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.
READ MORE
ABOUT COSTA RICA
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TEXT US YOUR DATESLast updated: January 2025 · Prices are approximate