Costa Rica
Honeymoons

What can you expect on Costa Rica honeymoons that you won't find anywhere else?

The fly and flop honeymoon is an increasingly endangered species, with newlyweds making the most of their time away to pack in a bit of adventure, an achievement or two and, of course, some well-earned time on a beach. The good news is that a honeymoon to Costa Rica offers all of the above, and in an itty-bitty little place that’s incredibly easy to get around. Whether it’s wildlife, surfing, trekking, volcano climbing, zip-wiring or a good old fashioned suntan/cocktail combo you’re after, this charming Central American country covers all the bases, with low-key, romantic and sustainability-focused boutique hotels a particular speciality.

Honeymooners wanting a bit more than the classic sun lounger and cocktail combo (nothing wrong with that, mind) should look no further than this pocket rocket Central American destination. So what would we recommend for honeymoons in Costa Rica? Working on the assumption that you have two weeks to play with, you could pretty much see the whole country – it's that small. The highlight of the eastern (Caribbean) coast is the wonderful Tortuguero National Park, home to dense wildlife-filled rainforests and, in summer, nesting green turtles on the many beaches.

Heading west, the centre of Costa Rica is basically a glorified range of volcanoes (some more extinct than others), covered with lush cloud forests, where the more adventurous honeymooner can enjoy activities from zip-wiring to canopy and volcano walks. Finally, the Pacific coast is the place to relish in some seriously romantic R&R at one of the many lovely beachfront boutique properties we know and recommend. Yet, there are plenty more active options for those with itchy feet, including excellent surf breaks and primary rainforests such as Corcovado National Park to explore.

One of Costa Rica’s most impressive accolades (that will no-doubt weave itself through every aspect of your honeymoon) is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. This eco-warrior status doesn’t make it any less of a luxury destination, however, and you can rest assured that your Costa Rica honeymoon will come with all the requisite trimmings, while having minimal impact on the environment. Stay in innovative and opulent eco-lodges, run by electricity from renewable sources, and dine on dishes crafted from the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients (a tasty way of doing your part for the planet).

Special things to do during Costa Rica honeymoons:

- Explore the glorious landscapes of Tenorio Volcano National Park (where you can bathe in the natural hot springs) and Manual Antonio National Park (blessed with dense forest and pristine beaches)
- Take private yoga classes in the Central Valley
- Hop aboard a private boat to Isla del Cano, where can snorkel in the turquoise waters, keeping your eyes peeled for manta rays, turtles and dolphins
- Indulge in couple’s spa treatments and massages at a luxury eco-lodge, deep in the rainforest
- Learn how to make some authentic Costa Rican recipes, with the help of a local chef
- Glamp on Isla Jesusita, home to the rare natural phenomenon of bio-luminescent plankton
- Enjoy romantic dinners on the beach or dine at local haunts, recommended by our in-country Concierge

Best time to visit for Costa Rica honeymoons:

The country’s dry season occurs between December and April, so this is widely regarded as the best time to visit, especially if you’re a sun-loving couple (and don’t fancy rocking a raincoat). Temperatures frequently top 35°C, perfect for aquatic activities and making beach time a no-brainer. The wet season (April to November) is characterised by blue-skied mornings and afternoon rainstorms, followed by clearer evenings. If you’re planning a summer wedding and would like your honeymoon to follow suit, then fear not, as during July and August there is noticeably less rainfall – with this period dubbed as ‘little summer’ (despite being slap-bang in the middle of wet season).