Pura Vida Adventures: Exploring the Best of Costa Rica

by Denisa · Published December 11, 2025 · Updated December 13, 2025

Costa Rica, with its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and diverse activities, offers a perfect setting for a solo female traveler in October. This month brings the tail end of the rainy season, meaning fewer crowds and lush green landscapes. Whether you seek vibrant city life, tranquil beaches, or challenging hikes, Costa Rica has something to offer. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the best destinations for your October adventure.

Arriving in Costa Rica: First Impressions and Airport Tips

I arrived in Costa Rica in the late afternoon, and by the time I stepped outside the airport, it was already dark. Immigration was surprisingly quick—I didn’t even need to show an exit ticket. They just asked a few simple questions about my trip, like how long I planned to stay and where I’d be sleeping that night. Within minutes, I was through. My bag, on the other hand, took forever to appear. Classic.

Once I finally made it out of the arrivals area, I had to figure out transportation. You can order Uber in Costa Rica, but they’re not allowed to pick up passengers directly at the airport. That means you either pay extra for an official taxi or walk outside the airport grounds to meet your Uber somewhere nearby. After a long day of flying, I didn’t have the energy for an airport scavenger hunt, so I chose the easier (and pricier) option: a regular taxi. Honestly? Worth it. The driver was incredibly friendly and even gave me a bunch of local recommendations and tips for my stay. A perfect, warm welcome to Costa Rica. For my first night, I stayed in a small hotel in the heart of San José. The location was great; the city itself… not so much.

San Jose: The Urban Gateway

Starting your journey in San Jose, the capital city, gives you a taste of Costa Rican culture and history. The city is compact and walkable, with plenty of museums, markets, and cafes to explore safely during the day. The National Museum and the Jade Museum provide fascinating insights into the country’s heritage.

Tips for solo travellers in San Jose:

Stay in well-reviewed hostels or boutique hotels in safe neighbourhoods like Escalante or Barrio Amón.
Use registered taxis or ride share apps after dark.
Join a walking tour to meet other travellers and learn about the city’s hidden gems.

San Jose is also a convenient hub for arranging transportation to other destinations on your itinerary.

I have to admit, San José wasn’t my favourite stop in Costa Rica. One full day there felt like more than enough, and I think my expectations simply didn’t match the reality. The city felt a bit run-down and chaotic, with quite a few people living on the streets and traffic that made walking stressful — very few pedestrian crossings, minimal traffic lights, and cars everywhere. I stayed two nights in a small hotel downtown, which was convenient for getting around, but the area itself wasn’t particularly charming. Overall, I’m glad I saw the capital, but it wasn’t a place I felt drawn to stay longer. I did enjoy one memorable moment, though — lunch at Cafe Rojo, a gorgeous little restaurant with warm service and fantastic dishes. It was, without a doubt, the highlight of my stay in the capital.

San José mostly served as my starting point for the rest of my trip, and after two nights there, I headed all the way down to the south coast to a small beach town called Sámara. You can take a local bus for just a few USD, but I decided to use Interbus, which was a bit more expensive (US $ 69) but worked better for me. The local buses to Sámara leave San José only once a day around midday, and the journey takes roughly six hours — and that’s assuming everything goes smoothly.Since I knew I’d be arriving in a completely new town, I didn’t want to risk getting there after dark. That was one of the main reasons I chose Interbus instead. The journey took approximately six hours, so I arrived in Sámara around 2 p.m. — just in time to settle in, unpack, and head out to explore the town for the very first time.

Samara and Nosara: Beach Towns with a Laid-Back Vibe

Both Samara and Nosara are located on the Nicoya Peninsula and are known for their beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. October is a great time to visit because the rain softens, and the beaches are less crowded.

What to enjoy in Samara:

Gentle waves perfect for beginner surfers.
Horseback riding along the beach.
Yoga classes and wellness retreats.

In Nosara:

Explore the Nosara Biological Reserve for wildlife spotting.
Try more advanced surfing or stand-up paddleboarding.
Enjoy organic cafes and a strong wellness community.

Both towns have a reputation for being safe and welcoming to solo female travellers, with plenty of opportunities to connect with locals and other visitors.

