Sam and I are blessed with very generous good friends who introduced us to Costa Rica.
We spent many vacations in this amazing country. One year we took the boys for spring break. You know you have hit it out of the travel planning park when teenagers whip out their phones and start making videos to send to their friends!
I take the win where I can get it when it comes to impossible to please teenagers. Costa Rica is always a win.
Can't choose between a rainforest or a beach stop, First name / friend?
Good news: you don’t have to choose, because Costa Rica exists!
This Central American country has a little bit of everything: volcanoes, beaches, beach bars, luxe eco-lodges, world class fishing, and interesting wildlife straight out of National Geographic. And, I am told, a very healthy population of raccoons that like to play in swimming pools.
Whether you’re thinking adventure or downtime (or a mix of both), Costa Rica is a choose-your-own-paradise destination. It is one of my personal favorites to visit and plan.
If you're curious, I will hit the highlights.
The Timeline
When to visit...
Costa Rica’s microclimates mean weather can vary a lot depending on where you go—but planning around the seasons makes all the difference. Here's what to know:
Dry Season (December to April): This is peak travel season—especially along the Pacific coast. Expect sunny skies, minimal rain, and prime beach weather in Guanacaste. Great for anyone wanting a guaranteed escape from winter.
“Green” Season (May to early November): Mornings are often clear with afternoon showers, and the landscapes are at their lushest. It’s a good time for wildlife lovers, surfers, and travelers looking for lower crowds and better value.
FYI..full disclosure…if you see the term “Green Season” used anywhere, it always means the rainy season.
Shoulder Months (late November & May): The sweet spot. Transitional months often mean fewer people, pleasant weather, and great rates. Excluding Thanksgiving week, which is holiday rates and VERY popular.
How long to stay...
An 8–10 day trip is ideal for combining regions like the rainforest and the beach without rushing. Want to explore beyond La Fortuna and Guanacaste? Add a few extra days and I’ll help you build a seamless multi-stop itinerary.
When to book...
Costa Rica’s boutique hotels book up quickly, especially during the dry season. I recommend planning 4–6 months in advance.
Thanksgiving and Christmas are very popular with Americans and Canadians, so book at least 10 months in advance.
Must Visit Spots
BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
For a small country, Costa Rica has so much to offer, cloud forests, surf towns, and remote wildlife reserves. But for a first visit? These two options pair perfectly. Together, they give you a taste of the country's wild heart and laid-back charm in one seamless, well-rounded itinerary.
In The Jungle | La Fortuna: Lush jungles and adventure-packed, this area is famous for its volcano views, natural hot springs, and zip-lining through the treetops. It’s the perfect place to start your vacation with a bit of a thrill, and it caters well to families of all ages or couples who want to balance activity with relaxation.
At The Coast | Guanacaste: Think beaches, boutique resorts, and laid-back surf towns. The Northern Pacific coast of Guanacaste is perfect for beach lovers and sunsets, and it pairs with a few days in the jungle. Honeymooners and multigenerational groups will love the variety found here, but it’s truly a great fit for anyone who’s ever said, “I just need a week to unplug!”
Travelera
YOUR COSTA RICA COMPANION
From rainforest zip-lines to remote beach escapes, Costa Rica is full of possibilities.
It’s a choose-your-own-adventure country… but not every route works. With so many microclimates, transit times, and regional differences, it’s easy to over-plan or underestimate logistics.
The magic is in the custom touches. Villas, private waterfall hikes, spa days, hands-on cooking classes, boutique lodges, luxe hotels.
Eco-luxury can be tricky to navigate. From sustainable resorts to locally guided wildlife tours, I’ll connect you with my in country partners who care for Costa Rica’s environment and your experience.
