Discovering Paradise
Playa Coson
Wild Atlantic surf and golden sand on the Samana north shore
💧Good Water🌊Strong Current🏖️Golden Sand✨Surfer
Quick Facts
🏝️
Sand Color
Golden
💧
Water Color
Deep blue
🌡️
Water Temp
27°C / 81°F
🌊
Current
Strong
⏰
Best Time
Morning for surfing, afternoon for beach walks
📅
Best Months
December - April
💰
Entry Fee
Free
📏
Beach Length
3000m
🛟
Lifeguards
No
🚶
Access
Easy
🅿️
Parking
Free roadside parking along Carretera Coson
🌴
Shade
Good palm shade along the tree line
🏘️
Nearest Town
Las Terrenas
✈️
Nearest Airport
AZS - Samaná El Catey International
⚠️ Warnings:Strong waves - not ideal for young childrenRip currents possibleNo lifeguards
🐠 Marine Life:Tropical fishPelicansFrigatebirds
Playa Coson stretches over 5 kilometers along the north side of the Samana Peninsula, east of Las Terrenas. This wild, palm-lined beach has a rugged tropical beauty. The surf is stronger than at neighboring beaches, and horseback rides, surfing, and long walks are the main activities.
Low
Moderate
High
Very High
| Month | Temp | Waves | Crowds | Sargassum | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 26° | 0.3-0.5m | Excellent | ||
| FebNOW | 26° | 0.3-0.5m | Excellent | ||
| Mar | 26° | 0.3-0.5m | Very Good | ||
| Apr | 27° | 0.3-0.5m | Very Good | ||
| May | 28° | 0.5-1m | Good | ||
| Jun | 28° | 0.5-1m | Good | ||
| Jul | 29° | 0.3-0.5m | Good | ||
| Aug | 29° | 0.5-1m | Fair | ||
| Sep | 29° | 0.5-1m | Fair | ||
| Oct | 28° | 0.5-1m | Good | ||
| Nov | 27° | 0.3-0.5m | Very Good | ||
| Dec | 27° | 0.3-0.5m | Very Good |
Water temperature in °C
Active surf due to northern Atlantic exposure. Waves range from 0.5-2 meters with the biggest from November to March. Rip currents and strong undertow are common at the eastern end. Swimming best at the calmer western end. No lifeguards.
Begins at the eastern edge of Las Terrenas. Motoconcho from town center about RD$100-200. From El Catey airport, about 35 minutes. Access points near the Viva Wyndham resort or Aligio Hotel.
- Surf or boogie board: Rentals limited
- Cash: Beach bars accept cash only
- Mosquito repellent: The palm forest harbors mosquitoes
- Plenty of water: Services spread over 5 km
Swimming best May through September. Surfing best November to March. Mornings calmest. Uncrowded year-round.
- Horseback riding along the beach from Las Terrenas for RD$2,000-3,000
- The beach bar "El Coson" midway serves excellent grilled fish
- Walk the full 5 km for spectacular views
- The eastern end beyond the last resort is often completely deserted
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Playa Cosón good for surfing?
Playa Cosón receives consistent Atlantic swells that produce surfable waves, particularly during winter months from November to March. The beach break works well for intermediate surfers. It is less crowded than more famous surf spots like Encuentro. A few surf schools in Las Terrenas offer lessons and can arrange trips to Cosón.
How long is Playa Cosón?
Playa Cosón stretches for approximately 4 km, making it one of the longest beaches in the Las Terrenas area. This generous length means you can always find a quiet spot even during busier periods. The beach is backed by coconut palms and low-rise development, maintaining a natural feel along most of its length.
Can I walk to Playa Cosón from Las Terrenas?
Playa Cosón is located about 3 km east of Las Terrenas center. You can walk along the coast, though some rocky sections make it easier to take the main road. Motorbike taxis and regular taxis can get you there in about 5-10 minutes. Some visitors rent motorbikes or ATVs, which is a popular and affordable way to explore the area.
Are there facilities at Playa Cosón?
A few beachfront restaurants and the Viva Wyndham V Samaná resort are located along Playa Cosón. Outside of these, the beach is relatively undeveloped. Bring your own water and sunscreen if you plan to walk far from the restaurant area. The natural, uncommercial atmosphere is one of the main attractions for visitors.
Plan Your Beach Day
Get directions, check conditions, and explore more beaches in the area.
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