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by Sara Wheeler | Last updated: 19-07-2024
It is understandable how Costa Rica received its moniker—its name directly translates to "rich coast." Apart from having top-notch beaches on the Pacific and Caribbean, this serene paradise is home to some of the planet's most diversified ecosystems. In fact, according to scientists, this region is home to 5% of all species on Earth. The size of the nation is just as large as West Virginia.
Encounters with majestic scarlet macaws, endangered nesting sea turtles, gorgeous but deadly tree frogs, and sleeping sloths are just a few of the incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. They symbiotically thrive in the shadow of some of the most active volcanoes in the world thanks to their unwavering drive.
It's now simpler than ever to get to the rich coast, whether your dream is to ride horses on a white sand beach or go hiking in a cloud forest 10,000 feet above sea level. Over a dozen U.S. cities provide nonstop flights to Costa Rica. Visit the nation in the winter; it's among the top destinations for January travel. Alternatively, schedule your trip for the summer, when temperatures rise and hotel costs decrease.
In this section You will find the best hotels of Costa Rica thought for travelers.
On a coast full of generic beach resorts, W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal distinguishes out with its daring construction and playful decor. Traditional queen rooms with balconies and views of the ocean are available, as are treehouse suites with private plunge pools. The resort features five restaurants, an adults-only and children's pool, an 18-hole golf course, a beach club, and a spa.
One of TL readers' top picks for resort hotels in Central America is this adults-only haven. Travel & Leisure was told by Erica Linares, a Latin America specialist at Kensington Tours, "you feel pampered from the moment you arrive." The welcome cocktail, Costa Rica's version of the Bloody Mary, is one of her favorites. In the meantime, the private plunge pools are praised by Emmanuel Burgio, a T+L Top Travel Advisor with a focus on Central America.
Situated just four miles from San José's airport, this hotel provides an excellent starting point for touring the city. Nevertheless, with its views of the valley and immaculately kept gardens and outdoor areas, which include multiple pools and a coffee plantation, it feels a world apart from everything urban.
Listed among the top 500 hotels worldwide by Travel Land is this family-friendly resort. According to James Kaiser, the author of "Costa Rica: The Complete Guide," "it commands one of the best locations in Costa Rica and offers easy access to the most beautiful beaches in the country" (Travel & Leisure). Using binoculars to see the humpback whales as they migrate offshore in the winter is his expert advice.
This opulent ecolodge on the Osa Peninsula, which was also chosen by TL readers as one of the greatest resorts in Central America, is the ideal location for getting back to nature. Burgio enjoys being among wildlife as well as being near the waterfront. "The communal outdoor pool overlooks the Pacific, and the bungalows feature terraces with views of the ocean and outdoor showers."
Costa Rica is a nature lover's dream come true because of its varied flora, fauna, and geothermal features. There are 28 National Parks to select from, and 25% of the land in the nation is reserved for conservation. Additionally, Kaiser noted, "you can visit multiple ecosystems in one day, unlike in Brazil or Colombia."
There are waves in Costa Rica between its 300 beaches that cater to all skill levels, from novices to experts. Tamarindo is one of the ideal locations to practice because Iguana Surf's teachers are pipelines who are equally passionate about teaching. Attempt the Nicoya Peninsula once you get better. It's well-known for its strong waves, and Santa Teresa has a laid-back, bohemian vibe, according to Linares.
Being in one of the world's five blue zones, Costa Rica is known for its wellness culture, so missing out on a spa treatment while visiting seems like a sin. Perched on a "high vibrational crystal mountain," Vida Mía Healing Center & Spa won the title of "Best Spa in the Americas."
Costa Rica is widely regarded as the birthplace of ziplining, with tours available practically anywhere there are trees. Usually, hanging bridges are also a possibility. Treetop walks saunter approximately two miles through the Monteverde cloud forest at Selvatura Park.
A private trek with a guide from the native Cabécar community through the Talamanca Mountains is, in Burgio's opinion, one of the most hidden adventures available. Burgio claims that the Pacuare River is the greatest whitewater rafting destination in Central America.
Hotel Belmar elevates farm-to-table dining to a whole new level with its functioning farm, sugar cane fields, coffee plantation, and insect hotel. Its pride and pleasure, Restaurant Celajes, is therefore so well-regarded that people go from as far away as San José only to eat there.
