Playa Negra stretches north of Cahuita village, a long dark beach backed by palms and low vegetation. It is less visited than the beaches inside the national park, partly because it requires a bicycle or a short walk to reach from the village centre. The swimming is generally safe, with calmer conditions than many Caribbean beaches, though as everywhere you should read the water before going in — rip currents can form after storms. The beach is largely undeveloped, with only a handful of small places to eat and drink nearby, which keeps it quieter than the park beaches.
The surfing culture at Playa Negra is low-key but genuine. The break works best on a moderate swell and is forgiving enough for people learning. There are no surf schools operating here in the organised way you find in Tamarindo or Jacó, but if you have a board you can just turn up. The beach is also a good place for a long walk in the early morning before the heat arrives — the contrast between the dark sand and the green palms is distinctive, and the Caribbean light at that hour is worth seeing.