Costa Rica – Beaches, Jungle, and Waterfalls
Pura Vida! Pura vida means pure life and it is a way of living in Costa Rica. Costa Rica has been named one of the happiest countries in the world and no wander too – the beaches, the jungle, and the culture make Costa Rica a great destination to visit. I went many years ago now during college with one of my friends whose uncle had a house there. He was able to show us around all the best spots near San Jose due to his local knowledge.
The Beaches
Of course the main draw for me is the beaches! A jungle canopy overlooking the ocean, yes please! I went a few different beaches, but Manuel Antonio State Beach was my favorite. It is exactly what you picture when you think of Costa Rica and the jungle, monkeys, and the beach. It is on the Pacific side so the water is fairly good for surfing. Now I’m not a surfer, but obviously Costa Rica is known world-wide for the great surfing. I personally went boogie boarding!! It was actually such a blast. Me and my friend took turns running into the waves and hopping on the boogie board to take us back in. You can see from my smile that I loved it!
The Jungle
The other main draw – world class jungles! I can’t even describe what it was like to step out of the car when I first arrived to the jungle. It immediately feels hot and sticky. You can hear the sounds of birds chirping and creatures scattering around the jungle just out of sight. I decided to go zip lining being the thrill seeker that I am. You got up in the canopy on giant ledges and zip lined for a few hours among the treetops. Below, above, and around you was this massive forest that appeared never-ending. The light barely got through some parts of the jungle that surrounds you. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity so if you find yourself in Costa Rica, make this a priority!
The City
I stayed near San Jose so I spent some time in and around the city. Traffic was a nightmare. I would hate to drive here – it is like people don’t obey any traffic laws and some parts of town looked a little run-down and sketchy. I’m not a city person and not surprisingly enough I did not enjoy San Jose. We went to a shopping mall and got jerseys for the world cup – felt like I could have been back in America if it weren’t for buying the Costa Rica jersey. I don’t know why people spend vacations in such beautiful destinations in the mall or in the city! There was a fun casino we frequented a time or two but other than that it was nothing to write home about.
The Sports
If you can time your trip right and be in Costa Rica during the World Cup for soccer (or football as it is known there!), definitely do! I went when Costa Rica was playing – can’t even recall who now – a few years back and after a long day at the beach went to a bar right by Manual Antonio State Park to watch the game. I’m not even a soccer fan, but the atmosphere watching the game with Costa Ricans was exhilarating. It helps they won too!! People were out partying in the street and honking and yelling in cheer the entire drive home. I think it was a good representation of the spirit, joy, and culture of Costa Rica!
The Waterfalls
Finally, I had to see a waterfall while I was in Costa Rica! It is a tropical paradise after all. I went to La Paz Waterfall Garden which has not only a trail with many waterfalls to “ooo” and “awh” at, it also doubled as a zoo with plenty of creatures to wander around and see. I even got to hold a toucan! Dreams = made.
All in all, I am for sure not done with this beautiful country. I am going to have to take my boyfriend to see Costa Rica with me one day! Next time I would be curious at 1) staying longer than 5 days and 2) going to the Caribbean side of the country. I do prefer my Caribbean ocean to the Pacific ha-ha!
