When it comes to Costa Rica real estate beach, many international buyers dream of owning a piece of paradise right on the water. But can foreigners actually buy oceanfront property in Costa Rica? The answer is yes—with a few important details to consider.
Understanding the Maritime Zone in Costa Rica
Before diving into the process of purchasing Costa Rica oceanfront real estate, it’s important to understand Costa Rica’s Maritime Zone law. This legal zone consists of the first 200 meters of land measured from the average high tide line. It’s divided into two sections:
- The first 50 meters are public land and cannot be owned or developed by anyone.
- The next 150 meters, called the “Restricted Zone,” can be leased under a concession agreement from the local municipality.
Can Foreigners Lease Concession Property in the Restricted Zone?
Yes—but with some restrictions. While foreigners can lease in the Restricted Zone, if you are not a Costa Rican citizen and have not lived in the country for at least 5 years, you may not own more than 49% of the rights to a concession property. However, there are workarounds such as partnering with a Costa Rican national or setting up a corporation where the foreigner owns a minority share.
Working with experienced real estate professionals like Century 21 Ballena Properties can help ensure the structure is both legal and favorable to you.
Buying Titled Oceanfront Property in Costa Rica
Most beachfront land (first 200m) is not titled and falls under concession land, which involves lease-like arrangements from the municipality and national government. Even titled beachfront land may be very close to but not directly on the beach—some listings use “beachfront” loosely for marketing. Due diligence is crucial. Always have a local real estate attorney verify title history and Maritime Zone compliance. There are exceptions where you can purchase titled oceanfront property in Costa Rica—especially in areas where land was titled before the Maritime Zone laws came into effect. These properties are rare but do exist. If you’re looking for areas with strong potential for titled or concession oceanfront properties, we recommend exploring locations such as Dominical, Uvita, Puerto Jiménez, and Pavones. These regions offer a variety of opportunities for buyers seeking Costa Rica beach homes in scenic, high-demand coastal areas.
Check our latest listings for currently available beachfront and ocean-view properties.
Why Invest in Exclusive Homes in Costa Rica?
Whether you’re seeking a vacation getaway, an income-generating rental, or a long-term retirement plan, investing in exclusive homes Costa Rica offers value, stability, and unmatched lifestyle. The demand for Costa Rica oceanfront real estate continues to grow as more buyers from the U.S., Canada, and Europe explore the country’s warm climate, stable government, and attractive cost of living.
Navigating the Buying Process with Experts
Navigating local laws, zoning restrictions, and ownership structures can be complex, especially for beachfront and oceanfront property in Costa Rica. That’s why it’s essential to work with a licensed real estate agency like Century 21 Ballena Properties, with years of experience helping international clients.
Start Your Search for Costa Rica Beach Houses Today
Ready to find your dream Costa Rica beach house or explore oceanfront property in Costa Rica? Browse available listings at Century 21 Ballena Properties or contact our team to get personalized guidance and expert support every step of the way.
Let’s turn your beachfront dream into a reality. Contact us today to get started..
View Listings: 👉 Browse Costa Rica Beachfront Homes
Recommended Reads
For more insights before you buy, explore these useful guides:
- Buying a home in Costa Rica: A complete guide for expats
- Buying a Costa Rica Beach House: What You Should Know
- 5 Mistakes Foreign Buyers Make When Buying Costa Rica Real Estate
- How to Generate Rental Income from Your Costa Rica Vacation Home
- Beachfront or Jungle Home in Costa Rica: Which is the Best Investment?
- 5 Reasons to Invest in Real Estate in Costa Rica’s Southern Zone
- Costa Rica vs California Real Estate
