Searching for the perfect honeymoon destination isn’t always as glamorous as it sounds. You know you want dreamy beaches, a great all-inclusive and interesting excursions to keep you busy. But does that really shorten your list?
Well, consider this your shortcut to honeymoon bliss. Costa Rica has long been prized by nature lovers for its lush rainforest, colorful cast of tropical residents (the flying, climbing and swimming kind) and great surf. But it’s also an excellent honeymoon option, with plenty of unique and unexpected ways to spend your time as newlyweds. Here are 4 reasons why the incredible Guanacaste Coast should be in your honeymoon black book.
It’s Distinct
Culturally, this stretch of Pacific coast has been historically distinct from the rest of Costa Rica, with its own farm and fish communities and heavy dose of local pride. But Guanacaste also looks different from much of Costa Rica, with a diverse landscape that includes savannah, rugged mountains, mangroves and deserted beaches. Because of its unique setting, you can try everything from an authentic African safari to a visit to an active volcano on your honeymoon.
National Parks Galore
We can almost guarantee that you won’t find yourself groaning “not another state park” in Guanacaste. The region has seven national parks to explore, and they are as diverse as they are interesting. Rincon de la Vieja is a 34,000 acre national park that puts you up close to the region’s impressive volcanoes (but not that close, because they’re still active). Here, you might catch sight of pumas, jaguars, howler monkeys, sloths, and tapirs. For a tamer (and utterly captivating) national park adventure, you can head to Marino Las Baulas to watch rare leatherback sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. It’s a not-so-subtle reminder of how we all get our start. And what could be more symbolic than that on a honeymoon?
It’s affordable
Like most of Costa Rica, this northwestern province won’t wipe out your bank account, as you can generally score great fares and find affordable accommodations. We’re fans of the Occidental Grand Papagayo, a beautiful, adults-only resort that offers easy access to the region’s many outdoor adventures (and a great beach). The property also has a fun social calendar that will get you acquainted to the local culture, with seasonal fiestas, bullfights, nature tours and folk dances.
Surf n’ Safari
Not just a Beach Boys song, but a way of life in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. As if fitting in this land of extremes, Guancaste offers honeymoon activities that you wouldn’t think possible on the same trip—like taking surfing lessons and going on a safari. Playa Avellana, known by locals as “little Hawaii,” offers up to 18 ft. waves and draws experienced surfers from around the world. For beginners, there are a number of more gentle beaches for learning. And then, as if you just weren’t enjoying a beautiful Pacific beach, you can visit Africa Mia, an authentic safari experience with free range giraffes, lions, and big African mammals. When you consider the admissions ticket price against a plane ride and lodging in Africa, it becomes apparent what a remarkable opportunity the experience really is.
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