From Beachfront Bliss to Jungle Adventures: The Ultimate Couples Itinerary in Costa Rica
Curated By
Kimberly Sessions
Curator’s statement
I just got back from an incredible FAM trip to Costa Rica with NAMU, and I was blown away by the country’s stunning beauty and diversity. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventure activities, nature walks, scenic boat rides or relaxing beach days, Costa Rica offers it all. The warmth of the local people and the abundance of fresh, delicious fruit only add to its charm. It is an ideal destination for couples.
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Day 1: Arrive at Tabacon Thermal Springs and Resort
Arrive in Liberia early in the morning and meet your driver outside the airport. Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive to the Tabacon Thermal Springs and Resort, your luxurious home for the next three days. This exclusive hotel is not only a luxury retreat but also the only volcanic thermal springs resort in the area, offering you full access to its unique thermal springs. After checking in and unpacking, head to the thermal springs to relax and unwind. As a hotel guest, you'll have private access to the Shangri La area, where you can enjoy drinks at the bar.
Return to your room to freshen up and change before dining at Tucanes, the resort’s signature restaurant. After dinner, return to your room and drift off to sleep while listening to the soothing sounds of the rainforest.
Note: For couples, I highly recommend booking the Rainforest Rooms or the Honeymoon Suite due to their beautiful balconies and layout. The Orchid Rooms are also spacious and charming.
Day 2: Hanging bridges and ziplining tours
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast buffet at the hotel, which is included in your rate if you book through a Fora advisor. Next, embark on your first adventure activity: a day spent among the treetops with hanging bridges and ziplining tours. The hanging bridges offer a serene 2-mile walk through the rainforest, where you'll cross 16 bridges and have the chance to spot wildlife like sloths, monkeys and snakes. Following this, enjoy a thrilling ziplining experience, gliding across the forest canopy to 13 platforms while taking in stunning views of the Arenal Volcano.
Return to the hotel to unwind and relax in the thermal springs. Tonight's highlight is the Ephemeral Table experience—a special 6-course tasting meal prepared by the chef in a private bungalow on the property. This intimate dining experience is perfect for couples.
Day 3: La Fortuna Waterfall and the Arenal Volcano tour
Make the most of your last full day in the Arenal area. Start with a hearty breakfast at the hotel and savor a cup of locally brewed coffee.
Lace up your hiking boots for an exciting day of exploration. Beginning with two incredible hikes: La Fortuna Waterfall and the Arenal Volcano tour. Hike down the winding path to La Fortuna Waterfall and take a refreshing swim at its base. Then, head to Arenal Volcano for a guided tour, where you'll learn about the volcano’s fascinating history.
Return to the hot springs for one final soak before departure. Cap off your day with dinner at Aves Restaurant, where you can enjoy your meal in comfort, still in your robe!
Day 4: Las Catalinas and the Casa Chameleon hotel
It’s time to pack up and move on to your next destination. En route to Guanacaste, make a stop at the Sloth Sanctuary to get up close with these charming creatures. You'll have the chance to see both 2-toed and 3-toed sloths lounging in the trees, and the reserve is also home to a variety of tropical birds, insects and reptiles.
Continue your journey to Las Catalinas and check into the exquisite Casa Chameleon hotel. This boutique retreat features 21 spacious, beautifully decorated rooms, each with its own plunge pool. Enjoy stunning sunrise or sunset views from your private patio, which also comes equipped with a yoga mat and weights for your workout sessions.
After checking in and unpacking, take a dip in your private pool. When you're ready, change for dinner and head to Sentido Norte, the hotel’s restaurant, known for its delectable Coastal Costa Rican cuisine.
Day 5: Horseback riding on the beach
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast of fresh fruit and juice, accompanied by stunning ocean views. Then, set out on a horseback riding tour that takes you along the beaches of Conchal and Brasilito, all while surrounded by the lush green backdrop of Costa Rica’s mountains.
Upon returning to the hotel, take advantage of your room and pool before heading to Sentido Norte for another exquisite dinner. When you return, you'll be delighted by an exceptional turn-down service. This luxurious touch includes hot tea, desserts, cozy slippers and a perfectly prepared bed, showcasing how the hotel anticipates your every need.
Day 6: Relax and refresh
Today is all about immersing yourself in the property! Begin with a refreshing morning yoga session, followed by a delicious breakfast. Spend your day alternating between your private plunge pool and the main hotel pool. Don't miss the rum tasting, where you’ll discover the rich history of rum in Central America.
In the late afternoon, take a 30-minute taxi ride to the charming town of Tamarindo. Enjoy shopping, grab a drink at a local bar and savor a delicious dinner.
Day 7: Travel to Santa Teresa
Today, you'll either drive or take a short local flight to Santa Teresa and check into Nantipa: A Tico Beach Experience. This spot is ideal for beach and surf enthusiasts and is nestled in a charming, authentic Costa Rican town. Settle into your private bungalow, with options for either a beach view or jungle view and head to the beach. Relax in the hammocks, enjoy some drinks and take in a breathtaking sunset—this hotel is renowned for having the best sunsets in Costa Rica. For dinner, savor the offerings at Manzu, the on-site restaurant.
Note: Be aware that there are many dogs on the property or at the beach, so you might have a furry friend join you at dinner!
Day 8: Private boat in Montezuma
Start your day with a delicious breakfast on the property, which is included when you book through a Fora advisor. Get ready for an unforgettable boat ride.
Board your private boat in Montezuma, with Manakin Tours for a full-day adventure along the stunning Costa Rican coastline. Marvel at the turquoise waters and the breathtaking scenery. During the trip, you may spot over 20 dolphins swimming around the boat and even catch a glimpse of humpback whales. Next, your guide will take you to Monkey Island, where you can enjoy watching a lively troop of monkeys as they swing from the trees and playfully interact.
Afterward, your boat will dock at Isla Tortuga, where you can swim and snorkel in the warm, inviting waters. Don’t miss the chance to try a Cocoloco—a refreshing drink made from a coconut filled with rum. It’s an absolute must-try! Finally, head to the beach for lunch, pick up some souvenirs and begin your journey back to Nantipa. This day will surely be one of your most memorable experiences in Costa Rica.
Upon returning to Nantipa, unwind at the beach and book a spa treatment. The beautiful indoor/outdoor treatment centers are perfect for relaxation and connecting with nature. Finish the day with another delightful dinner on the property while watching the sunset.
Day 9: ATV adventure
Today is your last full day in Costa Rica, so make the most of it! After breakfast, embark on an exhilarating ATV adventure through the Nicoya Peninsula. You'll experience stunning rainforest landscapes, beach views and breathtaking waterfalls. Once you return, relax on the beach and be sure to grab some ice cream in town at Gaucha.
To cap off your day, take a sunset surf lesson at Playa Hermosa, renowned for its excellent surfing conditions. The beach’s sandy bottom, expansive shoreline and varied wave categories make it an ideal spot for surfing. Riding the waves as the sky transforms into hues of pink, orange and yellow is truly unforgettable.
Savor your final dinner in town at either the Argentine Steakhouse or the Asian Fusion restaurant (Katana).
Day 10: Bid farewell to Costa Rica
Today you'll be heading home. Before checking out, join a yoga class on the property. Then, it's time to head to the airport and bid farewell to Costa Rica. "Chao Pescao!"
Need to know
Nayara Tented Camps and Andaz Papagayo are two other great hotel options for couples. To adapt this itinerary for families, you can easily swap your Arenal hotel to the Springs and your Guanacaste hotel to Andaz Papagayo or 4 Seasons. Nantipa is still a great option for families.
If you want to further extend your Costa Rica trip, you can check out Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, San Jose, Osa Peninsula and Tortuguero and the Pacuare river.
I only highlighted a few activity options, but there are various options to choose from based on your interests and abilities. Happy to provide more options if you are interested in planning a trip to Costa Rica!
Travel Advisor
Kimberly Sessions
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Costa Rica. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Lauren Keeton's guide, Spring Break in Costa Rica.