Playa Flamingo (Potrero, Brasilito)

This charming and picturesque town occupies two small and hilly peninsulas jutting into the Pacific and covered in hotels, condos, and private residences. Between the two extremes is the idyllic Flamingo Beach, with its soft, pale-pink sand that earned the town its endearing name. Behind the beach is a protected mangrove swamp. Its cool shade harbors and abundance of marine and terrestrial bird and animal species.

The northern half of Flamingo Beach, Costa Rica, comprises the recently renovated full-service Flamingo Marina. Sportfishing yachts, catamarans, sailboats, and some smaller craft fill the marina in anticipation of customers to indulge in some of the region’s best sport fishing, sailing, and tours to nearby islands and secluded beaches.

If Flamingo’s laidback, upper-class expat feel isn’t exactly what you’re looking for, visit the nearby towns of Playa Potrero, Costa Rica, and Brasilito. Each borders a string of largely deserted beaches and small towns or fishing villages. Quaint B&Bs, hotels, condos, and hostels are scattered among the local businesses and residences, giving the feeling of a healthy coexistence between the Ticos and new arrivals. Several of the local restaurants and bars feature live music and host seasonal music fests. Artisans sell their wares along the shoreline, and tour providers offer day tours and outings to dozens of nearby maritime and inland attractions.