Inland to Coast: Arenal Volcano to the Guancaste, Costa Rica

Advisor - Courtney Berthelsen
Curated By

Courtney Berthelsen

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  • Active Travel

  • Adventure Travel

  • Beaches

  • Couples Travel

  • Family Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Group Travel

  • Costa Rica

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

  • Entertainment

An aerial view of the forest near seashore during daytime.
Curator’s statement

It’s no secret, Costa Rica has a bit of everything for everyone. From volcano, to rainforest, to coast, trust me, whether you are the most adventurous/active traveler or the one who likes to relax, this destination might be calling your name because, truly, it’s a place that is “pure vida” all the time! Here, we’re focusing on the North part of the country (either in/our of Liberia or San Jose airports) and Peninsula Papagayo. Because a vacation, in our opinion, wouldn’t be a vacation without some water component! After seeing every nook and cranny of this area, I would recommend this corridor of the country to all first-time visitors, so you can experience what everyone talks about/thinks about when you say “Costa Rica!”

The Fora Difference

Book with Courtney to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

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Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Costa Rica

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Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa

Luxe resort and spa near Costa Rica's Arenal Volcano.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    $100 food / beverage credit.

  • ★

    Breakfast daily.

  • ★

    Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

El Mangroove, Autograph Collection

A beachfront gem in Guanacaste, with a modern look, private touring and spectacular views of the Gulf of Papagayo from most rooms and the two restaurants.

Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo

Enjoy simple life at the Four Seasons with the canopy plunge pool suite, sunset views and breakfast in bed.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.

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Advisor - Courtney Berthelsen

Unlock perks by contacting Courtney to book your trip.

Things to do in Costa Rica

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  • Drink ALL the coffee. When you think you’ve had enough, drink more. And then buy some to take home. You are in the heart of delicious coffee.

  • Hike Arenal. You’ll see sloths on the way. If you want to take the trail less traveled, head to the lava field hike.

  • Eat at a soda! A version of what we know as a mom/pop local restaurant.

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Stop at a roadside coffee shop (we might be partial to the cheeky name, “Slothee” - get it, sloth and coffee?)

  • Dip in the thermal river. It’s just one of those things you ought to do. Insiders tip: The further you go up-stream, the less people you will see ;)

  • Stop and watch the leaf cutter ants. Fascinating.

  • Hone in on your Spidey - Sense and keep your eyes open for all the rainforest animals that surround you as you drive through the mountains. Snakes, sloths, toucans, monkeys - the moment you draw your attention elsewhere, you’ll miss them!

  • Take a boat trip. Whether it’s private or in a group, fishing or snorkeling — seeing the peninsula from the water is an immaculate feast for the eyes! You can get a better idea of the massive villas and resorts that are sneakily built into the typography - all while soaking up crystal clear, beautiful blue water!

Honestly, enjoy the property that you choose. You might have yourself a private plunge pool with views of Arenal Volcano or room service is awaiting you for a leisurely breakfast and morning wake-up.

Places to eat & drink in Costa Rica

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Honestly, all the hotels you would be choosing from have fantastic (!!!!) restaurants on property. Make sure you try all of them, as they are all inspired by different chef-backgrounds and talents.

For example

  • Nayara Tented has a beautifully Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, with live music to boot! If you dine here, I hope that you get a little rainfall during your dinner - listening to the rain is exquisite!

  • Amor Arenal has a “Chef’s Table” inspired room that gives you and your loved one the private opportunity to dine “with the chef.” Who wouldn’t love a dining experience like that!?

  • Stay to eat at Tabacon after you enjoy the springs! The fried ceviche and Caribbean chicken are the favorites here.

  • Enjoy a gourmet picnic after your Arenal hike. Your advisor can help you set this up. Dining outside with the volcano as your backdrop cannot be beat.

  • The Four Seasons has so many mind-blowing food options, but something simple like the guacamole and tacos took the cake for me here!

  • Don’t forget to ask your advisor and guide to stop by their favorite soda for you to enjoy!

Need to Know

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Quick Weekend in World-Famous Waikiki

Advisor - Courtney Berthelsen

Travel Advisor

Courtney Berthelsen

Get in touch with Courtney

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