Should I pack beach towels?

Bring one quick-dry travel towel per person. Hotel towels work for pools, but you'll want your own for beach days and they dry faster in humid weather.

What about snorkel gear for kids?

Rent locally unless your kids have specific size needs. Most beach towns rent kids' gear for $8-15 per day. Buying new costs $25-40 and saves luggage space.

How much mosquito repellent should I bring?

One 6oz bottle per person for a week-long trip. Apply every 4-6 hours and after swimming. Local repellent is available but often weaker than 25-30% DEET formulas from home.

Do I need special shoes for the beach?

Yes. Pacific coast beaches have rocks and coral. Water shoes with good grip are essential. Regular flip-flops work for pool areas but not for ocean swimming or walking on rocky shores.

How to Pack for a Family Beach Trip to Costa Rica

Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, and waterproof protection for electronics. Bring mosquito repellent with DEET, comfortable walking shoes, and a basic first aid kit. Most beach essentials can be bought locally, so focus on items that are expensive or hard to find in Costa Rica.

Choose your luggage strategy. Pack one large suitcase per adult plus a carry-on backpack for each family member. Avoid hard-sided luggage if you plan beach day trips - soft duffels are easier to pack with sandy, wet items.
Pack the essentials first. Start with reef-safe sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide), DEET-based mosquito repellent, and prescription medications. These are expensive in Costa Rica and some brands aren't available.
Focus on quick-dry fabrics. Pack synthetic or merino wool clothing that dries fast. Bring 2-3 swimsuits per person so there's always a dry option. Pack one long-sleeved shirt and pants per person for mosquito protection at dawn and dusk.
Protect your electronics. Bring a dry bag for phones and cameras, plus a portable charger in a waterproof case. Download offline maps and translation apps before you go - WiFi can be spotty on beaches.
Pack for comfort and safety. Include water shoes for rocky beaches, a basic first aid kit with bandaids and antiseptic, and electrolyte packets for hot days. Bring one nice outfit per person for dinners out.

Should I pack beach towels?: Bring one quick-dry travel towel per person. Hotel towels work for pools, but you'll want your own for beach days and they dry faster in humid weather.
What about snorkel gear for kids?: Rent locally unless your kids have specific size needs. Most beach towns rent kids' gear for $8-15 per day. Buying new costs $25-40 and saves luggage space.
How much mosquito repellent should I bring?: One 6oz bottle per person for a week-long trip. Apply every 4-6 hours and after swimming. Local repellent is available but often weaker than 25-30% DEET formulas from home.
Do I need special shoes for the beach?: Yes. Pacific coast beaches have rocks and coral. Water shoes with good grip are essential. Regular flip-flops work for pool areas but not for ocean swimming or walking on rocky shores.