Costa Rica, with its diverse landscapes, cultures, and lifestyles, offers something for everyone. From sun-kissed beaches and lush mountains to tranquil rural villages, it’s easy to see why so many people dream of making this country their home. However, with so many options, choosing the right place to live can be overwhelming. That’s where scouting trips come in.

First and foremost, you need to narrow down your options. Defining key factors such as climate, beach vs. mountain environment, expat vs. local communities, and cost of living can help you make a more informed decision. Once you have a shortlist, a scouting trip will allow you to visit potential areas in person, helping you feel the true vibe of each place.

Here’s a detailed guide to some of Costa Rica’s most desirable regions, organized from northwest to southeast, highlighting key features like proximity to airports, healthcare, climate, cost of living, and expat communities.

1. Guanacaste: Playas del Coco, Tamarindo, Nosara and Samara

Located in the northwest, Guanacaste is famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant expat communities, and dry tropical climate. If you love the sun, surfing, or simply being near the beach, this region offers plenty of options to explore.

– Proximity to Airports: Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) is conveniently located in Liberia, with travel times ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the specific town, providing easy access to international flights. Tamarindo (TNO) and Nosara (NOB) offer options for domestic flights too when flying into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). 

– Healthcare: Good private healthcare is available in Liberia, including the San Rafael Arcángel Hospital, with more advanced care accessible in San José.

– Climate: Guanacaste boasts a dry tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 24-35°C (75-95°F). The dry season runs from November to April, and the rainy season extends from May to October, with October being the wettest month.

– Expat Communities: Playas del Coco, Tamarindo and Nosara have large, active expat populations while Samara offers a quieter, more relaxed vibe, with a mix of locals and expats.

– Cost of Living: Living costs are higher in tourist-driven areas like Playas del Coco, Tamarindo and Nosara. Samara offers a more affordable alternative while still offering great amenities.

– Vibe: Tamarindo and Playas del Coco are lively and bustling, with vibrant beach communities and nightlife. Nosara and Samara are much more laid-back, attracting those seeking peace and tranquility.

2. Nicoya Peninsula: Santa Teresa, Cobano and Montezuma

For those looking for a more remote, peaceful lifestyle, the Nicoya Peninsula offers the perfect escape into nature. Santa Teresa, Cobano and Montezuma are known for their bohemian atmosphere, attracting surfers, yoga practitioners, and nature lovers.

– Proximity to Airports: The closest airport is in Tambor (TMU), but most travelers fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and either drive or take a domestic flight to the peninsula.

– Healthcare: There are small clinics in the area, but for more serious medical care, you’ll need to travel to San José.

– Climate: The Nicoya Peninsula has a tropical climate with temperatures averaging between 27-35°C (80-95°F). The dry season runs from December to April, while the rainy season can bring showers from May to November.

– Expat Communities: The expat population is smaller but growing, especially in Santa Teresa, which has a lively surf culture and a growing wellness scene.

– Cost of Living: Living costs are moderate to high, especially for accommodations and dining, though you can still find affordable options in Cobano and Montezuma.

– Vibe: The Nicoya Peninsula is known for its peaceful, nature-focused lifestyle, making it ideal for wellness enthusiasts, yoga practitioners, and those seeking a connection with nature.

3. La Fortuna and Monteverde: Arenal Volcano and Cloud Forests

Arenal’s majestic volcano and the cloud forests of Monteverde are must-visit destinations for nature lovers. The area offers lush scenery and eco-tourism experiences, making it an ideal place for those seeking adventure and connection to nature.

– Proximity to Airports: The closest airport is in Liberia (LIR), 2-3 hours away by car. Alternatively, you can also fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and drive to the destination. It takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to reach La Fortuna and about 3 to 4 hours to reach Monteverde. La Fortuna is also served by the La Fortuna Airport (NOB), which offers domestic flights.

– Healthcare: Medical facilities in La Fortuna and Monteverde are good for general needs, with more advanced services available in San José.

– Climate: Both La Fortuna and Monteverde have lush vegetation and experience rainfall year-round, especially during the green season (May to October). However, La Fortuna has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F), while Monteverde is cooler due to its higher elevation, with temperatures typically ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F).

– Expat Communities: Smaller expat communities can be found in both areas, particularly in the Monteverde area, known for its eco-tourism and nature-focused lifestyle.

– Cost of Living: Moderate, with more affordable options than in beach towns or high-tourism areas.

