Curator’s statement
Costa Rica isn't just a destination—it’s a serious nod to the planet, where sustainability is a way of life. This remarkably biodiverse country packs beaches, rainforests, cloud forests, and tropical mountains into a compact space that will leave you breathless with its green abundance and incredible wildlife encounters. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping zip-line adventures or prefer to unwind poolside at one of the country's stunning luxury resorts with ocean views, Costa Rica delivers. Pristine beaches offer the perfect backdrop for those who simply want to soak up the sun, sip cocktails, and let the sound of waves be their soundtrack. A local once said to me, “Costa Rica is a small country that feels big,” and any traveler quickly learns this truth when those seemingly short distances stretch into scenic journeys along winding, mountainous roads where Mother Nature sets the pace.
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Things to do in Costa Rica
Surfing photo by Cesar Badilla/Unsplash
Costa Rica is paradise for both the adventurous and relaxation-seeking traveler. It’s the rare destination that truly offers something for everyone.
Outdoor adventures
Nature lovers can zip-line through cloud forest canopies, spot sloths and colorful birds on guided wildlife walks, or take boat tours through mangrove channels where crocodiles bask in the sun. Beach enthusiasts have their pick of world-class surfing breaks, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or simply lounging on pristine stretches of sand with a good book. For the more adventurous, there’s white-water rafting down rushing rivers, volcano hiking with breathtaking views, and night tours where you’ll hear the jungle come alive around you.
Wellness & culture
Wellness seekers gravitate toward the yoga retreats and spa treatments surrounded by tropical gardens and thermal hot springs, while culture enthusiasts love visiting coffee plantations to learn the bean-to-cup process and exploring charming mountain towns. Animal, plant, insect, and bird diversity here is incredible. The beauty of Costa Rica is that you can pack your days with adrenaline-pumping activities or simply embrace the “pura vida” lifestyle and slow down completely.
Surfing
Costa Rica's premier surfing destinations include Tamarindo, Playa Grande, Jacó, Dominical, Pavones, Nosara, Puerto Viejo, Witch's Rock, Malpaís and Santa Teresa, Playa Hermosa, Playa Naranjo, and Ollie's Point. The island offers everything from beginner-friendly beach breaks to world-class point breaks that attract surfers from around the globe.
Getting around
I recommend splitting your time between at least two different regions to experience different climates, natural landscapes, and activities.
Shared charter flights are inexpensive and easy to get from region to region.
For closer distances, private transportation pricing is reasonable.
Renting a car (with required liability insurance) offers flexibility for the adventurous. Just remember: those curvy, hilly roads and occasional rain-washed routes mean your GPS estimate is merely a suggestion!
Not sure where to start? Your luxury travel advisor and vetted destination partners can align your accommodations, activities, tours, and transfers with your interests, travel style, and budget so you get the most out of your time in Costa Rica.
Places to eat & drink in Costa Rica
The cuisine
Restaurant recommendations depend on a traveler’s destination(s) in Costa Rica.
International cruising is available in the larger cities.
Costa Rican cuisine centers on fresh, local ingredients and comfort food traditions built around rice, black beans, and tropical fruits.
The beloved "gallo pinto" (rice and black beans) anchors most meals, especially breakfast, often served with eggs, cheese, and sweet plantains.
Don't miss trying this traditional Costa Rican breakfast with gallo pinto and eggs. It’s filling, delicious, and gives you energy for a day of exploring. (Ask for pico de gallo—fresh salsa—on the side to add extra flavor and experience this essential condiment that accompanies many local dishes.)
Traditional dishes include “casado” (a complete plate with rice, beans, meat, salad, and plantains), fresh seafood ceviche, and hearty "olla de carne" stew.
The food is mild rather than spicy, flavored with fresh cilantro, lime, and garlic.
Coffee culture is central to daily life, with world-class beans grown in volcanic soil.
Fresh tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and papayas are abundant year-round.
Need to know
There are so many things about Costa Rica that make it easy for the American traveler.
The currency is the Costa Rican Colones (CRC), but the US dollar is widely accepted in tourist areas.
The same electrical plugs are used so no adapters are needed.
Tap water is drinkable in most of Costa Rica.
English is widely spoken in all tourist destinations in Costa Rica.
There are diverse landscapes, flora, and fauna, including beaches, rainforests, cloudforests, and tropical mountain regions to explore in one country.
Peak season (December–April) comes with sunny, dry weather but higher pricing (especially during Festive and Easter) and more crowds. Shoulder months (May, June, September–November) provide significant savings with morning sunshine and afternoon showers. September and October are the rainiest months. The Caribbean coast has the best weather February–March and August–October, while northwest Guanacaste remains relatively dry throughout the year.
Costa Rica truly hits that sweet spot for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation in one incredible destination. It’s truly an amazing destination for couples, friend groups, families, and multi-gen groups. Whether you’re hiking through suspension bridges and past waterfalls in the cloud forests in the morning and unwinding at a luxury beachfront resort by afternoon, or simply wanting to disconnect completely while surrounded by some of the world’s most biodiverse landscapes, this remarkable country delivers experiences that will stay with you long after you return home. The fact that it’s sustainable, accessible year-round, and offers everything from world-class surfing to pristine wilderness makes it one of my most recommended destinations—I genuinely can’t think of anyone who wouldn’t fall in love with Costa Rica’s beauty and Pura Vida ethos.
Travel Advisor
Cindy Rhee
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Costa Rica page.