Costa Rica
We recently took the kids to Costa Rica along with 2 other families and it was such a fun trip. If you ever get the chance to go, I highly recommend going. My kids are 12 and 15, so I do recommend going when they are a little older, and most of the zip lines are for age 10 and older, some are 8 but be sure to check before you go.
Guanacaste
We flew into Liberia, and with an early morning southwest flight everyone was starving, so we stopped at local restaurant near the airport. It was great because the kids could unwind after a long day of traveling and we were able to enjoy some local cuisine.
We then made a quick stop at a local Walmart to grab groceries for the next few days. We were renting a villa in the Four Seasons and wanted to save with breakfast and lunch at the house. We chose to go here first because we wanted to experience a few days on the beach.
We stayed pretty low key and enjoyed the beach and pool. The boys went deep sea fishing one day and we went snorkeling around the area another day with Matt’s fishing company. Both were great experiences and Matt is great to work with. Lunch was provided both days on the boats and the staff was so accommodating.
We enjoyed dinner one night in the house with Private Chef Costa Rica. The food was so good and a great way to relax and unwind.
We ventured off property one night to The Dive Bar . This place was pretty casual and a great for the kids. They even had games for them to play and they could walk around the marina to look at the boats.
I recommend staying at least 3 nights in the Guanacaste region.
After 3 nights we left and drove towards the Arenal area. We stopped on the way at the Catarata waterfall. This is a gorgeous place to break up the drive and see a waterfall. Be sure to leave out a change of clothes and maybe a towel if you packed one.
My only warning is to be aware of people in the parking lot. There have been a number of break ins, especially for tourists. We had such a large group, the men took turns staying with the car, there is also security guards in the parking lot but we couldn’t chance it with so much stuff.
There are also a number of local people who will offer to give you a tour, take you on a trail or take your photo. They will expect a tip. Also be careful if you set shoes down with a phone or other valuables and step in the water, they may get stolen.
While I was never worried about our safely I was cautious for our material items. It’s a great place to stop but just be alert.
Arenal Area
We continued on our journey about an hour from the waterfall into the Arenal area. We also stopped for a late lunch at Moya’s Place Restaurant & Pizzeria.
We then checked into The Springs, yes home to the famous Bachelor filming.
The Springs was amazing. I think we could have stayed a week here. There was so much to see and do, and the kids loved it.
We spent one day exploring the Springs the other day we went to zip lining at Sky Adventures. We spent about 4 hours here. We took a little hike exploring the area before going on the zip lines. Our family loved it, but I know heights are not for everyone. If you get scared, they do have a guide who go with you.
We ate dinner both nights at The Springs and even enjoyed one adult dinner at the resort.
We had a 2.5 hour drive back to the airport so we left at decent time because the two lane roads can get congested, especially on the weekends. We stopped at the little German bakery for breakfast and it was a highlight for the kids. By the way driving is a little challenging but possible! Just be prepared for narrow windy roads.
Overall Costa Rica is one of my favorite places to visit. You can relax and have adventure! Have fun!
