Large-Scale Search Underway for Missing Swimmer at Playa Espadilla

Rescue teams in Manuel Antonio are using air and sea assets to locate a 20-year-old swimmer swept away by currents during the 2026 Holy Week travel rush.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 6, 2026, 5:45 AM EDT

Source: The Tico Times

Incident Overview at Playa Espadilla

The emergency was first reported at approximately 6:40 a.m. on Friday, April 3. Two young men entered the water at Playa Espadilla, a popular destination in Quepos, Puntarenas. While one individual managed to navigate the surf and return to shore safely, the 20-year-old victim was reportedly swept offshore by strong currents and failed to resurface.

The Rescue Operation

The search effort has evolved into one of the most significant beach emergencies of the 2026 Holy Week (Semana Santa) period. Coordination involves several specialized units:

Personnel: Red Cross rescue workers and aquatic specialists.

Technology: Deployment of drones for high-resolution shoreline scanning.