Costa Rica Travel Planning 101…
How to Plan the Right Trip for You
Costa Rica is one of those destinations that feels exciting and approachable at the same time.
Rainforests, wildlife, volcanoes, beaches, adventure, and an overall sense of pura vida make it especially appealing for families. But once you move from dreaming to planning, it can quickly feel overwhelming.
When should we go?
Which coast is better?
Where do we fly into?
Do we need a car, or should we book tours?
These are exactly the questions I walk through with clients every day. The good news? There isn’t one right way to do Costa Rica — but there is a right way for you.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is a year-round destination, and each season has its advantages.
Dry season (December–April): More sunshine, higher demand, and peak travel periods like winter break and spring break. This is also when you’ll find the most nonstop flight options into Costa Rica from the U.S.
Green season (May–November): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and often better value. While there may be fewer nonstop flights, there are still plenty of good routing options — and the experience on the ground can be wonderful.
There’s no single “best” time to visit. The right time depends on your priorities — weather, crowds, school schedules, and budget. Fewer nonstop flights shouldn’t automatically rule out a green season trip if the overall experience fits what you’re looking for.
The rainy season still has plenty of sun and offers prime clear viewing of Arenal Volcano.
Caribbean Side vs. Pacific Side: What’s the Difference?
One of the most common misconceptions is that Costa Rica’s beaches all feel the same. In reality, the Caribbean and Pacific coasts offer very different experiences.
Caribbean Coast
Best for travelers who want a laid-back, cultural feel and warm, calm water.
Afro-Caribbean influence and distinct culture
Generally calmer seas (great for swimming)
Lush jungle-meets-beach scenery
Often better weather during parts of the green season
Pacific Coast
Best for variety, resorts, and classic Costa Rica experiences.
Wide range of beaches and resort options
Great surf and sunset views
Easy access to adventure activities and national parks
More developed tourism infrastructure
Neither coast is better — they’re just different. The right choice depends on the kind of trip you want.
The Pacific Coast offers the classic Costa Rica beach experience, like this beach in the Guanacaste region.
Where Should We Go?
Costa Rica packs a lot into a relatively small country, but no single region offers everything.
Some of the most popular regions include:
Arenal: Volcano views, hot springs, wildlife, and adventure activities
Guanacaste: Beach resorts, relaxation, and easy logistics
Central Pacific: A mix of jungle, beaches, and adventure
Caribbean Coast: Culture, wildlife, and a slower pace
Monteverde: Cloud forest, hanging bridges, and cooler temperatures
For first-time visitors, one of the most well-balanced itineraries is Arenal + Guanacaste. This combination offers an ideal mix of adventure, nature, and relaxation — volcanoes and hot springs inland, followed by beach time and slower-paced days on the coast.
Trying to see too many regions often leads to long travel days and a rushed experience.
In Monteverde you are above the clouds.
What Airport Should We Fly Into?
Costa Rica has two main international airports, and choosing the right one can make the trip feel much smoother.
San José (SJO): Best for Arenal, Monteverde, Central Pacific, and Caribbean Coast itineraries
Liberia (LIR): Ideal for Guanacaste and northwestern beaches
In some cases, flying into one airport and out of the other creates the most efficient route — especially for multi-region trips.
Rental Car or Transfers?
This is one of the biggest planning decisions — and an area where expectations matter.
While distances on the map may look short, roads in Costa Rica are often winding and can be quite bumpy, especially outside of major cities. Travel between regions frequently takes longer than people expect.
Rental cars can work well if:
you’re comfortable driving in unfamiliar conditions
you don’t mind slower, winding roads
you’re staying mostly in one region
Private transfers and tours are often a better fit if:
you don’t want to navigate road conditions
you’re traveling with kids or multiple generations
you’re moving between regions where drive times can stretch into several hours
Many families choose transfers specifically because they make the trip feel more relaxed and help avoid underestimating travel days.
Guided Tours vs. Self-Exploring
Costa Rica is one of those destinations where having the right guide can completely change the experience.
Guided tours are especially valuable for:
wildlife spotting (sloths are easier to see with an expert eye)
learning about ecosystems and conservation
maximizing time when schedules are tight
Self-exploring works well for:
beach time
short hikes
relaxed days between activities
The best trips usually include a mix of both.
Make sure to include a visit to a sloth sanctuary when in Costa Rica!
Is Costa Rica a Good Choice for Families?
Absolutely.
Costa Rica works beautifully for families because:
activities are adventurous but approachable
wildlife encounters feel magical at any age
infrastructure and safety are strong
people are warm, welcoming, and family-oriented
It’s a destination where kids can explore and learn — and parents can still feel like they’re on vacation.
How I Help Clients Plan Costa Rica Trips
Costa Rica is incredible — but it rewards thoughtful planning.
I help families:
choose the right time of year
decide which coast and regions make sense
create realistic travel days
balance adventure with downtime
handle logistics so the trip feels smooth, not stressful
The goal isn’t to see everything.
It’s to experience Costa Rica in a way that feels exciting, manageable, and right for your family.
If Costa Rica is on your list but you’re not sure how to put the pieces together, I’m happy to help.
Let’s design a trip that fits your travel style — not just the highlights reel.
