1. Stunning Beaches

I have been visiting Costa Rica since 2012 and trust me when I say that it’s worth the hype! Costa Rica features 801 miles of coastline, 131 miles on the Caribbean coast and 631 miles on the Pacific coast featuring some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. I have been to both coasts and so far I prefer the Caribbean side, especially the gorgeous beaches in Puerto Viejo. Most of these beaches are pristine oases of brilliant white sand because of the high content of coral and shell, lined by tall shaded palm trees and offset by crystal clear waters. Not only do the beaches look beautiful and are great places to relax, the water temperature is also a constant 78-84 degrees Fahrenheit almost throughout the year, which makes swimming absolutely amazing.

2. Incredible Wildlife

Costa Rica offers something for every wildlife traveler. No other country on the planet has such variety when it comes to wildlife as Costa Rica. Measured in terms of number of species per 10,000 sq km Costa Rica tops the list of countries at 615 species, compared to the United States with its 104 species. Costa Rica is home to more than 500,000 species, which represents nearly 4% of the total species estimated worldwide. Costa Rica has tree frogs, parrots, monkeys, butterflies, dolphins, snakes, lizards, sloths, bats and even deer! Have you ever thought about taking a Costa Rica fishing vacation? There is no end to the kinds of fish you can catch. This huge variety of animals makes Costa Rica the premier destination for nature lovers from all over the world.

3. Nature Activities

Costa Rica has no less than twelve distinct ecological zones. This natural diversity allows you to enjoy an extraordinarily diverse eco-adventure on one beautiful island. Containing many different climates Costa Rica features practically every form of nature. From luscious tropical rain forests to arid deserts, each area offers a wide range of very distinct activities. The 4 major ecological zones in Costa Rica are: The Southern Pacific Lowlands, The Caribbean lowlands, The Highlands and The Lowlands of the dry Northwest. Places like Cerro Chirripó National Park Costa Rica provide opportunities for mountain climbing, hiking, horseback riding, and rafting, while Puerto Viejo will reveal untouched beaches, geological formations and jungle. At Samara and Nosara, on the Pacific Coast you can experience deep dives, windsurfing, kite boarding, jeep safaris, surfing and waterfalls.

4. The Prices

Costa Rica is a small country, and compared to the United States, meals and lodging are quite cheap. You can find some really unique options on Airbnb and if you really want to save a lot of money it’s a great option for very affordable dental care. I’m considering it for two wisdom teeth I need to have out as I found this company called Medigo that offers a database of dentistry clinics in Costa Rica that speak English. The price is clear from the beginning making it easy to save money. 

5. The Forests

The many wet and dry forests are something you must see while visiting Costa Rica! Beautiful views, falls, trails that are well maintained. Home to some of the most colorful and exotic flora and fauna on earth, and one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world, this tiny Central American country is the habitat of some 10,000 species of plants and trees! My favorite forest was visiting the jungle in the Osa Peninsula in southern Costa Rica. I loved the different species of monkeys and the colorful parrots. The many forests are something you must experience while visiting Costa Rica!