Most beautiful beach

Surfer's paradise
Dream beach meets jungle paradise: Santa Teresa is the hotspot for surfers from all over the world, but divers, kite surfers and sun worshipers are also in the right place here - between fine sand, crystal clear water and fantastic sunsets.

©Mauritius Images

National Park Tip

Manuel Antonio National Park
A chirping welcoming committee awaits visitors of the smallest but probably most beautiful national park in Costa Rica. Here you can observe numerous tropical animal species in their natural habitat.

©iStock

Gourmet tips

Jaguar Negro

Buen provecho! In lively San José, the trendy Jaguar Negro invites you to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine. Chef Rodrigo Montesinos serves traditionally prepared tacos, entradas and fine meat and fish dishes in an elegant, tropical atmosphere. jaguarcocina.com

©Jaguar Negro

Restaurant Silvestre

From a roast rack of lamb to ripe bananas with cheese, Silvestre is known for outstanding cuisine with a focus on modern Costa Rican influences. In addition to constant development, the focus here is also placed on regional ingredients. restaurantesilvestre.com

©Restaurant Silvestre

Hotel tips

Nayara Tented Camp

An oasis above the canopy. The thought of spending a night in a tent in the jungle may seem a little strange at first - but anyone who sets foot in Nayara will quickly change their mind, because the "tents" in the Tented Camp are exclusive luxury retreats in elegant safari chic style. Built on stilts and equipped with their own spring water pool, they offer a magnificent panoramic view of the tropical forest. A personal guide organizes jungle excursions and fine dining, yoga classes, and an open-air spa await in the neighbouring tents. 

Nayara Tented Camp
De, Alajuela Province, La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Tel: +1 844 865 2002
Web: nayaratentedcamp.com
Price: From € 865,- per night incl. breakfast

Nayara Springs

©Nayara Springs

Exclusive Jungle Hideaway. The Nayara Springs invites visitors into the wild green and species-rich jungle. Dark natural wood, exotic furnishings and stylish details - the light-flooded villas are a pleasure to stay in. The jump into the heated private pool is just as appealing as the tranquillity of the private garden, featuring a rain shower. 

Nayara Springs
De, Alajuela Province, San Carlos, Costa Rica
Tel: +1 888 332 2961
Web: nayarasprings.com
Price: From € 687,- including breakfast

Kura Boutique Hotel

©Mike Dell

In Kura, an architect and a biologist have joined forces to successfully combine modern design and sustainability. The result is something to be proud of: the Adultsonly boutique hotel in minimalist style convinces with panoramic views of the jungle, excellent cuisine and luxurious comfort in eight suites. 

Kura Boutique Hotel
Private Rd Puntarenas Uvita de Osa, Costa Rica
Tel: +1 844 783 4507
Web: kuracostarica.com
Price: From about € 700,- including breakfast

Arenas Del Mar

©Arenas Del Mar

A luxury resort in Manuel Antonio National Park. The five-star hotel between tropical forest and sandy beach impresses with its elegant ambience and personal service, for example during a jungle excursion with its own guide. Guests spend relaxing hours in the wellness centre or, with a cocktail in hand, on the private beach. 

Arenas Del Mar
Road to Arenas del Mar Manuel Antonio, Puntarenas 60601, Costa Rica
Tel: +1 888 385 9218
Web: arenasdelmar.com
Price: From € 385,- in Garden Room with kitchenette

Shopping Tip

Popular souvenir
Café Britt is dedicated to the finest specialities and is rightly considered the domestic gourmet roaster of choice in Costa Rica. cafebritt.com

Related: Finally long distance travel again - Costa Rica

Text: Karin Cerny, Marion Genetti and Christina Horn