5 ways to make the most of your Costa Rica vacation
Whether you want to embark on a thrilling zipline adventure through lush rainforest, snorkel in search of tropical parrotfish or spot tree frogs and monkeys on a jungle hike, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Costa Rica. With so much to see and do in this eco oasis, we came up with a list of five experiences that will help you make the most of your Costa Rican getaway, with options to suit every travel style.
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If heart-pumping experiences and unique adventures are at the top of your vacation bucket list, Costa Rica is the perfect destination for you to explore. Diamante Eco Adventure Park is located in the heart of Guanacaste with plenty of exhilarating activity options, including the longest dual zipline in Costa Rica! Fly high above the treetops and soak in panoramic views of the Gulf of Papagayo on the famous Superman zipline or test your wits with the 30-foot-drop free fall.
Where to stay: You can try out plenty of other exciting adventures when you stay at Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Costa Rica. This entertainment-themed resort offers PH Experiences, a curated selection of excursions to help you make the most of your time in Costa Rica; from exploring volcanoes to riding along the coast on horseback. Back at the resort, you can Vacation Like a Star™ with lavish amenities like VIP-worthy dining (including celebrity chef Guy Fieri’s Burger Joint) and the upgraded Star Class™ service.
Photo: @la_journaliste
Costa Rica is an eco-lover’s paradise – although it makes up just 0.03% of the world’s surface area, it’s home to 6% of the world’s biodiversity. Approximately a quarter of the country is made up of protected jungles and rainforests home to exotic species like tapirs, coatis, capuchin monkeys, macaws and sloths. You can explore the Costa Rican rainforest on the Vandara Full Day excursion, which will take you through Rincon de la Vieja National Park on a zipline circuit and a horseback riding tour, where you can spot some of the destination’s local flora and fauna.
Where to stay: The adults only Occidental Papagayo is an ideal resort for nature lovers. Take an organized hike through the resort’s lush landscapes – you might even spot some of the unique species that call the area home! There are plenty of complimentary water sports to try as well, whether you want to conquer the waves on a boogie board, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters or glide across the shore on a paddle board.
Costa Rica is home to over 200 volcanoes, including five that are still active. The volcanoes’ thermal energy beneath the earth’s surface has created numerous hot springs in the surrounding area, with mineral-rich waters that are said to have health and wellness benefits. Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most popular volcanoes and is home to sprawling hot springs perfect for a relaxing soak. After hiking through the surrounding lush landscapes, you can lounge in the naturally-heated pool.
Where to stay: Continue relaxing back at your resort when you stay at the adults only Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica. This top-rated adult property is home to the world-class Secrets Spa by Pevonia® with pampering treatments including massages and facials. After a day spent relaxing, retire to comfortable suites with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Papagayo and lavish amenities.
Discover Costa Rica’s vibrant underwater world on the Tortuga Island Tour. Take in incredible coastal views as you sail along sparkling seas to Tortuga Island, a tropical paradise that’s located in the Negritos Islands Biological Reserve. Once you arrive on the island, embark on a spectacular snorkelling adventure alongside schools of colourful parrotfish, spotted boxfish and even majestic sea turtles. When it’s time to dry off, soak up the sun on the island’s secluded white-sand shores and make sure to keep an eye out for dolphins on the horizon!
Where to stay: At Riu Guanacaste, you don’t have to go far to find spectacular shores, as they’re right outside your front door. This top-rated family resort is located on the soft golden sands of Matapalo Beach and offers a range of complimentary water sports like sailing and kayaking. Visiting in November? You can watch newly-hatched baby turtles make their journey into the ocean with the resort’s turtle conservation program.
While known for its natural beauty, Costa Rica is also home to some of the most scenic golf courses in Central America. The destination is home to championship courses designed by legendary golf architects including Arnold Palmer, Robert Trent Jones II and Mike Young. One of the most popular courses in Guanacaste is the 18-hole, par-71 Reserva Conchal Golf Club with pristine greens overlooking Playa Conchal. Play one round at this popular course or practice your swing with a three-day pass.
Where to stay: After you’ve finished playing a round (or two!) at Reserva Conchal Golf Club, snag a poolside Bali bed at The Westin Golf Resort and Spa Playa Conchal. This all inclusive beachfront resort is located right next to the golf course with a luxurious spa perfect for soothing any sore muscles after hitting the links. Travelling with the kids? Little ones will have a blast at the resort’s complimentary kids club.