Arenal Volcano Where To Stay For Adventure Junkies
Arenal Volcano is a one-of-a-kind part of Costa Rica, it has some of the best resorts and eco friendly villas and if youre looking for that adrenaline rush, Arenal is the place for you my friend!
You can try canyoning, ziplining, whitewater rafting and admire the waterfall, not to mention the national park Arenal Volcano! Its located 3 hours away from San Jose in north-western Costa Rica, so even if you choose to spend most of your vacation in San Jose I highly recommend booking at least 1 night in Arenal for some adventure!
Are you still having second thoughts about booking this trip to Costa Rica in advance? Just remember that Arenal Volcano is active and sits at the heart of the Arenal Volcano National Park. You can see the lava rocks and trails from the big eruption while you have fun in the national park. Hold my purse!
To see the La Fortuna rain forest waterfall you have to hike 15 minutes but it is so worth it! Afterward, you can swim and snap some pics of the amazing views. La Fortuna is one of the most amazing places in Costa Rica where you can explore around and enjoy a hot spring bath. Stay in Costa Rica, Arenal and you will not regret it!
- Go rafting with Costa Rica Descents
- Take a day trip to San Jose
Things To Do In Puerto Viejo
- Relax on the many beautiful turquoise beaches of Puerto Viejo. Playa Negra is a lovely black sand beach that is usually calm enough for swimming. Our favorite is Playa Punta Uva has clean ivory sand, spearmint water, and tall palms.
- Visit one of the several BriBri indigenous communities. Learn about their local customs, language, traditions, and methods of farming. We went with Terraventuras Travel and our tour included a chocolate-making experience where we got to try some of their sacred cacao drink.
- Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center, a wildlife rehabilitation center in Playa Chiquita. Guides will teach you all about the monkeys, sloths, parrots, and toucans that live here. The public tours cost $20 per person, children under 10 are free! No reservation needed for public tours. Book here your tour here.
Marino Las Baulas National Park
Every year, leatherback sea turtles arrive on the shores of Marino Baulas National Park, one of the countrys most important sea turtle nesting grounds and destinations for ecotourism. Visitors can likely spot other wildlife such as monkeys, waterbirds, ocelots, and crocodiles while kayaking the mangroves and estuaries. Or enjoy walking or surfing on Playa Grande.
- Best time to visit: October 20 to mid-November for leatherback nesting season. Ranger-led night tours offer your best chance at seeing the turtles and can be arranged up to 8 days ahead by calling the Las Baulas National Park headquarters.
- Good to know: Leatherback sea turtles are considered endangered and are the largest turtles on Earth, growing upwards of 7 feet long. Your visit to this national park supports conservation efforts. Make sure you do not purchase crafts and goods made of turtle shells, eggs, or meat, which may be found in local markets.
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Whats So Special About Guanacaste
Its not surprising that people are drawn to Guanacaste, Costa Rica. It is truly a tropical paradise. Costa Rica, in general, is known for its picturesque beaches, mountains, national parks, friendly people, and abundant tropical wildlife. Guanacaste has the best of all of the above.
Some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the world are in this corner of this country, and some of the best hotels, too.
Almost anywhere in this area, visitors can enjoy spa treatments in the morning, mid-day at a secluded beach, a dip in a Guanacaste hotel swimming pool to cool off, and fine dining at night.
For accommodations, visitors can choose from upscale hotels and some of the most luxurious resorts in the world, all-inclusive resorts, mid-range and budget hotels, hostels, house rentals, or even camping.
Transportation is easy and affordable you can take public transportation, hire a driver, or get your own rental car.
Everything seems smooth and easy in Guanacaste because it is. In fact, the Nicoya peninsula has even been recognized by the scientific community as a special and unique place its one of only six blue zones in the world and its the largest one.
People who live in blue zones tend to live longer than average due to a variety of factors including climate, culture, lifestyle, and more. The fact that the Nicoya Peninsula is a blue zone says a lot about how truly incredible it is.
What Are The Safest Places To Stay In Costa Rica
Some of the safest places to stay in Costa Rica are the previously mentioned small towns and rainforest and mountain eco-lodges that are away from the larger cities and the beaches. As you would travel anywhere, practice situational awareness and take precautions to protect yourself and your valuables. For those seeking jungle immersion and hanging bridges in the rainforest Tirimbina Biological Reserve in the small town of Sarapiquí has nature activities, guided hikes, and tours for all ages. For a total off-grid experience including yoga, rapelling, trekking, and tree climbing check out Chakra Retreat Center near the small mountain town of San Jerónimo on the slopes of Mount Chirripó.
