Which is why you should put a couples trip to Costa Rica on your list.

Costa Rica is a great place to travel with your sweetheart, as it’s still a bit rough around the edges but absolutely accessible even for a travel novice. You can get out into the wilderness or luxuriate at a spa - or both.

Now, it’s probably too late to book a Costa Rica trip to celebrate this Valentine’s Day (although it never hurts to see if it’s listed among the cheap Valentine’s Day getaways, you know), but that doesn’t mean you can’t start planning a romantic trip for two anyway - whether you wait until next February or surprise your special someone with a trip at another time of year.

Your best bet, especially if you’re traveling on a budget, is to start getting an idea of the cost of Costa Rica airfare as soon as possible. Set up a “fare alert” with an airfare booking site so that you’ll know when the price goes up or down. That will give you a good idea of what prices to expect at different times of year, and when the best time to book is.

Then, you’ll be pleased to know, your money will go further when it comes to accommodation. Even if you’re used to roughing it and staying in the cheapest hostels you can find, you might want to upgrade slightly to at least cheap hotels in Costa Rica when you’re traveling with your sweetie. Not only could this win you points for “splurging” on something that still won’t break the bank, it could also save your trip from turning into a shouting match when your other half wonders why you booked a dorm room at the hostel.

photo by cstrom

Moto Adventures

If you are looking for a custom fit, off road adventure that takes on some of the most versatile trails available, visit with founder and principal guide, Larry Larrabure. In a country rich in rain forest, jungle areas, and volcanic mountains, Larry and his expert crew will escort you on a motorcycle tour certain to satisfy the daring spirit. The off road itinerary comes in one, two, or three day tours, and features the likes of a 12,000 feet high ride through cloud-blanketed forests. Though sharing locations, the adventure tours are mostly smooth, blacktop riding. Gear up and ride through the scenic Central Valley region, along the Pacific beach line, through the coffee plantations, and then visit the volcano of your choice. As some of the tours include accommodations and food, the tour pricing is variable and sometimes costly. All MotoAdventures motorcycles are well maintained, and the guide knows his stuff. You can contact them at MotoAdventures Inc., USA Phone 440-256-8508.

Costa Rica Motorcycle Tours

This family owned business will personalize your tour. Here you will meet a knowledgeable staff of trained professionals, all intimately acquainted with the Costa Rica landscape. After helping you plan and budget a tour that reflects your expectations, they will set you up on a well-maintained and carefully selected motorcycle. The tours are “Easy Rider” style: paved roads. You travel along the Pacific Coast, reside in bungalows, and experience the Arenal Volcano. Costa Rica Motorcycle Tours strives to avoid technical riding. The accommodations are user-friendly, bed and breakfast lodges along with select off the mainstream hotels. The tours are not forced escorted, but rates are reasonable to what value you receive. Full tours include airport pickup and coach ride, motorcycle rental, accommodations, and breakfast. Your contact information is: P.O. Box 2907-1000, San José, Costa Rica, Telephone: (506)2225-6000.

Moto Tours Costa Rica

Wayne and R.J. Faddis have a passion for motorcycling. As long time off-road riders, they know the joy of a good adventure. They pick their equipment with care, and they plot for tours in places where motorcycles are welcome. This creates for cultural immersion such that riders can share something deeper than a mere roadside view. Though trips can be self-guided, perhaps you prefer the Southern Peninsula and Jaco tour. Here you ride the mountain ridgelines and peer down at the Pacific throughout the day. You can cross the Nicoya Peninsula, then ride dirt all the way to Samara. Come evening, you can sit on the deck, watch the beach across the street, and sleep in air conditioning. Samara is a surfer town, with great restaurants, quiet nights, and cool air. The rides are sometimes exhausting, but you will see and experience parts of Costa Rica that are beyond the reach of standard means of transport. Prices are comparable with other tour services. You can reach Moto Tours at Toll Free U.S. Number: 1-877-660-3832, Local U.S. Number: 540-230-7618, or Costa Rica Number: 506-8314-8053 or 506-8314-8108.

