Costa Rica Escape: Beachfront Bliss & Adventure
Tracy Lloyd
Nelson, BC
Accessible Travel & Small Ship Cruise Specialist
With a passion for personalized travel and a deep appreciation for the beauty of river cruising, I specialize in crafting unforgettable journeys along the world’s most scenic waterways. As a certified expert with Viking Cruises, AmaWaterways, and ...
With a passion for personalized travel and a deep appreciation for the beauty of river cruising, I specialize in crafting unforgettable journeys along the world’s most scenic waterways. As a certified expert with Viking Cruises, AmaWaterways, and Avalon, I provide in-depth knowledge and expert guidance to help travelers find the perfect cruise experience.
With over 40 years of personal travel experience—including extensive travel with my husband and our 21-year-old daughter, who is on the autism spectrum—I understand the importance of seamless, stress-free vacations. Whether you’re a retiree looking for a leisurely exploration, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a traveler with unique accessibility needs, I take pride in designing customized itineraries that cater to your interests and comfort.
Let me help you navigate the world of river cruising and plan a journey that is as effortless as it is enriching.
Can Be Reached At
1-800-361-1334 ext:404045
A Scarlet Macaw in Manuel Antonio
Costa Rica: A Dream Destination for Adventure and Relaxation
Costa Rica is a dream destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone craving a mix of excitement and tranquility. My husband and I always travel with our 21-year-old daughter, who is on the autism spectrum, and we love finding destinations that offer a balance of adventure and comfort. Our recent month-long stay in this vibrant country was unforgettable. From the volcanic wonders of La Fortuna to the stunning beaches of Sámara, with short getaways to the cloud forests of Monteverde and the lively town of Tamarindo, every moment was special.
La Fortuna: Hot Springs and Sloth Walks
Our adventure began in La Fortuna, home to the iconic Arenal Volcano. The lush landscapes and tropical wildlife made this region an incredible first stop. We visited Tabacón natural hot springs, where we soaked in mineral-rich pools surrounded by rainforest. It was the perfect way to relax and enjoy Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
One of our favorite experiences was the sloth walk, where we spotted these slow-moving, gentle creatures nestled high in the trees. Colorful songbirds surrounded us, making every step along the trail feel magical. Even at our hotel, we were greeted by the sounds of tropical birds each morning.
Manuel Antonio: Monkeys, Macaws & Ocean Views
Next, we visited Manuel Antonio, home to one of Costa Rica’s most stunning national parks. The combination of lush rainforest, white-sand beaches, and abundant wildlife made it a must-visit.
Hiking through the park, we encountered playful capuchin monkeys swinging through the trees and sloths lounging on branches. Scarlet macaws flashed brilliant red as they soared overhead, while colorful orchids bloomed in every direction. The trails led to breathtaking ocean views and secluded beaches, where we swam in warm, crystal-clear waters.
Sámara: A Month of Beachfront Serenity
After our early adventures, we settled into Sámara for a month of beachfront bliss. This laid-back town on the Nicoya Peninsula felt like home. Mornings started with fresh tropical fruit and coffee on our terrace, followed by leisurely strolls along the shoreline.
After our early adventures, we settled into Sámara for a month of beachfront bliss. This laid-back town on the Nicoya Peninsula felt like home. Mornings started with fresh tropical fruit and coffee on our terrace, followed by leisurely strolls along the shoreline.
Sámara’s friendly, bohemian vibe made it easy to relax. Small cafés, yoga studios, and warm locals created a welcoming atmosphere. Sunsets were breathtaking, with fiery hues reflecting off the water. Evenings were spent enjoying fresh seafood at beachside restaurants, with ocean breezes and live music making every night special.
Monteverde: Into the Cloud Forest (A Short Getaway)
During our month in Sámara, we took a short trip to Monteverde, home to one of the world’s most famous cloud forests. The journey up winding roads was an adventure itself, with sweeping valley views and a noticeable drop in temperature.
Monteverde felt like stepping into another world—misty air, lush greenery, and a chorus of birds filling the trees. On a night tour, we spotted a kinkajou high up in the branches, a rare and exciting sight. The diversity of wildlife here was astonishing, making it a highlight of our trip.
Tamarindo: Sunsets and Culinary Delights (Another Short Getaway)
Another quick getaway took us to Tamarindo, a lively beach town known for its vibrant atmosphere. While many visit for the surf, we focused on relaxing and enjoying the incredible sunsets. Watching the sky transform into brilliant shades of pink, orange, and deep purple over the Pacific was unforgettable.
The food in Tamarindo was another highlight. We indulged in fresh seafood, local flavors, and delicious meals at open-air restaurants, making every dining experience a delight.
Ending in Sámara: The Perfect Farewell
After our getaways to Monteverde and Tamarindo, returning to Sámara felt like coming home. We spent our final days soaking up the sun, savoring the peaceful beach lifestyle, and appreciating every last moment of our time in Costa Rica.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica is a place where adventure and tranquility exist side by side. Whether it was soaking in volcanic hot springs in La Fortuna, spotting monkeys in Manuel Antonio, seeing a kinkajou in Monteverde, savoring delicious meals in Tamarindo, or simply waking up to the ocean in Sámara, every experience left us in awe. There’s no doubt—we’ll be back. This version keeps the structure you wanted while making sure it accurately reflects your experiences. Let me know if you’d like any other tweaks! ??
If you’re looking for a destination filled with natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure, Costa Rica is the perfect escape.