Sámara : Where My Costa Rica Journey Truly Began

Sámara was the very first place I landed after arriving in Costa Rica, and it became the town that shaped the start of my entire adventure. For the first four weeks, I was enrolled in a TEFL course (you can check it out at costaricatefl.com). Looking back, I’m really glad I did it—it gave me a chance to slow down, settle in somewhere familiar, meet people, and explore the town before heading out on my solo travels. It also gave me the breathing room I needed to figure out what I wanted to see and do next.

Sámara’s beach is nice, but my heart quickly drifted next door to Playa Carrillo. It’s quieter, beautifully pristine, and has that untouched tropical feel. You can take a bus, but if you enjoy walking like I do, you can simply follow Sámara Beach all the way to Carrillo. It’s a peaceful, scenic walk right along the water—a perfect morning or sunset outing.

If you’re hungry (and trust me, you will be in that heat), here are my top picks:

Ola’s – Get the beef nachos. Honestly. If you happen to be in Sámara on a Thursday, don’t miss Ola’s Sushi Night. They offer a two-for-one deal, and the sushi is honestly delicious. It quickly became a weekly ritual for many of us in town, and I highly recommend giving it a try if you’re around on a Thursday evening.
Mr. Pelicano – I only went once, but I still think about the tuna tacos I had there. They offered them as a daily special and… wow. My mouth is watering just writing about them. It’s a bit pricier than other spots in Sámara, but for a treat, absolutely worth it.

Every Saturday from 7 am to 1 pm, Sámara hosts a market full of fresh products, baked goods, artisanal products, and handmade crafts. Go early if you want the best fruit and veggies—the good stuff disappears fast.

One of the highlights of my entire stay in Costa Rica was meeting Robin, Justin, and their little “mountain baby,” Laurel. If you know me, you know I’m not the type to strike up small talk easily, but sometimes people just show up at the right time. They were staying right next to me, and before I knew it, we were friends. I joined them on a few adventures around Sámara, and those memories became some of the most special moments of my stay. That’s the magic of solo travel—unexpected connections that make a place feel like home. If you’re into national parks or outdoor adventure, definitely check out their podcast: (https://www.youtube.com/@NPJRPodcast/videos ) — they have tons of great stories and insights.

Leaving Sámara was harder than I expected. I’d finally settled into a routine, met people I connected with, and found comfort in the familiar. But I was ready for the next chapter—my solo adventure.

Falling in love with Nosara

I fell in love with Nosara (Playa Guiones) instantly—it was love at first sight. The moment I arrived, it reminded me of home in Australia, especially Noosa on the Sunshine Coast. During my time in Costa Rica, I ended up visiting Nosara several times, and every visit made me love it even more

The beach is stunning, and there’s a small organic café/bakery nearby with a cute little store selling clothing and jewellery made by local designers. There’s also a lovely organic market where you can buy anything and everything. Luckily for my wallet, I’m backpacking, which means limited space in my bag… which also means no shopping. Probably for the best!

One place I highly recommend is Café Paris. It’s a bit pricey, but absolutely worth it—the food, the atmosphere, the setting… everything is gorgeous. Another fantastic restaurant is Restaurante Il Basilico, where I had a prawn pasta that was honestly to die for.

Nosara may be a small beach town, but for me, it’s a place worth visiting over and over again. I’ll always have a soft spot for it.

Arenal: Volcano Views and Hot Springs

The Arenal area, centered around the town of La Fortuna, is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic regions, known for the majestic Arenal Volcano and lush rainforest scenery. The area offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, from hiking lava trails and spotting wildlife to ziplining through the canopy. With plenty of accommodation, tours, and restaurants, Arenal is an easy and rewarding stop on any Costa Rica itinerary.

Highlights for solo travellers:

Iconic Arenal Volcano from multiple viewpoints and trails
Natural Hot Springs – perfect for relaxing and recharging solo
Easy solo-friendly hikes in Arenal Volcano National Park
Great wildlife spotting (sloths, monkeys, birds)
Well-organised tours (ziplining, waterfalls, hanging bridges) – ideal for meeting other travllers

I spent only two days in the Arenal area, and this was really a short road trip—just enough to quickly experience the area. I would highly recommend staying longer — there is so much to see and do.

