The Ultimate Costa Rica Honeymoon Guide – What to Do, Where to Stay and What to Avoid
With its idyllic year-round climate, array of fun outdoor activities, gorgeous eco-resorts and more dreamy beaches, rain forests and wildlife than you could even imagine, Costa Rica is an unrivaled honeymoon destination. Offering superb value-for-money, a laid-back and welcoming vibe and excellent tourist infrastructure, the land of sloths and unforgettable sunsets is a dreamy choice no matter your budget or desires.
Why is Costa Rica rated among the best honeymoon destinations on earth? Because this is a country where nature reigns supreme – a dreamy land that screams adventure, romance and relaxation, with plenty of unique experiences to create that ‘once in a lifetime’ memory you no-doubt crave.
Costa Rica has it all. And so does this guide!
Here is the Ultimate Costa Rica Honeymoon Guide covering what to do, where to go, where to stay, how to get there, how to get around and what to avoid when planning the trip of a lifetime.
Here’s your Ultimate Costa Rica Honeymoon Guide – What to Do, Where to Go and What to Avoid when planning your trip.
Plan Your Ultimate Costa Rica Honeymoon Adventure!
We chose two locations: La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio
These are the activities we chose and enjoyed!
La Fortuna - Nature Safari Float, Hanging Bridges and Canopy Zipline Tour, Horseback Riding to La Fortuna Waterfall, Coffee and Chocolate Tour
Manuel Antonio - Manuel Antonio Nat. Park Private Guided Tour, Half-day Sport Fishing, Manuel Antonio Beach, ATV tour
The two hotels that they selected for us were just wonderful! Beautiful landscaping, nice rooms, excellent restaurants.
La Fortuna - Hotel Los Lagos
Manuel Antonio - Hotel Costa Verde
I was a little concerned that we might get a LOT of rain, since it was in the rainy season. We had some rain, but it didn't hinder the fun that we had!
Lots of beautiful memories of a great family time!
Thank you Costa Rica Rios!
Second time’s a charm — and somehow even better!
I just wrapped up my second adventure with Costa Rica Rios and I can’t say enough good things. Henry (aka Ninja) and Michael, along with the entire crew, are the absolute best at what they do. From the moment you arrive, you feel like family — they handle every detail with so much care, humor, and local wisdom.
Every day was packed with jaw-dropping adventures: river rafting, kayaking, zip lining, waterfall rappelling — you name it. They balance safety and adrenaline so perfectly that even when you’re pushing your limits, you feel completely looked after.
This trip is off-the-grid magic. Great food, stunning scenery, and a team that loves what they do and makes you love every second too. If you’re thinking about booking — do it! I came back for my second year in a row, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
Pura Vida forever!
Week of Adventures was amazing. Fun River paddles, hiking , zip lining and rappelling waterfalls. Great guides on the water and land.
Wonderful country and people 💖
The accommodations were lovely, the activities and guides were all excellent and having the transportation pre-arranged was a huge convenience. Everyone was on time to the minute.
Particularly nice was that all activities (and even transportation) were private -- just me, my wife and the guide or driver. I wasn't expecting that, especially on a whitewater rafting trip! That made the activities feel more personal and special.
What to Budget for a Costa Rica Honeymoon
While it’s true that Costa Rica is not the ‘cheap as chips’ destination it once was, it is still one of the world’s most affordable honeymoon choices. Mostly, because it offers incredible value for what you get – think of it as a 5* resort for the price of a 3* one, rather than a 2*-priced motel with dubious quality to match.
As with any travel option, your Costa Rica honeymoon can be as expensive or affordable as you’d like it to be. The country boasts as many exquisite world-leading resorts as it does gorgeous family-run lodges, plus an abundance of activities/excursion. Your Costa Rica adventure honeymoon budget will really depend on how much you want to do and where you want to sleep.
Most couples spend between $3,000 and $5,000 – the difference dictated by choice of accommodation, a few delightful splurges and the time of year they visit. Visiting at prime tourist season and booking at the last minute are perhaps the biggest drivers of honeymoon budgets! Read our Honeymoon Budgeting Tips Guide to know more.
