Romantic Couple’s Vacation for Anniversaries & Honeymoons
The Secluded Caribbean Costa Rica Couple’s Vacation Itinerary is a romantic getaway that explores a few off-the-beaten-path & unique destinations in Costa Rica. Honeymooners, those celebrating an anniversary, and traveling couples will have the opportunity to adventure through the mountainous rainforests on an unforgettable white-water adventure en route to the gorgeous and laid-back beaches of the Caribbean Coast.
Renting bikes to explore the area is popular on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coastlineYour Costa Rica romantic adventure begins in the shadow of Costa Rica’s most active volcano, Volcan Turrialba. Experience the sugarcane plantations, the shade-grown coffee fields, the world-class white water rapids, and the thrill of canyoning and zip-lining in the jungle. After spending a few days in the quaint town of Turrialba, known for its lush landscapes, coffee plantations, and agriculture, you and your partner will journey to the Caribbean Sea community just south of Puerto Limon. The Caribbean coast is known for its pristine white sand beaches and laid-back lifestyle, ideally suited to a romantic getaway.
Spend your days exploring national parks that are teeming with wildlife and your nights enjoying calypso-style steel drums and reggae music. With seemingly endless private, remote beaches, you’ll never tire of walking along the shore, watching surfers, or exploring tide pools with snorkel and mask.
Itinerary Highlights & Facts
- Pacuare River Overnight Rafting & Night in Indigenous Biological Reserve– The Pacuare River is considered one of the top 5 white-water rivers in the world. With breathtaking canyon vistas and adrenaline-pumping rapids, this river trip is a thrilling addition to any Costa Rica couple’s vacation itinerary. The secluded Jungle Lodge adds a layer of romance to your river adventure.
- Cahuita National Park – This coastal paradise protects almost 58,000 acres of wilderness, including nearly 600 acres of living coral reef, which is one of only two reefs in Costa Rica. Explore the lively waters with a snorkel and spot 35 different species of reef and more than 125 species of fish. On land, a five-mile trail teeming with wildlife winds along the coastline, past lagoons, and through remote and gorgeous beaches.
- Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast & Puerto Viejo – The often-overlooked coastal stretch comprises small sandy coves and secluded beaches in the southern Limón province. This is one of the most diverse areas in the country, rich with a cultural blend of Ticos, Afro-Caribbeans, indigenous Cabecar and Bribri Indians, and expats from all over the world. This unique, lively place is genuinely one of a kind.
Typical 9-day Secluded Costa Rica Couple’s Vacation Itinerary
Day #1: Arrival – Transfer to Turrialba
When you arrive at Costa Rica’s San Jose Airport (SJO), a private, air-conditioned vehicle will be waiting outside with a driver holding a sign with your name. You’ll enjoy a scenic two-hour drive to your hotel in Turrialba, with an optional stop for lunch at a traditional restaurant overlooking the valley. The route takes you through the lush sugarcane and coffee fields of the Talamanca Mountains. Upon arrival, settle into your boutique B&B and relax before dinner.
The gorgeous valley views near Turrialba, Costa Rica for your first nightDay #2: Canyoning & Zip-line Tour – Free Time to Explore Turrialba
Start each day with breakfast at your hotel, where you can enjoy fresh fruit and gallo pinto while enjoying the serene valley views. This morning, your adventure begins with a canyoning and zip-lining combo tour. You’ll rappel down waterfalls and zip from tree to tree like a monkey. The tour concludes with a tasty lunch in the heart of the jungle. The afternoon is yours to explore Turrialba or unwind at your hotel before the next day’s rafting adventure.
Day #3: Pacuare River Rafting – Day #1
Explore the upper section of a pristine canyon on the Pacuare River. Your experienced guides will navigate you safely downstream, arriving at a riverside Jungle Lodge just in time for lunch. Nestled deep in the jungle, the lodge offers modern amenities, including running water, private showers, flushing toilets, hammocks, and stunning starry night sky views, creating the perfect romantic setting. Enjoy delicious meals prepared by your guides, and take part in hikes to hidden waterfalls or a zip-line canopy tour through the rainforest. This is a truly unforgettable experience.
Rafting the Pacuare River on your honeymoon will be a trip that you both will remember, foreverDay #4: White-water Rafting – Day #2
Considered one of the world’s top five most scenic rivers, the Pacuare River is located within the Indigenous Biological Reserve and offers breathtaking river views. Know for its intense Class III and IV rapids, which you’ll encounter on your second day of whitewater rafting; whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River is an adventure you won’t want to miss. Before reaching the take-out point, you’ll pass stunning waterfalls and navigate through the dramatic “Dos Montañas” canyon. The rafting adventure lasts 4-5 hours, with opportunities for side hikes and excursions. At the end of your trip, a vehicle with your belongings will be ready, providing changing rooms and a place to freshen up before heading to the southern Caribbean Coast.