I started my visit with an early-morning trip to Arenal Volcano National Park. Some entrances don’t open until 8:00–8:30 a.m., and the entry fee is around $15 USD on average. The entrance I chose offered several different trails, along with waterfalls, hanging bridges, scenic lookouts, and a lookout tower. Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t on my side — it started raining heavily shortly after I arrived. Still, that didn’t stop me from enjoying the day. The highlight was definitely climbing the tower and standing above the treetops. From there, I could see parts of the volcano, and honestly, the mist and rain gave the experience a very special, almost magical atmosphere. The surroundings were absolutely breathtaking, with endless shades of green, dense rainforest, and mountains stretching into the distance.

Manuel Antonio: Wildlife and Beaches Combined

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most famous spots, offering a mix of rainforest trails and pristine beaches. October’s light rains keep the park lush and vibrant, and the crowds are smaller compared to peak season.

Highlights for solo travellers:

Guided hikes to spot monkeys, sloths, and colourful birds.
Relaxing on the white sand beaches inside the park.
Exploring nearby Quepos town for local dining and nightlife.

Stay in eco-lodges or small hotels near the park entrance for easy access. Guided tours are recommended for safety and to enhance your wildlife experience.

Manuel Antonio is famous for its national park, and although I only had one full day there, the timing of my visit wasn’t great — the park is closed on Tuesdays. I arrived in Manuel Antonio in the evening, already after dark, and headed straight to my accommodation: an amazing glamping site (La Comarca River Glamping Dome near Manuel Antonio) that I would highly recommend. Alex, the host, was incredibly helpful. He even upgraded my “room” for free, so I ended up with my own private jacuzzi. It was my first time glamping, and I was completely blown away by the setup. While waiting for my wine delivery (ordered conveniently via WhatsApp!), I chatted with Alex about my plans for the next day. When I told him I didn’t have any, he immediately began sharing ideas.

He suggested I visit a beach in Quepos where you can sometimes see baby turtles hatching, as well as the Nauyaca Waterfalls. Since I had no plans, I was super grateful for his recommendations. I woke up early the next morning and went for a quiet stroll along the river. Soon after, I made my way to the Quepos port, where I took a small ferry boat across (it runs every five minutes and costs just 500 colones return for two adults). From there, I hopped into a taxi — basically a truck with about ten people sitting in the back — which cost 6,000 colones one way for two people. The beach experience was magical. My heart was so full finally seeing the baby turtles — absolutely adorable. I spent around an hour there. The experience itself is free, but since it’s run by volunteers, donations are encouraged (optional, of course).

Afterward, I continued to the Nauyaca Waterfalls. The entry was $38 USD per person with transport to and from the falls included. Since I had another hike planned for the next day, I didn’t want to do any unnecessary climbing, so paying extra for transport was worth it. You can choose to walk if you prefer a cheaper option. The waterfalls were incredible — several scenic spots, pools, and smaller hikes. I ended the adventure by jumping into a waterhole at the bottom of the falls, the perfect refreshing reward after a day of exploring. What a perfect way to end the day.

Cerro Chirripo: The Ultimate Hiking Challenge

For those seeking adventure, Cerro Chirripo is Costa Rica’s highest peak at 3,820 meters. The hike is challenging but rewarding, with stunning views over both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts on clear days.

What to know before you go:

The trek usually takes two days with an overnight stay at a mountain lodge.
Weather can be unpredictable, so pack rain gear and warm clothing.
Join a guided group for safety and navigation.

Solo female travellers with good fitness levels will find this an unforgettable experience that pushes limits and connects deeply with nature.

Read my Cerro Chirripo adventure post

Puerto Viejo: Caribbean Culture and Surf

On the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo offers a different vibe from the Pacific side. The town is known for its Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae music, and excellent surf spots.

Things to do in Puerto Viejo:

Surf at Salsa Brava or beginner-friendly beaches.
Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center to learn about wildlife rehabilitation.
Explore Cahuita National Park’s coral reefs and trails.

October is part of the rainy season here, but showers tend to be brief. The town is lively yet laid-back, with many hostels and guesthouses popular among solo travellers.

