10+ Reasons Why Costa Rica is One of the Best Places to Travel with Friends Outside the US
We’re all craving connection more than ever. While social media gives us small hits of camaraderie and friendship, we’re spending less time with friends than ever before in history—and loneliness is growing. So, how do we fix that? Prioritize connection beyond your Facebook friends list!
There is nothing that will bring you closer to your friends than taking an international trip. The planning, the getting there, and the experience are all bonding opportunities that help you get to know those in your life on a deeper level. Now, while it’s fun in theory when it comes to the best places to visit and travel with friends outside the U.S., it can be overwhelming.
Today, our expert local villa team from Villa Punto de Vista is sharing why Costa Rica should top the list of trip ideas in the group chat!
There are activities everyone will love.
One of the challenges when thinking about the best places to visit with friends outside the U.S. is where you can go where all your travel buddies’ needs and desires will be met. This is one of the most beautiful things about Costa Rica—our diversity—both in landscapes and adventure styles.
You’ll find everything from luxurious spa treatments and private yoga classes to infinity pools and zip-line tours or a spice farm tour. If you book accommodations that support your travel style, you can easily and effortlessly plan excursions and activities for some of the group, while the rest hang back and enjoy cocktails with a view by the pool or beach. Everyone wins.
Here are a few of the most popular activity styles in our corner of the globe:
Relaxation
For those seeking tranquility and rejuvenation, Costa Rica offers a myriad of opportunities for relaxation. From lounging on pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters to indulging in luxurious spa treatments nestled in lush rainforests, visitors can unwind amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Our guests are particularly fond of sunset yoga sessions on the beach, meditation on the roof as the sun sets with the jungle sounds serenading them, and soaking in views while sipping on a tropical mimosa at breakfast are just a few ways to soothe the soul and recharge in Costa Rica.
Adventure
Thrill-seekers will find endless opportunities for adventure in Costa Rica’s diverse terrain.
Zip-lining through the canopy, rappelling down cascading waterfalls, and white-water rafting on rushing rivers offer adrenaline-pumping excitement amidst stunning landscapes. Hiking to hidden waterfalls, exploring volcanic craters, and mountain biking through rugged terrain provide thrilling experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Plus, we can’t forget surfing legendary waves, diving among vibrant coral reefs, and exploring underwater caves offer unforgettable adventures in the land of pura vida.
Wildlife
Costa Rica—especially where we are located in Manuel Antonio—is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting unparalleled biodiversity and abundant opportunities for animal encounters.
Guided nature hikes through the lush national park reveal a treasure trove of exotic creatures, including colorful toucans, playful monkeys, and elusive sloths. But, our guests also meet these cute buddies around the villa, too.
Boat tours along winding rivers and mangrove estuaries offer sightings of crocodiles, caimans, and tropical birds, or even sport fishing titans if you want to venture out into the sea. Then, depending on the time of year you’ll also be able to visit turtle nesting sites or observe humpback whales.
Even those who don’t necessarily feel connected to wildlife at home will find incredible connection to the peaceful natural visitors in Costa Rica.
It’s easily accessible.
The other thing you want to consider deeply when planning a group trip is how seamless it is to get there. Especially when you’re going international!
These are just some reasons why travelers love Costa Rica when traveling with groups of friends.
Proximity
Costa Rica is located relatively close to the United States, making it easily accessible by air. The country is situated in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. Its proximity to the southern tip of Florida means that flights from major US cities to Costa Rica are relatively short in duration.
For example, a direct flight from Miami to San Jose is only about 3.5 hours in duration.
Direct Flights
Many major airlines operate direct flights from various cities across the United States to Costa Rica’s two international airports: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia.
We can probably all agree that the splurge is always worth it for direct flights. But, the good news is even direct flights to San Jose are pretty affordable with average flights from New York (EWR) running under $500 round-trip.
Frequency of Flights
Due to Costa Rica’s popularity as a tourist destination, there is a high frequency of flights between the USA and Costa Rica. Multiple airlines including United, JetBlue, Spirit, Delta, American, and Avianca, among others, offer daily or weekly flights, providing travelers with flexible options for planning their trips.
Multiple Airports
In addition to the two main international airports, Costa Rica has several domestic airports scattered throughout the country. This network of airports allows travelers to easily access different regions of Costa Rica, whether they’re seeking beach destinations, rainforest adventures, or cultural experiences.
For our guests coming to Villa Punto de Vista in Manuel Antonio, some opt to organize direct charter flights from San Jose (SJO) to Quepos (XQP) with our pre-arrival concierge.
Visa Requirements
For US citizens, travel to Costa Rica is relatively straightforward in terms of visa requirements. Tourists from the United States are typically granted a 90-day visa upon arrival, allowing for hassle-free entry into the country.
Tourism Infrastructure
Comfort when traveling travel with friends in a group of travelers who may not have the same level of travel experience is critical for a successful trip.
Costa Rica has a well-developed tourism infrastructure to accommodate visitors from the United States and beyond. From modern airports and highways to a wide range of accommodations, tours, and services, Costa Rica caters to the needs of travelers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
There are diverse accommodation options.
Next up, where to stay?
Naturally, we’re partial to the private villa stay, of course. But many of our guests will stay for four nights to a week and continue their Costa Rican adventure in other cities and regions of the country afterward. This is something our pre-arrival concierge can support with.
Private Villas
For those seeking ultimate privacy and exclusivity, private villas offer a slice of paradise tucked away in Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes. With spacious layouts, lavish amenities, and personalized services, these retreats provide a serene sanctuary where guests can unwind and create unforgettable memories with friends and family.
When you book a private villa, the entire trip becomes a blank canvas you and your group can paint exactly as you wish.
