5 Reasons to Visit One of the Happiest Places in the World

Ranked year after year as one of the happiest places in the world, Costa Rica is the perfect vacation spot for honeymooners, families, and adventure travelers alike. So take a trip on over to this beloved Central America country and discover what makes it so great.

1. The Beaches

Costa Rica coast boasts over 300 spotless beaches on both the Caribbean and Pacific sides. While all offer breathtaking vistas, sparkling waters, and dream sunbathing weather, no beach is exactly the same. Find lively city beaches, quiet secluded beaches, towering waves for a surfer’s paradise, and eco-tourist hot spots. The country’s shorelines are iconic Costa Rica.

Top Costa Rica beaches include:

• Montezuma
• Mal Pais
• Manuel Antonio
• Playa Dominical
• Tortuguero

2. The Rainforests and Wildlife

While the beaches may be nice to look at, you will find plenty of hidden treasures and adventures within the lush Costa Rica rainforests and biological reserves. Covering over a quarter of the country’s land, there is much to explore.

Hike through the low-settling clouds of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Find the famous skywalk through the canopy, or be a little more adventurous on a zip line tour. Give your legs a break and canoe through the Tortuguero National Park, while sightseeing for sea turtles, jaguars, monkeys, and more.

Costa Rica’s most popular destination, however, is the Manuel Antonio National Park. Costa Rica vacations are not complete without a trip here. An exquisite collection of beauty, beaches, wildlife, and diverse forestation, there is no better place to experience this magical destination. Soak up some sun on the white powdered beaches or explore the coral reefs while snorkeling. Try to find the rare Squirrel Monkeys hiding among the trees, toucans, and Black Spiny-tailed Iguanas, or hike the Perezoso Trail.

3. The Arenal Volcano

Costa Rica flaunts over 200 volcanoes, but the must-see for all travelers is hands down The Arenal. Its classic volcano shape surrounded by the diverse National Park landscape provides stunning views from near and far. The country’s most active volcano until 2010, Arenal has also become highly studied by scientists. Admire the beauty by day, but stick around come nightfall for a chance to see the volcano in action.

4. The Cuisine

Dine like a king in Costa Rica, with generous portions of delicious food being served up no matter where you land. Fill your belly with beef tamales, casado, ceviche, empanadas, carnitas, and more! Finish your meal off with a cup of famously rich Costa Rica coffee.

5. The Beer

While the country is known best for its rum (Ron Centenario), Costa Ricans also love their brew. There are two particular favorites—Imperial and Pilsen. Imperial is a pilsner with American flair and advertisements around every corner. Pilsen is a more lighter-bodied beer with the longest history in the country.

So there you have it. Whether you’re looking to surf all vacation long, find monkeys in the rainforest, retreat to a secluded beach, or consume large amounts of food and beer, Costa Rica is the place to go on your next vacation.

Not sure where to stay? Check out some of these top resorts in Costa Rica:

• Bahia Turquesa Residences
• Four Seasons Residence Club Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
• Villas Sol Hotel and Beach Resort
• Villas Sol Playa Hermosa
• Villas Playa Samara