# Playa Los Cedros: surf and tide pools between Cabuya and Montezuma

> Playa Los Cedros is a stretch of coast just past the Río Lajas on the road between Cabuya and Montezuma. It's best known as one of the area's better surf spots, and at low tide it opens up tide pools that are good for exploring and a quiet picnic.

Source: https://www.cabuyacr.com/playa-los-cedros/
Last checked: 2026-10-20
Location: Montezuma road, Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
Type: beach, surf
Location: just past the Río Lajas, on the road between Cabuya and Montezuma
Best for: experienced surfers, tide pools at low tide, picnics
Swimming: take care; check conditions and stay out when waves are up
Facilities: none, so bring water, food and shade

## What it's like

Los Cedros is the beach locals mention when the surf is up. It sits just past the Río Lajas bridge on the road from Cabuya toward Montezuma, a short drive or bike ride from the village. There's sand and rock, and the beach changes with the tide: at high tide it's a wave-washed beach, and at low tide the rocks emerge with pools full of small fish, crabs and anemones.

There are no restaurants, rentals or lifeguards here. That's a big part of the appeal. On a weekday you may share it with a handful of surfers and nobody else.

## Surfing

Los Cedros is often named as one of the best surf spots near Cabuya. It's better suited to surfers who already know what they're doing than to first-timers: the bottom is rocky in places and there's nobody around to help. If you're learning, take a lesson on the beginner-friendly beaches around Santa Teresa instead, and come here to watch. Our [surf guide](/surf-near-cabuya/) covers the options.

## Tide pools and picnics

Low tide is the time for everyone else. Walk out on the rock shelves carefully, wear shoes that grip, and look into the pools rather than turning over rocks. Bring a picnic and shade, and keep an eye on the incoming tide, which covers the shelves faster than you'd expect. [Cabuya tides](/cabuya-tides/) explains how to time it.

## Nearby

The Río Lajas, which you cross just before the beach, has a wide swimming area near its mouth where roseate spoonbills are often seen. You can also hike upriver for about an hour to small waterfalls and swimming holes, though in the dry season the river runs low and isn't always good for swimming. [The Sanctuary at Two Rivers](/the-sanctuary-at-two-rivers/) sits upstream where the Lajas meets the Río Cacao.

## Safety

- Don't swim when waves are breaking hard; currents along this coast can be strong.
- Watch your footing on algae-covered rock.
- Don't leave valuables in a parked car.
- Go with someone else if you're surfing.

## Getting there

From Cabuya, head north on the road toward Montezuma and cross the Río Lajas bridge; the beach is just beyond it. It's an easy bike ride from the village. See [getting to Cabuya](/getting-to-cabuya/) for the wider area.

## Frequently asked questions

### Is Playa Los Cedros good for beginners?
Not for surfing. It's better for experienced surfers. Beginners will have an easier time on the beaches around Santa Teresa.

### Can you swim at Los Cedros?
Sometimes, in calm conditions. Stay out when the waves are up, and there are no lifeguards.

### When are the tide pools best?
Around low tide. Check a tide table and arrive an hour or so before low water.

### Are there any facilities?
No. Bring water, food, sun protection and shade.