Curator’s statement
Costa Rica is the kind of place that feels alive at every turn—where misty cloud forests, wild beaches, and steaming hot springs create a constant sense of adventure. After three trips, I’ve surfed powerful waves, cruised through jungle waterways, spotting incredible wildlife, and soaked in volcanic hot springs surrounded by lush rainforest. The magic peaks at Manuel Antonio National Park, where monkeys swing overhead and pristine beaches meet dense, vibrant jungle. It’s a destination that perfectly blends adrenaline and relaxation, all wrapped in the unforgettable energy of “pura vida.”
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Things to do in Costa Rica
"I demand a banana and a nap immediately!"
Boat ride wildlife tour: Hop on a guided boat ride through lush waterways where your expert guide spots hidden wildlife you’d never notice on your own, from slow-moving sloths to playful monkeys in the trees. The experience gets even more unforgettable when curious monkeys come right up to the boat and you get the chance to feed them bananas.
Surfing: Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, Costa Rica’s waves are perfect for catching a ride, with warm water and stunning coastal views all around. There’s nothing like the thrill of standing up on your board while the jungle-lined shoreline stretches behind you.
Manuel Antonio National Park: You can explore the park with a guide who will help you spot hidden wildlife, or wander on your own at your own pace through scenic jungle trails. Either way, you’ll end up on some of the most beautiful beaches, where white sand meets crystal-clear water.
Monteverde Cloud Forest: Walking through the cloud forest feels like stepping into another world, with mist drifting through the trees and wildlife all around you. The hanging bridges let you hike above the forest floor for breathtaking views you won’t get anywhere else. We tried to do a zipline bike, but we did not have a 4 wheel drive car, so we were not able to make it around the mud pile in the middle of the road.
Ziplining: Ziplining through the rainforest is pure adrenaline, soaring high above the canopy with incredible views in every direction. At one point, I flew right over a sloth and passed just beneath a troop of monkeys—an experience that felt completely unreal.
Baldi Hot Springs: Relax in naturally heated pools with a range of temperatures up to 110°F, complete with swim-up bars and a buffet dinner included for the perfect end to an adventure-filled day. If you’re feeling brave, their four intense water slides deliver a rush (not for the faint of heart—but even an 89-year-old in our group survived, just with a few bruises to show for it!).
Places to eat & drink in Costa Rica
Café Milagro
Koko: A beachfront gem with stunning ocean views, Koko offers a vibrant menu featuring fresh seafood, flavorful teriyaki dishes, and a standout jalapeño passion fruit margarita.
Café Milagro: Known for its inviting atmosphere, Café Milagro delights with its refreshing frozen “Queppacino,” fresh tropical salads, and indulgent passion fruit cheesecake.
Sloffee Coffee: This charming coffee roastery serves exceptional brews and pastries, with a warm, welcoming owner who offers coffee tours and a scenic forest view where you might spot sloths or toucans, plus a cute souvenir shop.
El Avión: Set around a historic airplane with sweeping ocean views, El Avión pairs a unique dining experience with classic Costa Rican dishes, fresh seafood, and a lively sunset atmosphere.
Emilio’s Café: Perched on a hillside with breathtaking coastal views, Emilio’s Café is known for its fresh, flavorful dishes, excellent coffee, and relaxed ambiance perfect for breakfast or lunch.
Need to know
May through November is the rainy season, so there were not very many tourists when I vacationed in September. In June, we were able to assist in releasing baby turtles back into the ocean!
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Elise Schroeder
Elise Schroeder
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