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Maunaloa Villa At Tulemar Resort
Maunaloa Villa is a two-level, two-bedroom private villa with spectacular ocean and jungle views in the Manuel Antonio region located within the Tulemar Resort property. Enjoy incredible sunsets over dinner and watch wildlife like sloths, monkeys, scarlet macaws, and other tropical birds right from the upper floor deck. Amenities Amenities of the two-level free-standing villa
Montezuma Where To Stay In Costa Rica Off The Beaten Path
Montezuma is located in the southeast of the Nicoya peninsula, in Puntarenas province. A remote fishing village, it has gained a level of notoriety among tourists for its secluded location and traditional feel.
Backpackers and travelers on a budget often like to stay among the locals here and make the most of the lower prices on offer. The village is surrounded by rivers, waterfalls, and beaches, it allows you to immerse yourself in this picturesque tropical paradise.
While there isnt a lot of attractions in the area, besides the village itself, the one that does draw a large number of people is the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve.
Covering 7,560 acres of land and sea, more than 140 different species of trees have been identified, as have a range of animals including monkeys, coatis, deer, margays, coyotes, crabs, orcas, molluscs, and a huge range of birds and fish.
The San Miguel Biological Station located here contains libraries, laboratories, and classrooms, helping to educate people on the flora and fauna present in the reserve.
Stay In Montezuma If you want to stay in a remote, traditional village you are backpacking or traveling on a budget you like beaches, rivers, and waterfalls you want to explore a fabulous nature reserve.
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Couples: Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
There arent any adults-only hotel in Monteverde, but this is probably the most romantic place to stay at in Monteverde. The beautiful lodge is tastefully put together, with a rustic setting and wooden-cabin design. It also has a heated outdoor pool , an extensive garden and an indoor butterfly garden. Another property thats considered one of the best places to stay in Costa Rica.
San Joseshopping & Dining
Culture can be found everywhere you look, albeit in different capacities. 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. There is a reason half the population lives in the metro area. Plus a coffee tour in the surrounding hills is a must!
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San Isidro De El General The Pacific South
Although not much of a tourist destination in itself, San Isidro de El General is seen as the gateway to the whole Pacific south. This area is quite different to the rest of Costa Rica. Gone are the chilled out beach towns and easily accessible national parks. Instead, you have a remote region where the indigenous people still make their presence felt and your best mode of transport may well a hardy 4WD!
Most people come in order to hike Costa Ricas highest peak, Cerro Chirripó, in Chirripo National Park. That clocks a head-spinning 12,538 ft . Or, heading down the coast, the Corcovado National Park is probably Costa Ricas top wilderness experience and thats really saying something!
Chirripo National Park is set deep in the Talamanca Mountain Range with a dry season from December to April and a wet one from May to November. Most people come here to walk the 16.5-kilometer uphill path from San Gerardo de Rivas to the peak of Cerro Chirripo. Bear in mind you will have to go on the government website and book a permit to hike the route in advance . Although most people stay at the park lodge overnight, it is possible to do the whole 39.20kilometer hike in a day.
Drake Bay Small And Adventurous Vacation Spot On The Southern Pacific Coast
Located to the north of Puerto Jimenez, Drake Bay is a small and adventurous vacation spot on the southern Pacific coast. If you want to stay in Costa Rica for the purpose of experiencing what the locals refer to as Pura Vida, Drake Bay is a smart choice.
Drake Bay is even more remote than Puerto Jimenez you will need to board a ferry to get here unless you want to spend hours driving around confusing roads.
Drake Bay is meant to be enjoyed on foot or on the water the lodging options are not as elaborate as Puerto Jimenez, but staying in a cabin by the beach or in a country lodge at the edge of the rainforest is totally worth it.
This place is one of the best areas to stay in Costa Rica for nature lovers. This area hosts more than 5% of the worlds biodiversity.
Aside from hiking, fishing, surfing, swimming, and enjoying fresh seafood, there is not much else to do here, but your experience is bound to be unforgettable.
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Midrange: El Faro Beach Hotel
This unique hotel is Costa Ricas only hotel made of container! Rooms are on the small end, but they all feature minimalistic and stylish designs. The ocean view suites even have unobstructed view of the Pacific coast. Located just 50m from the entrance of the national park, the hotel has an infinity pool that also has spectacular sea view. Check the latest rates.
What Is The Best/coolest Place In Costa Rica
If you are looking for a place that is different, therefore very cool, here are a couple of suggestions.
In the Northern Caribbean Coast, you must visit Tortuguero, a town where there are no cars, people travel around by boat and foot and jaguars, and sea turtles speckle beaches while all kinds of other wildlife share the forest and the river canals.
In the Northern Pacific Coast, another very cool stop is Nosara, a paradise for yoga and surf. In this part of Costa Rica, you can also find incredible top of the line lodges such as Olas Verdes and the Gilded Iguana or enjoy a yoga retreat at Harmony Hotel close to incredible uncrowded beaches, as well as delicious health food restaurants and cafés and alternative shopping stores.
Matapalo in the Osa Península is another fantastic destination where you can also enjoy or learn how to surf at the same time as you experience one of the most biodiverse places in the world.
