University backs legislative initiative on Costa Rica’s coastal public assets
The Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR) has expressed its support for a bill aimed at guaranteeing public access to all beaches in the country, reaffirming the importance of preserving these natural spaces as public areas freely accessible to both residents and visitors.
This position aligns with the university’s institutional vision of promoting equitable use of coastal areas and protecting the country’s marine natural resources. The initiative arises amid ongoing social and political discussions about coastal regulation and the defense of unrestricted access to beaches, particularly in situations where private actions may limit entry or restrict traditional public pathways.
What does the bill propose?
The legislative proposal seeks to clearly establish that all beaches, the territorial sea, and the coastal easement zone—the area extending 200 meters inland from the high-tide line—are public domain assets with free access, where private individuals or entities cannot prevent transit, passage, or the presence of people.
The bill emphasizes that any restriction of access must be justified solely by safety or environmental conservation reasons, rather than private interests. In doing so, it aims to reinforce the public nature of Costa Rica’s coastline, as already recognized in national legislation concerning public assets.
Grounds for UCR’s support
Representatives from the Universidad de Costa Rica noted that access to beaches is rooted in constitutional principles and public law that promote equity in the use of natural resources. According to the university, the legal clarity provided by this bill would help prevent arbitrary limitations and conflicts that have arisen in several coastal communities.
UCR also highlighted the importance of safeguarding the public character of beaches, not only for recreation but also for cultural, sports, economic, and environmental activities linked to coastal areas.
Social and sectoral reactions
The proposal has received favorable reactions from community organizations, environmental groups, tourism stakeholders, and citizens concerned with preserving open access to beaches. Supporters argue that Costa Rican beaches should remain inclusive spaces that encourage social interaction and enjoyment of nature without physical or economic barriers.
There have also been calls for the bill to move forward in the Legislative Assembly to provide legal certainty regarding the use of coastal areas and maritime easements, helping avoid disputes that may affect both communities and visitors.
Importance for tourism and conservation
Costa Rica’s extensive coastlines along both the Caribbean and the Pacific are among the country’s most important attractions for locals and international visitors. According to official information from the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT), coastal regions are a key component of the national tourism offering and contribute significantly to the economy and the country’s international image as a nature destination.
Ensuring public access to these spaces is also closely linked to environmental conservation policies, as coastal zones represent sensitive habitats that require sustainable management to preserve biodiversity, water quality, and ecological balance.
Sources consulted
- El Mundo CR, “UCR respalda proyecto de ley para garantizar acceso público a playas”
- Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR) — institutional position on public assets and access to natural spaces
- Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT) — official information on the importance of coastal areas for tourism and the economy
- Costa Rican legislation on public domain assets, coastal zones, and maritime easements
