San Jose, Jaco, and La Fortuna
Journey with Me to Costa Rica
The summer of 2024, I had the pleasure of visiting Costa Rica! The country was absolutely beautiful, and there was so much to see.
For Adventure Lovers
If you love adventure, this country is perfect for you. There are countless opportunities for hiking, ATV riding through lush forests, and engaging with exotic animals. During my stay, we visited three cities: Jaco Beach, San José, and La Fortuna.
Rainy Season in Costa Rica
Summer coincides with the rainy season on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, but the Caribbean coast experiences less rain. Rainy season in Costa Rica runs from April to November, but don’t let that deter you. The experience is worth every drop of rain, and tourists continue to flock to the country during this time.
What’s It Like?
Costa Rica is the ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in wilderness and vibrant culture. We explored three distinct regions, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s charm.
Jaco Beach
Our first stop was Jaco Beach, a laid-back coastal town known for its surfing culture. While surfing is the main attraction, the area also offers activities like fishing, zip-lining, and chocolate tours. One of the highlights of our stay was visiting a nearby area near Manuel Antonio for an exhilarating ATV adventure.
We rode through forests, mountains, and small towns, even spotting monkeys swinging in the trees. Riding ATVs in the rain was unexpectedly fun, adding an adventurous twist to the journey. To top it off, our kind tour guide took us on a short trail near the base of the ATV lot, where we caught a glimpse of stunning waterfalls. Despite the rain, it was an unforgettable 10/10 experience!
San José and La Fortuna
Next, we headed to the city of San José! It’s a vibrant urban hub with plenty of shopping and exploration opportunities. From San José, we took a day trip to La Fortuna, where we stopped by a coffee plantation and relaxed at the hot springs near Arenal Volcano. Unfortunately, it was cloudy that day, so we couldn’t see the volcano clearly.
Reflections on Costa Rica
While Costa Rica was breathtakingly natural, it might have been a bit too rustic for my personal taste—I’m more of a resort traveler. Although there are resorts in Costa Rica, they are primarily located in areas I didn’t visit, such as Santa Teresa, Tamarindo, and the Guanacaste province. If I were to return, I’d definitely stay in those regions. Also, I recommend visiting during the dry season. Although it only rained one day during our trip, the rainy season meant fewer vacationers and a quieter nightlife in Jaco Beach. Dry season allows more time to soak in the sun and enjoy livelier evenings.
Geography and Travel Tips
Airports
Costa Rica has two major airports: San José (SJO) and Liberia (LIR). Where you fly into depends on your destination. For Manuel Antonio or Jaco Beach, SJO is the best option. For Guanacaste, Monteverde, or La Fortuna, book your flights to LIR.
Transportation
Since most destinations are far from the airports, renting a car is highly recommended. Driving in Costa Rica is straightforward, though extra caution is needed in San José due to traffic. When driving to La Fortuna or Jaco, prepare for scenic mountain routes—absolutely stunning! A rental car provides the freedom to explore nearby towns. Note that highways have tolls, so carry cash (USD and Costa Rican colón are accepted).
Alternatively, you can book transfers to your destination and use local buses or taxis to get around.
Currency
Costa Rica’s currency is the colón. While USD is widely accepted, it’s best to exchange your money, as change will often be given in colón. This also helps you avoid fluctuating exchange rates. Credit cards are accepted at most places, but for local shops and tipping, cash is preferable.
Dining
Visit sodas—local, family-owned restaurants offering the most authentic Costa Rican cuisine. In Jaco, you’ll find many vegan and vegetarian options, while San José boasts diverse cuisines. I had the best Korean BBQ there! No matter where you go, there’s something delicious to try.
Safety
As a tourist, always stay cautious. I felt safe in both Jaco and San José. Keep a small amount of cash and a secure bag close to you. The locals in Costa Rica are friendly and hospitable, making it a welcoming destination.
Language Barrier
English speakers were easy to find in most tourist areas, though it was less common in San José, which was surprising for the capital. In case of language barriers, Google Translate is a lifesaver.
Best Time to Visit
Costa Rica has two main seasons: rainy and dry. The dry season (December to April) is the best time to visit, offering sunny days and lively attractions. However, traveling during the rainy season is still enjoyable. Rain showers are often brief, and the jungle remains vibrant. August and September are the rainiest months, so consider this when planning your trip. Hotel and flight rates are usually cheaper during the rainy season.