Costa Rica is a fantastic tourist destination with numerous points of attractions. Nature lovers will be captivated by the mesmerizing sea beaches, palm-fringed coastlines, and lush rainforests. On the other hand, thrill seekers will enjoy hiking and ziplining.
Costa Rica is well-known for its rich history, culture, natural beauty, and biodiversity, which will captivate any visitor. The Gold Museum is a must-see cultural attraction in the country.
The country is a popular vacation destination for many reasons, including its beautiful climate, diverse marine life, delectable cuisine, and laid-back vibes. It has something for everyone, whether you're a solo backpacker or a couple on their honeymoon.
Our article gives you the best 10 reasons why you should visit Costa Rica this summer.
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Exceptionally Beautiful Scenery
Where do we begin? Regarding landscapes and scenery, Costa Rica truly has it all: breathtaking ocean views, verdant rain, and cloud forests, with several active volcanoes thrown in for good measure!
On our 3-hour drive from the airport to the resort, we were captivated by the flora, fauna, and even the tiny, picturesque villages scattered along the way. While here, you can’t stop keeping your eyes open, and your brain engaged throughout the tour. You'll see varied terrain and magnificent wonders, leaving you with life-long memories.
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Amazing Biodiversity
Consider the following: Costa Rica, which covers only .03 percent of the Earth's surface, is home to 6% of the world's biodiversity. This stunning statistic can be found everywhere in this incredible country.
The best way to experience Costa Rica's natural beauty up close and personal is to visit one of the country's many national parks. Plant species, including those used for medicine, are also abundant. Besides, animals of all kinds live here, including:
- loud monkeys
- colorful macaws
- giant spiders
- snakes
- colorful schools of fish
- sea turtles
Among the most beautiful are Manuel Antonio beaches, Corcovado, and Rincón de la Vieja Volcano. We highly recommend taking a guided tour if you visit the area. You'll know what to look for and how to make the most of your visit!
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Pleasant Climate
The best time to travel to Costa Rica is in the early months, between January and April, during the dry season. While enjoying a pleasant climate, you can explore both the mountains and the beaches. Every month, it is worthwhile to visit Costa Rica! Even in the wet season, also known as the green season, the mornings are bright and sunny with only a drizzle in the afternoon.
The rain, as usual, makes everything greener. Always remember that Costa Rica has a diverse range of microclimates, which means that by traveling a few kilometers, you can encounter completely different climatic conditions. There is no need to be worried about the climate in Costa Rica; however, bring a raincoat and sunscreen if you visit during the Green Season.
Throughout the year, average temperatures are still in the mid-to-upper 70s, but it's necessary to keep in mind that temperatures can vary across the country. Indeed, higher elevations will be colder than the beaches, such as the Arenal Volcano area.
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Abundant Beaches
Costa Rica beaches can be found on both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. There are many incredible places to spend the day strolling, snorkeling, or simply sunning with a good book, from the white sugar-sand stretches near Manuel Antonio beaches, Caribbean beaches, Tamarindo beaches, and beaches of Guanacaste along the Nicoya Peninsula.
If you want to spend a day at the beach during your Costa Rica vacation, bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and protective gear, such as a floppy hat and possibly a rash guard. Costa Rica is near the equator, so be prepared for the sun's intense direct and consequential rays.
Most of the beaches in this area do not have lifeguards on duty. Remember this if you decide to swim, and most importantly, don't do it alone.
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Outdoor Excursion
Costa Rica is brimming with outdoor adventure opportunities, with something for everyone, regardless of athletic ability.
To begin with, there are numerous water sports to choose from. Most resorts will provide you with everything you need to enjoy the water, whether you want to go snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, or even surfing!
Costa Rica has many breathtaking hiking spots due to its incredible, varied terrain. The Manuel Antonio trek keeps you on an easy path through the rainforest. A good guide can help you see the wildlife you might not have otherwise noticed!
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The Delicacies
Costa Rican food is delicious and the perfect fuel for your adventure. With everything from tropical fruits, you've probably never heard of (let alone seen!) to fresh-from-the-sea catches turned into ceviche- you can’t stop the urge to have a bite.
Plantains and avocados thrive in this climate and are frequently used as side dishes. Gallo pinto, the country's national dish, is a delicious rice and bean mixture, sometimes topped with a scrambled or fried egg. Wash it all down with a refresco — a fresh fruit drink, and leave room for dessert: Arroz con Leche- a rich but light lemon and cinnamon rice pudding.
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Unforgettable Coffee Experience
Costa Rica is undoubtedly one of the world's top destinations for an unforgettable bean-to-cup coffee experience. It's light, bright, and tasty; you can find yourself taking it every few hours. The rich volcanic soil and high altitude create the ideal environment for growing high-quality coffee beans.
Many growers offer tours of their farms, which can be a fun way to spend a day for coffee enthusiasts. Cafe Britt, one of the country's best-known roasters and exporters, offers daily tours to its farm, just North of San Jose.
You'll learn about the coffee-making process and sample some finished products. Remember that Costa Rican coffee beans make an excellent take-home gift!
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Ease of Travel and Flight Options
Costa Rica is closer than you might think, despite appearing to be a lifetime away from the United States. It's easy to travel to Costa Rica from the USA.
You can leave in the morning and be on the beach by mid-afternoon, as it is only 4 hours from Atlanta, 5 hours from New York, 3 hours from Miami, and 6 hours from Los Angeles.
We were surprised by how accessible the country is and the ease of travel and flight options. Furthermore, the fares were quite reasonable!
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Luxurious Resorts
We enjoy the advantages of elegant lodging, and there are many interesting options no matter which you stay in Costa Rica. There are beautiful oceanfront resorts, many with adjacent golf courses, marinas, and spas.
Most resorts also provide complimentary watersports, excellent poolside service, and other on-site activities. Smaller and more incredible eco-lodges can also offer fantastic accommodations while you're adventuring. It can work well if you want to split your time between the rainforest, volcanoes, and the best beaches in Costa Rica.
Many of these lodges are located near national parks or wildlife preserves, allowing you to get up close and personal with resident monkeys, sloths, birds, and other animals without sacrificing amenities.
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Pura Vida Vibe
In Costa Rica, you’ll experience the incredible general vibe. Costa Ricans, also known as Ticos, have a palpable love and zest for life that has a name: Pura Vida. This phrase, "pure life," in Spanish, perfectly describes Costa Rican culture.
No matter where you go in this incredible country, you'll meet locals who adore their surroundings and want to share their joy. This sweet, laid-back way of life, which can be felt no matter where you travel or stay within the country, keeps people returning to Costa Rica.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica is genuinely blessed with natural beauty, from its breathtaking landscapes and evergreen mountains to its lush rainforests, volcanoes, hot springs, and stunning beaches to enjoy the summer.
Its forests are also home to a diverse variety of plants and native animals, making it the ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. If you enjoy spending time in nature, Costa Rica should be on your list.
This Central American country has something for everyone, whether you want to hike through the rainforest, soak in hot springs, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches. There are far too many things to see and do in this tiny jewel of a country. And, you can see and do them all in a single trip.
Focus on what you want to do in Costa Rica, and plan your trip accordingly- Whether you want to see the wildlife, climb Arenal Volcano, zipline through the rainforest canopy, or simply relax on the beach.
Remember that overcrowding may ruin your enjoyment of this magical place, which is the last thing you want to do. So, ensure you set the best timing for your visit to make lifetime memories in Costa Rica!
