Which Coast do you Recommend if Visiting Costa Rica?
By Jude68
@Jude68 (34)
United States
January 19, 2007 12:32pm CST
6 years ago, my dad was visiting his brother in Costa Rica. He called and said that he was too nervous about flying back alone; would I come and get him? Of course I jumped at the chance. I had the most wonderful week, met simple beautiful Costa Ricans and people from all over the world. I went snorkeling on the Pacific Coast, heard howler monkeys, woke up to dragon-like reptiles staring up at me from the yard.
The snorkeling was fun, but I think it would have been better on the Caribbean Coast. Does anyone have an opinion on this?
3 responses
@rachelcaron (1679)
• United States
12 Feb 07
I liked the Pacific coast better. My favorite beach was Manuel Antonio. I went twice to that beach while I was in Costa Rica.
1 person likes this
@nycjuli (5)
• United States
27 Jan 07
I've visited the pacific coast and it was beautiful, but since I haven't visited the carribean coast, I can't offer an opinion. I think they both have their merits. For me, the best part of Costa Rica was the people. The residents love Americans and I felt very safe (which is something I cannot say for other tropical vacation destinations).
1 person likes this
@Jude68 (34)
• United States
27 Jan 07
That was my experience as well. The absolute experience of the rain forest and the jungle, beautiful people, safety. It's close enough to the adventure of Nicaragua and the history of Panama and they don't even have an army! I could definitely retire there.
@JanieJetz (47)
• United States
30 Jan 07
I also visited the Pacific side, Playa Ocotol (sp?). It was beautiful but hilly where I was a lot of climbing to get to and from the beach and my hotel and the street. Gorgeous and scenic! Also felt very safe. I hear the Carribbean side has a different vibe to it and is more lively, with a more traditional Carribbean/African influence in music, food and culture. Haven't been there, but I went to several places in Costa Rica (rainforests, San Jose, Pacific Coast) and had a great time everywhere I went!
1 person likes this