And last but not least there is Cahuita, in the south Caribbean of Costa Rica, where you can enjoy the laid-back reggae life in a less crowded setting.
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Where To Stay In Costa Rica: Guide To The Best Areas
Costa Rica inspires wanderlust and a spirit for exploration for travelers from all over the world. Visitors flock to the small Central American country to explore everything from ethereal forests, picturesque beaches, incredible wildlife, active volcanoes, and misty jungles.
Have you started planning your tropical adventure in Costa Rica? Surely the first thing that comes to mind is, where is the best place to stay in Costa Rica?
After two lengthy trips to Costa Rica I have narrowed down the top vacation spots for every travelers budget and style and plenty of things to do. Costa Rica has every kind of accommodation imaginable and offers a vast range of incredible activities. Theres something for everyone here.
Whether you want to sit on the beach with a pina colada or bungee jump off a cliff, Costa Rica has you covered. Read on for the best places to stay in Costa Rica and learn about the most popular activities are in that area.
Montezuma One Of The Most Unique Places To Stay In Costa Rica
Montezuma sits on the southern shore of Costa Rica on the Nicoya Peninsula. Its renowned for an incredibly long stretch of soft, white sand beach simply called Playa Montezuma. To the north, there is a beautiful walking trail that meanders through the jungle and will bring you to the popular surf spot: Playa Grande. Its worth staying here for a couple of nights in one of the awesome Playa Grande Hostels. Sitting just behind the beach is the Romelia Wildlife Reserve and a turtle sanctuary! If youre lucky, you might even get to witness turtle eggs hatching! No matter what, youre sure to spot groups of capuchin monkeys in the forest so cute!
Juhku
Visiting the Montezuma Waterfall is a must too! You can soak up the waterfall spray and the relaxing ambiance while taking a dip in the natural pools.
Additionally, what makes Montezuma the most unique place to stay in Costa Rica, is its bohemian vibes and abundance of artists living there! Expect Caribbean flair and colors and incredible street art! Plus, at the Saturday morning farmers markets, you can pick up great handmade art and will likely hear some great local music.
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La Fortuna Where Every Kind Of Traveler Is Satisfied
La Fortuna de San Carlos is perfect for all kinds of travelers. The town is known to be the gateway to the Arenal Volcano, which is the third most active in the country. If youre in La Fortuna on a clear day, chances are you will see the volcano puff smoke.
This quaint town is home to charming restaurants, relaxing spas, and stunning night skies that are illuminated with thousands of stars. From soaking in the natural hot springs to taking a hike through the lava fields, La Fortuna has something for everyone.
La Fortuna is only home to around 6,000 people however, this small town sees thousands of tourists from all around the world each year.
Where To Stay In Arenal
La Fortuna town is the gateway to Arenal National Park. The town is walkable with lots of amenities, gardens, shops and restaurants, and youll find the most affordable options here. However, for the best Costa Rica hotels in Arenal, head outside the city center.
Outside of town, the properties tend to be bigger, in some cases have views of Arenal Volcano and hot springs on site. They are often places youll want to enjoy a little bit longer and are more akin to a destination then just somewhere to lay your head at each night.
You will need a car to stay at a hot springs resort since public transport is sparse. So if you dont its best to stay in La Fortuna town.
Location: La Fortuna, PuntarenasPrice: $$
Located in between La Fortuna and the entrance to the national park, Arenal Springs is among the mid-range luxury hotels in Costa Rica. The hotel has unobstructed views of Arenal Volcano. It offers a gym, yoga deck with classes, a spa, and 3 restaurants on-site.
The rooms are colorful, rustic, and range from Junior Suite to Master Suite. The rooms are scattered throughout the property and often come with views of the volcano.
The highlight of staying at the Arenal Springs Resort & Spa is the four different hot spring pools that guests can enjoy during their stay.
Location: La Fortuna, PuntarenasPrice: $$$
Tabacon is often considered one of the best Costa Rica luxury hotels. If you can afford to spend a few nights at this beautiful resort, its worth it!
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Where Are The Best Places To Visit & Stay In Guanacaste
Youll be happy with almost anywhere you choose in Guanacaste you really cant go wrong when it comes to this special destination. However, different parts of this province do vary greatly from one another.
Even though theyre within a few hours of one another, the beaches of the northern Nicoya peninsula coast are quite different from the beach towns on the central coast, and both of those places are vastly different from the inland portion of this region.
If youre planning a trip to Guanacaste province and dont know where to go, this guide below will help. Here we offer a brief summary of the various areas, things to do, and places to stay.
There are hostels, Guanacaste hotels, luxury resorts, and rentals for every budget and for every type of traveler. Costa Rica is for everyone.
Some who visit Costa Rica choose one town and stay there for the duration of their trip. Others stay in several places for a few days each.
Either method is valid on any trip, but especially in Costa Rica. Without a doubt, youll have a great time no matter what you choose to do.