Time moves differently in Costa Rica. From the magnetic streets of San José to pristine beaches and jungle-draped mountains, Costa Rica’s energy is entrancing—vibrant yet serene, modern yet deeply rooted in nature. Explore the country, from land to coast and sky to water, and live that enviable “pure life” philosophy.
Local Eats & Artful Cuisine
In cosmopolitan San José, the culinary scene is as exciting as the rainforest canopy. Cozy sodas—family-owned eateries—serve Costa Rican staples like chifrijo and chorreadas, while trendsetting restaurants such as La Divina Comida elevate jungle-to-table dining to an art form.
Museums & Markets
Culture-seekers can hop between the National Museum, the Jade Museum, and the subterranean Pre-Columbian Gold Museum pinto, and then before wandering into San José’s bustling Central Market. San José Central Market originally opened in 1880, and today it’s still a buzzing, working market full of sights, smells and excellent bites. Start your day by dipping a spoon into a big bowl of gallo pinto, then get lost in the maze of restaurants and vendors—the market spans the length of a full city block.
Bountiful Blooms
Just beyond the capital, lush Lankester Botanical Garden, a public garden operated by the research team at the University of Costa Rica, features 20,000 orchids and 3,000 different species of plants, many of them indigenous to the country. Heredia—aptly called the “City of Flowers”—is filled with stunning blooms that fill every street alongside former Spanish forts and red-tiled adobe houses.
Coastal Bliss
Both coasts offer unforgettable escapes. On the Caribbean side, artsy Puerto Viejo de Talamanca exudes bohemian charm with quiet beaches framed by swaying palms. On the Pacific, Tamarindo is a surfers' paradise complete with laid-back beach town vibes, slick shopping and lively beach bars.
For a real sight, Marino Ballena National Park, one of the country’s newest, was created to help the conservation of marine ecosystems and contains some of the largest coral formations in Central America. Come for the flora and fauna, but stay for its long beaches that extend off the mainland like the tail of a whale. At low tide, a long stretch of beach known as Moses' Passage (El Paso de Moisés) appears out of the waves, as if Moses parted the surf.
For a bucket-list moment, head to Tortuguero National Park to witness sea turtles hatching under a starry sky during nesting season (July through October for green turtles). Since the area is only accessible by boat, it’s an almost untouched paradise for spotting sloths, turtles, toucans and jaguars.
Climb Up Into the Clouds
Costa Rica has reversed deforestation and today protects a quarter of its land. In Monteverde Cloud Forest, there are 26,000 acres to explore, with hanging bridges that weave through emerald canopies alive with exotic wildlife.
Venture the Volcanoes
The Arenal Volcano National Park contains not just one but two volcanoes that rise high above the horizon. Hike along the black sands of Arenal Volcano or through rainforests at the base of its towering peak, which soars up to 1,657 meters. Trek the slopes and ancient lava flows on foot via the Las Coladas Trail, a two-kilometre loop through the forest. Try to see who can spot the most wildlife—sloths, parrots, howler monkeys, tapirs and jaguarundis all call these forests home.
Do Go Chase these Waterfalls
La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park (45 minutes from the San José airport), features five waterfalls that seem to stretch to the sky. Dive in, and when you’ve towelled off, stop into the wildlife exhibits to see big cats and snakes up close (the complex also houses a small zoo). The Llanos de Cortés waterfall is just five minutes from the parking lot, but its wispy, dramatic falls feel otherworldly. Alternatively, Nauyaca Waterfalls’ current is a wider waterfall, with a current that curves down terraced rocks into blue swimming lagoons in the middle of a jungle. And for a true pinch-me moment? The Río Celeste, a waterfall so vividly blue it seems painted by hand.
After trekking the lava fields and waterfalls, sink into the luxurious thermal hot springs, like Tabacón Hot Springs, Titokú Hot Springs or Kioro Hot Spring, where mineral-rich pools steam beneath lush gardens.
Where Wellness Thrives
The Nicoya Peninsula is one of only five Blue Zones on the planet—regions where people live remarkably long and healthy lives. Here, mornings begin with beach yoga, afternoons drift into surf sessions and evenings end with freshly grilled seafood under the stars. It’s luxury but in the most effortless, soul nourishing sense.
Plan Your Escape
Whether it’s urban exploration, barefoot luxury on the coast or adventures deep in the rainforest, Costa Rica offers an extraordinary balance of indulgence and authenticity.
Ready to experience pura vida? Start planning at visitcostarica.com.
