The Beauty of Costa Rica
Where to explore in Costa Rica with Hi Love teammate, Stacie.
Dreaming of a tropical getaway? Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and beach enthusiasts. From lush rainforests and breathtaking waterfalls to world-class surf spots and vibrant wildlife, this Central American coutnry offers endless opportunities for exploration. In this blog, we’ll explore awesome places to visit in Costa Rica that our friend, Stacie, went to and why this eco-friendly haven should be on your travel bucket list.
San José
San José, Costa Rica’s vibrant capital, is the typical starting point for exploring the country’s rich culture and history. Home to bustling markets, colonial architecture, and top attractions, this lively city offers a unique blend of tradition and modern charm. You can sample local cuisine or explore nearby coffee farms. San José is the perfect place to fly into to start your adventure.
Affordable Accomodation:
Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport - A great & affordable place near the airport to stay before starting your trip.
Where to Eat:
Pesqueria da Limonta - Dine here for delicious fresh fish.
Rosti - Good selection of vegetarian, vegan and GF dishes.
Things to Do:
•Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center - a great visit that serves a good cause. They rescue wildlife & help endagered species.
Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio is a must-visit destination known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforest, and incredible wildlife. Home to Manuel Antonio National Park, this tropical paradise offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Visitors can spot monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds while hiking scenic trails or unwind on pristine white-sand beaches.
Where to Stay:
Si Como No Resort - also has a spa and wildlife refuge.
Where to Eat:
Rico Tico - Great bar & grill inside the Si Como No Resort.
Claro Que Si - Another good restaurant in the resort that has seafood and a wine bar.
Things to Do:
•Tour with Manuel Antonio Expeditions (ask for Paul) - great chance to see sloths, monkey, iguanas, snakes, wild pigs, squirrels and other animals in the wild.
• Go paragliding in nearby Dominical with Zion.
Monteverde
Monteverde is a top destination for eco-tourism and adventure, famous for its cloud forests, rich biodiversity, and thrilling outdoor activities. Home to the renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, this lush paradise offers incredible wildlife spotting. If you're a nature lover or an adrenaline seeker, Monteverde will provide unforgetable memories.
Where to Stay:
The Monteverde Lodge & Gardens - surrounded by stunning gardens & reserves to wander.
Where to Eat:
El Jardín - A top restaurant in Santa Elena surving authentic Costa Rican food inside the Monteverde Lodge & Gardens.
Orchid Coffee Shop - A perfect place to stop for coffee and snacks.
Things to Do:
•Monteverde Cloud Forest - Walks available during the day and at night. A unique experience with a chance to spot wildlife such as the famous local bird, the Quetzal.
•Sky Adventures - Recommend getting the Sky Tram-Trek-Zipline Combo. It includes a once in a lifetime afternoon of walking over suspension bridges, spotting animals in the wild and ziplining over large canyons, with the longest one being over a half of a mile.
La Fortuna
La Fortuna is somewhere you should not miss. It has the breathtaking Arenal Volcano, lush rainforests, and relaxing hot springs. Visitors can choose to hike, go zip-lining, white-water rafting, and to see more wildlife. After a day of exploring, unwind in the area’s natural hot springs surrounded by tropical scenery.
Where to Stay:
Hotel Los Lagos - This hotel overlooks Arenal mountain and has 13 hot springs.
Tabacon - An upscale hotel with hot springs; buying a day pass is an option as well.
Things to Do:
•Chocolate and Coffee Tour - recommend Don Juan Tours.
•ATV Tour with Desafio Adventure Company.
Tamarindo
Tamarindo is a vibrant beach town with world-class surfing, stunning sunsets, and a lively atmosphere. Located on the Pacific coast in Guanacaste, this tropical paradise offers something for everyone—catch waves, explore nearby national parks, or eat fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants.
Where to Stay:
Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort - Beautiful beachfront resort.
Capitan Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel - Environmentally concious beachfront hotel that offers on-site yoga.
Where to Eat:
Little Lucha - Awesome tacos & $2.50 Taco Tuesdays
Green Papaya - Sit in swings while sipping on a skinny spicy margarita and eating HUGE fish tacos.
CHA Cafe - Great smoothies & coffee.
SOL Bakery - Tasty acai bowls, baked goods and breakfast.
Lola's - Playa Avellanas area with great food and ambiance and if you're lucky, you'll see their pet pot-belly pig.
Things to Do:
•Tamarindo Beach and Langosta Beach - local beaches to swim and learn to surf.
•Beach massages - you can get a 60 min. massage for $30 while listening to the ocean waves.
•Get a surfing lesson - very affordable and you can negotiate the price on the beach as there's a lot of competition.
•Sit on the beach and watch sunsets. You can also catch live music or the occasional fire show.
•Shop at Tama Market - you can even do a cold plunge here to cool off.
Coco Beach - Playa Del Coco
Coco Beach, also known as Playas del Coco—is a popular beach town in Guanacaste, famous for its nightlife, water activities, and stunning Pacific coastline. A top destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, and sport fishing. Coco Beach is perfect for ocean lovers looking to explore Costa Rica’s rich marine life.
Where to Eat:
Guayoyo Coffee House - great pour-over coffee, breakfast sandwiches and cookies.
La Dolce Vita - Authentic Italian cuisine.
Nikkei - Sushi restaruant.
Things to Do:
•Go snorkeling off the Papagayo Peninsula.
•Enjoy the black sand beaches and gorgeous sunsets.
Must Have Bags for Your Costa Rica Adventure:
Crossbody Backpack - Carry your daily essentials while hiking or on adventures.
Zipper Pouches - Organize your items in your suitcase and they can double as a clutch or wristlet for a day or night out.
Carryall Tote - Folds easily in your luggage and then pull it out for a beach bag or market shopping.
Puffer Fanny Pack & Flat Fanny Pack - Go handsfree while you are out exploring, zip-lining or looking for exotic animals.
