La Playita – Gay Beach Cruising Area

La Playita is the small cove past the rocks at the north end of Playa Espadilla. For decades it has been known as Manuel Antonio's gay beach. Reports say cruising there is now much quieter than it once was and mostly limited to eye contact, with a mix of locals and visitors. Men also gather on the sand at the north end of Espadilla before crossing. We have not verified current activity. Costa Rica has had same-sex marriage since 2020, but public nudity and public sex are illegal, so stay covered and discreet. Go only in daylight. The rock crossing is only passable around low tide, so check the tide times before going over and watch the time on the way back. Don't leave belongings unattended.