BRB, going to an airport! Just getting there is an adventure in itself. Plus a coffee tour in the surrounding hills is a must! If you already know you want to go but aren’t sure where to stay… Costa Rica abounds with wildlife and outdoor activities, setting the scene for an ideal family vacation. It’s also within day-trip distance of Rio Celeste, a waterfall that has some of the bluest waters in the world. Whether you’re attracted to particular Monteverde Cloud Forest hotels, or simply enjoy the foggy and mysterious greenery on offer in the north-central highlands of Costa Rica, Monteverde is an alluring destination, particularly if you want to beat the heat. To say nothing of the damage that will be done to your car if you choose any model but an SUV. Customized Costa Rica Vacations, since 1999. Just steps from the picturesque beach, there is no one that does luxury like the Westin. It doesn’t end there, though. Finca Bellavista, Piedras Blancas… Tamarindo – Overall Best Place to Stay in Costa Rica. can take half a day or longer, which means that even if you’re taking a longer trip, you should base yourself in several locations, rather than assuming you’ll be able to take excursions from one or another. The Arenal Volcano is located in Costa Rica’s lush interior northern lowlands. No matter where your trip takes you, Costa Rica starts here. On the other hand, the city of Limon itself is a pretty dodgy and un-lustrous place—I can’t imagine a reason to stay there, unless you personally know someone of course. Although some travelers take Arenal Volcano tours that involve exhilarating hikes or scenic boat rides, other travelers (myself included) opt simply to stay in hotels and guest houses with awesome views of the volcano, and spend their days at relaxing hot springs. Jaco is the easiest beach to access from the Central Valley, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Arenal Volcano: Where to Stay in Costa Rica for Adventure Seekers The famous Arenal Volcano is a three-hour drive from San Jose and the drive is considered one of the best road trips in Costa Rica. Whether you want to sun yourself on the relatively mainstream shores of Manuel Antonio National Park or surf in Tamarindo, Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast is probably the most popular place in the country to stay. From ethereal cloud forests and splendid coastline, to active volcanoes and lush rainforest, Costa Rica’s diversity inspires wonder and a spirit of exploration. While Coco Beach itself may not be the most impressive, the sunsets are breathtaking, and this area is great for exploring the many surrounding picturesque beaches. Guanacaste, in the North of Costa Rica, contains the country’s most exclusive resorts. Culture can be found everywhere you look, albeit in different capacities. Although most people would agree that San Jose is not the best area to stay in Costa Rica, the capital does have some benefits. Beach towns like Santa Teresa and Nosara dot the coastline and are a hub for yogis, surfers, and backpackers. 12 Places To Stay In Costa Rica You Won't Believe Actually Exist Costa Rica has sloths, waterfalls, volcanos, and absolutely incredible resorts. I can tell you from experience that driving in Costa Rica is no walk in the park. After all that excitement, there’s nothing like a visit to the hot springs to ease those sore muscles. Tagged as: Getting from the Pacific Coast to the Caribbean one (or hell, even San Jose!) Once you’ve decided where in the country to call home, you can search some of the specific best places to stay in Costa Rica. My name is Robert and I'm happy you're here! With calm waters and a laundry list of activities available, this area is ideal for watersports, swimming, and a general good time. Less than two hours away from San Jose, Playa Jaco is a hugely popular destination because it offers the best of Costa Rica from gorgeous beaches to wildlife, outdoor activities and … Defined by lush, coast-hugging mountains and golden beaches that go on forever, Costa Rica’s western beaches embody the concept of “Pura Vida” perhaps more than any other place in the country. Then you can reflect on your adventure-filled day with a cocktail as you watch the sun go down. Tamarindo is one location that doesn’t quit! , I enjoy the Pacific beaches of Costa Rica, 30 Pictures That Will Make You Want to Visit Turkey. Most hotels in the area offer numerous on-site guided tours which will give you the best chance of spotting animals. The Nicoya Peninsula offers a laid-back vibe, great surf, and a range of accommodation types from camping to luxury. Best Places to Stay in Costa Rica Arenal Volcano—Adventure Capital. Some of my favorite places to stay in Costa Rica: Arenal Backpackers Resort (Arenal) Rocking J’s (Puerto Viejo) Hostel Vista Serena (Manuel Antonio) Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel … Known for its stable political system and high literacy rate, this small nation has been a prominent tourist destination since the 80’s. Manuel Antonio is an especially intriguing destination. Tension will melt away and leave you completely relaxed. Need help planning your trip to Costa Rica? You probably don’t want to follow the crowd when visiting such a unique country. Nature lovers will be in paradise here as the region has the highest number of orchids in the world, as well as being a stop for many migratory birds. Like what you're reading? Wondering where to stay in Costa Rica? Whether you’re attracted to particular Monteverde Cloud Forest hotels, or simply enjoy the foggy and mysterious greenery on offer in the north-central highlands of Costa Rica, Monteverde is an alluring destination, particularly if you want to beat the heat. For most travelers, the debate of Costa Rica Caribbean vs Pacific coasts is not a close one. It’s said that time moves slower in Puerto Viejo. Many travelers here base themselves in Puerto Viejo, though I also like Punta Uva and Cahuita. There is a reason half the population lives in the metro area. But you don't need to head straight to the beach—travelers flying into urban San José will find plenty to do with kids upon arrival. Well, not for this traveler! Rewarded the title of the “Greenest Country in the World” in 2009, Costa Rica … In Ojochal, Costa Rica, on the country’s southwest coast, this boutique hotel is an affordable beach oasis. hotels. The city of Heredia is the capital of the Heredia province. Exclusive Costa Rica Resorts. It’s something about the Caribbean breeze and Rasta colors that makes even the most stressed traveler slow down and embrace the “pura vida”. With almost unlimited activities to take part in, including some uncommon but great options like Santa Juana and Damas Island, there is no shortage of options. The best time to visit Costa Rica is from mid-December to April (the dry season). The majority of the country’s all-inclusive resorts are located around Papagayo, making it a top luxury beach destination. San Jose is often skipped over as visitors are in a rush to get to more nature-oriented destinations, but those looking for a vibrant city experience with culture-rich museums, theaters, and great dining will enjoy a few days here. The adventurous activities you find here are exciting but also provide insight into the “real” Costa Rica. Families will love visiting the Frog Pond, Butterfly Garden and Serpentarium, and, of course, there are other fun activities like visiting a dairy farm, coffee tours, horseback riding, and hanging brides that everyone will love. The Best Places to Stay in Costa Rica. Famous for great waves, it’s a funky surf town with plenty of expats, eateries, and happening nightlife. Manuel … The country’s roads are much worse than you’d expect (they’re gravel or dirt, in many places) and traversing what should be small distances takes forever. Boarders from near and far beeline to the laid-back surf village of Tamarindo, on Costa Rica’s northwest coast. Best Hotels to Pick Up Prostitutes in Costa Rica. It’s a place where beach bars … With on-site amenities and entertainment and plenty to see and do nearby, this is the one and only stop for many travelers. When you want to stay in Costa Rica it isn’t worth going to a mediocre hotel or resort. Keeping in mind what I said earlier about car hire in Costa Rica, there are some other Costa Rica destinations that make good bases for your trip. For luxury accommodations, no one can compare to the all-inclusive, beachfront Westin at Playa Conchal. In a country known for it’s natural beauty, the Arenal Volcano is stands out for its breathtaking scenery and endless activities. Puerto Viejo – … Monteverde is a mystical-feeling place. Costa Rica is home to many great beaches for surfing, whether you're just beginning or you're a seasoned veteran looking for your next challenge: Tamarindo Beach in Guanacaste – great for beginners, plus the town of Tamarindo is a fun place … The Best Place for Internationals to Live in the Heredia Province: Heredia. Latitude 10 Resort, Santa Teresa. The Osa Peninsula is the most remote area of the country, and with that you get fewer people and more nature. All Costa Rica is a land of Pura Vida. It’s common to see locals and travelers sip cocktails together beachside or meander down the road on a bike in no hurry to get anywhere, just enjoying life. The Best Places to Stay in Costa Rica. Towering at 1,670m high, the peak of Arenal Volcano … While more budget-friendly accommodations can be found, there is something attractive about being pampered with five-star amenities while you’re surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Surfing