Motos Costa Rica

Welcome to Atenas where you will rest at B & B Villas de la Colina in Barrio Mercedes just thirty minutes from the San Jose Airport. Featuring a duel sport, eight day, deluxe volcano and beach tour, the Suarez family and Motorcycles Costa Rica will start you out on a short exploration of the area around Atenas. Day two affords scenic roads, topiary gardens, and perhaps the sounds of eruptions from Volcan Arenal. Nighttime is sometimes enhanced by lava on the hillside and a shower of sparks. Evenings are relaxed with opportunity to hike through the jungle and perhaps hear and see the howler monkeys as they move from tree to tree. Road tours include volcano and beach road routes through southern Costa Rica, Panama, and Nicaragua. Pricing is based on double occupancy with reduced rate for non-riders. Evening meals are not included. And a 50% deposit is required to confirm bookings. These are standard conditions for all of the motorcycle tour services. Your contact information is: Hotel Villas de la Colina, 2446-5015, or Fred Brown 276-228-3118,

H-C Travel

Established in 1994, H-C Travel is a worldwide tour agency. They have the knowledge, expertise, and experience to provide customers with a ride to remember. They were the first motorcycle tour operator in the UK to wind a national travel award. As a customer conscious agency, they offer 100% guaranteed financial protection for your holiday money. Holding an ATOL license, they can book your flights as well as accommodations. They handle guided tours, self-guided tours, and rentals. Rates are average, and time waste is minimal. Basic trail highlights are Turrialba volcano, airplane trail, Pacific Ocean, and skyline trail. Contact information is H-C Travel, 16 High Street, Overton, Hampshire RG25 3HA, England. Phone 01256 770775.

Pit Bull Pass

Located near Orosi, Pit Bull Pass is not for the faint of heart. Starting at the town’s church the trail follows a gravel path towards Tapanti National Park. At Kiri Lodge a steep gravel road leads up to the mountain, taking about 35 to 45 minutes to reach the summit. Once at the top of Pit Bull Pass there are incredible views of the Turrialba Valley. The trail descends into primary and secondary rainforest, is quite scenic, filled with wildlife and offers a very technical, challenging ride. The route winds through the villages of Pejibaye, Tucurrique, Cachi and back to Orosi. The trail is 45 miles long (72.41 kilometers) and is recommended for advanced riders. Most riders take about six hours to complete the journey.

Drake’s Bay - Aquila de Osa Inn

Isolated, self sufficient and eco friendly, this rainforest inn has added mountain biking trails to their list of offerings for adventurous travelers. Drake’s Bay is accessible by boat or by a handful of dirt roads through the rainforest. The bike trails make use of some of these roads on routes that begin at Drake Bay’s beach and, depending on the route chosen, take from 1 ½ to almost 3 hours to complete. The simplest, known as Drake’s Planes takes you down into a river canyon, across a rope and wood suspension bridge and then uphill to Los Planes. Riders then can head back down towards the beach or take one of the side trails that loop through more old growth forest and pastures. The initial trail is suitable for beginners; the side trails are steeper and perhaps best for those with a bit more mountain biking experience. Bikes and helmets are available at the inn.

Irazu Volcano

Irazu Volcano tops out at over eleven thousand feet and last erupted in 1963. This intermediate trail starts in the parking lot, starting off on pavement then switching to a rough semi-graveled jeep trail after about 2 miles (3 kilometers). Working your way through ruts, loose rocks and segments of sand you are rewarded with impressive views of the valley, rich farmlands and lush primary rainforest. The trail has three options to finish. One is an off-road descent suitable for advanced riders that leads to Santa Cruz, the second is an easy ride on a paved road down to Capellades and the third is an incredibly scenic paved trail all the way to Turrialba.

