If you’re plotting your next tropical escape and haven’t put Costa Rica on your list yet—let me be the first to tell you—you’re missing out on one of the most naturally diverse and culturally rich countries in the world.
I recently spent time traveling through this stunning Central American paradise and tapped in with the local vibes. Whether you’re into volcano hikes, surf culture, wild beach nightlife, or unforgettable eats, Costa Rica is a whole vibe—and I’ve got recommendations to prove it.
Here’s my Respect My Region-approved list of things to do in Costa Rica, with an emphasis on food, nature, culture, and chill.
🌋 Explore these two Volcanoes – Arenal & Poás
Costa Rica is built on volcanic land, and its two most famous volcanoes—Arenal and Poás—are bucket list territory.
- Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna is iconic. You can soak in natural hot springs, hike lava trails, or zipline through the jungle. The energy here is wild. It’s the kind of place that reminds you Mother Nature doesn’t play.
- Poás Volcano, located in the Central Valley, gives you a look into one of the largest active craters in the world. If it’s not too cloudy, you can literally peer into a steaming turquoise crater lake—it’s like something out of a sci-fi movie.
Make time to hit La Paz Waterfall Gardens on the way back from Poás. Jungle magic and wildlife sanctuaries await.
🏖️ Tamarindo: Surf by Day, Party by Night
Let’s talk Tamarindo. This is Costa Rica’s party town on the Pacific Coast—think surf, sunsets, and nightlife that doesn’t stop till late.
By day, Tamarindo is packed with beachgoers, surf instructors, and digital nomads. Rent a board, take a lesson, or post up at a beachfront bar sipping on a fresh smoothie or Imperial beer. My favorite area of Tamarindo is where they have like ten food trucks and there is one spot in the middle area that has smoothies and beers for cheap. They even have Tropical IPAs for me too!
By night, it transforms into a hotspot with reggaeton, EDM, hip-hop, rock n’ roll, and live Latin music. Don’t sleep on local DJ sets at bars like Pacifico, El Be, and Crazy Monkey.
If you’re looking to link with travelers and locals alike, Tamarindo is where connections are made, stories are told, and some of your craziest nights abroad are born.
We stayed at House of Nomad which had a wonderful pool and rooms that included air conditioning, refridgerator, queen beds, big showers, and a prime location near the farmers market and multiple restaurants.
🌴 Soak Up Caribbean Culture in Limón & Puerto Viejo
The Afro-Caribbean culture on Costa Rica’s east coast is a whole different energy—and it deserves your attention.
- Limón is full of rich culture, reggae rhythms, and real soul. Don’t expect overly curated tourist attractions. This is raw, authentic Costa Rica. Walk the town, support local vendors, and visit markets.
- Puerto Viejo, just a bit south, is the spot to tap into Caribbean vibes. Think surf shacks, bike rides through the jungle, jerk chicken on the beach, and sunset drinks with a view.
- Playa Negra is underrated, and the coral reef beaches are ideal for snorkeling.
This region is also a great place to learn about Costa Rica’s Indigenous Bribri communities.
Respect the space, be a good guest, and absorb the beauty.
🍽️ Eat Like a Local: El Avion, Pollo Cyros, Lizzie’s, and Sodas
Costa Rica’s culinary game doesn’t always get the hype it deserves—but it should. And if you’re doing it right, you’re eating local and eating often.
🔹 El Avion (Manuel Antonio)
This spot is iconic. It’s literally a restaurant built inside a U.S. military cargo plane left behind during the Iran-Contra affair. The views are unmatched, and the seafood dishes are next level. It’s a bit touristy—but worth it for the experience.
🔹 Pollo Cyros (Limón)
If you’re in Limón and craving the ultimate Caribbean fried chicken, Pollo Cyros is the move. This legendary local spot delivers the crunch and flavor in every bite. Whether you go with a classic quarter chicken served with crispy patacones (fried green plantains) or dive into the famous chicken nuggets—aka Mogambos—you’re guaranteed to leave full and happy.
