There's a reason we are Costa Rica Dreamin'... it's one of those places where planning a Costa Rica vacation is almost as much fun as being there!
Costa Rica won in the "Nature" category as part of The 2021 Gay Travel AwardsSM and is a favorite destination among LGBTQ+ travelers - especially now when it's more important than ever to disconnect and connect with nature! For those of you who haven't been to Costa Rica yet, here's a quick overview:
Where is Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is a country located in Central America between North America and South America.
What is the capital of Costa Rica?
San José is the capital of Costa Rica and is situated right in the country's middle within the San José province.
What to do in Costa Rica?
We're glad you asked because Costa Rica is blessed with incredible diversity, which means there is something for everyone. To name a few exciting activities...surfing, canyoning, zip-lining, ATV tours, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, eco-tours, bull-riding, riding a tram through the rainforest, going on a waterfall tour, seeing a volcano, taking a cooking class, play golf, tennis, dive, and more! With so much to do, you can be a true adventurer or simply relax and unwind.
Is Costa Rica Gay Friendly?
Their mantra is "Pura Vida," which translates to "pure life" or "simple life" in English, but it means so much more than that! "Pura Vida" is similar to "Aloha" in Hawaiian, where the word captures a way of life. The Costa Ricans are friendly, multicultural, and multilingual people whose heritage is African, Chinese, Jewish, