Curator’s statement
Pura Vida! You could visit Costa Rica ten times and have ten different experiences. In all my years of travel, Costa Rica holds a special place in my heart. From the people to the landscapes, to the exotic wildlife, and the purest of coffee you could ever imagine. It's vibrant, luxurious, adventurous and relaxing...all in the same breath. I can't possibly convey its magnificence in one article, and pictures surely don't do it justice. So, I've curated a guide for you to experience Costa Rica firsthand.
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Where to stay in Costa Rica
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Things to do in Costa Rica
San José
The most accessible city to international travelers, since it holds Juan Santamaría International Airport, the largest airport in the country. One to two nights is enough time to hit the main points, like a coffee tour through a local farm, get up close and personal with wildlife at La Paz Waterfall Gardens or a personalized tour through Poás Volcano National Park.
La Fortuna
The jack of all trades. La Fortuna has everything from relaxing luxury to rainforest adventure. It holds vibrant wildlife, soaring waterfalls, natural hot springs and of course, the Arenal volcano.
For the spa traveler:
The Springs Resort & Spa Arenal: Voted by CNN Traveler as one of the most spectacular resort views in Costa Rica. This five-star resort boasts 28 thermal spring pools, natural hot springs and excursions for kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking and rock climbing. The 14000-square-foot spa and fitness center redefines luxurious relaxation. This location is perfect for a romantic getaway, a girls spa week or a solo off-the-grid recharge. Also, a fun fact: if you’re an ABC Bachelor Fan, you may have seen a Spring Resort & Spa cameo.
For the adventure junkie:
Take a night tour of the Arenal Hanging Bridges and watch wildlife thrive as night falls.
Descend 500 steps to the base of the Arenal Volcano La Fortuna Waterfall — don’t forget to bring a bathing suit to swim in the natural pool.
Hike The 1968 Trail to the top of the Arenal Volcano. Don’t forget to try the coffee at the summit café! On my visit during Green Season, we got caught in a rain storm and ran to the summit. The barista was so nice, making us cappuccinos (and probably laughing under his breath at how disheveled we looked).
Take a tour of Sloth Territory.
Zip line through the rain forest in La Fortuna or the Monteverde Cloud Forest.
Taste your way through a Chocolate Tour.
Tamarindo
Enjoy the Costa Rican coastline! Tamarindo is a bustling beach down known for surfing, horseback riding, boutique shopping, nightlife and local cuisine.
You can’t go wrong with booking a sunset catamaran cruise along the coast or parking yourself at a beach cabana for hours on end. Tamarindo can be whatever you want it to be.
Before you leave, you must experience lunch at El Marcadito de Tamarindo, followed by shopping the adjacent streets. And dinner at Patagonia Argentinian Grill & Restaurant will never disappoint. If you’re a night owl, experience Tamarindo come to life after dark at Sharkys or La Oveja.
Places to eat & drink in Costa Rica
La Fortuna:
Nanaku Restaurant: A fun, lively atmosphere with great food and live music.
Soda La Hormiga: Local Costa Rican cuisine.
La Ventura: Fine dining at the Spring Resort
Tamarindo:
Dragonfly Bar & Grill: Enjoy local Costa Rican cuisine in a relaxing outdoor atmosphere strung with bistro lights.
Patagonia Argentinian Grill & Restaurant: A great place for steaks, surf and turf and unique cocktails.
Panagas Beach Club: Terrace restaurant on the beach with delicious tropical drinks and local seafood.
El Be!: Another beach bar with a lively atmosphere. Highly recommend visiting here for dinner and drinks at sunset.
Namu: International cuisine right on the beach! This is also a fantastic spot for a sunset dinner.
Need to know
The Costa Rican Colón is the local currency; however, the US Dollar is highly accepted throughout the country. However, don't be surprised when you receive a change in Colón if you don't have the exact change.
Renting a car is the most cost-effective and efficient way to get around the country. It's also a great way to see so much more on your scenic drive. However, local airlines are available if you are crunched for time.
Costa Rica is an incredibly safe country. The locals are some of the most friendly I've ever encountered.
Costa Rica uses the same outlet plug as the US, Plug Type A & B.
Travel Advisor
Nairi Hovsepian
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This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to Costa Rica. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Experience New England's Best: Fall Foliage