We'll be staying a few days near Playa Panama in Guanacaste. Is there decent snorkeling along that beach or any nearby beaches? We're trying to decide whether or not we should bring our snorkeling equipment with us. Any thoughts?

Thanks!
Meredith

I stayed at Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste and swam in Coco and Tamarindo. Although the water was clear enough to see, there was nothing there. The beaches were great, the swimming awesome, but not much to see. I did talk to a few people who found some rocky areas that had some fish, but I did not find them. I would bring your stuff though, because you never know.

In general, snorkeling is not that good in Guanacaste.

Sandy

the best snorkelling is at Playa Ocotal about 5km from Playa Panama:

http://costa-rica.typepad.com/playa_...ome/index.html

the snorkelling in Playa Hermosa is ok,

http://costa-rica.typepad.com/playa_...ome/index.html

you will probably see fish but not a lot, you can go out on a small boat and probably see manta rays, but it's not belize!!

There is some decent snorkeling at Playa Conchal. As you are facing the water, to your right (north), before the sandy beach turns to stone, there are a few rock outcroppings in about 10-20 feet of water which attract a lot of fish. I don't know if it's worth dragging your own equipment from home, though.

Thanks for the replies! I think we will leave our stuff at home. If we decide we need to snorkel once we get there, we can always rent the equipment. I would hate to waste valuable luggage space on something we most likely won't use.

Thanks again!
Meredith

hI, We love to snorkel and found the snorkelling in CR poor. We were at Playa Ocotal too but were not impressed with the snorkeling. Few fish and water wasnt very clear. The best snorkeling we have found is in Bonaire.