Who we are
The Hermosa Civic Association (ACH) is a non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that development in Playa Hermosa is guided by community priorities, environmental sustainability, and the public good.
With a locally rooted community base and a broader strategic outlook, ACH provides leadership to address local challenges and pilot solutions that benefit the Hermosa community while also contributing to solutions for the region as a whole.
This is what we believe
The ACH operates from the understanding that protecting the natural environment is a fundamental condition for community life, the local economy, and the health of the territory.
The ACH articulates its work through community-building, shared public spaces, and environmental protection.
This is
what we do
Protect Hermosa’s Living Ecosystems
Protect, maintain, and restore Hermosa’s coastal forests, wetlands, and protected marine and terrestrial areas that face pressure from development, misuse, or neglect.
This includes initiatives such as monitoring and defending Patrimonio Natural del Estado (PNE) lands, supporting the protection and restoration of the San Martín Wetland, promoting conservation of coastal forests and wildlife corridors, and raising community awareness about the responsible use of beaches and natural ecosystems.
Community Building
& Identity
Strengthen Hermosa’s social fabric through participation, shared values, and a collective vision for community life and sustainability.
This work takes shape through the creation of spaces for gathering and collaboration, such as the development of a Community Center, community assemblies and consultations, cultural and educational gatherings that celebrate Hermosa’s identity, and initiatives that foster intercultural integration among residents.
Shared Spaces & Access
Create, rehabilitate, and steward shared public spaces and services — natural or built, on land, water, or air — that support community well-being, social equity, economic vitality, and cultural integration.
This includes projects that improve responsible beach access and parking management, develop signage and information systems for public areas, restore community access points to natural spaces, and promote safer and lower-impact mobility within the territory.
Recognition for our work
The Civic Association of Hermosa (ACH) received a National Recognition during the 33rd Edition (2025) of the “Award for Contributions to the Improvement of Quality of Life,” granted by the Ombudsman’s Office of Costa Rica together with the public universities (UCR, TEC, UNA, UNED, and UTN).
Out of 26 nominations from across the country, four main awards and four special recognitions were presented — one for each category. ACH was honored in the category “Civil Society Organization” for its work in protecting natural heritage through community development.
This recognition celebrates the effort and commitment of all the people of Playa Hermosa who have worked, collaborated, and believed in the importance of caring for our environment and strengthening collective well-being.
How can I participate?
ACH is born from the community and exists for the Hermosa community.
Participation is belonging: ACH is the legal and operational vehicle that enables collective action, and it is people’s participation that gives it meaning, legitimacy, and strength.
We invite neighbors, local businesses, organizations, and friends of Hermosa to be part of this collective effort — to contribute ideas, time, knowledge, and care for the place we share. By participating in ACH, you help strengthen community, protect our natural environment, and shape the future of Hermosa together.
Open Communication
Stay informed. Learn about initiatives, raise concerns. Participate in assemblies and working groups. Open communication is how collective governance stays transparent, inclusive, and accountable.
Donate
Support the work financially. Your contribution helps fund environmental protection initiatives, public space improvements, community programs, and legal advocacy for responsible development.
Become a Member
By becoming a member, you help ensure that Hermosa continues to grow as a community rooted in care, participation, and respect for the territory.
Responsible Tourism
Be part of building a culture of care. If you are a host, business owner, or visitor, join our Responsible Tourism initiative and help align hospitality with environmental protection and community wellbeing.
Join the collective stewardship of Hermosa. Stay engaged.
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Receive updates on our progress, achievements, and upcoming initiatives. Stay connected to the work shaping Hermosa’s future.
Send us a direct message
If you have any inquiries, concerns or ideas, send us a direct message via WhatsApp. We are happy to talk to everyone who wants to get involved
Connect with our Whatsapp group
If you are a resident of Hermosa and Santiago, join the “Hermosa Informada” Community WhatsApp group to follow official communications and stay engaged with what’s happening in our territory.
Join us on our Social Media channels
We are active on Facebook and Instagram. Join us to follow our work in progress and see our projects unfold.
 y conoce más sobre el Proyecto de Restauración Costera y otras iniciativas de la ACH para el cuidado de nuestro territorio.
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