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14-Day Adventure & Relaxation in Costa Rica

Viewed by 65 travelers

Day 1: New Year's Eve

San Jose, Costa Rica

9:00AM

Explore San Jose

Start your day with a cultural dive in San Jose by visiting the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, rich in history and heritage.
Take a local bus or taxi to the museum.
USD 15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Limoncillo

Savor Costa Rican dishes made with fresh, local ingredients at this vibrant restaurant.
Walk 15 minutes from the museum.
USD 25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit La Sabana Park

Stroll through Costa Rica's largest city park, enjoying art, nature, and on-site sports.
Catch a local bus to La Sabana.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Silvestre

Celebrate the last evening of the year with exquisite gourmet cuisine in a lovely setting.
Short taxi ride from the park.
USD 45, 2 hours

8:00PM

New Year's Eve Celebration

Join the local festivities at Plaza de la Cultura, where you can enjoy live music and dance before the countdown.
Walk to the plaza from the restaurant.
Free, 4 hours
Find Hotels in San Jose

Day 2: New Year's Day

San Jose, Costa Rica

10:00AM

Brunch at Café Rojo

Recover from last night's festivities with a hearty brunch at this cozy café known for its delicious coffee.
Short walk from your accommodation.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit the National Theatre

Explore the stunning architecture and rich history of Costa Rica's national cultural jewel.
15-minute walk from the café.
USD 10, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shopping Souvenirs

Take some time to shop for unique Costa Rican souvenirs in the artisan market of Mercado Central.
Short taxi ride to the market.
Free (cost of souvenirs vary), 2 hours

5:00PM

Prepare for Beach

Pack your bags and relax at your hotel while getting excited about the next adventure.
Return to your accommodation.
N/A, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Tin Jo

Enjoy a delightful Asian fusion dining experience at this restaurant featuring an enticing ambiance.
Taxi to Tin Jo.
USD 35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in San Jose

Day 3: Travel to the Beach

Jaco Beach, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican breakfast with Gallo Pinto before heading to the beach.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Jaco Beach

Take a shuttle or bus to Jaco Beach to enjoy the vibrant coastline and surf culture.
Board the bus from the San Jose terminal.
USD 10, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Check-in at the Hotel

Settle into your beachfront hotel and prepare for fun in the sun.
Walk to your hotel from the bus stop.
USD 100 (for the night), 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Soda Jaco

Experience traditional Costa Rican 'casados' at this popular local spot with fresh flavors.
Walk to the soda.
USD 15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Surfing Lessons

Join a surf class for beginners and learn how to ride the waves along beautiful Jaco Beach.
Find local surf schools along the beach.
USD 50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kopper's

Enjoy a relaxed dinner overlooking the ocean, focusing on seafood dishes and local craft beer.
Walk along the beach to the restaurant.
USD 30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Jaco Beach

Day 4: Beach Day

Jaco Beach, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Taco Bar

Recharge your energy with a fresh breakfast burrito at this casual beachside eatery.
Walk to Taco Bar from your hotel.
USD 12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Beach Time!

Spend the day lounging on the beach or participating in beach volleyball with friendly locals.
Enjoy the beach right in front of your hotel.
Free, Rest of the day

1:00PM

Lunch at La Galette

Indulge in delicious crepes at this relaxed French-inspired café in Jaco.
Walking distance from the beach.
USD 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

ATV Tour

Get your adrenaline pumping with an ATV adventure through the hills surrounding Jaco.
Book an ATV tour from local providers.
USD 70, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at El Hicaco

Relish a sumptuous dinner surrounded by stunning ocean views while highlighting local cuisine.
Short walk from your hotel.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Jaco Beach

Day 5: More Surfing

Jaco Beach, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

A fulfilling breakfast of eggs, fruits, and local coffee will set you up for a fantastic day.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Surfing Practice

Continue honing your surfing skills by hitting the waves with your newfound friends.
Head to the beach.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Taco Joint