For a clearer picture of what to expect, here is a rough per-night cost breakdown by accommodation tier:
| Tier | Accommodation Per Night | Food Per Day (2 people) | Activities Per Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget / Eco Guesthouse | $80 to $150 | $40 to $70 | $60 to $100 |
| Mid-Range Lodge | $150 to $300 | $70 to $120 | $100 to $200 |
| Boutique / Luxury Resort | $300 to $700 | $120 to $200 | $150 to $300 |
| Ultra Luxury (Four Seasons etc.) | $700 and above | $200 and above | $200 and above |
Domestic flights can add $80 to $250 per person per leg but save significant transfer time between distant regions. Budget accordingly if the itinerary covers both coasts.
Plan Your Ultimate Costa Rica Honeymoon Adventure!
How Many Days Should You Plan for a Costa Rica Honeymoon?
To truly enjoy your Costa Rica honeymoon, we recommend planning a 7–10-day adventure vacation. This is a perfect time-frame and in-arguably the most popular option, regardless of where in the country you’d like to explore.
If you’re visiting for the very first time, this allows for a varied itinerary that includes the most famous highlights. If you wish to explore more remote areas, this will also be enough time to reach highlights that are way off the beaten path. The only caveat? You arguably cannot do both (see the most famous AND remotest highlights) in just 7-10 days and still keep the relaxing travel pace that makes honeymoons enjoyable. We’d recommend planning a 2-week honeymoon if you wish to see and do it all.
You’ll want to aim for two distinct destinations per week on a Costa Rica honeymoon. Simply choose your two favorite hot-spots and use them as you base, and you’ll find a bevy of adventures and indulgences to enjoy every day.
Find out more about Planning Your Costa Rica Honeymoon.
The Best Months for a Costa Rica Honeymoon
The high tourist season runs between mid-December and the end of April, a time of year when Costa Rica enjoys brilliant blue skies and little rain. These are the busiest and most expensive months for honeymoon adventure vacations, although the former is not an issue if you plan to explore more remote areas of the country.
A key feature of this country is that the two coasts operate on different climate cycles. When rains arrive on the western Pacific coast in September, the eastern Caribbean coast tends to dry out. The entire country also enjoys a brief dry spell in June and July, locally known as veranillo or little summer, sitting between the lighter rains of early wet season and the heavier rains of September and October.
For a clear month-by-month picture of what to expect:
| Month | Pacific Coast | Caribbean Coast | Crowd Level | Price Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| December | Dry, warm | Can be rainy | Very High | Peak |
| January | Dry, sunny | Moderate rain | Very High | Peak |
| February | Dry, sunny | Driest months | High | High |
| March | Dry, warm | Driest months | High | High |
| April | Dry, some heat | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate-High |
| May | Rains begin | Rain year-round | Low | Lower |
| June | Veranillo (mini dry) | Rainy | Low-Moderate | Lower |
| July | Veranillo (mini dry) | Rainy | Low-Moderate | Lower |
| August | Rainy | Rainy | Low | Lowest |
| September | Wettest month | Drier period | Very Low | Lowest |
| October | Wettest month | Drier period | Very Low | Lowest |
| November | Rains easing | Rain increases | Low | Lower |
Green season honeymoons from May through November reward couples with lush, vivid landscapes, far fewer tourists at major sites and meaningfully lower prices. The rain typically arrives in afternoon showers rather than all-day downpours, leaving mornings perfect for outdoor activities.
Top Things to Do on a Costa Rica Honeymoon
Nature-obsessed newlyweds have an absolute field-day in Costa Rica, the country’s pristine wilderness and abundance of outdoor activities creating postcard-perfect backdrops for unforgettable adventures. One-third of the country is set aside as protected reserves, encompassing rain forests, endless miles of unspoiled tropical beaches, volcanoes and cloud forests, all inhabited by a kaleidoscope of iconic wildlife.
The most popular activities in Costa Rica that make for a well-rounded honeymoon itinerary include:
- Spending a day at one of the country’s best natural thermal spring resorts
- Rafting or kayaking world-famous white-water rivers
- Keeping your eyes peeled for sloths, toucans, monkeys, tapirs, coatis and so much more, every time you head outdoors
- Staying at a remote eco-lodge to unplug from the rest of the world
- Chasing waterfalls!
