Travel blog, tips and advice for
Costa Rican travelers 

If you’ve ever struggled to find the perfect gift, you know the feeling: Another sweater… Another candle…Another gadget that ends up forgotten in a drawer… But the gifts that truly matter aren’t things — they’re experiences . This year, give someone something they’ll never forget : the chance to experience Costa Rica. With our new Pura Vida Traveling digital gift cards , you can gift the magic of adventure, connection, wellness, nature, and memories that last a lifetime. How

If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica and wondering whether you should rent a car, you’re not alone. Driving in Costa Rica is one of the most commonly researched topics for travelers—and for good reason. The country’s incredible beaches, volcanoes, waterfalls, and national parks are often spread out, and having your own wheels gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. But Costa Rica is also known for winding mountain roads, sudden tropical rain, and routes that som

Costa Rica continues to evolve as a top destination for all-inclusive travel — but here, “all-inclusive” isn’t just giant chain resorts. For 2026, we carefully curated a mix of boutique , local , and eco-conscious  stays, plus a few classic all-inclusive favorites travelers still love. Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts (2026)   Secrets Papagayo, Costa Rica Email:   spgp.club@secretsresorts.com Phone Number:  +506 2672 0000 Location:  Papagayo, Guanacaste Hotel Type:  Luxury Adults

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, has become one of the world’s top surf towns—and for good reason. With consistent waves, stunning beaches, warm water, and a laid-back vibe, it’s a paradise for beginners, intermediates, and advanced surfers alike. If you’re planning a surf trip, this is your ultimate guide to Santa Teresa surf . Best Surf Spots in Santa Teresa Here are the top locations for Santa Teresa surf : Playa Santa Teresa : The main beach—long, spacious, and ideal for all le

Costa Rica is one of the world’s safest and most exciting destinations for families. With wildlife encounters, kid-friendly beaches, volcano adventures, chocolate making, and endless nature tours, it’s the perfect place to spark curiosity in children of every age. Whether you're traveling with toddlers, teens, or multigenerational families, Costa Rica offers activities that are fun, safe, and educational. We want to present you our Top 10 Family-Friendly Activities in Costa R

Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations, where lush rainforest meets powdery white-sand beaches, and wildlife abounds. For travelers — whether backpackers, families, or solo adventurers — it’s a place that truly has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the must-do activities in and around Manuel Antonio, share insider tips, and help you make the most of your stay. On a budget? Check out our blog: Top 10 cheap and free things to

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave—or leveling up your surf skills—there’s no better place than Tamarindo, Costa Rica . This laid-back beach town is famous for consistent waves, warm waters, and a vibrant surf culture that welcomes backpackers, families, and solo travelers alike. Whether you’re a total beginner or ready to refine your technique, surf lessons in Tamarindo are the perfect way to learn safely and have an unforgettable experience. How to Get to Tamari

Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is one of the country’s most beloved beach towns— a vibrant coastal gem where surfers chase waves at sunrise, wildlife roams freely, and golden sunsets light up the Pacific horizon. Known for its tropical energy and relaxed “pura vida” lifestyle, Tamarindo offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic beachfront escape, a cozy midrange retreat, or a budget-friendly base to surf and explore, this destination has it all. Beyon

If you’re looking to uncover one of Costa Rica’s most serene and wildlife-rich ecosystems, our Mangrove Boat or Kayak Adventure  near Manuel Antonio is the perfect choice. Whether you prefer a relaxing boat ride or a more active kayak experience, this outing puts you into the heart of the mangrove forests—gliding through calm canals, spotting monkeys, sloths, birds and more. It’s ideal for families, solo travelers and backpackers wanting nature, peace and a unique Costa Rica

Traveling to Costa Rica with teens can be one of the most rewarding — and challenging — experiences. Teenagers often want more adrenaline, more independence, and more of that “real” local life. We understand this sweet spot too well. Whether you're a backpacking family, a solo parent with a teen, or a multi-generational crew, Costa Rica offers exactly the right mix of nature, adventure, and cultural richness. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making your trip with teenagers unf

Looking for the best vegan restaurants in San José ? San José has become a great spot for vegan travellers. Many of the best options cluster in walkable neighbourhoods like Barrio Escalante and San Pedro, making it easy to café-hop or enjoy a full vegan dining day without venturing far. The different locations can offer budget-friendly bowls or creative fine dining. And if a menu isn’t fully plant-based? No problem — most kitchens are adaptable to a vegan diet. Just ask for d

Manuel Antonio, on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, is a must-visit destination: National Park, pristine beaches, lush rainforest, monkeys, sloths… Choosing the right accommodation can make your trip even more memorable. Whether you’re a backpacker, traveling with family, or exploring solo, this guide will help you find the best hotels near Manuel Antonio National Park . Luxury Hotels $$$ Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort Phone:  +506 4040 0422 Email:  ...

