El Chorro Waterfall Hike: free things to do in Montezuma.

The Nicoya Peninsula is home to some of Costa Rica’s most rugged, unspoiled beauty, and one of the most spectacular hidden gems you can hike to is El Chorro Waterfall. Tucked away just north of Montezuma, El Chorro is one of the few waterfalls in the world that cascade directly into the ocean. Getting there is an adventure in itself, involving a long coastal hike that passes through several pristine beaches, jungle trails, and even a nature reserve.

We completed this hike ourselves, starting in Montezuma and returning to El Chorro in one day. While the reward is immense, it’s important to be prepared, especially when it comes to the tides, which we underestimated (and won’t make that mistake again!). This post shares our complete experience, with everything you need to know to enjoy the hike safely.

What is El Chorro Waterfall?

El Chorro Waterfall (Catarata El Chorro) is a picturesque 30-meter waterfall that drops dramatically from a rocky cliff straight into the Pacific Ocean. When the tide is low, you can walk right up to the base of the falls, cool off in nearby tide pools, and take in the incredible oceanfront setting. The surrounding rock formations and beachscapes are wild and striking, making it one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica.

Unlike popular waterfalls like La Fortuna or Nauyaca, El Chorro requires a bit of effort to reach. That’s part of what makes it so special.

Overview of the El Chorro Hike from Montezuma

• Starting Point: Montezuma Beach

• Total Distance (round trip): ~10 km / 6 miles

• Estimated Time: 4 to 6 hours (round trip)

• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (depending on tides, weather, and fitness)

• Type: Beach and jungle trail, out-and-back

• What You’ll Pass:

  • Playa Montezuma

  • Piedra Colorada

  • Playa Grande

  • Nicolas Wessberg Nature Reserve

  • Playa Cocalito

  • El Chorro Waterfall

Our personal experience: Why it’s worth it?

We started the hike in the morning from Montezuma town, walking along Playa Montezuma before reaching Piedra Colorada, a magical beach where a freshwater stream meets the ocean. This spot is decorated with colorful and smooth stone gravel and sand that feels heavenly to lie in and pass between your fingers and toes. It’s a peaceful place to pause and soak up the vibes before the real hike begins. We could have stayed all day at Piedra Colorada and would have been completely content.

From there, the trail winds through rocky beach terrain, patches of jungle, and even a nature reserve, eventually opening up to Playa Grande—a huge, golden-sand beach with consistent waves and barely any tourists. After Playa Grande, the trail becomes more rugged, especially as you approach Playa Cocalito and then finally El Chorro.

Seeing the waterfall crashing into the ocean was surreal. We relaxed by the tide pools, enjoying the breeze and taking in the raw beauty of the spot. However, the return trip was much tougher than expected, and the rising tide made it sketchy in certain areas. While the hike can be challenging, this is by far one of the best ways to spend a day near Montezuma. Each beach is a little different, and almost always secluded. You are surrounded by incredible vistas all day, and both fresh and saltwater that make the adventure worthwhile.

Important safety warning: watch the tides!

Here’s something we wish we had known better before setting out: the tides matter—a lot. Many parts of the trail are directly on the beach or over coastal rocks, and high tide can make them impassable or dangerous.

We didn’t pay close enough attention to the tide schedule and found ourselves scrambling over rocks as the water rushed in, soaking our shoes and nearly blocking the way back. In hindsight, it was risky. The safest time to start the hike is during mid-to-low tide, ideally heading out at low tide and returning before it gets too high.

Check the local tide charts for Montezuma on the day of your hike. If in doubt, ask the locals or your hotel staff. Better to postpone than to get stuck or hurt.

Trail description: Step-by-Step

1. Montezuma Beach to Piedra Colorada (~10 min)

Start at the northern end of Playa Montezuma. Walk past tide pools and boulders until you reach a small beach framed by a river—this is Piedra Colorada. It’s known for its freshwater swimming hole and cairn sculptures. Cross the stream (easy at low tide) to continue.

2. Piedra Colorada to Playa Grande (~25–30 min)

From Piedra Colorada, follow the coastline. There are trail markers, but some sections can be rocky and slippery. During our visit in May 2025, there were numerous pieces of wood (and, unfortunately, a significant amount of plastic). This can be even more dangerous at high tide. Remember to check the tides again, and if you can, take a bag to collect some rubbish (the beach was full of it). You’ll pass through the Nicolas Wessberg Nature Reserve, where you may spot howler monkeys, iguanas, and crabs. Eventually, the trail opens up to the vast Playa Grande.

