Is It Easy To Get a Sunburn In Costa Rica?
As you approach the equator, the strength of the sun increases. Costa Rica lies between 8° and 11° north of the equator; in comparison, "always sunny" southern California is 32° north of the equator. People that arrive from northern latitudes should realize that unprotected exposure to direct sunlight - even for as little as 20 minutes - can cause a painful sunburn.
If you are at the beach, plan on applying 30 SPF sunscreen every hour. Even if it's cloudy it's still possible to get burned, so please, apply sunscreen to the exposed portions of your body regularly. This applies to Guanacaste beaches like Playa Flamingo, Playa Conchal, and Tamarindo. Not all areas are super sunny, however - one example is San Gerardo de Dota, which is set in the South Central region of Costa Rica.
It's also very important to stay hydrated while in Costa Rica, and when possible, to stake out a shady area on the beach - this will allow you to enjoy longer periods of time while enjoying the country's gorgeous coastline.
Related Questions
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Guanacaste
With sun-splashed beaches and great Pacific surf, Costa Rica's northwestern province of Guanacaste teems with visitors from around the globe. The region's dry tropical climate encompasses a varied landscape. Popular white-sand beaches line the coast, and to the east, the Guanacaste Mountains feature fascinating national parks and caldera volcanoes. Travelers of every type can enjoy Guanacaste's myriad of activities, and Liberia's international airport (LIR) provides excellent regional access.
South Central
One of the most rugged and unexplored regions in Costa Rica, the South Central Region contains many natural wonders, including Costa Rica's largest collection of virgin forest and the highest peak south of Guatemala, Cerro Chirripo. Winding ecosystem trails explore the scarcely populated landscape, where peaks in the Talamanca Mountain Range can reach over 9,800 ft (3,000 m). If remoteness and inaccessibility appeal to you, Costa Rica's wild South Central region may be just the right place.
Playa Conchal
At Playa Conchal, the sand is composed of millions of tiny crushed shells that rustle beneath your feet. The mesmerizing beach is surrounded by turquoise waters, and it sits in a bay next to Playa Brasilito. The clear waters of Playa Conchal make it a wonderful place for swimming or snorkeling with an array of tropical fish.
Playa Flamingo
This mile-long, crescent-shaped beach, also known as Playa Blanca (White Beach), is as beautiful as any of the famed beaches in Costa Rica. Among the first of Costa Rica's beaches to receive international attention, Flamingo Beach has evolved into one of the country's most lavish areas.
San Gerardo de Dota
A haven for birdwatchers and hikers awaits visitors around the town of San Gerardo de Dota, huddled up against the roaring Talamanca Mountain Range. Nestled in the Savegre River Valley, tourism hasn't quite hit this quaint settlement which provides quick access to the recently named Los Quetzales National Park.
Tamarindo
Once a quiet surf beach and fishing hamlet, Tamarindo is now a beach town with the infrastructure Western travelers have come to expect. Located on the Central West Coast of Guanacaste, Tamarindo still boasts unspoilt beaches and incredible biodiversity — despite the town’s recent and ongoing development. Come for fun in the sun and stay for the laid back vibe that is so characteristic of the region.
It's more than just having a good time or visiting beautiful places (although that's absolutely a part of it!), it's about being part of a unique experience that stays with you.