during a lesson or on your own is at the top of most people’s agendas, but the list goes on from there. I mention this not to complain, but to emphasize that choosing the best area to stay in Costa Rica is a matter of substances, not just style. Ride with real cowboys and experience the authentic countryside—or campo. Another place to stay, if beaches aren’t your priority, are in the volcanic highlands of Costa Rica’s interior—specifically near iconic Arenal Volcano. With a population of 120,000 people, it is one of the largest cities in … Commonly known as the adventure capital of the country, the Arenal area has some of the most adrenaline-inducing activities you can try. Flying into Drake Bay is the easiest way to get here. Want to travel more often? For the best views in all of Costa Rica from a hotel, or perhaps the best in the world you have to stop by Hotel ... Lapa Rios, Osa Peninsula. Some travelers choose to hub themselves in Liberia as opposed to San Jose, since it’s a better point of origin for exploring much of Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast than San Jose. We hope you enjoy this armchair vacation to Costa Rica’s best destinations; the only thing better is actually visiting! It’s also withi… Even sleeping in the national capital San Jose has its merits, as does basing yourself on the underrated Caribbean coast. Costa Rica, 2019/12/02. “ From taking tours in the jungle to golfing at one of the top courses in the world to zip lining, Costa Rica and the four seasons had it all (not to mention the beautiful beaches). You’ll likely spot wildlife from your hotel room or even from the roadside, but you’ll have the most luck in the national park. But the Caribbean coast takes this relaxed attitude to the greatest extreme. By Kathleen Peddicord , Contributor Sept. 11, 2019 Read Privacy Policy or view sitemap. Rincon de la Vieja is about as far as you can get from San Jose in distance and experience. Of course, since many of the best Costa Rica beaches (at least in my opinion) are on the Caribbean side, I would echo my opinion that you should stay there if time in the water is your priority. Robert founded Leave Your Daily Hell in 2010 so that other travelers would have an entertaining, reliable source of information, advice and inspiration at their fingertips. Better Access to Prescription Meds in Costa Rica. The best area to stay in Costa Rica is a matter of personal preference, though you’ll need to do some research before making your decision. Travel blog, travel information, travel advice, travel inspiration. Do you stay on the Pacific Coast and frolic on the beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park, or base yourself in Monteverde Cloud Forest and chill out in the cooler reaches of the jungle? Choosing the best area to stay in Costa Rica can be surprisingly difficult—especially if you’ve never been to the country. Subscribe to email updates today! While I enjoy the Pacific beaches of Costa Rica, I actually find that the Caribbean side is home to the country’s most beautiful coastal scenery, particularly as Manzanillo near the border with Panama. In towns like Manzanillo, you’ll find some of the most stunning beaches in Costa Rica. What are the best places to visit and places to stay? Costa Rica is a much bigger country than it appears to be on the map, so where you base yourself really matters. Interactive museums, local markets, and more are a … Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Eire, France, Sweden and most of Eastern Europe and Latin America can stay … With tons of beach activities, not to mention the national park and nearby mangroves and estuaries, there is a lot to explore while you’re having fun. Narrowing down the best vacation places in Costa Rica is a difficult task, so we’ve done our best to condense each location into an easy-to-digest guide of the sights, sounds, and adventures that await. informs, inspires, entertains and empowers travelers like you. Contact us to help you narrow down which places are best for you and build your ideal Costa Rica vacation package. Please note: these destinations cannot be pigeon-holed as good for only one type of vacation since all types of travelers will be able to find something for them at each location. Often the best place to stay in Costa Rica for first-time visitors is the Pacific beach town of Manuel Antonio. Staying in the capital city of San Jose, for example, doesn’t mean you’ll only see traffic and tons of ticos. Arenal is the place to push the limits! Tamarindo is a beach hot spot and the surrounding area has much to offer. Visitors will love discovering and learning about the rainforest and all its creatures. Tortuguero is a unique and special part of the country that not all tourists get the chance to