Costa Rica - Recommendations?

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Hey, are you planning to be along the coast at all? I've been to Tamarindo and Nosara. Both places are known for surfing, which is why I went. Tamarindo is your classic touristy destination, but worth checking out if your into that type of scene. Nosara is much more peaceful, with enough of a tourist/western presence to make you feel comfortable . I stayed at Witch's Rock Surf Camp @ Tamarindo and Surf Simply @ Nosara (more pricey and had to book well in advance).

Hope you enjoy the trip :). I'm not a big traveler, but Costa Rica is a destination I always daydream of returning.

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Peninsula Papagayo is one of the most beautiful strips of land on earth and a short boat ride from Witch’s Rock and Ollie’s Point (two of the better surf breaks in Central America). Much of the entire area north of Papagayo is a national park. Unlike Nicaragua to the north, Costa Rica has done a phenomenal job preserving the land — it’s absolutely gorgeous (think Jurassic Park). They take it very seriously — if you take a boat ride out to surf Witch’s and don’t have the requisite permits/documents, you’ll get boarded by government officials with machine guns (seen it happen). Can’t even step foot on most of the land north of Papagayo where the surf breaks are located because it’s all protected. Pretty amazing.

In terms of accommodations, the Four Seasons is great but can be a bit pricey. If you’re looking for a cheap but more local experience, stay in Coco Beach.

All in all, the northwest part of Costa Rica is phenomenal, and there is something for everyone — surfing, golf, kayaking, zip lining, national parks, snorkeling, incredible seafood. You’ll have a great time.

Jaco is an awesome beach and party town. Stay local, spend local. Fuck whoever suggested a four seasons. Never understood traveling to a foreign place only to surround yourself with the comforts of your own country.

Los Suenos, just north of Jaco, has the best big fishing. And then the town just south of Jaco has a big surfing culture, weekend tournaments to watch that are fascinating.

Check out La Fortuna waterfall and the hot springs in the arena volcanoes. 

I've been many times and to many different area - Jaco and Tamarindo are like Miami. I'd Avoid. La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio are where it's at and are more authentic Costa Rica. In Manuel Antonio you will see 3 types of Monkeys all the time and can experience the ocean, water sports and ATV. The La Fortuna area has great hot springs and lots to do.