Our family’s 2024 trip to Costa Rica was everything we dreamed of—adventurous, relaxing, and packed with incredible memories. Having spent a semester inland years ago, I was thrilled to finally explore Costa Rica’s stunning coastal areas and share its beauty with my family. From lush forests to black sand beaches, here’s how we made the most of our week-long trip, complete with tips to help you plan your own adventure.
Flights and Accommodations
Our trip started with a fantastic deal: flights for the four of us on American Airlines cost just $1,500! If you’re planning international travel, keep an eye out for flight deals early in the year to snag similar savings.
For accommodations, we took advantage of our Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors rewards programs, earned from frequent work travel. These points made our once-a-year family trip more affordable, allowing us to stay at incredible properties like the DoubleTree by Hilton, Cariari San Jose, and El Mangroove in Guanacaste.
Rental Car Tips
We rented a Toyota Prado through Hertz, taking advantage of a discount offered through my Delta SkyMiles account. At $180 for the week, it seemed like a steal, but Costa Rica’s mandatory rental insurance bumped the total to $475.66—a fair price given the conditions of the roads.
Pro Tip: Use a credit card like Costco Citi that offers car rental insurance for international trips to save money. However, be aware that rental agencies may insist on additional coverage. For peace of mind and navigating Costa Rica’s rugged terrain, I recommend a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
Day 1: San Jose to La Fortuna
We kicked off our adventure at the San Jose Mercado to stock up on fresh fruit before heading to Walmart for groceries, a cooler, and ice. Our destination? La Fortuna, home of free natural hot springs near the luxurious Tabacon Resort & Spa.
After soaking in the hot springs, we settled into our charming Airbnb, ‘Lake Arenal Countryside World of Serenity’, complete with farm animals and hiking trails. That night, we enjoyed pizza in town before I relaxed in a spa-like tub while the kids splashed in the pool.
Day 2: Llanos de Cortez Waterfall and Guanacaste Beaches
The day started early with birdwatching at sunrise. After breakfast, we made our way to Llanos de Cortez, a breathtaking waterfall perfect for a quick dip. We then checked into El Mangroove, a gorgeous beachfront resort in Guanacaste.
The black sand beaches were unlike anything we’d seen before, and we spent the afternoon swimming in the ocean and marveling at the beauty of the coastline.
Day 3: Butterflies and Tropical Vibes
The highlight of the day was Café Mariposa, where we enjoyed the best coffee of the trip and toured their enchanting butterfly garden. Later, we explored the white sand beaches at the Marriott Reserve Conchal, sipping pineapple drinks while the kids played in the waves.
Day 4: Monteverde Cloud Forest and Uvita
Monteverde’s iconic cloud forest was a must-see. We braved the famous zip-lining courses at 100% Aventura Adventure Park and were proud to see our kids conquer their fears. Although, when we walked to the plank to the Tarzan, both kids turned around while William and I took the plunge. It was an absolute thrill, scary, but worth it! Afterward, we took a long but scenic drive to Uvita, where we stayed at a unique open-air Airbnb, The Jungle Retreat. The tropical setting was unforgettable, with only the bedrooms and bathrooms enclosed.
Day 5: Manuel Antonio National Park
Our morning began in a hammock, surrounded by Howler monkeys and colorful toucans. Later, we visited ManuelAntonio National Park, where we spotted a lot of wildlife including coati, sloths, and three species of monkeys and got up close to bold white-faced capuchins. The park’s combination of beaches, rocky islands, and lush forests made it one of the most memorable stops on our trip.
On our way back to the Jungle Retreat, we stopped for dinner at the popular Fuego Brew Co, which was another unique experience being in a tree house restaurant
Day 6: Relaxing in Jaco
We ended our journey with a relaxing day in Jaco at Los Suenos Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort. A swim-up bar at the pool became a family favorite for strawberry drinks, and we spent the afternoon at another stunning beach. The highlight for me was watching a family of Scarlet Macaws, a species I studied in college. Seeing these birds was the perfect way to wrap up an incredible week.
Travel Tips and Recommendations
- Flights: Book early and look for deals through American Airlines or other carriers.
- Hotels: Use points with programs like Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors to save on accommodations.
- Rental Cars: Take advantage of discounts through programs like Delta SkyMiles and use a credit card with out-of-country rental insurance benefits.
- Packing Essentials: Bring sturdy shoes for hikes, a waterproof bag, and plenty of bug spray.
- Plan Ahead: Research free or affordable activities like the natural hot springs in La Fortuna for budget-friendly adventures.
Final Thoughts
From thrilling zip lines to serene beaches, Costa Rica offered something for everyone in our family. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and warm hospitality made this a trip we’ll cherish forever.
Ready to plan your Costa Rican adventure? Check out the resources and tips linked throughout this post to help you save money and make the most of your trip!
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