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Golden Adventures: A Week in Costa Rica - Arenal to Beach Bliss

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Day 1: Arrive in Costa Rica

San Jose, Costa Rica on September 19, 2025

3:00PM

Flight Arrival

Arrive at San Jose's Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO). Make your way to your accommodation in San Jose for the night.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 2: Travel to Arenal

Arenal, Costa Rica on September 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at El Patio del Café

Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican breakfast with a focus on fresh ingredients and local flavors.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Transfer to Arenal

Take a scenic 3-hour drive to the Arenal area, known for its stunning volcano and rich biodiversity.
USD120, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at Hotel Mountain Paradise

Settle into your private pool room at the luxury Hotel Mountain Paradise, located near Arenal Volcano.
USD300, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Bistro Arenal

Try their amazing seafood and colorful tropical dishes while soaking in views of Arenal Volcano.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

La Fortuna Waterfall

Hike down to La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can swim in the cool waters at the bottom of the falls.
USD15, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Don Rufino

Enjoy upscale dining with a menu featuring local ingredients and international flair.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 3: Adventure in Arenal

Arenal, Costa Rica on September 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel Restaurant

Indulge in a hearty breakfast buffet with local fruits and dishes to fuel your day of adventure.
USD0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Suspension Bridge Hike

Explore the rainforest canopy on this 3-kilometer trail with breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
USD30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Ventanita

Relax with delicious tacos and local craft beers while enjoying the Arenal views.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hot Springs Experience

Spend your afternoon relaxing in natural hot springs, known for their rejuvenating properties.
USD60, 4 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Fortuna

Enjoy traditional Costa Rican dishes in a cozy family-run restaurant, loved by locals and tourists alike.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore Arenal

Arenal, Costa Rica on September 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a fresh, locally-sourced breakfast provided by your hotel.
USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Arenal Volcano National Park

Hike the trails to witness stunning views of the volcano and rich wildlife including sloths and capuchin monkeys.
USD15, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante Rústico

Enjoy artisanal pizzas and other satisfying meals made from fresh ingredients in a rustic atmosphere.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Chocolate Tour

Discover the chocolate-making process from bean to bar, with plenty of tasting opportunities along the way!
USD45, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at El Novillo del Arenal

Enjoy a delicious feast featuring grilled meats and fresh salads, served in a casual, welcoming environment.
USD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Transfer to the Beach

Guanacaste, Costa Rica on September 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy one last breakfast in Arenal before heading to the beach.
USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Transfer to Guanacaste Beach

Take approximately a 4-hour drive to Guanacaste, famous for its stunning beaches.
USD120, 4 hours

1:00PM

Check-in at Secrets Papagayo

Start your beachfront vacation in a luxurious suite with a private plunge pool, ready for relaxation.
USD300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lunch at the Hotel

Savor international cuisine at the seaside restaurant in your resort.
USD50, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Beach Relaxation

Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach or swimming in the warm Pacific Ocean.
USD0, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Papagayo Seafood

Indulge in fresh seafood dishes paired with local cocktails while enjoying ocean views.
USD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Guanacaste

Day 6: Beach Bliss

Guanacaste, Costa Rica on September 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Kickstart your day with a tropical breakfast at the resort.
USD0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Water Sports

Enjoy various water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
USD80, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Playa del Coco

Dine at a beachside café serving local dishes with a lovely ocean view.
USD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Nearby Beaches

Venture to Tamrindo or Playa Hermosa and discover their beautiful shores.
USD0, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Café de Playa

Enjoy a casual dinner with gourmet pizzas and a selection of wines at this beachside favorite.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 7: Final Day at the Beach

Guanacaste, Costa Rica on September 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Savor your last breakfast while overlooking the beautiful coastline.
USD0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Morning Beach Walk

Take a peaceful morning stroll along the beach, enjoying the views and the soothing sound of the waves.
USD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Free Time for Relaxation

Spend your last hours in Costa Rica unwinding at the beach or poolside.
USD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Coco Beach

Indulge in a delicious lunch at a beach restaurant famous for its refreshing drinks and seafood options.
USD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Prepare for Departure

Check-out from your hotel and transfer back to San Jose.
USD120, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner near the Airport

Choose from various restaurants for a final dinner before your flight, such as Café Grano.
USD30, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Guanacaste

Day 8: Return to Chicago

San Jose, Costa Rica on September 26, 2025

10:00AM

Flight Departure

Depart from San Jose's Juan Santamaria International Airport back to Chicago.
USD0, 1 hour
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