Authorities are warning drivers heading to beaches during Holy Week to follow traffic laws or face fines, as travel to coastal areas surges.

The Catholic observance began Sunday, March 29, and runs through Sunday, April 5, commemorating the final days of Jesus Christ’s life, including his passion, death and resurrection.

Throughout the holiday period, most government offices and many private businesses close or operate on reduced schedules, as required by law. The time off leads to increased travel, with Costa Rican families heading to beaches and rural destinations, while international arrivals rise due to spring break tourism.

The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) said the most common violations at beaches include driving or parking vehicles on the sand and the improper use of personal watercraft, commonly known as jet skis.

Under Costa Rican law, vehicles of any kind, including cars, SUVs, motorcycles, quad bikes and trucks, are prohibited from entering beach areas. Violators face fines of about $130.

Exceptions apply only to vehicles with special authorization from the Traffic Police, such as those used for launching boats, delivering fishing supplies or responding to emergencies.

Improper use of jet skis carries the same $130 fine. Regulations prohibit operating personal watercraft within 50 meters of swimmers and within 30 meters of vessels, boats or inflatable recreational equipment, such as water sleds.

Additional rules require operators to wear life jackets, set a minimum age of 16 and limit engine capacity to no more than 400 cubic centimeters.