If you want to discover the best places to stay, eat, and explore in Costa Rica, this Official Costa Rica travel guide will help you get your dream vacation started.
Costa Rica is the destination for travelers looking to experience untouched nature, authentic culture, and bucket-list adventure experiences without the overwhelming crowds of typical tourist hotspots. From lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes to secluded beaches and vibrant local markets, Costa Rica is packed with hidden gems to be explored.
Whether planning a short or long-term stay, Costa Rica offers eco-friendly lodging, unique food experiences, and heart-pumping adventure activities that will make your trip unforgettable.
Costa Rica Travel Guide: Best Times to Visit
When Should You Travel to Costa Rica?
Costa Rica’s tropical climate means there’s no bad time to visit, but depending on what you’re looking for, here’s how the seasons break down:
- Peak Season (December – April): If you want sunshine, clear skies, and the best beach weather, this is the time to go. Expect higher prices and bigger crowds, but also perfect conditions for hiking, surfing, and wildlife spotting.
- Green Season (May – November): This is Costa Rica’s rainy season, but don’t let that stop you. Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and better prices make this an underrated time to visit. Plus, the Pacific coast gets epic waves for surfing.
- Best Time for Wildlife & Nature: Visit between July and October if you want to see sea turtles nesting or humpback whales migrating along the coast.
Where to Stay: Costa Rica’s Best Hidden Gem Hotels & Lodges
Forget the all-inclusive resorts—Costa Rica’s boutique hotels, eco-lodges, and jungle retreats offer a more authentic and sustainable experience. Here are the top places to stay if you want a one-of-a-kind Costa Rica adventure.
1. Hotel Belmar (Monteverde)
If you want to wake up in the clouds, Hotel Belmar in Monteverde is the spot. Surrounded by cloud forests, hanging bridges, and endless wildlife, this eco-friendly hotel blends luxury with sustainability.
Instagram: @hotelbelmar
2. Selina Santa Teresa (Nicoya Peninsula)
A digital nomad and surfer’s dream, Selina Santa Teresa is an oceanfront co-living space with fast WiFi, yoga decks, and an endless community vibe. Whether working remotely or just vibing out, this spot keeps you close to the waves.
Instagram: @selinasantateresa
3. Tree House Lodge (Caribbean Coast)
Have you ever slept in a treehouse in the jungle? This eco-lodge near Puerto Viejo gives you the full nature immersion, with open-air designs, ocean proximity, and howler monkeys as your alarm clock.
Instagram: @treehouselodgecr
4. Los Altos de Eros (Guanacaste)
If you’re looking for luxury in the jungle, this boutique spa hotel offers stunning views, an infinity pool, and next-level relaxation. It’s the perfect blend of high-end and laid-back Costa Rican vibes.
Instagram: @losaltosdeeros
Where to Eat in Costa Rica: Local Restaurants & Street Food
Costa Rica’s food scene is fresh, flavorful, and heavily influenced by Indigenous and Caribbean flavors. Skip the big tourist traps and check out these RMR-approved food spots:
1. Luv Burger (San José & Nosara)
Even if you’re not vegan, Luv Burger hits different. With plant-based burgers, smoothie bowls, and locally sourced ingredients, this spot is clean eating without sacrificing flavor.
Instagram: @luvburger
2. Sikwa Restaurante (San José)
If you want to experience real Costa Rican food with Indigenous roots, Sikwa is a must-visit. The menu is a tribute to Bribri traditions, with ancestral ingredients and fire cooking techniques.
Instagram: @sikwa.cr
3. KOKi Beach Restaurant (Puerto Viejo)
A lively Caribbean beachfront spot serving fresh seafood and creative cocktails, perfect for catching a sunset and kicking back.
Instagram: @kokibeachrestaurant
4. Playa Negra Brewing (Tamarindo)
A small but mighty craft brewery serving local flavors, fresh ingredients, and tropical twists on classic brews.
Instagram: @playanegrabrewing
What to Do in Costa Rica: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
1. Monteverde Extremo Park
The longest zip-line in Costa Rica, jungle swings, and some of the most insane canopy views you’ll ever see. This is a high-adrenaline adventure at its finest.
Instagram: @monteverdeextremopark
2. Tamarindo Night Market
Live music, local street food, handmade crafts—this is where you get the real local energy in Tamarindo.
Instagram: @tamarindonightmarket
Book Your Costa Rica Trip: Travel Deals & Affiliate Links
- Hotels & Lodging: Booking.com, Expedia, Airbnb
- Tours & Activities: Viator, GetYourGuide
- Travel Gear: GoPro, DJI Drones, Nomatic Travel Bags
If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, skip the cookie-cutter itinerary and explore the real gems that make this country special. Whether it’s jungle lodges, craft breweries, or zip-line adventures, there’s no shortage of experiences that will blow your mind.
Respect My Region (RMR) is a leading lifestyle platform dedicated to bridging the gap between cannabis, music, and culture. Through innovative events, authentic content, and a commitment to advocacy, RMR continues to set the standard for modern cannabis storytelling
Feature Image Credit: Atanas Malamov / Unsplash
