Costa Rica’s Traffic Police are warning drivers not to take cars, motorcycles or ATVs onto the beaches as midyear vacation travel brings more families to coastal areas. The reminder is aimed at beachgoers heading out during vacation week, when authorities expect heavier traffic toward popular Pacific and Caribbean destinations. Driving or parking on the sand is illegal in most cases and carries a fine of ¢61,000.
Traffic officials said the rule is not just about protecting public beach space. Vehicles on the sand can seriously injure people who are resting, playing, sunbathing or walking near the water. Children and older adults are among the most vulnerable. Authorities said 16 drivers had already been fined for the violation by May. The warning applies to cars, motorcycles and ATVs, including vehicles that are simply parked on the beach.
Police said even a stationary motorcycle can become dangerous if it tips over or if a child touches a hot exhaust pipe. Larger vehicles can also get stuck in the sand and be damaged if the tide rises. Under Costa Rica’s Traffic Law, vehicles may only enter beach areas in specific cases. Those exceptions include emergencies, official authorization from Traffic Engineering, and properly permitted activity tied to fishing or moving boats in and out of the water.
The Traffic Police also asked the public to report illegal beach driving through 9-1-1. Visitors should keep a safe distance from areas used by boats and tour operators, especially during the busier vacation period. Authorities want to remind everyone as we head into the summer vacation period, to keep vehicles off the sand and leave beach areas clear for people walking, swimming and spending the day by the water.
