The closest beach in the zone to the Catalina Islands dive sites.
Blue Flag beach
Playa Ocotal is a small black-sand cove about 3 kilometers south of Playas del Coco, set below a bluff with condos and hotels overlooking the water. It holds the Bandera Azul Ecologica Blue Flag and sits closest to the Catalina Islands of any beach in the zone, making it a base for local dive operators. The cove is sheltered and quieter than Coco, with rocky points on both ends good for shore snorkeling.
From Playas del Coco, follow the coastal road south about 3 kilometers, past El Ocotal, down the hill to the small beach parking area.
Ocotal
Fishing charter operation with its base at Ocotal Beach near Playas del Coco, running offshore and inshore trips in the Gulf of Papagayo for marlin, sailfish, tuna, roosterfish and mahi mahi. Trips include captain and mate, gear, bait, snacks and drinks.
Ocotal
Pelicano SportFishing has operated out of Ocotal Beach for more than 25 years, running half day and full day sportfishing charters in the Gulf of Papagayo alongside snorkeling, kayak and sunset tours. Captain Guillermo and crew take guests to sites such as Monkey Head and Pelonas Island for snorkeling, caves and fishing, preparing fresh ceviche and sashimi onboard from the catch. The company takes bookings by phone and keeps an active TripAdvisor review page.
Ocotal
PADI dive shop based near Playa Ocotal running local Papagayo dives plus Bat Islands and Catalina Islands trips, with a full course range from Discover Scuba through Divemaster and Instructor. The shop is open daily and known for its divemaster internship program.