Lake Arenal North and South Shore

Costa Rica’s Lake Arenal is the largest inland body of water in the country and is also home to the very active Arenal Volcano. Two distinctive bike trails ring the lake and offer impressive views of not only the surrounding countryside but of the imposing volcanic cone on the eastern shore. The northern trail is great for beginners offering a relaxing ride on a gently sloping, paved road starting in either Nuevo Arenal or Fortuna. The southern route is more challenging. A thirty minute boat ride takes you from Lake Arenal dam to Rio Chiquito. From there, a dirt road crossing several creeks leads you to the village of El Castillo and then the ride becomes a bit easier. A gravel road travels along Arenal National Park eventually meeting up with the paved road to Fortuna. Most riders take about three hours to make the trip from Rio Chiquito to Fortuna.

Poas Volcano to Doka Estate Farm

Beginning riders can combine the fun of chasing rainbows and looking for Quetzel birds along a part paved, part graveled trail with a visit to one of Costa Rica’s most productive and prized coffee farms. Start your ride at the Poas Volcano parking lot and follow the road down to the town of Poasito. Continue downhill to Sabana Redonda, home of Doka Estate Farms. Take a tour of the mill and roasting facilities, enjoy a buffet lunch and of course sample the coffee. The total ride distance is 13 miles (21 kilometers) and is rated easy.

Fortuna to Nuevo Arenal Epic

One of the most challenging and scenic rides in Costa Rica starts on a dirt road near a cemetery leading to La Guaria. After crossing the Arenal River (in the water, the bridge is past its prime) the trail climbs toward Monterrey and Lindavista ending at a mountain top overlooking the Vanado Valley. Continuing south takes you past the Vanado Caverns and the town of Tigra and eventually to the six thousand foot ridge that overlooks Lake Arenal’s northern shore. The return is on a downhill dirt road that takes you to Toad Hall. From there it is 28 miles (44 kilometers) of paved road back to Fortuna. The ride itself is about 6 or 7 hours, but when taking in the scenery becomes an unforgettable all day journey.

By Plane

There are several websites online that will give you cheap flights from San Jose to Quepos. If you’re worried about your flight being a hit-or-miss, then you needn’t worry. There are always two flight carriers that run between San Jose and Quepos. There are a little over fifty flights that take place on a weekly basis between these two cities. Roundtrip tickets usually costs around ninety dollars with the usually being around twenty minutes. The flight stays low enough that you will, again, get a scenic view of what’s below you, so be sure to take your camera with you. The weight limit for luggage is about twenty pounds, so you will want to definitely keep it on the light side. With this flight information, it should be easy to get a cheap and easy flight.

By Car

Driving from San Jose to Quepos is a very scenic drive that takes you through towns such as Atenas, Orotina, Tarcoles, Jaco, and Parrita. Because the drive from San Jose to Quepos is about one-hundred miles on a paved road, it is really best to plan the trip to be about three to four hours by car. Of course, this depends on how the weather is and how busy the traffic is. The drive will take you through the mountains and gives you a scenic look at wildlife such as crocodiles, scarlet macaws, as well as other forms of wildlife and other waterfowl. Take your time travelling and whatever you do, do not speed. The road is unmarked with several of the bridges going to a single lane. Also keep in mind that the local police use radars on the roads and like to target tourists in rental cars that may appear to have money. Abide by the speed limit which is usually about 50mph in the country, about 35mph in the city, and about 25mph in the downtown area. Be sure to always carry your state driver’s license and passport, as these are usually asked and required the local police. While there are signs to show you where to go and turn, is it very necessary to have a good map of the area just in case.

By Bus

From the Coca Cola bus station, you can regular bus rides from San Jose to Quepos. You will need to get your ticket in a couple of days in advance to assure that you will have a seat. Bus fares run about six dollars while tickets run about fifteen dollars for one person, twenty-five dollars for two people. Buses usually leave out of San Jose every couple of hours starting at 7:20 in the morning and lasting until 5:20 in the evening. Bus trips usually take about 3 ½ hours. Because the Coca Cola station is located in the red-light district of San Jose, tourists can be targeted for theft- so be careful.

