COSTA RICA
Central America
QUICK TAKE
Costa Rica is the rare destination that delivers on both adventure and relaxation without feeling like a compromise. The infrastructure is solid by Central American standards, the eco-lodges are genuinely impressive, and the biodiversity is real. The catch: distances are deceptive and roads are slow. Pick 2-3 areas maximum for a week.
WHERE TO STAY
FOR THE ADVENTURE SEEKER
STAY IN
Arenal or Monteverde
WHY
Arenal has the volcano views, hot springs, and zip-lining. Monteverde has the cloud forest and some of the best wildlife viewing in the country. Both deliver that jungle-adventure experience. Arenal is more developed; Monteverde is more rugged and rewarding for nature lovers.
OUR PICK
Nayara Gardens or Tabacón Thermal Resort
~$200-450/night
FOR THE BEACH + SURF BALANCE
STAY IN
Guanacaste (Nosara or Santa Teresa)
WHY
Nosara has the wellness-surf-yoga trifecta with enough infrastructure to feel comfortable. Santa Teresa is younger, more backpacker-adjacent, with excellent surf breaks. Both have boutique hotels that punch above their weight. The Pacific coast delivers.
OUR PICK
The Harmony Hotel or Florblanca Resort
~$150-350/night
FOR THE LUXURY NATURE ESCAPE
STAY IN
Papagayo Peninsula or Osa Peninsula
WHY
Papagayo has the Four Seasons and Andaz — world-class resorts with private beaches and polished service. Osa Peninsula is remote and wild, with luxury eco-lodges like Lapa Rios in primary rainforest. Different vibes: Papagayo is refined, Osa is adventure with comfort.
OUR PICK
Four Seasons Papagayo or Lapa Rios Lodge
~$500-1,200/night
SKIP THESE
- × San José beyond one night
The capital is a transit hub, not a destination. Fly in, stay near the airport if needed, leave in the morning.
- × Trying to see everything
The country looks small on a map but drives take 4-5 hours on winding roads. Pick a region and go deep rather than rushing between coasts.
- × All-inclusive Caribbean coast
The Caribbean side (Limón) is less developed and the resorts feel dated. The Pacific coast and central mountains are where Costa Rica shines.
READY?
WANT A PERSONALIZED PICK?
Text us "COSTA RICA" and your dates. We'll curate options based on your preferences.
TEXT US YOUR DATESLast updated: January 2025 · Prices are approximate