Although many people tend to search in the direction of the popular Caribbean islands like Turks and Caicos or the Bahamas for a beach getaway, don’t sleep on Central America. With rugged coastlines, breathtaking sunsets, rich culture, and pristine waters, the seven countries that make up Central America have a lot to offer beach lovers looking for a relaxing getaway.

Uvita, Costa Rica

Uvita, where the jungle meets the sea, is a small mountain village that is located on the southern, Pacific side of Costa Rica. Its stunning dark sand beaches, mountain jungle, and crystal waters draw visitors from all over the world. This town is most known for its annual Envision Festival, however, it is also a destination for seeing some of the most beautiful wildlife and nature in all of Costa Rica.

Uvita, Costa Rica | Simon Dannhauer | Getty Images

RELATED: 5 Music Festivals In Central America You Must Experience

Caye Caulker, Belize

This tiny island off the coast of Belize is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the world. Despite the growth of tourism, Caye Caulker remains a small village with a distinct cultural flavor that is surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Caribbean. Since the locals hold much pride in their culture and land and work hard to maintain it’s small island feel, you won’t see any major resorts or tall buildings on the island.

Playa Gigante, Nicaragua

Located on the Pacific coast side of Nicaragua, this charming village is home to small hostels, two surf camps, and local restaurants serving up the fresh catch of the day. Known for its breathtaking sunsets, many people wander here in search of the perfect surf break as well as a quiet retreat in nature.

RELATED: Which Central America Destination Is Best For You?

Bocas Del Toro, Panama

Bocas Del Toro is a chain of islands off of the Northern, Caribbean coast of Panama near the Costa Rican border. This magical place consisting of 9 main islands, 52 cays, and thousands of islets, is Panama’s top travel destination for tourists from all over the world. Its raw natural beauty and stunning beaches offer some of the most picturesque views in the country.

Bocas Del Toro, Panama | DmitriyBurlakov | Getty Images

Little Corn Island, Nicaragua

The Corn Islands, or Islas de Maiz, are located off of the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua. Little Corn Island is only about 1.5 sq miles in size but is bursting with character and charm. When it comes to things to do on the island, the beach is the main event. Chill, relax, dive, snorkel, kitesurf, kayak, fish, yoga, or paddleboard along a magical coastline of beaches that you will never want to leave.