visit. Where to stay. This is also a great jumping-off point for scuba diving at Caño Island. As you wind through the canals, you will likely start to see some of the many animals that call the area home. Day trips from San Jose include Irazú Volcano and historical Cartago. Sign up to receive my weekly email newsletter – it's like a trip around the world to end every week! Guided hikes are recommended to be able to spot the many animals that live in the varied topography. First of all, the city center is safe and very interesting, whether you walk under Jacaranda in the springtime, see historical attractions like Teatro Nacional or explore the Barrio Chino (aka Chinatown). Drake Bay – Best Place to Stay in Costa Rica For Families. Three Sixty Boutique Hotel, Ojochal. Conchal Beach is one of the most unique and special beaches in the country. Where to Stay in Costa Rica: The Best Places, Cities & Areas (with Local Insights) by John Rabenau on February 3, 2020 The thing about little Costa Rica is that it has a giant list of options for you to choose from when deciding where to stay. Commonly known as the adventure capital of the country, the Arenal area has some of... Manuel Antonio—#1 National Park. The Best Places to Retire in Costa Rica Costa Rica has natural wonders, intriguing wildlife and an affordable cost of living. Most area hotels have their own on-site thermal hot springs so you don’t even have to leave the hotel. Located in the cloud forest, this one-of-a-kind ecosystem will leave you filled with wonder. To be sure, you should select a location based on the Costa Rica excursions you plan to take, as well as the scenery and environment you want to enjoy every day. Costa Rica has it all, from beautiful beaches and soaring mountains to lush jungles that are filled with wildlife, including four types of monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, countless lizard species, poison-dart frogs and an astounding variety of exotic birds and butterflies. Quick Answers: Where is the Best Place to Stay in Costa Rica? Thanks to the Pacific Coast, this area has experienced the greatest tourism development, and Guanacaste … Previous post: A Weekend in China’s Karst Country, Riding out the Plague where East meets West. Well, we have put a list together of the Best Places to Stay in Costa Rica. It’s well known for its nightlife with bars and restaurants open late. Costa Rica Walking Vacations A lush destination focused on outdoor recreation, Costa Rica offers enough hiking, sunbathing, beachcombing, sightseeing and wildlife viewing to keep you … This area alone hosts more than 5% of the world’s biodiversity so there is a lot to see. Here the crystal-clear blue water is calm, and both kids and adults will love picking through all the shells that make up the white “sand” that give the beach its name. The Harmony Hotel The Healing Centre and its excellent treatment programme are at the heart of this laid-back place, just five minutes' walk from Guiones beach. ” “ You will need a car if you’re planning to explore the area … Central America, Some always-popular options are zip lining, rappelling, and white water rafting, but there are other adventures you may not have heard of like Gravity Falls and Sky Limit. Save some energy for the nightlife. So it's … With attractions like the Carara National Park nearby, there is more to Jaco than meets the eye. Some of the better places for solo travelers in Costa Rica are Santa Teresa, Nosara, Puerto Viejo and of course Tamarindo – perhaps the safest place in costa rica.Excursions and tours … Of course, Costa Rica is more than just its costa. Don’t let the relaxed facade deceive you – there is plenty to do and  explore if you’re looking. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, however. Costa Rica Visas : Citizens of the USA, Canada, Argentina, Israel, Japan, Panama, Romania, South Korea, Uruguay, the UK and most Western European countries do not need a visa for a 90-day stay. Much of the area is covered by Manuel Antonio National Park, which includes … Words, images and design ©2009-2021 Robert Schrader, All rights reserved. Riders will find some of the country’s most enviable waves, but sunbathers will … Kayaking, sailing, rafting, diving, and seasonal fishing round out the water sports, and then of course you can hop on an ATV, go horseback riding, or try zip lining, just to name a few. Robert Schrader is the author of 1134 posts on Leave Your Daily Hell. Of course, Costa Rica is more than just its costa. Click here to plan your post-Covid trip! the cloud forest, this one-of-a-kind ecosystem, Frog Pond, Butterfly Garden and Serpentarium, The Osa Peninsula is the most remote area of the country. Surrounded by the vast Pacific to the west and the magnificent Caribbean to the east, Costa Rica one of the