By air

Since it only involves a 20-minute flight that leaves frequently from the airport, this is the quickest way to reach San Antonio. It is also the favorite method of travel for high-end tourists who plan on staying at the resort’s four-star hotels and visiting its luxurious spas. Some travelers tend to become anxious since the planes are quite small, and the amount of luggage they can store may also be limited. Those who choose this option will land in Quepos, which is serviced by Grupo Taca and Sansa Airlines, and go onto Manuel Antonio by cab from there.

By Bus

Any visitor who has a strong desire to experience the country’s culture will find that taking the bus is the best choice for them. The fares are very reasonable, and the express bus, which leaves from the Coca Cola terminal, will also get you there in three and a half hours. You won’t need a reservation, the bus leaves three times daily, and you will enjoy the both ride and the scenery.

By Car

If you are the adventuresome type and like to set out on your own, you should probably rent a car in San Jose. As a rule, driving in Costa Rica is not a problem, but you will notice at once that the roads aren’t as clearly marked as they are in the United States and other countries. Because the road to Quepos is bumpy and wildlife from the rainforest crosses the road, you will want a car with four-wheel drive. The ride is very picturesque, and you can visit rainforest “lookouts” and small restaurants along the way.

Leaving the airport and getting on to Highway1 can be tricky. Once you do, you will be heading west and exit at the sign that reads “to Alajuela.” First, you will looping back toward the airport, and when the road splits, take the exit for San Ramon, which is on the left. Leave Highway 1 at the Atenas sign, continue until you reach Orotina and exit when you get to the Jaco sign. (There will be no more turns until you arrive in Manuel Antonio.)

By Private Transportation

While this may be the most expensive way to travel in Costa Rica, it will also give you peace of mind because you won’t be concerned about getting directions, damaging the car, road conditions, or break-ins, as you will if you rent a car. While the cars might not be too fancy, this is essentially the equivalent to a limo or chauffeur service.

By Shuttle

Because it is shared with others, this means of travel is less expensive than private transportation, and it is also a wise choice. Shuttles pick up on schedule, and individual fares are charged. The only problem with shuttles is that you pay for every seat in the shuttle, even if you don’t have enough people to fill it. Thus, shuttles require large groups of people, which isn’t always easy to do when traveling alone.

Shuttle Services:
Costa Rica Shuttle
Interbus Costa Rica

Sarapiqui Outdoor Center

Featuring both hostel accommodations overlooking the Rio Sarapiqui and camping sites on its shores the Sarapiqui Outdoor Center offers a family friendly nature experience. The light and airy hostel is dorm style with a large community kitchen. Campsites are scattered along the riverbank and guests have access to showers, bathrooms and a kitchen area. Both the hostel and the camping sites include continental breakfast, parking, and complimentary internet. River rafting tours, kayak lessons and bike rentals are offered onsite. Location: 75 miles (115 kilometers) north from the Catholic Church, La Virgen de Sarapiqui, Heridia, Costa Rica
Phone: 506 276 11123
>>More Information

Rocking J’s

Rocking J’s Hostel offers travelers everything from sheltered camping lots to the rental of your own tree house in a jungle setting. One giant room known as the hammock hotel offers dorm style accommodations. Those looking for a bit more privacy can opt for smaller shared rooms or even individual cabanas with shared or private bathrooms. Surrounded by lush greenery and with the ocean steps away, this popular hideaway offers a true back to nature experience at reasonable prices. The hostel offers a fully stocked community kitchen, personal lockers, 24 hour security, DVD rentals, and an ocean view TV lounge. Ice cream and drinks are available around the clock. Parties, some of the themed variety, happen frequently. Location: 600 meters south of the bus station, Puerto Viejo de Limon, Talamanca, Costa Rica, Phone: 506 2750 0657
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Casa Zen