– Vibe: A more laid-back, nature-centric vibe focused on sustainability and outdoor activities.

4. Central Valley: San Ramón, Grecia and Atenas

For those who prefer a quieter, more rural lifestyle, San Ramón, Grecia and Atenas provide a serene and affordable alternative to the busy urban centers of Escazú and Santa Ana.

– Proximity to Airports: These towns are approximately 1-1.5 hours from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), making them well-connected but offering a peaceful environment away from the city hustle.

– Healthcare: Good healthcare options are available in San Ramón, with larger hospitals located in San José.

– Climate: Similar to Escazú and Santa Ana, the climate in San Ramón, Grecia and Atenas is temperate, with cooler temperatures ranging from 20-26°C (68-79°F), providing relief from the heat of the coast.

– Expat Communities: San Ramón and Grecia offer a more authentic Costa Rican experience with smaller, tight-knit expat communities, while Atenas has a modest expat presence.

– Cost of Living: These towns are more affordable than Escazú and Santa Ana, making them a great option for expats looking for value and a quieter lifestyle.

– Vibe: San Ramón and Grecia offer vibrant local cultures and a more traditional Costa Rican experience, while Atenas is known for its relaxed pace of life and ideal weather conditions.

5. Greater Metropolitan Area: Escazú and Santa Ana

The Central Valley offers a temperate climate with easy access to both rural living and urban conveniences. Escazú and Santa Ana are highly desirable locations for expats and locals, offering modern amenities, upscale living, and proximity to San José.

– Proximity to Airports: Escazú and Santa Ana are just 20-30 minutes from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), making them easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

– Healthcare: San José provides excellent healthcare facilities, including private hospitals and clinics such as CIMA Hospital and Hospital Clínica Bíblica, all just a short drive away.

– Climate: Temperatures range from 20-26°C (68-79°F), offering a temperate climate with both dry and rainy seasons.

– Expat Communities: Escazú and Santa Ana are home to large expat communities, especially retirees and professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities.

– Cost of Living: Escazú is more expensive due to its upscale nature, while Santa Ana offers a slightly more affordable yet still modern and convenient alternative.

– Vibe: Escazú is cosmopolitan with upscale shopping, dining, and residential areas. Santa Ana offers a quieter suburban atmosphere with parks and family-friendly amenities.

6. Central Pacific: Jacó and Manuel Antonio

The Central Pacific coast offers a perfect blend of beach vibes, adventure, and accessibility. Jacó is known for its vibrant, lively atmosphere, while Manuel Antonio is renowned for its stunning national park and beautiful beach, offering a quieter, more relaxed experience.

– Proximity to Airports: Both Jacó and Manuel Antonio are about 1.5-2 hours from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), and Manuel Antonio is also conveniently served by the local Quepos Airport (XQP), just a short drive away.

– Healthcare: Jacó offers basic healthcare services, including a local clinic for general medical needs. For more extensive medical care, residents and visitors typically travel to San José or Quepos, where larger hospitals and specialized services are available.

– Climate: Tropical with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F) year-round, with a distinct rainy season from May to November.

– Expat Communities: Jacó has a larger expat population with a more active social scene, while Manuel Antonio is quieter, but still has a notable expat community.

– Cost of Living: Jacó is more affordable, but Manuel Antonio can be more expensive due to its popularity with tourists.

– Vibe: Jacó is bustling with nightlife and surf culture, while Manuel Antonio is laid-back with stunning beaches and nature reserves.

7. Southern Pacific Coast: Dominical, Uvita and Ojochal

The Southern Pacific Coast offers a mix of nature, sustainability, and tranquility. Dominical, Uvita and Ojochal are known for their laid-back vibe and access to stunning beaches and rainforests. San Isidro de Pérez Zeledón, located inland, serves as a hub for services and offers a more affordable lifestyle.

– Proximity to Airports: While Quepos has a local airport (XQP), most travelers fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and take a 3 hour drive to this region.

– Healthcare: Basic healthcare is available in Dominical and Uvita, but for more advanced care, you’ll need to go to San Isidro e Pérez Zeledón or San José.

– Climate: Expect tropical weather with temperatures ranging from 24-30°C (75-86°F). The rainy season runs from May to November, with significantly more rainfall than the Central Valley or Guanacaste.

– Expat Communities: Expat populations here are smaller but often focused on wellness, sustainability, and eco-tourism.

