Our family of four—my husband, our two daughters (11 and 8), and I recently spent an incredible 14 days exploring Guanacaste, Costa Rica. This is a vibrant region. From all-inclusive resorts to local markets, zip-lining adventures and horseback riding to beachside dinners, we packed our days with activities that left us with memories to treasure forever.

We started our trip at a beautiful all-inclusive resort along the stunning beaches of Guanacaste. The moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm smiles and refreshing welcome drinks. The girls loved the endless activities at the resort, including the expansive pool and water slides. The resort’s buffet offered themed dinners with a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and Costa Rican specialties like gallo pinto (a delicious mix of rice and beans). There were also many restaurants with different cuisines to choose from. Aside from a couple of rainy nights, the weather was perfect, with sunny skies and gentle breezes. Each evening guests gathered for fun entertaining performances that included fire shows, custom dancing and aerobatics. 

After a few days of indulgence, we were off to our next destination, Tamarindo. It’s such a lively coastal town known for its laid-back vibe and vibrant culture. Tamarindo offered a completely different experience, more local and adventurous. A fascinating daily sight was watching howler monkeys tightrope across the power lines throughout the town, some with their babies on their backs!  One of the highlights of our stay was renting a golf cart and exploring the area. The girls squealed with excitement as we bounced along dirt roads, passing lush greenery and breathtaking views. We also visited a local farmers market, where we sampled some of the freshest and most unique fruits we’ve ever tasted and drank fresh coconut water right out of the coconut. The girls’ favorites were mangosteens and starfruit. 

Costa Rica is famous for its biodiversity, and we were eager to experience it firsthand. We embarked on a zip-lining tour that took us soaring above the rainforest canopy. The views were breathtaking, and the guides were incredibly patient with our girls, making sure they felt safe and had fun. Horseback riding was another favorite activity. We rode through scenic and at times rocky trails. We also walked across hanging bridges, with the lush rainforest below us. It was thrilling and slightly nerve-wracking, but the views were worth every step. Seeing toucans, sloths, howler monkeys, and spider monkeys during our excursion was an added bonus. 

One of the most memorable experiences was a combined coffee and sugar cane tour. We learned how coffee is grown, harvested, and processed, and even got to sample a freshly brewed cup. The sugar cane tour was equally fascinating, as we watched traditional methods of extracting juice and turning it into delicious candy. Did you know Costa Rica’s past traditional method of extracting sugar cane juice involved using oxen? An ox would walk in circles, powering a large wooden press called a "trapiche." This animal-driven mechanism squeezed the sugar cane stalks, extracting their sweet juice. No need for electricity! The kids could not get enough of this sweet treat. 

Another wonderful excursion included immersing ourselves in mineral-rich thermal pools. They are naturally heated by the volcano's geothermal energy. The all-natural volcanic mud baths were also therapeutic. We applied mineral rich mud directly from the volcanic ground. After letting the mud dry, we rinsed off in cool river waters, leaving our skin feeling rejuvenated. A wellness experience we highly recommend!

No trip to Guanacaste would be complete without some quality beach time. We spent hours swimming, building sandcastles, and collecting seashells. The water was warm and inviting, and the sunsets were absolutely magical. Each evening, the sky transformed into colors of oranges, pinks, and purples, leaving us in awe. We enjoyed live music at local restaurants and cafes. Dinners on the beach were the perfect way to end our days. We dined on the freshest seafood, including succulent shrimp and tender mussels. The sound of the waves and the twinkling stars above made every meal feel like a special occasion.

Our trip to Guanacaste, Costa Rica, was a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. The warm weather, friendly locals, and incredible experiences made it a destination we’ll never forget. Whether it’s zip-lining through the rainforest, tasting exotic fruits at a farmers market, or simply enjoying a beachside meal, there’s something for every family to love in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Pura vida!