- Going on a night-time wildlife spotting excursion
- Tackling a canopy zip line and hanging bridge tour
- Hiking up a famous volcano (and mountain biking down!)
- Snorkeling, surfing or relaxing on a gorgeous beach (so many to choose from!)
- Meeting locals and enjoying cultural experiences (visit remote villages and tour working coffee and cocoa plantations)
- Hiking at every chance
- Horseback riding in some of the most magnificent national parks in the world
- Indulging in romantic escapades like sunset catamaran tours, candle-lit dinners, wellness treatments for 2 and overnight stays in adults-only honeymoon lodges
The Best Regions to Discover on a Costa Rica Honeymoon
Every corner of Costa Rica is a delight to discover, yet a select few make for particularly rewarding honeymoons. These are the regions that boast a range of exquisite lodges and an array of activities that make itinerary-planning so easy.
Arenal and La Fortuna
Best for: First-time visitors, adventure lovers, hot springs enthusiasts.
The undisputed star of the Costa Rica honeymoon circuit, Arenal sits at the base of an iconic active volcano and offers a near-perfect combination of adventure and romance.
Couples can soak in thermal springs, hike through lush cloud forest, zip line over the jungle canopy and raft Class II to IV rapids on the Balsa River. The area is also home to some of the country’s finest honeymoon resorts and eco-lodges.
Top activities: Hot springs, zip-lining, hanging bridges, canyoning, Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, kayaking on Lake Arenal.
Manuel Antonio
Best for: Wildlife lovers, beach seekers, couples who want both nature and relaxation.
Manuel Antonio National Park is consistently rated among the best national parks in Central America, and for good reason. The lush rain forest literally meets pristine white sand beaches here, creating a backdrop that looks almost surreal.
Squirrel monkeys, three-toed sloths and white-faced capuchins are commonly spotted on guided walks. The town of Quepos nearby offers excellent restaurants and boutique hotels perched on hillsides with ocean views.
Top activities: National park guided tours, sea kayaking, whale watching (August to November), sport fishing, sunset catamaran tours, snorkeling.
Guanacaste
Best for: Beach lovers, resort-style honeymooners, couples flying into Liberia.
Comprising Costa Rica’s north-western coast and most of the Nicoya Peninsula, Guanacaste is where the country’s most luxurious all-inclusive resorts are located.
Papagayo Peninsula is home to the Four Seasons and Andaz resorts, while the peninsula’s southern tip delivers remote beach villages, world-class surfing breaks and wildlife-rich national parks. Tamarindo is the liveliest beach town in this region, ideal for surf lessons, catamaran tours and casual waterfront dining.
Top activities: Surfing, catamaran tours, snorkeling at Catalina Islands, Rincon de la Vieja volcano hiking, wildlife boat tours.
The Osa Peninsula
Best for: Adventurous couples seeking isolation, wildlife enthusiasts, eco-luxury seekers.
For lovers of remote getaways, the Osa Peninsula is ridiculously perfect. The most biodiverse region in Costa Rica, and one of the most biologically rich places on Earth, the Osa is home to jaguars, tapirs, scarlet macaws and four species of sea turtle.
A handful of high-end lodges means that barefoot luxury is entirely possible here. The Corcovado National Park sits at the heart of the peninsula and is considered one of the finest wildlife destinations on the planet.
Top activities: Corcovado National Park guided treks, whale watching (the Osa hosts some of the best in the Americas), dolphin spotting, snorkeling, kayaking.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Best for: Nature-obsessed couples, birdwatchers, those seeking cooler temperatures.
Perched high in the misty mountains of Puntarenas Province, Monteverde is one of the most remarkable ecosystems on Earth. The cloud forests here drip with mystery and life, home to the elusive resplendent quetzal and over 400 bird species.
The famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve and the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve offer some of the most rewarding guided walks in the country. Zip-lining through cloud forest is a bucket-list experience.
Top activities: Cloud forest guided walks, zip-lining, hanging bridges, night walks, birdwatching, coffee and chocolate farm tours.