Casa Zen takes backpacking and camping in general to a whole new level. Located in the Mai Pais and Santa Teresa area and only 100 meters from the beach, this hostel offers both a Zen inspired guesthouse and a private camping area with showers, bathrooms and kitchen access. A restaurant, popular with guests and locals alike is onsite. Yoga lessons and massages at Casa Zen’s spa are offered, all reasonably priced. Location: Puntarenas, Costa Rica, Phone: 506 2640 0523
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Belen Trailer Park

Belen Trailer Park offers not only accommodation for those in RV’s but camping spots for backpackers as well. Reasonably priced, with plenty of trees and shaded areas, the park affords a peaceful quiet stay, yet is an easy bus ride from the local township. Belen Trailer Park is pet friendly, offers wireless internet access and has English speaking hosts. Location: 1 mile (2 kilometers) west of the Cariari Bridge on the main highway entering into San Antonio de Belen, Phone: 506 2239 0421 >>More Information

Chauita National Park

One of the few national parks in Costa Rica that allows camping, this one is set along an enviable stretch of white sand beach. Choose from hiking in the tropical forest or snorkeling and SCUBA diving in the rich marine environment. Established in 1978, the park is also known for an abundance of birds and wildlife, especially toucans and white faced monkeys. Location: the camping area is 4 miles past the town of Chauita, south of San Jose.

Marino Ballena National Park

Named after the migratory humpback whales that visit each year from December to April, this is one of the few places where it is still legal to camp on the beach. There are no services except for fresh water available at the ranger station. This is definitely roughing it, but the payoff is being close to one of the richest marine environments in the country. In addition to watching the humpbacks breach offshore, observe green marine iguanas as they alternately bask on rocks and dive to dine on algae growing beneath the surface. Bird watching is especially rewarding. Snorkeling and beach combing are excellent. Location: 120 miles (190 kilometers) southwest of San Jose on the Pacific Coast.

By Plane

NatureAir offers one of the only direct flights from San Jose to Drake Bay. These cost of these flights range from $70 US to $109 US. The only problem with NatureAir is trying to find a flight that fits your schedule. There are many different travel packages available with different traveling ways, but here in on of the best ones. With this one you will fly out of San Jose on a 45 minute flight to Palmar Sur. From there you will take an hour and 45 minute flight to Sierpe. At this time you will take a boat down the Sierpe River for 1 hour and 30 min. You will exit the boat onto the beach, and walk to your hotel. These packages include guides that will show you around the different must see sights of Drake Bay. If you are planning a trip to Drake Bay Costa Rica, you should research all the different flight packages offered to find the one most suitable for you and your family.

By Bus

This would be a lot cheaper than flying, but will also take a lot more time to arrive. Some think it is worth the longer travel time, because of the incredible scenery you will see on the way. Tracopa Bus will take you to Palmar Norte, the price is around $9 US round trip. This ride takes about 6 hours and will take you through the central highlands of Costa Rica. This is one of the most amazing bus rides you will ever take in your life, and for $9 I don’t know anyone that wouldn’t take advantage of that deal. When you arrive in Palmar Norte you will have to take another bus to Sierpe, and from there you will take a boat to Drake Bay.

By Car

If you would rather skip the airports and bus stations you can drive the trip yourself. You can rent a car in San Jose and drive all the way to Sierpe. Many people elect to take this option, so that they may take as much time needed for the scenic drive. However, you must remember you can not drive to Drake Bay. Therefore once you arrive in Sierpe you will still have to take a boat the rest of the way. Still this is one of the best ways to make the trip, no waiting at the airports or bus stations, no loud sounds, just you and the beautiful surrounding areas.

