Skip the main beach sewage issues and trek through the jungle cemetery to find this protected cove. It’s the only water in town safe for swimming. Arrive by 9am or you’ll be fighting for sand space with influencers and tour groups. Bring your own cooler and towel; rentals here are a ripoff. If you’re feeling active, book the guided singletrack mountain bike session to explore the nearby trails before hitting the waves for an afternoon swim.
Reaching this isolated stretch of coastline requires navigating a path directly through the local municipal graveyard, a somber and gravelly transition that keeps the casual crowds at bay. Once past the stone walls, the shoreline reveals a sheltered cove where the ocean remains calm enough for actual swimming, unlike the heavy surf found on the main northern beaches. You will find coarse yellow sand and a tight perimeter of cliffs that block the noise of the village. It serves as a necessary refuge for those who prioritize water quality over the convenience of beachfront cocktail service and loud music. Arriving before the sun hits its peak is the only way to secure a position beneath the sparse shade offered by the rocky outcrops near the southern point. Make sure to pack your own supplies in a backpack, including sufficient fresh water and snacks, as there are zero commercial services provided on the sand. The walk from the main town center through the Avenida del Palmar district takes roughly twenty minutes, winding upward through narrow dirt paths. Avoid the midday heat when humidity spikes significantly in the low-lying jungle area. Most people stop at the first clearing they see, which creates an unnecessary density of bodies; keep walking toward the northern end of the cove to find more expansive sand. Combining this stop with a morning mountain bike ride along the singletrack trails behind the ridge provides a better physical layout for your day. Skip the expensive rental gear stalls at the trailhead and bring your own towels and snorkeling masks to avoid the standard tourist markups. The graveyard path remains open to the public daily, but the terrain is uneven and requires sturdy footwear. Local history suggests the site was named for the proximity to the town cemetery, which residents treat with quiet respect. During the summer, the water remains calmest during early morning hours, as the Pacific swells increase in intensity by late afternoon, rendering the entry points tricky for inexperienced swimmers. Always check local weather reports for surge warnings before descending the final trail, as the narrow entry point can become dangerous during high tide cycles or seasonal shifts in currents.
Follow the signs leading toward the cemetery located off the main coastal road. The trail begins directly through the graveyard gates, following a clearly defined gravel path that descends toward the cove entrance.
Weekdays are essential for those wanting to avoid the crowds from nearby resort towns. Saturday and Sunday afternoons become extremely packed, making it nearly impossible to find a space for a single towel.
Do not count on purchasing supplies at the beach itself. There are no vendors, shops, or restaurants on the sand, so bring everything you need for the day from the grocery stores downtown.
Wear sturdy sandals or athletic shoes rather than flip-flops. The path involves uneven stairs and loose dirt which can be slippery, especially during the humid summer months or after heavy rain showers.
Climb the rocky ridge situated to the south of the cove for an elevated perspective of the shoreline. This vantage point provides a clear view of the entire bay area and surrounding jungle.