Think wine tasting overlooking the Pacific Ocean, delicious cuisine from sunrise to sunset, live music to serenade you whenever your heart desires, and even beautiful beaches with concierge beach service, Below Deck style (Bravo fans, anyone?).
All-Inclusive Resorts
Alternatively, all-inclusive resorts pamper guests with indulgent perks and seamless convenience. From gourmet dining and refreshing cocktails to a myriad of recreational activities and entertainment options, these resorts ensure a hassle-free vacation experience, allowing guests to relax and recharge without a care in the world.
Boutique Hotels
For travelers craving a more intimate and authentic experience, boutique hotels showcase Costa Rica’s unique charm and hospitality.
Nestled in picturesque locations, these boutique properties offer personalized attention, stylish accommodations, and a true sense of place, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and surroundings.
The tropical climate offers a year-round paradise.
In Costa Rica, paradise isn’t limited to a particular season—it’s a year-round affair thanks to its lush tropical climate. Whether you’re dreaming of basking in the sun on palm-fringed beaches, exploring dense rainforests teeming with wildlife, or embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures, Costa Rica has it all, no matter the time of year. With consistently warmer months and plenty of sunshine, every day feels like a vacation in this tropical haven.
The things you want to consider that will affect pricing of your trip are high season and low season, which city you’re visiting, proximity to the beach, etc. Plus, summer months in the U.S. typically increase pricing, too.
Check out our blog about the best time of year to visit Costa Rica for even more insight!
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You’ll find lots of cool places to visit with friends.
Jungle? Beach? Volcano?
All these spots are options when it comes to traveling around Costa Rica with friends. Here are a few of our team’s favorite spots to explore in the country.
San José
The enchanting city of Costa Rica, San José, is often the starting point for a trip for many travelers. While it may not have the natural beauty of other areas, it offers cultural attractions like the National Museum, the National Theater, and bustling markets.
Many will fly into San Jose for a day or two, and then travel with friends to other destinations in the country as it definitely encompasses city vibes, not the quintessential natural escape you picture when you think of this beautiful place!
Manuel Antonio National Park
Famous for its stunning beaches and abundant wildlife, Manuel Antonio National Park is a must-visit destination on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife watching in this beautiful coastal paradise.
Plus, of all the national parks in Costa Rica, this is one of the most lush and diverse, with everything from sandy beaches to outdoor adventure or scuba diving for a great trip. You’ll also find fresh seafood and casual eats along with fine dining so all friends can choose which feels better for them.
Arenal Volcano
Located in the northern part of the country, Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, hot springs, and zip-lining while taking in breathtaking views of the volcano.
This special corner of Costa Rica has been compared to the Hawaiian Islands because of the impressive landscapes to explore. You can also use La Fortuna, a charming town known for its springs, waterfalls, and adventure activities as your home base for this area!
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
This misty forest reserve is a haven for nature lovers, with its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem. Visitors can explore the canopy via hanging bridges, hike through the cloud forest, and observe exotic wildlife like the resplendent quetzal.
Tortuguero National Park
Located on the Caribbean coast, Tortuguero National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Known for its dense rainforest, network of canals, and nesting sea turtles, it offers unique opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure.
Guanacaste Province
Known for its beautiful beaches and dry tropical forests, Guanacaste Province is a popular destination for sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts. Highlights include the beaches of Tamarindo known for surf and bustling nightlife, Playa Flamingo, and Papagayo Peninsula.
Corcovado National Park
Located on an island in the Osa Peninsula, Corcovado National Park is one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth. Visitors can explore pristine rainforests, spot exotic wildlife like jaguars and tapirs, and relax on secluded beaches.
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
This laid-back beach town on the Caribbean coast at the southernmost point of the country offers a unique blend of Afro-Caribbean culture, beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and lots of cheap places to get great food. Visitors can enjoy surfing, snorkeling, and sampling delicious Caribbean cuisine.
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
Located in the northwestern part of the country, Rincón de la Vieja National Park is known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and hiking trails. Visitors can explore volcanic craters, mud pots, and geothermal wonders while surrounded by lush tropical forests.
Itinerary Inspiration
We have put together a few inspired itinerary posts for travelers here and here if you want a little extra travel inspiration!
It’s an incredibly safe destination.
Many friends might be asking about safety, which is totally fair. Some of the best places to visit in terms of safety are right here in Costa Rica.
In fact, since 1948, Costa Rica has maintained a unique position as one of the few countries in the world without a standing military. Instead, it allocates resources to education, healthcare, and social programs which lends itself to low crime rates.
Despite this, private villas like ours often have private security to ensure guests are taken care of from the moment they step foot on the property just for an added layer of hospitality.
We embrace the pura vida lifestyle.
Pura vida directly translated means “pure life” but for us, it’s the way we live. Priority is placed on simple living, family, and peace. Whether you’re in a historic city or a beach town, every part of the country embraces this mantra for a good life!
It rubs off and comes home with you sometimes, too!
Want to Talk About Your Costa Rica Vacation with Friends?
Before booking the “typical” spots for group trips like San Francisco, Key West, Las Vegas, or the Grand Canyon, think about our beautiful country. You’ll not only find natural beauty, but beach clubs, tropical beaches, food markets, and many destinations to explore, whether you want a two-week adventure or a quick getaway.
At Villa Punto de Vista, our luxury, private accommodations were quite literally designed with friends in mind. We have up to 19 en-suite bedrooms with views of the surrounding jungle and turquoise water, along with ample social space for gathering. The perfect place for a mix of connection and calm.
We’d love to hear about your desires for a group vacation in Costa Rica. Set up a time to chat with us here—no strings attached!