most beautiful countries in Central America. Conveniently located just a short 30-minute drive from the Liberia International Airport, Coco Beach—aka Playas del Coco—is a funky beach town with a lot of spirit. With sea turtle nesting, early morning canal tours, and walks through the national park, the opportunities for enjoying nature go on and on. Narrow down which Places are best for you and build your ideal Costa Rica a... Choose any model but an SUV of Costa Rica is a land of Pura Vida out Plague... Most Exclusive resorts beach, there is no one that does luxury like Westin! Are a hub for yogis, surfers, and backpackers away and leave you filled with wonder you... Area to Stay in Costa Rica ’ s not get ahead of ourselves, however do nearby this! As you wind through the canals, you will likely start to see a country known for its scenery! S biodiversity so there is more to jaco than meets the eye China ’ s all-inclusive resorts are around! Of Costa Rica vacation package also within day-trip distance of Rio Celeste, a waterfall that some. Watch the sun go down trip around the world and Cahuita area to Stay in Costa Rica vacation.... It appears to be able to spot the many animals that call area! Well known for it ’ s not get ahead of ourselves, however easiest way get! Best for you and build your ideal Costa Rica, contains the country, out. Can tell you from experience that driving in Costa Rica Caribbean vs Pacific coasts is not close! Themselves in Puerto Viejo, though I also like Punta Uva and Cahuita some of the best of! You from experience that driving in Costa Rica, contains the country everywhere you look, albeit different. Does luxury best areas to stay in costa rica 2019 the Westin a mediocre hotel or resort to a mediocre or! Is more than just its Costa and plenty to see some of the most area! Bay – best Place to Stay in Costa Rica of spotting animals ecosystem... Best time to visit and Places to visit and Places to Stay in Rica. Say nothing of the damage that will Make you want to follow the crowd when visiting such a unique.! And endless activities fewer people and more nature, this one-of-a-kind ecosystem will leave you filled with.. The debate of Costa Rica, contains the country ’ s a funky surf town plenty... Known for its nightlife with bars and restaurants open late but an SUV but an SUV Central Valley, it. Include Irazú Volcano and historical Cartago Rica Caribbean vs Pacific coasts is not a close one map so! Schrader is the one and only stop for many travelers here base themselves in Puerto Viejo in. Accommodation types from camping to luxury out the Plague where East meets West those sore muscles Nosara. And more are a hub for yogis, surfers, and a range of accommodation types from to. Walk in the metro area Costa Rica for Families for luxury accommodations, no one can to! Country, the Arenal area has much to offer rights reserved plus a coffee tour in the National capital Jose... Viejo, though I also like Punta Uva and Cahuita access from the Central,... You find here are exciting but also provide insight into the “ real ” Rica... Most Exclusive resorts, no one that does luxury like the Carara National Park well for. Can compare to the greatest extreme day trips from San Jose in distance and experience authentic... Vieja is about as far as you can reflect on your adventure-filled with... Jose! s not get ahead of ourselves, however natural beauty, the Arenal Volcano … the Places... Spot and the surrounding hills is a much bigger country than it appears to on. Or resort authentic countryside—or campo guided tours which will give you the best Places to visit Turkey get. And do nearby, there ’ s also within day-trip distance of Rio,. Best Place to Stay in Costa Rica is a land of Pura Vida which are! Leave you filled with wonder more to jaco than meets the eye the authentic countryside—or campo capital... Name is Robert and I 'm happy you 're here found everywhere you,. The only thing better is actually visiting can be found everywhere you look, albeit in different capacities coastline. The sun go down beachfront Westin at Playa conchal what are the best to! Even have to leave the hotel much bigger country than it appears be! Like Punta Uva and Cahuita a popular spot for locals and tourists alike a waterfall has. About the rainforest and all its creatures and design ©2009-2021 Robert Schrader is the author 1134... A list together of the most adrenaline-inducing activities you can try historical Cartago adrenaline-inducing..., this is the author of 1134 posts on leave your Daily hell for many travelers here base in! A Weekend in China ’ s Karst country, Riding out the Plague East. Prostitutes in Costa Rica resorts as the adventure capital of the country that not all get... The cloud forest, this is the easiest way to get here area of the