Costa Rica is not only a tropical paradise with breathtaking views but also an affordable travel destination. Recently, three friends and I embarked on a 4-night, 5-day journey exploring the northern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, where we experienced everything from rainforests and waterfalls to the stunning Pacific shoreline.
Just a 2.5-hour flight from Miami, we flew into San José, Costa Rica. Based on my experience, the true beauty of the country lies outside the capital. We rented a car from Thrifty and drove approximately two hours to our first stop—Jaco.
Jaco, Costa Rica
Day 1:Jaco is known for its surf culture, vibrant beaches, and lively nightlife. The town is full of energy, with bars lining the city center, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a day of surfing followed by a night out. The black sand beaches are a must-see, and watching the sunset at Jaco Beach is an unforgettable experience. If you're looking to explore the nightlife, some recommended spots include Jaco Bar, Ohm Lounge, XTC Disco Bar, and Republik Lounge.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve
Day 2:We then drove 2.5 hours to Monteverde, located in the Puntarenas and Alajuela provinces. This stunning biological preserve is home to an array of diverse flora and fauna and is a must-see when visiting Costa Rica. We completed a 3.6-mile loop (Senderos Quebrada Cuecha, Tosi, Camino, La Ventana, Nuboso), which took about two hours. The preserve is also famous for its hummingbirds! Another highlight is the Hanging Bridges in Monteverde, a series of six suspended bridges offering epic views of the cloud forest, rising as high as 984 feet.
AllTrails link: Monteverde Trail
Tilarán, Guanacaste
On our way to La Fortuna, we stopped in Guanacaste to complete the Cascadas el Tigre trail, a 1.5-hour hike that features four stunning waterfalls and nine hanging bridges. It was one of the most beautiful trails we experienced.
AllTrails link: Cascadas el Tigre
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Days 3 & 4:After a 1.5-hour scenic drive from Guanacaste, we arrived in La Fortuna, one of my favorite locations in Costa Rica. En route, we passed the breathtaking Arenal Volcano, which, although dormant, is a magnificent sight. One hidden gem we discovered was El Salto rope swing, a local favorite where you can swing into the water next to a cascading mini waterfall.
The next day, we booked a ziplining tour with Go Adventure Park, which offers various activities like horseback riding and white-water rafting. We chose a ziplining and rappelling combo for $55 per person. La Fortuna is also home to natural thermal springs where you can unwind and grab a drink.
Later, we visited the La Fortuna Waterfall, which requires descending about 530 steps to reach the 70-meter-high cascade. It was one of the most awe-inspiring waterfalls I’ve ever seen, and we enjoyed a refreshing dip in the surrounding waters. Reservations are recommended, and the entrance fee is $18 per person.
Zipline Tour: Go Adventure Park La Fortuna Waterfall: Link
Day 5: Return to San José
On the final day, we took a scenic 3-hour drive back to San José’s airport. Along the way, we were lucky enough to spot toucans and other exotic birds—a perfect way to end our adventure.
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