Guanacaste Province in northern Costa Rica is a perennially popular destination. The Arenal Volcano and Tamarindo beach are at the top of many people’s wishlists. Despite all the love, it’s possible to find quiet corners away from the crowds to truly enjoy the beautiful scenery. In Arenal, it comes down to choosing the right hotel, and on the Nicoya Peninsula, it’s about going a little further to find a piece of paradise.
This itinerary works well in the dry season from December to May, but the secret season is late July to early August when the rains abate slightly and there are few tourists. The showers are mainly in the afternoons, so you can go out in the morning to explore and relax indoors after lunch.
While you can fly into San Jose, we suggest flying into Liberia, in northern Costa Rica, for the easiest access to Arenal. Here you will be met by a driver who will transfer you three hours south to your hotel, Nayara Tented Camp. This is hands down the best resort in the area, if not all of America. You’ll have luxury food and service without the crowds of larger hot spring resorts. Each spacious suite features an outdoor shower, a hammock, and a private mineral hot spring pool with stunning views of the Arenal volcano.
The tents at Nayara are connected by a network of jungle trails populated with frogs, sloths, and toucans. Daily yoga classes are included in your room rate. With private hot springs, it’s difficult to leave the property, but there are plenty of excursions. Popular options include waterfall hikes or jungle walks across epic hanging bridges through the forest canopy.
Santa Teresa, near the southern tip of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, is your next stop. Its remote location and beautiful beaches have made it popular among celebrities and travelers seeking seclusion. You can take a long drive from Arenal to get there, but we suggest the short 30-minute flight from Arenal Airport to Cobano. From there, it’s a short 30-minute drive to your hotel, Nantipa. The property includes modern luxury suites and over 500 feet of beachfront on Santa Teresa Beach. We like it as an extended sojourn for couples looking to escape the rush.
Santa Teresa has everything you would want in a Costa Rican beach town – plenty of yoga studios, organic groceries, and a solid surf break. Nantipa also has a laid-back restaurant and a range of spa services to enhance your stay. We love their Blue Wellness Adventure, which highlights the Blue Zone lifestyle and includes yoga, volunteering at a Permaculture Farm or wildlife rescue center, massage, private dinners, and a hiking or fishing experience.
Return to Cobano for your flight to Liberia and your trip home.
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