Day #5: Day at Leisure
The southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, with its stunning beaches, remains one of the country’s last hidden gems. After navigating thrilling white water, you’ll appreciate the easy-going vibes, delicious cuisine, and the tropical sounds of reggae. Today is all about relaxation with no formal plans. You can learn to surf, take a boat to snorkel on the reef, or visit an organic farm in a Coastal Marine and Rainforest Preserve. A popular choice is to rent a cruiser bicycle and explore the secluded beaches at your own pace.
Day #6: Guided Hike & Snorkel National Park – Afternoon at Beach & Evening to Relax
The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is home to incredible national parks waiting to be explored. A boat captain and lead will accompany you on an adventure through Cahuita National Park. This combo tour allows you to explore the vibrant coral reefs and spot wildlife like monkeys and sloths. In the afternoon, unwind on the beach or swim in the tide pools. Later, head back to your boutique hotel for some relaxation before dinner, either in town or at the hotel.
Day #7: Day at Leisure or Optional Activity
Take the day to relax or enjoy another optional activity. You can hike along the beach, lounge by the pool, take surf lessons, or rent a beach cruiser to explore the secluded beaches nearby. We’ll provide you with all the details when the time comes. In the evening, treat yourselves to a lovely dinner at one of the many local fusion restaurants nearby.
Palm trees, blue skies and romance on the beach await you both here in Costa RicaDay #8: Morning at the Beach – Transfer to Central Valley
Spend your morning soaking in the last bit of Costa Rica’s beauty. Enjoy the beach one last time before meeting your driver in the afternoon. You’ll travel back to the Central Valley in a private, spacious vehicle. Your final night will be spent at a romantic hotel in the highlands of the Poas Volcano, offering a unique view of the sparkling city lights below.
Day #9: Transfer to Airport for Flight Home
Costa Rica Escapes will handle all of the arrangements to make sure you are at the airport with plenty of time for your flight home.
Things to Know about this Itinerary
- San Jose (SJO) Airport is strongly encouraged to use this itinerary.
- The Overnight Rafting Trip can be substituted for a 1-day rafting trip
- There are very limited Premier Accommodations on the Caribbean Coast; therefore, all pricing on the Caribbean is based on upgraded rooms in Casual properties
- The town of Cahuita can be substituted for Puerto Viejo if travelers are seeking a quieter, less populated experience in the Caribbean
- Extensions and side trips to Panama can be coordinated due to Panama’s proximity.
Costs for the Secluded Costa Rica Couple’s Vacation Itinerary
All pricing is based on the High Season: mid-November – mid-April, June – August
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9-Day Costa Rica’s Secluded Caribbean Couple’s Vacation Itinerary
Prices are per person, and based on a couple (at least two people) sharing a room.
8-Day Costa Rica’s Secluded Caribbean Couple’s Vacation Itinerary
Prices are per person, and based on a couple (at least two people) sharing a room.
8-Day Itinerary Summary:
- Day #1: Arrival – Transfer to Turrialba
- Day #2: Combo Tour in Turrialba
- Day #3: White-water Rafting Day #1 – Night in Jungle
- Day #4: White-water Rafting Day #2 – Transfer to Caribbean Coast
- Day #5: Day at Leisure
- Day #6: Day at Leisure or Guided Hiking Tour of National Park
- Day #7: Morning at Beach – Transfer to Central Vallet
- Day #8: Transfer to Airport for Flight Home
11-Day Costa Rica’s Secluded Caribbean Couple’s Vacation Itinerary
Prices are per person, and based on a couple (at least two people) sharing a room.
11-Day Itinerary Summary:
- Day #1: Arrival – Transfer to Turrialba
- Day #2: Combo Tour in Turrialba
- Day #3: Day at Leisure or Optional Activity – Mountain Biking or Horseback Riding
- Day #4: White-water Rafting Day #1 – Night in Jungle
- Day #5: White-water Rafting Day #2 – Transfer to Caribbean Coast
- Day #6: Day at Leisure
- Day #7: Guided Hiking Tour of National Park
- Day #8: Day at Leisure
- Day #9: Optional Activity or Day at Leisure
- Day #10: Morning at Beach – Transfer to Central Valley
- Day #11: Transfer to Airport for Flight Home
What Our Clients Say:
I just wanted to let you know that our trip to Costa Rica was one that we will never forget. We had the most amazing time. The trip from beginning to end was completely flawless. Buck mentioned that he could not imagine ever being able to ever have a vacation that would ever top that one. I want to thank you for putting together such a great itinerary. — Mandy