Tortuguero
Best for: Wildlife-obsessed couples, those seeking something truly unique and off the beaten path.
Accessible only by small plane or boat, Tortuguero sits on the Caribbean coast and is one of Costa Rica’s most extraordinary destinations. The national park protects the most important sea turtle nesting site in the Western Hemisphere.
Between July and October, visitors can witness green sea turtles nesting on the beach at night in an experience that is genuinely life-altering. Canal boat tours through the park reveal caimans, river otters, kingfishers and three-toed sloths at remarkably close range.
Top activities: Sea turtle nesting tours (July to October), canal boat wildlife tours, kayaking the waterways, guided birding walks.
The Most Beautiful Honeymoon Resorts and Eco-lodges in Costa Rica
Drool-worthy honeymoon resorts and eco-lodges are among Costa Rica’s finest calling cards. When this country commits to delivering paradise, it holds nothing back. Here are standout options across budget tiers:
Luxury Tier (from $500+ per night)
The Four Seasons, Papagayo Peninsula – Guanacaste Province
The Four Seasons Resort continues to lead the pack in a corner of Costa Rica that’s absolutely replete with luxurious all-inclusive resorts. And what’s not to love? With its incredible coastal views, an in-house wellness spa, gourmet dining, a private golf course and plenty of adventures on offer, this is the five-star honeymoon luxury everyone dreams.
Nayara Springs Resort – Arenal Volcano – Alajuela Province
Fancy your own private thermal pool right outside your exclusive villa? Nayara is where you’ll find it. Ironically, this incredibly isolated resort is set within the most visited area of Costa Rica, but you’ll certainly never feel its genially central location. A Forbes Magazine favorite, Nayara is an adults-only pocket of paradise, with world-class spa, dining and volcano views to match.
Origins Luxury Lodge – Upala – Guanacaste Province
Part of the Mantic Collection of lodges, Origins has redefined ‘eco-friendly wellness retreat’, boasting only seven super-deluxe villas, nestled amidst a luscious landscape of tropical wilderness. This all-inclusive eco-lodge was considered Costa Rica’s best honeymoon eco-lodge almost as soon as it first opened just a couple of years ago. Geared primarily for couples, Origins oozes romance at every turn – just check in, unpack, soak in your own private hot tub overlooking the Pacific and get ready to be seriously pampered. This spot is dreamy beyond words.
Kura Boutique Hotel – Uvita – Puntarenas Province
Another brilliant adults-only choice that’s tailor made for honeymooners, Kura showcases a modern elegance that belies its remote location. Nestled deep and high in the jungles above Uvita, along the beautiful Costa Ballena, the Kura experience is all about soaking up breath-taking sea views from the infinity pool, romantic and delectable sunset dinners, daily couple massages and star gazing long after the sun has set. A truly magical honeymoon experience!
Tiki Villas Rain Forest Lodge & Spa – Uvita – Puntarenas Province
Just steps from one of Costa Rica’s most coveted beaches (Hermosa), Tiki is a Balinese-style luxury honeymoon lodge that boasts a jaw-dropping location. Framed by a pristine rainforest home to a cacophony of birds, Tiki boasts a drop-dead gorgeous pool and every room has stunning indoor and outdoor showers. The enchanting design, warm welcome and peaceful vibe make it the ideal spot for a stint of R&R on your Costa Rica honeymoon.
Eco-Lodge Tier ($100 to $250 per night)
Pacuare Lodge (Turrialba, accessible by raft)
One of the most dramatic lodges in all of Central America, Pacuare sits deep in a river gorge accessible only by white-water raft. No roads reach it. Treehouse-style bungalows hang over the jungle and the Pacuare River roars below. A National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World and one of the great adventure honeymoon accommodations on Earth.
Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge (Osa Peninsula, accessible by boat)
Set on its own private reserve inside the Golfo Dulce, Nicuesa Lodge is accessible only by boat, completely off-grid and surrounded by pristine primary rainforest. Brilliant for couples seeking genuine isolation with warmth, excellent food and serious wildlife at the doorstep.
