Honeymoon in Costa Rica: Everlasting Memories in a Tropical Paradise

Costa Rica is an absolutely breathtaking destination in Central America. Honeymoons are absolutely magical here since you can experience both the rainforest with its tropical plants and wildlife and the coast with its beautiful beaches. Soak in the picturesque scenery this laid-back country has to offer and make everlasting memories with the great experiences this destination has for honeymooners. Their motto is “pura vida,” and pure life is exactly what you’ll experience here!

Costa Rica Geography

Costa Rica is sandwiched between Nicaragua, to the north, and Panama, to the south, in Central America. It’s north of the equator, with the Caribbean Sea to its east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. This peaceful nation does not have a national army and it comprises seven provinces. Its capital city, San José, is centrally located in the foothills of the dormant Brava Volcano.

The center of the country has various volcanoes, mountain ranges, and cloud forests. The coasts bring beaches and water activities. There’s no shortage of nature and national parks in Costa Rica. Be sure to visit the Osa Peninsula, which National Geographic magazine determined is the most ecologically diverse in the world!

Weather in Costa Rica and Peak Times to Visit

The weather in Costa Rica is fairly warm, year-round. On average, it’s between 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. But expect to experience some microclimates during your honeymoon in the cloud forests and higher elevations if you visit.

Their rainy season is during summer into fall (around May through November) but this is also the low season for tourists. It’s typical for it to rain a little bit everyday during the rainy season but not the entire day. It is incredibly lush and green during these months. You may also find better deals during summer than during peak season in winter, whether honeymoon packages, hotels or adventure activities for your trip.

Time Zone, Currency and Language of Costa Rica

Costa Rica is on Central Standard Time (CST) and they do not observe Daylight Savings.

The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish. Yet most people you will encounter in the tourism world during your Costa Rica Honeymoon – from hotels and resorts to tour guides – speak English. Communication shouldn’t be an issue even if you don’t speak Spanish.

The currency in Costa Rica is called colones, with $1 USD equaling about ₡550 Costa Rican colones.

Getting to Costa Rica

Costa Rica is south of North America, and just a flight or two away. You’ll be relaxing on your honeymoon in Costa Rica after about a half day or full day of travel, depending on your point of departure.

Airports for your Costa Rica Honeymoon

You’ll likely travel to your honeymoon destination from the nearest airport and fly into SJO airport, Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose.

Here’s three sample flight paths from major metropolitan areas in the United States and associated costs during for flights the last week of June.

New York City (JFK) to San Jose (SJO): Prices can range from approximately $400 to $800 for round-trip economy class tickets
Los Angeles (LAX) to San Jose (SJO): Prices can range from approximately $400 to $700 for round-trip economy class tickets.
Chicago (ORD) to San Jose (SJO): Prices can range from approximately $450 to $800 for round-trip economy class tickets.
Miami (MIA) to San Jose (SJO): Prices can range from approximately $300 to $600 for round-trip economy class tickets.
Dallas (DFW) to San Jose (SJO): Prices can range from approximately $450 to $800 for round-trip economy class tickets.

Family and friends can easily help contribute to your Costa Rica honeymoon airfare with the help of a Honeyfund Costa Rica honeymoon registry.

Visa and Passport Information for Your Costa Rica Honeymoon

You don’t need a visa to visit Costa Rica, but you will need a valid passport with one available page for stamps for the length of your honeymoon visit. You’ll also need proof of a return flight or onward trip leaving the country. (Even if you fall in love with the country – which we suspect you will – you can’t stay!)

Vaccinations Needed for Your Honeymoon in Costa Rica

Routine vaccines (including Chicken Pox, Polio, and the Flu) are recommended for your honeymoon, plus some additional vaccines.

It’s advised most travelers get Hepatitis A and Typhoid, and potentially Yellow Fever and Malaria vaccines if you’re traveling to certain parts of the country.

Costa Rica LGBTQ+ Considerations

Costa Rica was a Central American leader in the gay rights movement, as the first in the region to legalize gay marriage in spring 2020.

While the progress may be slow it’s certainly at the forefront of the country’s priorities. LGBTQ+ couples honeymooning in Costa Rica can expect to have a relaxing getaway.

Food to try in Costa Rica during your Honeymoon

The food in Costa Rica is delicious! Here’s five things you should be sure to try while on your Costa Rica honeymoon:

Gallo pinto: Rice and beans, eaten for any meal, including breakfast.
Salsa Lizano: This delicious brand name condiment is on nearly every table in Costa Rica.
Tamales: Typically including rice, beans, vegetables and a protein (like beef or chicken) wrapped in banana leaves. They are a popular dish in Costa Rica during Christmas time, especially.
Casado: This is simply a combination plate typical of any Costa Rican home or restaurant.
Ceviche: Mild white fish is cooked while marinating in lime juice in this refreshing and healthy dish.