By Taxi

There is another option by car. You can decide that you don’t want to drive yourself and take a taxi. The taxi ride will cost around $150 US one way for up to 4 people and will take you around 5 1/2 hours. This is also a great way to stay away from the busy airports and bus stations while at the same time allowing you to sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. It is always best to plan ahead and make reservations, but sometimes people don’t if you are one of these people, just keep in mind there is not an established boat service from Sierpe to Drake Bay. However boats do leave the docks on the Sierpe River several times a day for Drake Bay and will be more than happy to give you a ride for a reasonable fee.

Pura Vida Wellness Retreat and Spa

Voted favorite spa in Central America in 2005, Pura Vida is a complete resort spa catered to the entire family which includes accommodations, dining with an emphasis on vegetarianism, eco tours and a huge variety of massage and spa treatments available in their wellness center. The center includes a wide selection of treatments including therapeutic modalities, healthy aging seminars, meditation and workshops to traditional spa treatment and massage. For a limited time you can bring a group during green season, May - November in 2009 and 2010, and receive a complimentary massage and $250 in cash. Phone: 888-767-7375.

Martino Resort and Spa

Known for having the best climates in the world, the central Valley of Costa Rica is home to the Martino Resort and Spa, located just 10 miles from the San Jose Airport. Martino Resort offers a full service spa, entertainment and five star dining. One can take full adantage of the services Spa Cleopatra at Martino has to offer, including stone massages, deep massages and inspirational massages. One of the many spa packages Martino offers is called the Eve package which includes a Thai shower, steam room, salt glow exfoliation, herbal wrap, relaxation massage and a Costa Rican facial all for the price of $210 USD. Phone: 1-888-886-5042, outside the US call (506)2-433-8382.

Arenal Volcano Inn

Located in the valley of the Arenal volcano bordering to the Rio Burio in La Fortuna lies nestled the Arenal Volcano Inn. Along with dining, attractions and sightseeing comes the resort’s Garden Spa which offers a mix of strong and slow maneuver deep tissue massage, traditional massage and essential oil massaging. There mixture of massage and oils will take you to a place of sheer tranquility and total bliss. With very competitive rates all year long, there most affordable dates are during their green season, May 1st to May 31st and September 1st to November 30th . Telephone: 1-877-353-9703.

Spa Uno

Centrally located in the jungle of Manuel Antonio comes this extraordinary day spa, long considered the finest day spa in Costa Rica, Spa Uno. With it’s warm stone massages, deep tissue massages, fassages and traditional massages, everyone is sure to find something to soothe their mind, body and soul here. Spa Uno offers very competitive pricing for those looking for a simple day of relaxation. One of the most sought after packages here is the Canopy Deck Adventure. With a scene set on their treetop observation deck, one will receive an ultra hydrating full body massage, a chocolaty full body scrub and shea butter to cleanse, exfoliate and brighten your skin tone. Spa Uno also offers spa parties and spa vacation packages. Phone: 011-506 2777-2607.
>>More Information on Spa Uno

Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort

Tabacon is a five star resort spa nestled on the bottom of the Arenal Volcano in Northern Costa Rica. In 2007 Tabacon was awarded a membership to The Leading Hotels of the World. Geared more toward a couple’s retreat, it offers great Honeymoon getaways, International fine dining, and their award winning Grand Spa. One can indulge themselves in the Grand spa which offers hydrotherapy therapies, mud therapies and massage and skin-care regimens. The Grand Spa at Tabacon also offers yoga sessions and Temazcal, a steam bath that is intended as a physical and spiritual experience. From February 1st - December 19th, one can take advantage of their special, four nights for the price of three nights. Phone: 1-877-277-8291.
>>More information on Tabacon Hot Springs

AmaTierra Retreat and Wellness Center

Nestled in the central valley comes this warm and friendly retreat, AmaTierra, focusing on yoga and wellness services. AmaTierra offers the perfect atmosphere to escape from the everyday demands life offers and proide you with the rejuvenating energy that most people long for. Along with the wellness and spa services AmaTierra offers, there are a number of other things to enjoy such as shopping and guided tours to some of the best locations the area has to offer. The perfect place to focus on your inner being, this resort offers retreats directed at herbal medicine and holistic wellness. Currently there is an extended special 5 day package through December 25th, 2009 for $750 per person plus tax. Telephone: From the US call 866-659-3805.