3. Playa Grande to Playa Cocalito (~30 min)

This stretch is mostly flat, walking on sand, but the sun can be strong. Bring a hat and sunscreen. Look for a river crossing before reaching Playa Cocalito—depending on the season, it may require taking off your shoes or using stepping stones. Be careful, the beach is full of wood (and, unfortunately, plastic), so you can slip. There are sometimes places where you can find trash bags that you can borrow to clean up the beach. The amount of plastic is immense; every little bit helps. This pollution must not spoil the incredible landscape.

4. Playa Cocalito to El Chorro Waterfall (~10–15 min)

This final part includes scrambling over coastal rocks—the sketchiest section if the tide is high. You will pass another river named "Laguna Rio Bonito", where you can refresh yourself before your final effort to reach El Chorro. You’ll be greeted with a dramatic view: the waterfall crashing right into the sea, surrounded by cliffs and tide pools.

It's just amazing, but once again, be careful with the tides. If the tide is high (which was our case), the waves are very powerful and it is impossible to access the waterfall on foot. You will only be able to admire it from afar (but believe me, it is still worth it).

What to pack

• Plenty of water (at least 1.5–2L per person, don't do like us)

• Snacks or lunch

• Sunscreen & hat

• Good hiking sandals or waterproof trail shoes

• Swimsuit & towel

• Tide chart (screenshot or offline version)

• Water shoes (optional but helpful)

• Small first aid kit

• Phone/camera (but waterproof it!)

Can you do this hike with Kids?

We’d recommend caution here. While older kids who enjoy hiking and the outdoors might be fine, younger children could find the full hike challenging, especially in the heat or over slippery rocks.

If you want a shorter adventure, you can take a boat from Montezuma to Playa Cocalito, cutting the hike in half or even skipping it entirely. Many boat tours offer a drop-off/pick-up option at El Chorro.

Alternative Options

Boat or horseback ride + Hike Combo

If you want to skip the long round trip, consider this:

• Boat or horseback ride to Playa Cocalito

• Short hike (15 minutes) to El Chorro

• Return by boat or horseback

It’s a great way to experience the waterfall without committing to the full hike both ways. Tours can often be arranged locally in Montezuma town or via your hotel.

Driving Route to El Chorro Waterfall (No Long Hike)

1. Start from Montezuma town.

2. Take the road toward Delicias/Cabuya.

3. Continue until you reach the small town of Delicias, then follow signs for "El Chorro Waterfall" or Playa Cocalito.

4. Use Google Maps or Waze and search for: "El Chorro Waterfall via Pacifica Fernandez" or "Cocalito Beach Access by Car". Important: These names may change slightly in navigation apps. Ask locals or your hotel for current directions if needed.

5. The last part of the drive will take you on a steep, unpaved, and sometimes muddy path, which is why a 4WD is essential.

6. Park near Playa Cocalito (note that there is no official parking, but locals sometimes charge a small fee for parking on private land).

7. From the parking area, it’s a very short walk (5–10 minutes) to reach El Chorro Waterfall.

   
   

Tips for Visiting El Chorro by Car

• Go during the dry season (December to April) if possible—roads are much easier.

• Also, avoid visiting at high tide, as the waterfall flows directly into the ocean, and beach access may be more difficult or hazardous.

• Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and good shoes (even for the short walk).

• Please note that no facilities are available, so plan accordingly.

  
  

When to go?

The best time to do this hike is during the dry season (December to April) when the weather is sunny and the trails are dry. During the green season (May to November), the river crossings can be deeper, and the trails muddy or overgrown.

Where to stay in Montezuma?

If you’re planning to hike to El Chorro, Montezuma is the perfect base. Check out our blog article: Best hotels in Montezuma, Costa Rica: where to stay? for more information.

Final Thoughts: Worth the Effort (If You’re Prepared!)

The El Chorro Waterfall hike is one of those Costa Rica experiences that stays with you forever. You’ll pass secluded beaches, meet wildlife, and eventually stand in awe of a waterfall that seems to defy logic, pouring straight into the ocean.

But we can’t emphasize this enough: take the tides seriously and know your limits. The return hike can be long and hot, and getting caught at high tide on sharp rocks is not worth the risk.

If you’re in good shape, love coastal hikes, and want to see a waterfall like no other, El Chorro is calling. Just go smart and go early.

Frequently asked questions

What time should I start the hike?

Start no later than 7:30–8:00 AM to take advantage of low tide and avoid the midday sun.

Can I swim at the waterfall?

Yes, there are tide pools nearby, but swimming under the waterfall itself can be rough depending on ocean conditions.

 Will I see wildlife on the trail?

Very likely! Keep your eyes peeled for howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, iguanas, crabs, and exotic birds.

Are boat rides to El Chorro available?

Yes! You can book a boat taxi in Montezuma to Playa Cocalito or join a tour.

Is the trail marked?

Mostly, yes—but bring an offline map (like Maps.me) just in case.