Playa Flamingo

Introducing Playa Flamingo

The crescent-strip of white sand known as Playa Flamingo is postcard-worthy, which is probably why it was billed decades ago as Costa Rica’s most sophisticated beach destination. These days the beach has gone completely upscale, though the scene is far from pretty. The hills above the bay are lined with private villas and expensive condos, and the area has an awful reputation for rampant cocaine use, high-end prostitution and more dirty old men than you can shake a cigar at. Package tourists and sportfisherman still frequent the old resorts that line the bay, though there are definitely better places to spend your time and money.

Interestingly enough, the original name of the beach was Playa Blanca; it changed its name in the 1950s to coincide with the construction of the area’s first major hotel, the Flamingo Beach Resort. Oh, and in case you’re wondering, the flamingo season runs from never to never.

Across from the Flamingo Marina Resort, Banco de Costa Rica (654 4984; 8:30am-3:30pm) can exchange US dollars and traveler’s checks. The Super Massai, on the main north–south road, is good for all kinds of food supplies and toiletries.

Last updated: Mar 2, 2009