Montana de Fuego Resort and Spa

One of the most beautiful areas in Costa Rica, La Fortuna, San Carlos lays claim to the Montana de Fuego Resort and Spa. Aside from the fabulous spa offered at this resort, one can take part in other activities such as tours, sightseeing and fine dining. There spa offers many treatments from traditional massages to manicures and pedicures. Currently they are having a green special, one can take an additional 10% off of room rates if they book with GoVisitCostaRica.com Telephone: 011 (506) 2 479-1220 .

Paradisus Playa Conchal

Built on 1.5 miles of pristine white sand beach in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Peninsula, this hotel is the epitome of luxury. The Garra De Leon Lions Paw golf course, designed by Robert Trent Jones II, is located on the hotel property, and is surrounded by both native forests and picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean. The hotel villas and facilities resemble an elegant modern village that is surrounded by Central America’s largest free form pool. The entire resort is situated on 2,400 beautiful acres. Reservations can be made by calling 1- 866-436-3542.

Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo

This resort is located on a slender isthmus in the Pacific, and is surrounded by beautiful golden sand beaches. Located on the hotel property is an Arnold Palmer designed golf course, and a world class tropical spa, where you can relax and unwind in luxury. Each guest room and suite is turned out with indigenous woods and local stone, and inspired by the natural surroundings of ocean, sun, forest and beach. State of the art technology allows you to stay connected and remain up to date and productive while in a beautiful tropical setting. Reservations can be made by calling 506-2696-0000.

Punta Islita Hotel

Balanced on a rugged mountain outcrop that overlooks the Pacific Ocean, this hotel offers spectacular views and a breathtaking natural setting. Puntal Islita Hotel encompasses a rustic colonial elegance, which you will experience whether you are dining, at the spa, or enjoying the beach. Private outdoor Jacuzzis, luxurious plunge pools, and an abundance of beach activities, as well as the Casa Spa, offer a wide variety of options for relaxation. Be sure to check out the on sight restaurant 1492, for a colorful local menu infused with international cuisine options, including fresh caught seafood. Reservations can be made by calling 1-866-446-4053.

Marriott Los Suenos

Set amid 1,100 acres of rainforest on the Pacific coast, this resort boasts the La Iguana, which is an 18 hole golf course designed by Ted Robinson. Also located on sight are a large casino and relaxing spa. Guests can enjoy both water sports and deep sea fishing, which are easily accessible through the 250 slip marina located on site at the resort. Jungle crocodile safaris, Tortuga Island tours, and white water rafting are also available to guests. Stay connected with the high speed internet accessible any where in the resort. Reservations can be made by calling 1-888-236-2427.

The Real InterContinental Costa Rica Hotel

Located is San Jose, this hotel is strategically located across from the Multi Plaza shopping center and the Entertainment District. An outdoor heated pool and sauna are located on site, as is a beauty shop, 24 hour workout facility, and tennis courts. Close by the resort are the volcanoes of Irazu and Poas, which are ideal for outdoor exploration hikes. White water river rafting is also located nearby the city, and offers a great adventure tour. Make sure to check out the multiple dining options available at the hotel, including Azulejos Restaurant, Alfredo’s, and the Factory Steak Lobster Restaurant. Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-496-7621.

Gaia Hotel and Reserve

This hotel blends modern amenities and natural scenery magnificently into an adult’s only five star luxury resort, located near Quepos, in the coastal forests of Costa Rica. This hotel is Costa Rica in its most pure state. The luxurious materials of leather, teak, slate and rattan are used within this hotel, balancing the look of Bauhaus throughout. A private butler is included with each room, as is a private Jacuzzi with a jungle view. On site, you will find a three tiered infinity pool, a full service spa, 24 hour gym, alfresco restaurant, bar, and business center. The hotel is built on a reserve dedicated as a refuge for many of the species found in Costa Rica. Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-226-2515.