I really enjoyed my two full days in Puerto Viejo. It has a completely different vibe compared to the Atlantic side of Costa Rica — much more relaxed, colorful, and influenced by Afro-Caribbean and Jamaican culture. The town itself is fairly small, but it has everything you could possibly need. I loved wandering through the little boutiques and jewelry shops created by local designers.

The biggest highlight of my stay was visiting the Jaguar Rescue Center. You can buy tickets online for around $27 USD (card payments include a small fee). Not only do you get to see incredible wildlife — like sloths, monkeys, and other rescued animals — but you also learn so much about their rehabilitation and conservation work. Our guide was fantastic, and because the guides are all volunteers, you can tip them at the end of the tour, which I was more than happy to do. If you’re interested in learning more about their mission, definitely check out their website or Instagram.

Of course, you can’t leave Puerto Viejo without spending time on its gorgeous Caribbean beaches. Each one has its own personality — from the calm, golden sands of Playa Chiquita, to the lively atmosphere at Playa Cocles, and the picture-perfect turquoise water at Punta Uva, one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen. After the exhausting hike to Cerro Chirripó, I was more than happy to simply chill, unwind, and let my body recover while soaking up the sun. The coastline here feels wild yet welcoming, lined with palm trees, laid-back beach bars, and warm Caribbean water that’s perfect for swimming. Whether you’re relaxing with a book, catching some waves, or simply enjoying the tropical scenery, the beaches of Puerto Viejo make it incredibly easy to slow down and savor the moment.

Jaco: Surf and Nightlife

Jaco is a bustling beach town popular for surfing and nightlife. It’s a good choice if you want a mix of beach time and social activities.

Solo traveler tips for Jaco:

Take surf lessons or rent a board to enjoy the consistent waves.
Explore nearby waterfalls and nature reserves during the day.
Stick to well-lit areas at night and travel with trusted transport.

Jaco has a range of accommodations from budget hostels to upscale hotels, making it accessible for different travel styles.

I didn’t really spend much time in Jacó, as I was just passing through, but I definitely enjoyed the vibe. The beach looked incredible — wide, golden, and full of energy. I also stopped at a restaurant just before reaching Jacó and OMG… it was honestly the best fish I’ve ever eaten. So if you’re heading to Jacó, you absolutely need to stop there — it’s worth it just for that meal alone. Its called Restaurante Vista Mar.

Monteverde: Cloud Forest Exploration

Monteverde is famous for its cloud forests, hanging bridges, and rich biodiversity. October’s rains keep the forest vibrant, and the cooler temperatures make hiking comfortable.

Activities to try:

Walk the Selvatura Park hanging bridges.
Visit the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens.
Take a night tour to see nocturnal wildlife.

The town is small and safe, with many eco-lodges and hostels catering to solo travelers. Guided tours are widely available and recommended.

Monteverde was the last stop on my nine-day road trip through Costa Rica. The town is famous for its cloud forest, and I decided to stay just outside of town to take in the stunning views. My accommodation was very affordable, and the host even brought me breakfast at exactly the time I wanted — such a sweet touch.

Of course, I couldn’t leave Monteverde without visiting the hanging bridges. I booked my tour through a company called Treetop Park Monteverde, which cost $49 USD. There were six hanging bridges in total, and the walk itself took less than an hour.Was it worth the money? Probably not — I think it’s a bit overpriced — but I couldn’t leave Monteverde without trying it. The experience was still enjoyable, with beautiful views and a fun way to explore the forest canopy. If you already know when you’ll be visiting Monteverde, a more budget-friendly option is to book the hanging bridges tour directly through Monteverde National Park, which costs $29 USD.

Overall, Monteverde was the perfect way to end my Costa Rica adventure. After nine days of beaches, wildlife, and hikes, the peaceful cloud forest offered a tranquil finale. Staying just outside town with those incredible views, enjoying the hanging bridges, and simply soaking in the cool, misty air felt like the perfect way to slow down and reflect on the journey. Costa Rica truly has something for every type of traveler — from thrilling hikes and wildlife encounters to relaxing beaches and charming small towns — and Monteverde was the ideal spot to take it all in before heading home, back to Samara, just to get ready for my next adventure.