Conchas Chinas Beach

Conchas Chinas is the first beach you reach heading south out of the Romantic Zone. It isn't one long stretch of sand but a series of coves split by rock formations, along roughly 820 meters (2,700 feet) of shoreline, with homes and condos on the hillside above.

What sets it apart are the pools that form between the rocks. Warm seawater collects there, and you can spot crabs, colorful fish and small mollusks. Look, but leave them where they are.

The water is usually calm, and people swim and snorkel near the rocks. Weekdays are quiet; weekends bring more people.

Getting there: It sits along Highway 200, just south of the Romantic Zone. You reach the sand through public walkways and stairs between condo buildings; look for the marked access points. You can also walk along the shore from the Romantic Zone, and southbound buses run along the highway.

When to go: Go at low tide, when the rock pools are easiest to see. Mornings are less crowded.

Cost: Free

Tips: Bring sandals or water shoes: there are small rocks and shells on the sand and in the water. Don't count on facilities on the beach; bring water and some shade.

Accessibility: Access is down stairs from the street and there are rocks between the coves; not wheelchair accessible.