Getting to Costa Rica: Flights and Entry Requirements
Airports
Costa Rica is served by two international airports. Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) near San Jose is the country’s main hub and handles the majority of international flights. Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, Guanacaste, is the second gateway and is particularly convenient for couples heading to the beach resorts of the north Pacific coast.
Choosing the correct airport saves considerable ground transfer time. Couples planning to base themselves in Guanacaste or the Nicoya Peninsula should fly into Liberia when possible. Those heading to Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Turrialba or the Osa Peninsula are generally better served arriving in San Jose.
Direct Flights from the United States
Non-stop flights to San Jose (SJO) operate from major US cities including Miami, New York (JFK and Newark), Los Angeles, Houston, Atlanta, Dallas, Charlotte, Washington Dulles, Chicago O’Hare, Boston and Orlando. American Airlines, United, Delta, Spirit, JetBlue, Southwest and Frontier all serve this route.
Non-stop flights to Liberia (LIR) are available from Miami, Atlanta, New York, Houston and Dallas, with seasonal service from several additional cities. Flight time from the US East Coast is approximately 3 to 4 hours. From the West Coast, expect 6 to 7 hours.
Entry Requirements
Citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and the European Union do not require a visa to enter Costa Rica for tourist stays. US and Canadian citizens can stay for up to 90 days per entry.
A valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity is required. An onward ticket out of Costa Rica is technically required and is occasionally checked at border control.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended, and some airlines or immigration officers may request proof of it. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers arriving from Yellow Fever-endemic countries.
How to Get Around Costa Rica on a Honeymoon
Costa Rica’s popular honeymoon destinations are spread across a relatively small country, but road conditions, mountain terrain and travel times can be surprising for first-time visitors. Planning transportation carefully is one of the most impactful things couples can do to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip.
| Transport Option | Best For | Approximate Cost | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Driver | Hassle-free transfers between regions | $80 to $200 per transfer | Most popular choice for honeymooners; relaxing and door-to-door |
| Shared Shuttle Bus | Budget-conscious couples | $25 to $60 per person per leg | Fixed routes and times; slower but convenient |
| Rental Car (4WD) | Independent travellers with flexible itinerary | $60 to $150 per day | Roads can be rough; 4WD essential for many routes; avoid driving at night |
| Domestic Flight | Couples covering long distances quickly | $80 to $250 per person per leg | Saves hours; small planes with limited baggage allowance (10 to 14kg typically) |
| Local Bus | Long-stay budget travellers | $2 to $15 per ride | Very affordable but slow and not recommended for tight honeymoon schedules |
Private shuttle and private driver services are by far the most popular choice for honeymooners. Hotels and tour operators can arrange these in advance. A private driver between San Jose and Arenal, for example, takes around 3 hours and costs roughly $100 to $140 each way for two people.
Rental cars offer freedom and are cost-effective for longer itineraries. A 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended year-round and essential during green season (May to November) when unpaved roads in areas like Monteverde and the Osa Peninsula can become impassable in standard vehicles. Costa Rica drives on the right side of the road.
Domestic flights operate between San Jose and regional airports in Quepos (for Manuel Antonio), Liberia (Guanacaste), Tamarindo, Puerto Jimenez (Osa Peninsula), Tortuguero and Drake Bay. SANSA Airlines and Skyway are the main domestic carriers. Booking ahead is essential during high season as these small aircraft fill quickly.
Sample Costa Rica Honeymoon Itineraries
Two tried and tested itineraries follow below. The first is ideal for couples with 7 nights who want the classic Costa Rica experience. The second is for those with 10 nights who want a little more depth and variety.
7-Night Classic: Arenal and Manuel Antonio
Day 1: Arrive at San Jose (SJO). Transfer to La Fortuna (3 hours). Check into a thermal springs resort. Evening in the hot springs overlooking Arenal Volcano.
Day 2: Morning hanging bridges hike through primary forest. Afternoon zip-line tour. Evening at leisure, sunset dinner with volcano views.
Day 3: Morning white-water rafting on the Balsa River (Class II to III, perfect for couples). Afternoon kayaking on Lake Arenal or visit La Fortuna Waterfall. Final night at the thermal springs.