Taste delicious tacos with local ingredients just a short stroll from the beach.
Walk to Taco Joint.
USD 15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relaxation at the Beach

Take some time to relax and bask under the sun, with a good book in hand.
Return to your beach spot.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at PuddleFish Brewery

Enjoy local craft beers paired with tasty pub food while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere.
Walk to the brewery from the beach.
USD 30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Jaco Beach

Day 6: Last Beach Day

Jaco Beach, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cocal

Start your day with a hearty breakfast set against the lively atmosphere of the beach.
Walk to Cocal Restaurant.
USD 20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Beach & Free Activities

Enjoy your last day at Jaco Beach, taking part in beach games or renting a paddleboard.
Head to the beach.
Variable (depending on activity), Rest of the day

1:00PM

Lunch at El Cex

Experience refreshing seafood dishes at this laid-back eatery in Jaco.
Walk along the beach.
USD 25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Last Swim

Take one last dip in the ocean before packing for your trek into the jungles.
Enjoy the beach one last time.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner and Drinks at The Green Room

Wrap up your beach stay with a delicious meal and drinks at this hotspot combining a lively bar and kitchen.
Short walk from the beach.
USD 35, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Jaco Beach

Day 7: Travel to Arenal

Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast at the beach before transitioning to the mountain air.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Arenal

Journey to Arenal, home to the majestic volcano and lush rainforests awaiting exploration.
Take a taxi or shared shuttle to Arenal.
USD 40, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at the Hotel

Settle in and enjoy lunch at your accommodations before the thrilling activities ahead.
Walk from your drop-off point to the hotel.
USD 100, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Arenal Observatory Lodge

Savor breathtaking views while enjoying a delicious meal from the lookout of the lodge.
Dining at the lodge.
USD 25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Arenal Volcano National Park

Embark on a guided tour exploring the diverse wildlife and hiking trails of the volcano.
Access the park by transportation from the hotel.
USD 15, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Gato Negro

Unwind with a delicious dinner featuring Costa Rican flavors in a relaxed ambiance.
Short transport or a taxi from the park.
USD 35, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Arenal Volcano

Day 8: Zip-lining Adventure

Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your lodge before an adventurous day ahead.
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Zip-lining Tour

Experience the thrill of soaring through the treetops at the Arenal Canopy Adventure.
Meet at designated spot near the hotel.
USD 75, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Don Rufino

After zip-lining, lunch at this restaurant will reenergize you with local dishes.
Return to La Fortuna for lunch.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hot Springs Relaxation

Spend a relaxing afternoon soaking in the therapeutic natural hot springs in Arenal.
Transport to the hot springs.
USD 50, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante La Fortuna

Enjoy a delightful dinner with stunning views of the volcano while tasting gourmet dishes.
Return to La Fortuna.
USD 40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Arenal Volcano

Day 9: More Jungle Adventures

Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Another hearty breakfast awaits you at the lodge, preparing for a day filled with adventure.
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Canyoning Adventure

Experience a thrilling waterfall rappelling experience surrounded by breathtaking jungle views.
Depart for canyoning tour provided by local operators.
USD 80, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at a Local Soda

Recharge with local flavors at a nearby sodas after your adventure.
Return to the nearest town.
USD 15, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

Hike to see the dramatic La Fortuna Waterfall and enjoy a refreshing swim at the base.
Local tour guide transportation available.
USD 15, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Back Door

Enjoy a casual dinner featuring burgers and great ambiance back in La Fortuna.
Head back to La Fortuna.
USD 25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Arenal Volcano

Day 10: Nature Walk & ATV

Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Fortify yourself with breakfast at the lodge before another exhilarating day.
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Nature Walk

Join a guided nature walk through the trails where you can spot exotic wildlife and flora.
Meet at the trailhead to begin the adventure.
USD 40, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lava Restaurant