5 Popular Areas of Costa Rica & Things to do in Costa Rica ,

Arenal and La Fortuna

The stars of the destination in Arenal and La Fortuna are two things: Arenal volcano and natural hot springs, resulting from the active volcano.

Sign up for an excursion to go whitewater rafting on the Toro River, or visit La Fortuna Waterfall, with a natural pool at its base. The waterfall at La Paz is also a must-see in the area. If you’re into agritourism head to North Fields Cafe for a coffee farm tour.

Monteverde

If your heart is set on seeing a rainforest, a cloud forest in Costa Rica may be what you’re craving. The Monteverde Cloud Forest (a rainforest at a higher elevation) is rich with wildlife, both flora and fauna. Hike through the forest to enjoy a romantic adventure on your honeymoon.

You can also take a zip line canopy tour in Monteverde, a unique way to experience the cloud forest.

Puntarenas and the Osa Peninsula

One of the most well known national parks in Costa Rica is Manuel Antonio. It’s on the western Pacific Ocean side of the country; the ocean views from its beaches are stunning. Honeymooners who visit can hike its nature trails for a break from the beach. It’s also fun to try to spot sloths, monkeys and birds along the journey. Manuel Antonio National Park is incredibly popular and sometimes has a wait to get in because they control the volume of park visitors throughout the day.

Also close by is the Osa Peninsula. This area is a wildlife and nature haven where you can see colorful red, yellow and blue Macaws flying overhead as you enjoy beach sand between your toes.

Guanacaste

This popular province of Costa Rica has plenty to do on your Costa Rica honeymoon. Go whitewater tubing on the Rio Negro (or Black River), enjoy the beach at Playa Tamarindo, or take surfing lessons at Hermosa Beach.

Visit Liberia in Guanacaste, nicknamed the “White City” because of its white-painted architecture. (There’s also an international airport in Liberia, formally named Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, code LIR. It’s a little smaller than the country’s main international airport in San Jose. If you want to quickly get from San Jose to Liberia, consider a short domestic flight.)Consider visiting one of the many national parks on the Papagayo Peninsula, including:

Marino Las Baulas National Park
Diria National Park
Barra Honda National Park
Palo Verde National Park

Tortuguero

Tortuguero is on the northeast coast of Costa Rica. It’s famous for Tortuguero National Park, where sea turtles crawl onto the beach to lay their eggs and nest from June to mid-October. It’s an adventure for the turtles and for visitors – but you should sign up for a tour with a professional guide to ensure you’re respecting nature, the beach and animals. Seeing the turtles nest at night is an unforgettable experience.
You and your spouse can sign up for a kayaking excursion to spot wildlife in the intracoastal waterways, or go sport fishing on the Caribbean Sea.

Honeymooners should stay at a hotel with a pool if you love to swim, since the waters along the northeast coast aren’t suitable for swimming. This is due to strong currents and sharks.

Where To Stay

Once you’ve gotten an idea of all there is to do in this adventurous country, it’s time to decide where you’ll want to stay for your trip! Whether you seek the serenity of a beachfront sanctuary or the charm of a historic hacienda, these five Marriott properties epitomize luxury, romance, and adventure.

JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa

Nestled along the Guanacaste coastline, the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa offers an idyllic setting amidst the tropical landscape. With its spacious rooms, world-class spa, multiple swimming pools, and diverse dining options, this luxurious beachfront retreat sets the stage for unforgettable experiences. Couples can lose themselves in romantic walks along the pristine beach or relax in a pampering couple’s massage at the spa.

Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen

Immerse yourself in a captivating blend of history and modernity at the Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, located near San Jose. Housed within a meticulously preserved 17th-century hacienda, this enchanting retreat blends colonial charm with contemporary amenities. Take a walk through the beautiful courtyard, unwind by the outdoor pool, and indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment.

W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal

A contemporary resort located along the pristine Guanacaste coastline, the W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal resort is on the top of our list because of its luxurious rooms, breathtaking infinity pool, and direct access to a pristine beach. Couples can enjoy activities such as snorkeling and kayaking, or simply relax by the pool, soaking up priceless ocean views.

The Westin Golf Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal:

The Westin Golf Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal invites couples into a world of all-inclusive indulgence. With its spacious suites, championship golf course, world-class spa, and varied dining options, this resort caters to every desire. Lounge on the stunning Playa Conchal beach, couples can venture into the enchanting Rincon de la Vieja National Park, or revel in the abundance of amenities offered within the resort’s property.

Costa Rica Honeymoon Registry

Don’t forget to start your honeymoon registry for your adventures in Central America with Honeyfund. Begin with our sample Costa Rica Honeymoon Registry.