– Cost of Living: Living costs are more affordable compared to high-tourism areas like Guanacaste and the Central Pacific region.

– Vibe: This is a quiet, nature-driven area with a focus on sustainability and wellness. It’s perfect for those looking for a slower pace of life surrounded by natural beauty.

8. Chirripó and San Isidro de Pérez Zeledón

Chirripó, home to Costa Rica’s highest peak, offers stunning views and an adventurous, nature-centered lifestyle. Nearby, San Isidro de Pérez Zeledón provides access to amenities and services while maintaining a peaceful, rural atmosphere.

– Proximity to Airports: San Isidro de Pérez Zeledón is a 3-4 hour drive from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), with a regional airport nearby, La Managua Airport (PZC), located close to San Isidro de Pérez Zeledón, which mainly serves domestic flights.

– Healthcare: San Isidro offers basic healthcare, but for serious needs, you’ll need to go to San José.

– Climate: San Isidro de Pérez Zeledón enjoys a tropical to temperate climate, with cooler mountain air in Chirripó, with temperatures ranging from 10-18°C (50-64°F), and a slightly warmer climate in Pérez Zeledón, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F).

– Expat Communities: The expat community is smaller here, focused on rural living and nature.

– Cost of Living: More affordable than coastal and urban areas.

– Vibe: A peaceful, nature-centered lifestyle perfect for those seeking solitude and outdoor adventure.

9. Osa Peninsula: Puerto Jiménez and Drake Bay

For those seeking the ultimate remote experience, the Osa Peninsula is a biodiverse paradise offering unparalleled seclusion and untouched beauty. It is home to Corcovado National Park, one of the most biologically intense places on Earth, making it the perfect destination for eco-tourists and nature lovers.

– Proximity to Airports: Puerto Jiménez has a small regional airport, Puerto Jiménez Airport (PJM), but most travelers fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and take a domestic flight to reach the area.

– Healthcare: Healthcare options are very limited in Puerto Jiménez and Drake Bay. Serious medical issues require travel to San José.

– Climate: Expect tropical and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 27-35°C (80-95°F) and frequent rain during the green season.

– Expat Communities: The expat community is small but growing, primarily focused on eco-tourism and conservation.

– Cost of Living: Generally affordable, although prices can rise in more tourist-centric areas.

– Vibe: Extremely remote, making it ideal for those wanting to live off the grid and immerse themselves in nature.

10. Caribbean Coast: Puerto Viejo and Cahuita

The Caribbean region of Costa Rica offers an entirely different experience from the rest of the country, with a laid-back pace of life, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches. It’s a place where Reggae and Calypso rhythms fill the air, and the blend of Afro-Caribbean, indigenous, and Costa Rican influences creates a distinctly unique atmosphere. The local cuisine, featuring dishes like rice and beans cooked in coconut milk, patacones (fried plantains), and fresh seafood, further sets this region apart, making the Caribbean coast an unforgettable and one-of-a-kind destination.

– Proximity to Airports: The closest major airport is Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), with a 4-hour drive to Puerto Viejo. Alternatively, you can fly into Limón International Airport (LIO), which is closer, offering a more convenient option for travelers heading to the Caribbean coast.

– Healthcare: Basic healthcare is available in Puerto Viejo, but more advanced options are found in San José.

– Climate: Tropical with temperatures averaging between 26-30°C (79-86°F). Expect a rainy season from April to November.

– Expat Communities: The expat population is growing, with a focus on eco-tourism and a bohemian lifestyle.

– Cost of Living: More affordable than in the Central Valley or Pacific coast areas.

– Vibe: The Caribbean coast is known for its multicultural atmosphere, offering a slower pace of life with a unique blend of cultures, amazing beaches, and access to wildlife reserves.

Why Scouting Is Essential

Choosing the right place in Costa Rica is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition. Scouting trips allow you to see firsthand what each region has to offer, from climate to community to cost of living. Tailoring your trip to your personal preferences will help you find your perfect piece of paradise.

I review and plan bespoke scouting trips designed to help you explore the best areas based on your unique lifestyle needs. Whether it’s proximity to services, the ideal climate, or the perfect community vibe, I can guide you to the right choice.

With my trusted network of real estate agents and relocation experts, I can point you in the right direction to ensure that your move to Costa Rica is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

Don’t leave your dream to chance —let’s start planning your scouting trip to Costa Rica today!

Pura Vida,
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