The Caribbean coast offers some of the best food in the nation, according to Kaiser, because of "the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture that spices things up." He went to Lidia's Place for the tastiest Caribbean chicken. It's a small, family-run business, so don't be shocked if Lidia swings by to say hello.
Sano Banano, which translates to "healthy banana," is an outdoor café that offers satisfying breakfast, lunch, and dinner fare. Savor the view of Montezuma's bustling main street from the front porch or back terrace, and don't miss the handcrafted chocolates available for purchase beside the cash register.
This iconic Arenal restaurant offers prix-fixe menus, a la carte, or a five-course tasting tour. Linares believes the food is excellent and the atmosphere is equally unforgettable. Order Grandma's roasted chicken before it runs out—it's served wrapped in banana leaves and has a cult-like following.
This landmark establishment in San José is well-known for its delicious encounters created using "unorthodox and avant-garde culinary techniques." Reservations are essential because it's considered one of the top restaurants in Central America. Furthermore, the chef-driven tasting menu is limitless, so it's not the best option for finicky eaters.
Depending on your objectives, there is an optimal time to visit Costa Rica. Choose the dry season, which runs from mid-May to mid-December on the Caribbean side, if you want to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. In contrast, the dry season is the reverse throughout the remainder of the nation. The period is December through May. At this point, everything is accessible and the roads are usable. Visit during the wet season (also known as the "green season") to take advantage of reduced prices and avoid crowds.
Visit during Palmares, which is essentially Carnival, in January or during Easter week for the biggest cultural activities. Since Costa Rica is a Catholic nation, several of its major holidays coincide with those of the Church. You can always learn how to surf, go zip lining (they do it rain or shine), and witness sea turtles nest and hatch when you visit.
Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia are the country's two primary airports. If you're traveling to Manuel Antonio, Limón, Arenal, or the Osa Peninsula, SJO is your best option. It typically offers the lowest airfares as well. Travelers planning to Guanacaste and Alajuela should most likely travel into Liberia. You can rent a car from either airport.
It is feasible to arrive at one airport and depart from another, of course. Public buses and shared shuttles make it simple to move between the two. In general, the trip takes three to four hours, depending on traffic. It is not advised to drive to Costa Rica since you will have to pass through nations that are experiencing civil instability and because passing borders can be challenging.
Costa Rica is divided into seven provinces, and each has a unique personality. These are the three that we advise beginning with.
San José: The nation's capital is home to numerous cultural institutions, such as the National Museum of Costa Rica, the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, and the Museum of Costa Rican Art. It also has the best souvenir shopping. The best food in the nation may be found there as well.
Alajuela: Known for its adrenaline-pumping activities, such as ziplining, hot spring hopping, and hiking through a cloud forest, Alajuela is a popular destination for thrill-seekers. Poas Volcano National Park, located in the province, has one of the biggest craters in the world (reservations necessary).
Highlights of Limón, which is on the Caribbean side, are the Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge and Tortuguero National Park. The amazing Afro-Caribbean culture of the nation may also be found in this province. Eight percent or so of Costa Ricans are African Americans.
Buses and Trains: After the 1991 earthquake, Costa Rica is repairing its train system. Buses are currently the best mode of public transportation. The majority are privately run, although the prices are cheap. For instance, a four-hour ride could run you $10. The "Directo" bus provides continuous service. "Colectivos" halt almost everywhere.
Taxis and shuttles: The official taxis in Costa Rica are licensed to pick people up from airports exclusively; they are all red or orange and bear a yellow triangle emblem. Additionally, scheduling shuttles or private cars in advance online is simple.
Ridesharing: Uber has been operating in Costa Rica since 2015, despite the fact that it isn't legally allowed there. But it's restricted to big cities and popular tourist destinations. DiDi is an additional option, however it is likewise unreliable in isolated places.
Rental automobiles: While inexpensive and widely available, be aware that the majority of cars in Costa Rica are manual and that the country's roads are not particularly well-maintained (many roads become rivers during the rainy season). AWD is ideal, and if you require any extras like a roof rack for surfboards, a carseat for youngsters, a cell phone for navigation, or extra drivers, make your reservation with Vamos. It is the exclusive provider of all of the aforementioned services at free cost.