If you're looking for a unique and personalized adventure in Costa Rica, look no further. Our exclusive private boat tour  in Quepos , near Manuel Antonio National Park, is the perfect way to explore the stunning Pacific waters. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-time fisherman, experience the thrill of fly fishing in Costa Rica  with my friend and expert guide, Fabian, a local Tico with years of experience and a deep passion for fishing. Believe me, you will not be

Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic landmarks—an almost perfectly conical giant rising above lush rainforest, thermal rivers, and crystal-clear lakes. For many travelers, an Arenal Volcano hike  is the highlight of their Costa Rica adventure. Whether you’re a backpacker chasing epic landscapes, a family looking for an easy trail, or a solo traveler searching for the best Arenal hiking tour, Arenal Volcano National Park has something for everyone. Here you’ll fin

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, is a place where lush rainforest meets the shimmering Pacific — and there’s no better way to experience it than from the water. Whether you’re gliding peacefully on a paddle board or slicing through the waves in a kayak, both adventures offer an intimate, eco-friendly connection with the ocean and its wildlife. If you’re a solo explorer, couple, or family seeking a mix of adventure and serenity, paddle boarding and ocean kayaking in Manuel Antonio

Aloha & Pura Vida, Future Yogis! Have you ever dreamed of practicing yoga surrounded by lush jungles, the sound of waves crashing nearby, and the warmth of the sun on your skin? Imagine stepping onto your mat in Costa Rica, where every breath feels like a fresh invitation to open your heart, expand your energy, and truly connect with yourself. Whether you’re curious about heart-opening yoga asanas , eager to explore the flowing sequences of Ashtanga and Vinyasa yoga , or wond

Planning a family trip? Costa Rica offers a diverse range of accommodations, from jungle hideaways to beachside resorts. Whether you’re into volcano adventures, coastal waves or rainforest exploration, here are the top stays for families across all budgets. But with so many options, choosing the right place to stay can be overwhelming. Whether you're looking for a luxurious beachfront resort, a cozy boutique hotel, or a budget-friendly stay, this guide will help you find the

Monteverde , Costa Rica  — home to lush cloud forests , playful wildlife, and misty treetop adventures — is one of the best places in Costa Rica for ziplining, hanging bridges, and sloth tours . If you’re looking for the perfect mix of adrenaline and tranquility, the Monteverde Zipline + Hanging Bridges + Sloth Habitat Tours  are an absolute must during your visit. Whether you want to soar through the forest canopy , walk across Monteverde’s famous hanging bridges , or see sl

When you think of Costa Rica, you probably imagine lush rainforests, crystal-clear rivers, and cascading waterfalls tucked away in the jungle. The Full-Day Waterfall Adventure  near Manuel Antonio  captures all of that and more. It’s one of the best ways to experience the country’s wild beauty up close — combining adrenaline, nature, and authentic local culture in one unforgettable day. Whether you’re a family looking for a unique outdoor activity, a couple seeking a romantic

If you’ve ever dreamed of getting up on a surfboard, feeling the rush of the Pacific beneath your feet and letting the warm Costa Rica sun guide you into your first wave — the Surf Lessons in the charming beachside region of Manuel Antonio are the perfect way to make it happen. Whether you’re travelling solo, with your family or as part of a backpacker adventure, this lesson is built for all levels and promises fun, nature and a whole lot of "Pura Vida" vibe. What to expect

If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica , congratulations — you’re about to explore one of the most breathtaking and biodiverse countries on Earth. From lush jungles and hidden waterfalls to endless beaches and volcano views, Costa Rica has something for everyone. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, you’ll find countless ways to experience the magic of Pura Vida . But with so many options, destinations, and adventures to choose from, you might be

If you’re ready for one of those full-throttle, unforgettable days in Costa Rica where you’ll rappel, zip line, swing like Tarzan, and splash into waterfall pools — then the 10 in 1 Adventure Park just outside the Manuel Antonio/Quepos region is perfect for you. Built for thrill-seekers, adventure lovers and families who want more than a beach day, this tour packs over ten exciting activities into a lush rainforest setting. Whether you’re a solo traveler looking to push your

Getting from Monteverde to Tamarindo offers a gradual change from cool mountain landscapes to the dry, sunny coast of Guanacaste. The route is mostly paved and easy to follow, passing through small towns and open countryside. It’s a long but straightforward trip with several options for getting there, depending on your comfort, budget, and schedule. What is the best way to get to Tamarindo from Monteverde? Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations: On a Budget: Shared Shuttle , Pu

Thinking about visiting Costa Rica? You’re not alone. Every year, millions of travelers fall in love with this tropical paradise — where volcanoes meet the ocean, sloths hang from trees, and sunsets paint the sky in golden hues. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning fan of the Pura Vida  lifestyle, the following Costa Rica tips  will help you travel smarter, safer, and deeper — so you can make the most of your time in one of the world’s most beautiful and welcoming coun