Curator’s statement
Costa Rica isn’t just a destination — it’s the ultimate adventure where the rainforest meets the beach, offering a paradise for every adventure! It has some of the most stunning beaches, amazing wildlife, the most lush rainforests and the people are so inviting!
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Day 1: Arrive in Costa Rica
If you're planning on spending your time in Guanacaste area, you'll likely fly into Liberia Airport (LIR). If you arrive early enough and are up for an adventure straight away, head to hike the Leona Waterfall. Be sure to pack your swim suit on top, because you'll want it for this adventure!
Even though five days may seem short, I highly recommend splitting your stay between the Arenal/La Fortuna area for a few nights and spending the last couple nights in the beach towns. This will cut down on the time you spend in the car, but allow you to see everything Costa Rica has to offer.
Once you pick up your rental car, head to the hotel of choice in the Arenal area. It's about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from the airport. I recommend checking out The Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa for the best place to stay, or the Arenal Manoa and Hot Springs Resort if you're looking for a more budget-friendly stay.
Day 2: Hanging bridges and waterfall hike
Now that you are settled into your accommodation, it's time to hit the ground running, or hiking! Book a guided tour that includes transportation, a guide, park fees and lunch. It will be about a seven-hour adventure hiking over the famous hanging bridges as well as making your way to the La Fortuna waterfall, which is beautiful.
After your long morning of hiking, find a hot spring to relax in before heading to dinner at the Lava Lounge Bar & Grill for great music and a relaxing atmosphere.
Day 3: Lava walk and sloth sanctuary
Get an early morning start on the Arenal Lava Walk, which is about a three-hour hike round trip. Be sure to book with a guide to cover your cost of park fees and transportation.
After the hike, take a stop for lunch at Marisqueria Snappers House for the best seafood!
Next up, head over to the sloth sanctuary to see if you can meet some two-and three-toed sloths!
On the way back to the hotel, stop at Red Frog Coffee Roasters for outdoor seating!
Day 4: Head to the beach
Get up early to make the four-hour drive over to the beach area. There are two areas I would highly recommend staying in: Tamarindo is the most popular Costa Rica beach town for tourists and is a great place to be; also check out Las Catalinas, which is an adorable no-car town full of adventure. They are the home to Pura Vida Ride where you can rent out paddle boards, kayaks, mountain bikes and e-foils! Plus, Catalinas has some of the best easy-to-access beach hiking where you can catch some incredible views of the beaches below!
Two hotels I recommend: Casa Chameleon if Las Catalinas sounds most appealing to you. Capitan Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel, if you are looking to stay in Tamarindo in a beach-front spot!
Today is the day to play! Book a surf lesson out on the waves, rent a paddle board, hit the trails, book a sunset catamaran cruise or just soak up the sun on the beach! Your option are endless! Looking to catch a good sunset for dinner? Check out The Roof.
Day 5: Departure day
Take a sunrise walk along the beach to a nice breakfast spot close to the hotel before jumping in the car to head to the airport. The airport is about a one-and-a-half hour drive from the beach area, but keep in mind traffic can get pretty bad, so leave plenty of time!!
Need to know
Rental Car: If booking a rental car, be sure to spend the extra money for a bigger car with four-wheel drive. The roads are "like driving on mars" — my favorite Costa Rica review I've ever seen.
Food: Be sure you get to try Costa Rica's casado, it's a hearty meal of rice and beans, plantains, salad and your choice of meat or fish. Also, don't miss out on Gallo Pinto, which is their traditional breakfast dish!
"Pura Vida" can be used to say hello, goodbye or express positivity!
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Travel Advisor
Maggie Waters
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This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Costa Rica. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Carol Johnston’s itinerary, Wildlife Adventures in Costa Rica: Hiking, Boating & Beaches.