Central ValleyAlajuelaCosta RicaRestaurants and rooms a few minutes from the Juan Santamaría airport. An easy, comfortable night before an early flight.
North PacificPlaya AvellanasCosta RicaA surf beach south of Tamarindo, with forest behind the sand. Come for the wave, trees right at the beach.
North PacificNosaraCosta RicaGuiones is the long surf beach. Pelada, just north, is the sheltered place to swim.
Pacific CoastCabuyaCosta RicaThe quiet end of the road past Montezuma, beside Cabo Blanco. The reserve is close, and the beach stays peaceful.
Central ValleyLa FortunaCosta RicaThe town at the base of Arenal, for the volcano and the hot springs.
North PacificTamarindoCosta RicaThe town sits on the sand. Sunset fills the beach, and easy waves out front suit a first lesson.