Savor a delicious meal at this restaurant overlooking the volcano.
Short trip from the nature area.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

ATV Adventure

Take a thrilling ATV ride through the lush jungles and rugged terrains surrounding Arenal.
Meet your ATV operator.
USD 70, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Nene

Wind down the evening enjoying Costa Rican flavors with a delightful family-owned restaurant.
Return to La Fortuna.
USD 35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Arenal Volcano

Day 11: Travel to Monteverde

Monteverde, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Fuel up again with a warm breakfast while soaking up the views of the volcano.
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Monteverde

Transition into the mystical cloud forests by taking a scenic ride to Monteverde.
Shuttle transport from Arenal to Monteverde.
USD 25, 3.5 hours

12:30PM

Check-in at the Hotel

Settle into your cloud forest hotel, which will be surrounded by nature.
Walking distance to your hotel.
USD 100, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at The Cloud Forest Restaurant

Enjoy unique dining while immersed in nature at this restaurant overlooking the forest.
Walk to this beautiful location.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Immerse yourself in the misty trails of the reserve surrounded by diverse wildlife.
Take a shuttle or walk to the reserve.
USD 20, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Morpho

Enjoy satisfying Italian fare paired with fragrant local wines to complete your day in the clouds.
Short taxi to the restaurant.
USD 30, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Monteverde

Day 12: Cloud Forest Wonders

Monteverde, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast while enjoying the serenity of the cloud forest.
Breakfast included at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Suspension Bridge Hike

Experience a thrilling walk across suspension bridges hovering above the forest, soaking in the views.
Access the nearby suspension bridge park.
USD 30, 2 hours

11:00AM

Coffee Tour

Take a guided tour of a coffee plantation and learn about the coffee-making process from plant to cup.
Local transportation to the coffee farm.
USD 25, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Bohemian Cafe

Dine among local artists while enjoying a twist on traditional fare in this artistic café.
Short walk from the coffee plantation.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Monteverde Butterfly Gardens

Marvel at the vibrant butterflies in a protected sanctuary dedicated to these ethereal creatures.
Walk or take a short taxi from the café.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Tree House Restaurant

Feast on gourmet cuisine within a beautifully crafted treehouse surrounded by nature.
Short taxi from the butterfly garden.
USD 40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Monteverde

Day 13: Relaxing at the Coast

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

A final breakfast in the mountains to prepare for your relaxing beach retreat.
Breakfast at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Manuel Antonio

Enjoy the scenic journey down to simmering coastal beauty in Manuel Antonio.
Shuttle or taxi to Manuel Antonio.
USD 30, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at the Hotel

Arrive and unwind at your selected beachfront hotel in Manuel Antonio.
Walking distance from the bus stop.
USD 100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at El Avion

Dine at this unique restaurant housed in a plane, overlooking breathtaking views of the coastline.
Short taxi ride to the restaurant.
USD 35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax on the Beach

Spend the afternoon gazing out at the ocean and indulging in serene beach activities.
Short walk to the beach.
Free, Rest of the day

7:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Antonio

Savor the best of Italian cuisine in a beautiful setting after a day of relaxation.
Walk back from the beach.
USD 40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Day 14: Final Day at the Beach

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

8:30AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and soak in the final moments of your beach getaway.
Breakfast included at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Manuel Antonio National Park

Visit one of Costa Rica's most famous national parks, known for its rich wildlife and stunning beaches.
Transfer to the park entrance.
USD 18, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Milagro

Enjoy lunch at this local café famous for its coffee, fresh meals, and chill ambiance.
Short walk from the park.
USD 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax on the Beach

Spend your last afternoon in Costa Rica enjoying the sun and sand or take a final swim.
Head back to the beach.
Free, Rest of the day

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Pacifico

Conclude your adventure with a farewell dinner featuring Chinese/Pacific cuisine while enjoying sunset views.
Short distance walk from the beach.
USD 50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Manuel Antonio
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