If Costa Rica isn’t already on your travel bucket list, it should be. This tropical paradise is famous for its lush jungles, endless beaches, exotic wildlife, and adventurous spirit. The phrase pura vida — meaning “pure life” — perfectly captures the vibe you’ll find here: a mix of relaxation, joy, and adventure at every turn.

I first visited Costa Rica on a Women Who Explore trip, and it completely blew me away. From waking up to monkey calls outside my window to paragliding over the ocean, it was everything I dreamed of (and more). Whether you’re planning a solo trip, joining a women’s travel group, or traveling with friends, Costa Rica is the perfect destination.

Here are my top three reasons to fall in love with Costa Rica:

1. Wildlife Everywhere You Look 🐒🦜

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, and seeing the wildlife here is like stepping into a real-life nature documentary.

You don’t have to go far — sometimes it’s right outside your door. I’ll never forget lying in my room and being woken up by the sound of monkeys in the trees. When I slid open my door, I could see branches shaking as they moved from tree to tree.

Some of the most unforgettable sightings include:

Sloths hanging lazily in the treetops
Spider and howler monkeys swinging overhead
Brightly colored toucans and exotic parrots flying by
Scarlet macaws soaring together across the sky

Every day felt like a new surprise — a reminder of how alive and vibrant Costa Rica’s rainforests really are.

2. Beach Life & Pure Relaxation 🌊☀️

Growing up in the desert, the beach felt like another world to me. But Costa Rica’s coastlines — with their warm sand, turquoise waters, and laid-back vibes — quickly became one of my favorite memories.

Picture this: sipping a fresh fruit smoothie under a shady canopy, watching waves roll in as laughter drifts down the shore. With my eyes closed, I could hear it all — kids splashing in the surf, friends chatting in different languages, birds chirping overhead, and the rhythmic crash of waves.

Costa Rica has beaches for every vibe:

Surfing beaches with big waves and endless adventure
Calm coves perfect for swimming and paddleboarding
Hidden spots where you can just lie back and soak it all in

Beach life here is more than just the ocean — it’s about being present, connecting with the moment, and experiencing pura vida.

3. Adventure & Outdoor Activities 🌴⚡

Costa Rica is an adventure-lover’s playground. If you love trying new things (or want to push yourself out of your comfort zone), this is the place to do it.

Some of my most thrilling experiences included:

Paragliding over the ocean — terrifying at first, but once I was gliding, it felt peaceful and freeing.
Hiking to waterfalls through lush rainforest and even on coffee and cacao farms.
Swimming and cliff-jumping into natural pools at the base of waterfalls.
Waterfall rappelling — yes, sliding down the rushing water with ropes!
Ziplining through the jungle canopy for a bird’s-eye view of paradise.
White-water rafting down the Savegre River (the cleanest in Central America).

Every adventure was balanced with relaxation, making Costa Rica the perfect destination for both adrenaline seekers and those looking to unwind.

Why Costa Rica Should Be Your Next Adventure

What makes Costa Rica so special is its perfect balance: breathtaking wildlife, relaxing beach days, and heart-pumping adventures — all wrapped in the pura vida lifestyle. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, try something new, and savor every moment.

If you’ve been dreaming about a trip that blends nature, culture, community, and adventure, Costa Rica is calling. And trust me, it’s even better when you share it with an incredible group of women who are just as excited to explore as you are.

Costa Rica es la Pura Vida. Are you ready to experience it? 🌺