After several trips to Costa Rica, I'm convinced this Central American paradise offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. My most recent journey at the end of February proved to be the ideal time to visit, with sunny skies and minimal rainfall throughout the country. If you're looking to escape winter and experience "pura vida" firsthand, here's my guide to exploring Costa Rica beyond the typical tourist spots.
Why Visit Costa Rica in February
February is arguably the best month to visit Costa Rica. As the peak of dry season, you'll enjoy consistently sunny days with daytime temperatures ranging from the upper 70s in the mountains to the low 90s along the Pacific coast. While it's technically high season, February isn't as crowded as December or January, offering a sweet spot of good availability without the holiday surcharges.
One thing to note: the first half of February can be busier at beaches, especially on weekends, as Costa Rican schools don't start until mid-month. If you're planning to visit popular destinations like Tamarindo, Jaco, or Manuel Antonio, expect some crowds and plan accordingly.
Getting There & Getting Around
Flight Options
We flew Southwest from Austin to Liberia (with a layover in Houston). While San Jose offers more flight options as the capital city, Liberia's smaller, regional-sized airport proved much easier to navigate. For those concerned about congestion, Liberia is the way to go.
Transportation Tips
Rental Car: You don't need a special license to drive in Costa Rica, and they drive on the right side of the road. We rented from Avis near Liberia airport.
Road Conditions: Most main roads are paved, but some areas require dirt road driving. Our crossover SUV handled everything fine.
Navigation: Download Google Maps beforehand! There are no formal addresses in Costa Rica - navigation relies on landmarks or coordinates.
Pro Tip: Always check that your rental car has a functional spare tire. Flat tires are common on Costa Rican roads.
Regional Flights: For longer distances, consider small regional airlines like Sansa. Our 20-minute flight to Nosara saved hours of driving time.
Arrival Planning: Try to schedule your arrival before dark to make navigation easier.
Tenorio Volcano National Park: Rainforest Magic
About 1.5 hours from Liberia, Tenorio Volcano National Park offers a perfect introduction to Costa Rica's lush rainforests. We stayed at Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel, a resort with individual bungalows and direct access to the stunning bright blue Rio Celeste river and waterfall.
Must-Do Activities:
Hike to Rio Celeste Waterfall (can be done independently)
Book a guided rainforest tour (we spotted monkeys and a sloth!)
Go tubing on Rio Celeste
Enjoy the resort pool and spa services
While we enjoyed the peaceful setting, the area has limited dining options. If I were to do it again, I might choose La Fortuna (one hour further south), which offers more activities despite being more touristy.
Nicoya Peninsula: Surf Towns & Secluded Beaches
The Nicoya Peninsula hosts some of Costa Rica's most charming beach towns, each with its distinct personality.
Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa, Costa Rica has evolved from a quaint fishing village into a surfer's paradise that perfectly balances natural beauty with laid-back charm. This quintessential surf town stretches along a 2-3 mile unpaved road where locals and visitors navigate by foot, motorcycle, or ATV. What makes Santa Teresa truly special is its pristine coastline - a stunning expanse of light, almost blush-pink sand backed by lush jungle and palm trees, with no high-rises to mar the landscape.
Despite its growing popularity among travelers seeking the "pura vida" lifestyle, the town maintains its authentic character - you'll still find the entire community gathering on the beach each evening to collectively witness the spectacular Pacific sunsets. With multiple beach access points scattered throughout town and different beach areas each with their own character - from the bustling Playa Carmen to the more secluded Playa Hermosa - Santa Teresa offers the perfect blend of accessibility and untamed beauty.
Favorite Restaurants in Santa Teresa:
Satori Sushi
Katana
La Cevicheria
Uma
The Bakery Santa Teresa
Nosara
Nosara has captured the hearts of travelers seeking an authentic Costa Rican experience that balances natural beauty with laid-back luxury. This sleepy surf town hidden amongst monkey-filled trees offers the perfect blend of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a thriving international community without the overcrowded feeling of more touristy destinations. What makes Nosara particularly special is its dual identity as both a world-class surf destination with consistently good waves and a wellness haven known for its numerous yoga studios.
Families especially appreciate Nosara's safe, relaxed atmosphere, with activities ranging from surfing lessons and horseback riding on the beach at sunset to exploring wildlife sanctuaries and hidden gems like the Mala Noche Waterfall. The area's commitment to healthy living (it's located in a Blue Zone) is evident in the abundance of fresh juices, organic cafés, and farm-to-table restaurants like La Luna, where you can dine beside the beach while watching the sunset.
Favorite Restaurants in Nosara:
Organico Bakery
Howler's
Al Chile
Sendero
La Luna
Coyol
Where to stay:
I have only rented a house in Santa Teresa and Nosara. However, there are so many boutique hotel gems in both towns. I’d recommend researching and finding a hotel or home rental that fits your needs.
Things to Do on the Coast:
Take ATV tours through the jungle
Go ziplining
Book fishing excursions
Explore local Nature Reserve
Take day trips to nearby towns
Book boat tours and snorkeling
Take surf lessons
Wale Watching (when in season)
Relax on the Beach
Yoga or wellness classes
Go to the spa
Destinations Worth Considering
While I didn't make it to these spots on my recent trips, several off-the-beaten-path destinations came highly recommended:
Osa Peninsula
For the ultimate eco-adventure, the remote Osa Peninsula offers unspoiled rainforests and incredible wildlife viewing at Corcovado National Park. Few travelers make it here, but those who do are rewarded with authentic ecotourism experiences. Consider staying at Lapa Rios Ecolodge for an immersive wilderness experience.
Orosi Valley
This hidden gem near Cartago has everything that draws tourists to Costa Rica but remains relatively unknown. The valley offers stunning panoramic views, waterfalls, and the most intact colonial ruins in Costa Rica at Ujarrás.
Braulio Carrillo National Park
Less traveled than popular parks like Manuel Antonio, Braulio Carrillo offers primitive hiking trails and pristine forests without the tourist crowds. Consider staying at nearby Finca Rosa Blanca, which offers guided tours to the park. Costa Rica offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with something for everyone from adrenaline junkies to nature lovers to beach bums. By venturing off the beaten path, you'll discover the authentic heart of this beautiful country while still enjoying its famous hospitality and safety.
February travel rewards visitors with perfect weather, reasonable crowds, and the full "pura vida" experience. Whether exploring the rainforests of Tenorio, surfing in Santa Teresa, or discovering hidden gems like the Orosi Valley, Costa Rica's natural beauty and friendly locals will leave you planning your return before you've even departed.