In 2023, we embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Costa Rica!
This stunning country blew us away with its diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush mountain rainforests. Our journey included stays at two incredible resorts—one along the coast and the other tucked away in the mountains. Instead of relying on shuttles for excursions or transfers, we rented a car. This gave us the freedom to explore off the beaten path and truly experience Costa Rica’s unique charm.
Beachside Bliss: JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
Our first stop was the luxurious JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa, about an hour’s drive from Liberia Airport. Navigating Costa Rica’s roads was surprisingly straightforward; the roads were clean, signage was clear, and the drive itself offered a glimpse into the country’s natural beauty. Just remember to be patient—speed limits are slow, and you definitely don’t want to deal with a traffic stop in a foreign country!
Arriving at the resort, we were greeted by beautifully manicured landscaping and breathtaking coastal views. The resort is all-inclusive, and while the food was decent, it didn’t steal the show. What did stand out, however, was the property’s vibrant atmosphere, complete with large iguanas lounging by the pools and trees.
One of the highlights of our beach stay was a hike into the resort’s dry jungle. After an hour of trekking, we reached the highest point of the trail, where the views of the ocean and treetops were simply jaw-dropping. On the way back down, we spotted wild monkeys swinging through the treetops—an unforgettable sight!
If you’re planning a beach getaway in Costa Rica, I highly recommend doing some research before booking. The country’s vast coastline offers a variety of beaches, and not all resorts provide the same level of access to them.
Rainforest Retreat: The Springs Resort & Spa
After four days of coastal relaxation, we headed to the mountains, where we were greeted by a dramatic change in scenery. Nestled deep in the rainforest, The Springs Resort & Spa offered breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and a unique experience surrounded by lush greenery.
The resort is famous for its natural hot springs, which are fed by geothermal waters from the volcano. There were over 30 hot springs on-site, and while I was initially concerned about water quality (thanks to a pesky toenail issue), the staff reassured us that the springs were meticulously cleaned and tested daily. Pro tip: Stick to managed hot springs to avoid any health risks—our doctor has seen cases of infections from unmanaged ones!
Every morning, a mist would blanket the volcano, gradually lifting by afternoon to reveal incredible views. From the resort, we had access to a variety of excursions, including hiking, ziplining, and white-water rafting. One of our favorite adventures was exploring the resort’s sanctuary, home to exotic animals, and taking a guided hike through the rainforest. Our guide even pointed out a tiny but stunning poison frog!
Another highlight was a canopy walk through a different rainforest area, where we crossed over 20 bridges with stunning views of the jungle below. After each day of exploring, we’d unwind in the hot springs, letting the warmth melt away our fatigue while soaking in the serene surroundings.
Final Thoughts
Our first trip to Costa Rica was nothing short of amazing. Despite packing so much into our week, we only scratched the surface of what this incredible country has to offer. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Costa Rica is a destination that truly has it all.