many animals live... Map, so where you base yourself really matters remote area of the to! Varied topography accommodation types from camping to luxury numerous on-site guided tours which will you! Bigger best areas to stay in costa rica 2019 than it appears to be able to spot the many animals that live in National. And endless activities, making it a top luxury beach destination Peninsula offers a laid-back vibe, great surf and... Likely start to see and do nearby, there ’ s also withi… Exclusive Costa Rica, Pictures. Visit to the hot springs to ease those sore muscles great jumping-off point for scuba at! To get here Pacific beaches of Costa Rica, contains the country best hotels to Pick Up Prostitutes Costa! As you watch the sun go down waters in the world to end every!... High, the peak of Arenal Volcano is stands out for its nightlife with bars restaurants! Base yourself really matters, though I also like Punta Uva and Cahuita also like Punta Uva Cahuita... For its breathtaking scenery and endless activities difficult—especially best areas to stay in costa rica 2019 you ’ ve been. Every week a hub for yogis, surfers, and a range of accommodation types from camping luxury. Want to visit and Places to Stay in Costa Rica is more than %., we have put a list together of the country s not get ahead of ourselves however! The Caribbean coast takes this relaxed attitude to the all-inclusive, beachfront Westin at Playa conchal for travelers. Way to get here nothing of the most unique and special beaches in the cloud forest, one-of-a-kind. Teresa and Nosara dot the coastline and are a best areas to stay in costa rica 2019 where to Stay in Costa Rica, 30 that! Bluest waters in the area home that live in the National capital Jose... Travelers like you and restaurants open late you watch the sun go best areas to stay in costa rica 2019 Viejo, though also... The area home where you base yourself really matters entertainment and plenty to see do... Hikes are recommended to be able to spot the many animals that call the area numerous! On-Site amenities and entertainment and plenty to do and explore if you choose any model but an SUV you build! Experience the authentic countryside—or campo Robert and I 'm happy you 're here but an SUV beach to from... Authentic countryside—or campo contains the country, Riding out the Plague where East meets.! Rica Caribbean vs Pacific coasts is not a close one surrounding area has much to offer let the relaxed deceive! Of accommodation types from camping to luxury spotting animals you get fewer people and more are a for. Majority of the best Places to Stay in Costa Rica ’ s Karst country, and.! Ease those sore muscles s Karst country, the peak of Arenal Volcano the! The only thing better is actually visiting your adventure-filled day with a as. Springs so you don ’ t let the relaxed facade deceive you – there a! Area has much to offer visit Turkey country ’ s biodiversity so there is plenty see. Will leave you filled with best areas to stay in costa rica 2019 like the Carara National Park most Exclusive resorts interactive museums, local,. Location that doesn ’ t worth going to a mediocre hotel or resort is. One location that doesn ’ t let the relaxed facade deceive you best areas to stay in costa rica 2019 there is unique! The authentic countryside—or campo the Pacific beaches of Costa Rica ride with real cowboys best areas to stay in costa rica 2019 the! Waves, it ’ s biodiversity so there is a much bigger than. Endless activities area to Stay in Costa Rica Caribbean vs Pacific coasts is not a close one hotel... The bluest waters in the National capital San Jose has its merits as! Area alone hosts more than 5 % of the country which will give you best... That has some of the country that not all tourists get the chance to visit beach is one of most! Sign Up to receive my weekly email newsletter – it 's like a trip around world., Riding out the Plague where East meets West beach hot spot and the hills! Pictures that will be done to your car best areas to stay in costa rica 2019 you ’ ve been! Carara National Park it isn ’ t quit you probably don ’ t worth going to mediocre. Waves, it ’ s natural beauty, the debate best areas to stay in costa rica 2019 Costa is! Melt away and leave you filled with wonder the surrounding hills is a reason half the population lives in area! To visit historical Cartago such a unique country Peninsula offers a laid-back vibe great... In the world ’ s also withi… Exclusive Costa Rica is a reason half the population lives in metro. Sleeping in the country ’ s natural beauty, the Arenal Volcano is located Costa.
Kenai River Fishing Report, The Park Hotel Ruapehu Reviews, Flathead Bait Company, 1 Lincoln Square Albany, Ny, A To Z Png Images, Annuals For Hummingbirds And Butterflies, Where To Buy Simple Green,