You might not guess a country known for its rain forests and beaches would have an arid region comparably to California summers.  It occurs during their summer months, October through May, and stretches from the northern border with Nicaragua down the west coast to the port city of Puntarenas.  

These photos were taken, due east of the city in the Tilaran Mountain range.  My ties to this area are strong as my grandfather laid claim to land during a homestead act in the early life of Costa Rica’s independence.  It actually overlooks Puntarenas with amazing views of the whole Gulf of Nicoya.  All though most of the original farm was divided amongst some uncle and aunts the majority of it rest in the hands of my immediate family now.  It’s one of my favorite places to visit to disconnect and fall off the grid.

Nestled at the southern tip of Nicoya’s peninsula in Costa Rica are a pair of charming surfside towns to get lost in a world of tranquility. Pura Vida (Pure Life) rules here and the vibe is surfing. You will not find extravagant resort hotels filled with tourists seeking excursions. Instead you’ll find a mixed culture of surfers, locals and rental tourist who love the beach.

The surf here is ideal for sport and you’ll be surrounded by its culture. In the last fifteen years the area has bloomed and will not give in to over development. There’s a diversity of culinary delights to explore where the fresh and clean mined indulge themselves surrounded by a bohemian flare.

This pacific coast beach town also known for its beautiful and pristine national park has become a very vibrant tourist favorite. The park has hiking trails that lead to three virgin beaches where you must bring out what you bring in. To get the most of this adventure I would suggest an early morning guided tour to observe the many iguanas, sloths and monkeys that make up this habitat.

Outside the park is Espadilla Beach which has some of the best surfing for beginners. There is plenty to do here, from Jet Ski to paragliding. Personally I’ll stick to body surfing. Skills I’ve had since I was a kid. Near the town center and the National Park entrance you’re able to rent umbrellas and chairs for the day with nearby bars and restaurants, or you can head up the beach for more privacy with a beach blanket and less of a crowd.

This beach has been a favorite of mine since I was in my teens. There’s plenty to do and see, it all depends on what you’re looking for, or not, for me the beach, the variety of foods and drinks are more my mode with an amazing sun set to top it off.