Costa Rica: From Beachside Bliss To Mystical Cloud Forest

If you’re looking for a vacation that lets you sip cocktails by the beach one day and trek through a misty jungle the next, Costa Rica is calling your name. This little slice of paradise is where nature and luxury shake hands, where adventure meets relaxation, and where “Pura Vida” isn’t just a phrase—it’s a whole way of life.

Recently, we embarked on an epic journey through Costa Rica, balancing the indulgent comforts of the Riu Guanacaste resort (read our review here) with the otherworldly magic of the Monteverde Cloud Forest. The result? A vacation that spoiled us rotten and simultaneously made us question if I should quit everything and become a rainforest guide.

Sun, Sand, and Unlimited Piña Coladas at Riu Guanacaste

First stop: Riu Guanacaste, an all-inclusive resort perched along the Pacific Coast. From the moment I arrived, I felt like royalty—minus the responsibilities. The resort boasts lush gardens, enormous pools, and a beachfront that seems to whisper, “Go ahead, take a nap here.” And who was I to argue?

The all-inclusive perks were, let’s just say, highly utilized. Whether I was feasting on fresh ceviche, sipping on virgin drinks , or testing my limits at the buffet (it’s called self-care, okay?), Riu Guanacaste never disappointed. The on-site entertainment had everything from dance shows to live music, but let’s be honest—the real star of the show was the breathtaking sunset that turned the sky into a watercolor painting every evening.  Also every night we would go to the beach and see hundreds (maybe thousands) of hermit crabs heading inland to find food, it was an amazing experience for all.

The ocean was a wonderful temperature, we spent hours and hours in the water without getting cold or worn out.  The waves were not huge, but just big enough most days to body surf, so we taught the kids the art of body surfing.

I could’ve spent my entire trip basking in this luxurious oasis, but adventure was calling. And by adventure, I mean waking up at an absurd hour to journey to the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest.

Monteverde Cloud Forest: Nature’s Way of Showing Off

Trading my flip-flops for hiking boots, I left the sunny beaches behind and ascended into what felt like a dream sequence straight out of a nature documentary. The Monteverde Cloud Forest is unlike any place I’ve ever seen—lush, misty, and so green that even my camera couldn’t do it justice. It’s the kind of place where you half-expect a dinosaur to stroll by (spoiler: no dinosaurs, but plenty of wildlife). We rented a car and drove ourselves, the road was a little sketch at times.

The cloud forest features suspended bridges, giving you a chance to walk above the treetops like some kind of eco-friendly superhero. As I stepped onto one, I took a deep breath, admired the jaw-dropping view, and reminded myself not to look down (which, of course, I immediately did).  The bridges are suspended some 200 feet above the forest floor.

The Perfect Balance: Luxury Meets Jungle Adventures

What made this trip truly unforgettable was the contrast—beachside luxury one day, rainforest exploration the next. At Riu Guanacaste, I was pampered beyond belief, indulging in everything from spa treatments to over-the-top meals. In Monteverde, I was reminded of the raw beauty of nature, surrounded by towering trees, fresh mountain air, and creatures that could either enchant or mildly freak me out.

It was the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure, proving that Costa Rica really does have something for everyone. Whether you want to sunbathe with a piña colada in hand or channel your inner explorer in the rainforest, this country delivers.

Final Thoughts: Is Moving to Costa Rica a Reasonable Life Choice?

As I left Costa Rica, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this place had cast a spell on me. The warmth of its people, the stunning landscapes, and the sheer variety of experiences made it one of the most unforgettable trips I’ve ever taken.

Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Would I consider dropping everything and relocating to a little beach bungalow or jungle cabin? Let’s just say… it’s not not on my mind.

So if you’re on the fence about visiting Costa Rica, take this as your sign: Book the trip. Pack the sunscreen. And prepare to fall in love with “Pura Vida.”