Day 4: Transfer to Manuel Antonio (4.5 hours). Check in to a hilltop boutique hotel with ocean views. Afternoon exploring Quepos town or beach.
Day 5: Full morning in Manuel Antonio National Park with a certified naturalist guide. Afternoon beach time. Sunset catamaran tour in the evening.
Day 6: Whale watching boat tour (August to November season) or snorkeling trip. Afternoon spa treatment at the hotel. Romantic candlelit dinner.
Day 7: Morning at leisure. Transfer to San Jose. Depart or stay one night in San Jose before the departure flight.
10-Night Adventure: Arenal, Monteverde and Guanacaste
Day 1: Arrive at San Jose (SJO) or Liberia (LIR). Transfer to La Fortuna.
Day 2: Arenal Volcano hike and hanging bridges walk through the national park.
Day 3: Canyoning waterfall rappelling and white-water rafting on the Balsa River.
Day 4: Morning thermal springs. Transfer to Monteverde via jeep-boat-jeep route (scenic and faster than the road). Arrive in Monteverde for a sunset.
Day 5: Morning guided cloud forest walk in Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. Afternoon zip-lining or hanging bridges in the forest canopy.
Day 6: Morning coffee plantation tour or chocolate farm tour. Afternoon at leisure or night walk through the cloud forest. Transfer to Guanacaste coast.
Day 7: Arrive at chosen Guanacaste beach town (Tamarindo, Samara or Papagayo area). Beach afternoon at leisure.
Day 8: Surf lesson or catamaran snorkeling tour. Afternoon beach time. Sunset cocktails.
Day 9: Wildlife estuary boat tour or visit to Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park. Evening farewell dinner.
Day 10: Depart from Liberia International Airport (LIR).
Beware the Pitfalls! What NOT TO DO on a Costa Rica Honeymoon
Now that you know all the fabulous things to do on your Costa Rica honeymoon, it’s time to point out a few things you definitely will NOT want to do.
Don’t book at the last minute – This is especially crucial if you wish to honeymoon here between January and April and you wish to spend a couple of nights in one of the country’s best honeymoon lodges. These are the places that get booked out months in advance. Avoid having your options restricted and paying top-dollar for everything and book way ahead of time.
Don’t pack too much in your itinerary – Many adventure-seeking newlyweds fall into the trap of trying to fit too much into their itinerary. Take a leaf from the expert’s books and don’t be tempted to explore more than two destinations per week. With slower-than-expected transfers and time spent checking in/out every day etc, you’ll just end up exhausted and frustrated. The best honeymoon itineraries are ones that perfectly combine ‘action’ with romantic downtime, and you’ll end up doing neither if you’re moving from place to place every other day.
Don’t fly into the wrong airport – Many people don’t realize that Costa Rica is served by two international airports. Aside from the one in San Jose (the capital city), there is also a convenient airport in Liberia, which generally services the whole northern (Guanacaste) province. Choose the right airport for your chosen destination and, between arriving and departing, you could save an entire day of unnecessary transfers.
Don’t mistake a surfing beach for a swimming beach – Costa Rica is renowned as a swimming and surfing paradise, but this doesn’t mean you can do both on every beach. The best surfing beaches in the country are truly world class, which can make them dangerous to swim in. Know where you’re headed and the beach you’ll have access to, before you book in your plans.
Don’t forget to pack your (eco-friendly) SPF and insect-repellent – Know what can totally ruin your honeymoon? Sunburn and a gazillion insect bites! Sunscreen is an absolute must in Costa Rica, especially if you’re coming during the northern hemisphere winter months. The sun down here can be brutal, and so can the insects, so be prepared.
Don’t skimp on the cultural experiences – Costa Rica’s outstanding wilderness and wildlife always take center-stage yet it’s quite priceless to delve a little into the rich local culture during your honeymoon vacation. Whether it’s taking a coffee tour or a local cooking class, attending a festival, visiting a museum or enjoying a meal at a local soda, there are countless ways to tap into Tico culture during your visit.