Arenas Del Mar Beach and Nature Resort

This is a luxurious Pacific Ocean beachfront resort located on the golden beaches of Manuel Antonio, and next to the Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica. This hotel was built with the highest level of sustainability in mind, while still encompassing deluxe and luxurious accommodations. Arenas Del Mar participates in the Certification for Sustainable Tourism program, which was developed by the Costa Rican Tourism Ministry. The Sustainable Tourism program is a key component to all levels of their hotel operations. The Ocean Breeze apartments and suites have breathtaking sunset views of the Pacific Ocean. Included with the room is a king size bed, spacious open-air deck, mini bar, and private large Jacuzzi. Activities found at and near the resort include white water rafting, ocean kayaking, rainforest hikes, mangrove kayak and boat tours, catch and release sport sea fishing, horseback riding excursions, and canopy tours. Reservations can be made by calling 011-506-2777-2777.

Finding the Best Deals

Because Costa Rica is such a popular tourist destination, it is easy to find all kinds of vacation and flight deals. All it takes a is a little patience, some research, and some money on hand to pounce when you find the right deal.

Budget Honeymoon
Lets start out with some advice for those of you who are on a super tight honeymoon budget. One of the best ways to make your honeymoon dollars go far is to scan the travel deals sites like Travel Zoo and Cheap Travel Scout. These sites regularly advertise awesome deals to locations all over the world, including Costa Rica. It is not uncommon to find a week long vacation package with hotel, international airfare, tours, and food for well under $1,000 per person.

Now, the drawbacks to these types of deals are that they tend to be the most basic rooms at the hotels listed and sometimes they are only available during select dates. If you are lucky, you’ll find a package deal near your wedding date. But, odds are you wont, so you may have to postpone your honeymoon for a few months.

Average Priced Honeymoon
I cant really give you a ballpark figure on what is an average price for a honeymoon in Costa Rica. That all depends on where you go, what type accommodations you want, and many other factors. What I can tell you is that the advice I am about to give you will be several steps up from the budget advice listed above, but wont cost you nearly as much as the luxury advice below.

For the average couple planning a honeymoon, your best bet is to use the major booking sites to research prices for hotels and airfare. Notice I said research and not book. Thats because the direct website for hotels and airlines usually have packages and deals that can’t be found on the major booking sites.

This is especially true for hotels. research hotels to find ones you like that are in your price range and then go check out their official website. Some of the large resorts and smaller private resorts usually have honeymoon specials you find listed elsewhere. Do yourself a favor and don’t book the honeymoon package without checking on what it is first. Some resorts scam you by charging US$200 for a bottle of wine, candles, and some rose petals. The better ones will include things like dinner on the beach, a sunset cruise, in room messages, and more.

Luxury Honeymoons
If you have the money to spend, there are a number of ways to get a luxury honeymoon in Costa Rica. It really just depends on what type of honeymoon you want. Do you want pampered luxury or private vacation?

If you are looking for a luxury private vacation, I suggest looking into renting a house or a villa. There are tons of amazing mansions, beach houses, jungle cottages, and even tree houses that can be rented all over the country. If you want some alone time for you and your spouse without any interruptions, this is the way to go. The only drawbacks to these are that most of them don’t include any type of services like cooking, transportation, or tours, which means you would be responsible for planning that out.

The other route is to stay and an all inclusive resort or a luxury resort and spa. There are a number of these around the country that are great for honeymooning. Just make sure you do your research. Otherwise you might end up at a resort that is a favorite of vacationing families! Read some hotel reviews before you make your reservation. One resort that I would suggest from first hand experience is the Peace Lodge at the La Paz Waterfall Gardens.