters and picturesque hillsides.

El Coco, as it's affectionately known, is made up of several small beaches and is perhaps only second to Liberia in terms of most developed towns in the province of Guanacaste.There are many souvenir shops in town, but you can also find vendors selling trinkets right on the beach.

The sand is a dark tan color, and the waters are generally calm due to the sheltered location on the Papagayo gulf; however, there are some rock formations to be aware of. Those calm waters usually attract a large number of small and recreational boats, which add to the area's charm.

• Location: Coco Beach, Guanacaste, Costa Rica