Don’t avoid rain season – Sure, you’re likely to experience some torrential downpours if you visit between May and November but, on the other hand, you’ll also save a neat bundle, see fewer tourists and more luscious wilderness, and experience much cooler temperatures. Overall, off-season honeymoons can be immensely rewarding, especially as you can pour those amazing savings into a longer itinerary.
Don’t get hit with crazy roaming charges – Ouch! Roaming on your mobile in Costa Rica can incur steep fees so most visitors only access the internet when they’re in their hotel. If you’d like to be connected on the go, pick up a local sim card at the airport on your way in. Read this handy Guide to Buying a Pre-Paid Sim in Costa Rica.
Don’t avoid domestic flights – Domestic flights may be a little on the expensive side, but they can save you a ton of time if you wish to visit several remote areas. Keep in mind, however, that small regional planes have restricted baggage allowance, so this might dictate how much you can pack if you don’t wish to pay expensive overweight fees.
Which brings us to the next section…
What to Pack for a Costa Rica Honeymoon
What to Pack for a Costa Rica Honeymoon
Minimalist packing is the way to go when honeymooning in Costa Rica. Between the various transfers and outdoor activities, heavy suitcases become a genuine burden. The following packing list covers everything needed for a well-rounded adventure and romance honeymoon:
| Item | Why It Is Needed | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Quick-dry athletic clothing (5 to 7 sets) | Activities, heat and humidity mean 2 to 3 outfit changes per day | Lightweight fabrics wash and dry overnight in most hotels |
| Reef-safe SPF 50+ sunscreen | Equatorial sun is intense, especially at the beach and on water activities | Chemical-free sunscreen is legally required near marine reserves in Costa Rica |
| DEET-based insect repellent | Mosquitoes are present, particularly in rainforest areas and at dawn/dusk | Apply before evening outdoor activities or jungle walks |
| Waterproof sandals (Chacos, Tevas) | Numerous activities involve water crossings and wet terrain | One pair of sturdy waterproof sandals can replace multiple shoe types |
| Closed-toe hiking shoes (quick-drying) | Forest hikes, waterfall visits, canyoning | Keens or similar brands with drainage work well for water-to-trail transitions |
| Light rain jacket or poncho | Afternoon showers even in dry season; all-day rain possible in green season | A compact packable jacket takes almost no suitcase space |
| Dry bag or waterproof phone case | Water-based activities and rain | Essential for protecting cameras, phones and documents on rafting or sea kayaking days |
| Compression packing cubes | Maximize suitcase space and organization between multiple destinations | Allows packing a smaller bag overall and staying organized on the move |
| Binoculars | Wildlife spotting is dramatically better with even a modest pair of binoculars | 8×42 magnification is the most versatile for both birds and mammals |
| Small day pack (20 to 25L) | For day hikes and excursions | Mesh-back hydration-compatible packs help in the heat |
| Reusable water bottle | Staying hydrated in tropical heat is critical | Tap water is safe to drink in most of Costa Rica |
| One smart outfit per person | Finer resort dinners and any San Jose nights | Costa Rica is generally very casual; one nice outfit per person is sufficient |
| Travel adapter (Type A/B) | Same plug type as the US; no adapter needed for American travelers | UK and European visitors will need a type A/B adapter |
| Photocopies of passport and travel insurance | Emergency document backup | Store digital copies in a cloud app as well |
A quick note on clothing: local Tico culture is very laid-back. There is no need to pack formal attire. Athletic and casual clothing covers virtually every occasion. Bring enough to change 2 to 3 times daily and simply wash and dry each evening.
Costa Rica Honeymoon: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Costa Rica a good honeymoon destination?
Costa Rica consistently ranks among the world’s top 10 honeymoon destinations and is the number one adventure honeymoon destination in the Americas. Its combination of extraordinary natural beauty, diverse activities, romantic eco-lodges, excellent tourist infrastructure and warm local culture makes it suitable for virtually every type of couple, from ultra-adventurous to relaxation-focused.
Is Costa Rica safe for honeymooners?
Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Latin America for tourists and is widely regarded as a stable democracy with a strong tourism infrastructure. Petty theft (pickpocketing, opportunistic theft from rental cars) is the most common issue and is easily avoided with common-sense precautions: do not leave valuables visible in vehicles, use hotel safes and stick to well-lit areas at night. Violent crime targeting tourists is rare. Couples should purchase comprehensive travel insurance including medical coverage.
Is Costa Rica LGBTQ+ friendly?
Costa Rica legalized same-sex marriage in May 2020 and is the most LGBTQ+-inclusive country in Central America. Same-sex couples are welcome at all hotels, resorts and tour operators throughout the country. San Jose has a thriving LGBTQ+ scene and the international tourist areas are particularly open and inclusive. Travel for same-sex couples is entirely comfortable in Costa Rica.
Do US citizens need a visa to visit Costa Rica?
No. US, Canadian, UK, Australian and EU citizens do not require a visa for tourist visits. US and Canadian citizens may stay for up to 90 days. A valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity is required, along with proof of an onward departure ticket.
What vaccinations are recommended for Costa Rica?
No vaccinations are required for entry for most nationalities (Yellow Fever is required only if arriving from an endemic country). The US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that travelers to Costa Rica be up to date on standard vaccinations including hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid. Malaria risk is very low and limited to remote border areas, but consulting a travel health clinic 4 to 6 weeks before departure is always advisable.
Should couples use a travel agent or tour operator for a Costa Rica honeymoon?
Working with a reputable Costa Rica-based operator is strongly recommended for honeymoon trips. A knowledgeable local operator pre-arranges transfers, lodges, activities and guides, eliminating the logistical complexity that can otherwise consume the trip planning process. This is especially valuable in Costa Rica, where road conditions, regional climate differences and the limited availability at top eco-lodges make expert planning genuinely valuable.
How much should couples tip in Costa Rica?
Tipping is appreciated and customary in Costa Rica. Restaurants typically add a 10% service charge automatically but an additional 5 to 10% tip for excellent service is common. Tour guides should be tipped $5 to $10 per person per tour as a minimum, with $20 to $30 for full-day guided experiences. Private drivers appreciate $5 to $10 per trip. Housekeeping tips of $2 to $5 per night are always welcome. Cash in US dollars or Costa Rican colones (the local currency) are both accepted for tips.
What currency is used and can US dollars be used in Costa Rica?
The official currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Colon (CRC). However, US dollars are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, tour operators and tourist shops throughout the country. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and mid-range to upscale restaurants. ATMs are available in all major towns. It is advisable to carry some colones for smaller purchases at markets, local sodas and rural areas where card payment is not available.
What is the best honeymoon itinerary for Costa Rica?
The most popular and well-rounded honeymoon itinerary pairs Arenal Volcano with Manuel Antonio National Park for a 7 to 8 night trip. This combination delivers hot springs, adventure activities, outstanding wildlife, beaches and diverse landscapes. For couples with 10 or more nights, adding Monteverde Cloud Forest, Guanacaste beaches, the Osa Peninsula or the Caribbean coast of Tortuguero creates an even richer experience. Full sample itineraries are outlined earlier in this guide.
Can Costa Rica be combined with another destination for a multi-stop honeymoon?
Absolutely. Costa Rica pairs beautifully with a number of nearby destinations. The most popular multi-stop honeymoon combinations include: Costa Rica and the Galapagos Islands (both in the same region, perfectly bookended by nature and wildlife), Costa Rica and Panama (particularly Bocas del Toro archipelago or the San Blas Islands), and Costa Rica and the Maldives or any beach-only destination (for couples who want adventure and pure relaxation combined). Adding Nicaragua or Belize to a two-week itinerary is also popular.
The Best Honeymoon Adventure Vacations in Costa Rica
Planning a honeymoon itinerary that combines the best Costa Rica offers is not as difficult as you might imagine. At Costa Rica Rios, we are your adventure vacation experts – we have created an array of amazing honeymoon itineraries and, best of all, offer bespoke planning services, so you get to Build Your Own Honeymoon. Simply tell us what you’d like to do and your honeymoon budget, and we’ll do the rest.
The most hassle-free and unforgettable Costa Rica you could ever have?
You bet!
Plan Your Ultimate Costa Rica Honeymoon Adventure!
