If you are searching for the perfect relaxation or romance spot, Costa Rica’s Hotels and Resorts have you covered. This remote country located in Central America has something for absolutely everyone. You are going to thoroughly enjoy your Costa Rica Vacation!
For the purposes of foreign travel, a Costa Rica Vacation destination can be divided into 5 distinct zones; The North West Coast, Central West Coast, South West Coast, Central Mountain Region and the East Coast.
Central West Coast, Costa Rica
Only have a week or so to visit? Not a problem as the Central West Coast of Costa Rica is only about 40 minutes away from San Jose International airport and is accessible via rental car, taxi or bus (taxi being the recommend method of transit). If you feel like breaking up the commute to the coast, tell your taxi driver that you want to see some “cocodrilos” (crocodiles) and he’ll most likely stop at any of the numerous river passes for a quick photo opp. If you’re lucky, you might be able to catch a police officer on his lunch break feeding the prehistoric beasts (as we were able to experience)!
Jaco is the main hub along the Central West Coast and is best known for its all night partying scene, prostitute-ridden streets and marginal surf. For a true Costa Rica Experience, head south of Jaco towards Playa Hermosa, or head north and stay at the Marriott Los Suenos Resort for some true R&R:
If you have a couple of extra days to spare, we highly recommend taking a “Jet Boat” from Jaco to the amazing beach town of Montezuma, located on the Nicoya Peninsula. With economical hotels and hostels abound, finding an accommodation is extremely easy (however we recommend booking in advance during the peak months). Relax on the beach, dine at the unbelievably delicious (and economical) Cocolores.
Northwest Coast, Costa Rica
Cool pacific waters, friendly Ticos and Ticas (Costa Rican locals), coconut stands around every corner and pristine surf immortalized in the 1966 film “The Endless Summer.” Yes it is safe to say that this is paradise! Tamarindo is the biggest down on the North West Coast of Costa Rica; lavish hotels and resorts abound! For surfers, Tamarindo has two main break: Pico Pequeño a rocky point in front of the Hotel Tamarindo Diriá and the excellent river mouth break across from Cabinas Tsunami called El Estero. The rest of the beach breaks are perfect for learning. The biggest waves can get up to 12 feet, although only during November and December. If nature watching is more your thing, Playa Grande is also where Leatherback Turtles come to lay their eggs during the months of November to April. PLEASE, make sure not to disturb the turtles while their doing their business as overfishing and human development have already taken their toll on this amazing species.
Hidden Gem: Rent an ATV for the day and drive as far south as you can without running out of gas… You’ll eventually have your own beach (and most likely coconut grove) to call your own! Have some fun and reenact Gilligan’s Island with your closest friends! You’ll definitely have that completely disconnected from humanity feeling.
Southwest Coast, Costa Rica
Quepos should be your first stop when heading south along Costa Rica’s coast, as it is the jump-off point to the impressive Manuel Antonio National Park. Truly stand alone in its beauty; the only disadvantage of this park is it can sometimes seem like a zoo filled with animal hobos… Let me explain, the animals are so akin to humans that they have no problems coming right up to you, literally pulling on your clothes until you give into their frivolous requests. As long as you show up to the park when it opens, crowds typically aren’t too much of an issue. Just make sure you get there before the cruise ship travelers!
Surfers will appreciate the glassy beach breaks in Dominical while eco-enthusiasts will jump at the opportunity to camp in a tree house Drake Bay, near the southern most end of Costa Rica. Corcovado National Park can be reached by Drake bay and almost all of the hotels and resorts in the area can arrange camping adventures through the park (DON’T FORGET YOUR BUG SPRAY!).
Eastern Coast, Costa Rica
When traveling to the Eastern Coast (which is extremely difficult to get to during the rainy season) you’ll immediately notice a distinct Caribbean vibe upon your arrival. Not that you’ll care too much though, as the sand is so soft and smooth you would almost think you’re laying out on a cloud! Mangrove forest tours, fishing and relaxing are some of the top activities when visiting this part of the country.
Central, Costa Rica
The rain forest is always synonymous with Costa Rica Hotels and Resorts and you can have your opportunity to get a birds-eye-view, literally, on a tour of Arenal National Park. La Fortuna is the city at the base of the La Fortuna National Park and is a great town to set up shop when exploring the surrounding area.
Looking for some true Costa Rican jungle? Look no further than Monteverde National Rainforest. Nearly impossible to reach during the rainy season, this rain forest has stayed nearly pristine, even through Costa Rica’s tourism boom, thanks in part to the Quakers who originally set up camp in this area. For more information go here.
After all the excitement from your adventures, you will have the option to soak up some rest and relaxation afterward. Costa Rica Hotels and Resorts may very well be one of the best places on earth to find some down-to-earth spa time. Many of the spas in Costa Rica go above and beyond to make sure your spa experience is unique and lavish; offering mountain, ocean, or even rain forest views. Of course, you can expect to find volcanic mud-wraps as part of the menu.
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