The Mogambos are a local favorite, known for their crispy golden coating and juicy center. Perfect as a snack, a full meal, or something to split with your crew after hitting the beach. The vibes here are authentic, affordable, and straight fire.
🔹 Lizzie’s (Limón)
If you want to experience real Caribbean hospitality, Lizzie’s in Limón is the spot. Tucked along the coastline with breathtaking views of the ocean, this place gives you the kind of dining experience that sticks with you.
I had a chance to eat here myself and let me just say—everything about Lizzie’s hit different. The food was absolutely delicious, from the perfectly seasoned stewed meats to the rich, coconut-infused rice that felt like a warm hug from a local abuelita. Each plate was prepared with care, flavor, and pride in Caribbean tradition.
But what took it to the next level? The service. Lizzie and her team made us feel like family from the moment we walked in. Genuine smiles, thoughtful conversation, and that kind of energy that reminds you why hospitality matters. You’re not just a customer—you’re a guest.
Pair that hospitality with the immaculate views of the ocean, waves crashing just beyond the patio, and the gentle breeze coming through—it was hands down one of my favorite meals in Costa Rica. If you’re in Limón, don’t just stop at Lizzie’s—plan your day around it. Eat slow, soak in the view, and appreciate the vibe.
🔹 Sodas – The Real MVPs
You can’t talk Costa Rican cuisine without giving flowers to the local “Sodas”—small, family-run diners serving traditional plates like casado (meat, rice, beans, salad, plantains). Look for the handwritten signs and plastic chairs. That’s where the fire’s at.
You’ll find variations of carne en salsa, arroz con pollo, ensalada de repollo, and more—cooked with love and way better than anything you’ll find at a resort buffet. I almost always get the casado con bistek!
🌊 Relax and Reconnect at Uvita Beach
Uvita Beach is where the jungle meets the ocean, and it’s one of the most peaceful places I’ve visited in the country. The main highlight is Marino Ballena National Park, home to a natural sandbar that forms the shape of a whale’s tail when the tide is low. No lie—it’s one of the most surreal things to see in person.
This is a good spot if you’re into eco-tourism, wellness, or spiritual reset energy. I recommend catching the sunrise here, linking with local guides for a whale-watching tour, and just letting your phone chill in your bag.
We stayed at a wonderful dog-friendly hotel called Tropical Beach and got an incredible experience complete with delicious food, Imperial beers, and fruity frescas from their on-site restaurant.
The hotel grounds had a beautiful pool and was completely surrounded by the forest of the national park. At night we saw numerous animals and insects ranging from crabs and huntsman spiders to parrots and bats.
The beach and national park does cost a few colones to go to, and for us, thankfully it wasn’t overrun with tourists, so the vibes were pure.
We recommend you bring a book, pack light, and tap into your own rhythm.
🎒 Final Travel Tips
- Transportation: Rent a 4×4 if you plan to explore off the beaten path (which you should).
- Cash vs. Card: Carry colones for Sodas and street vendors. Most tourist areas accept cards, but the best spots are often cash-only.
- Language: Learn basic Spanish. Respect the culture and engage with locals.
- Stay connected: Wi-Fi is decent, but don’t be afraid to go off-grid.
🧳 In Closing: Tap In, Don’t Just Visit
Costa Rica isn’t just a destination—it’s a state of mind. It’s one of the few places where you can wake up to howler monkeys in the jungle, surf during golden hour, eat fire food cooked with love, and dance under palm trees—all in one day.
Pura Vida isn’t just a saying—it’s how people live here.
Respect it.
Embrace it.
And let it rewire your pace.
I’ll be back soon for another round—and you should too.
🧭 Planning your trip? Tap in with @RespectMyRegion on IG for more global travels and follow the journey as we uncover the best of the world’s hidden gems.
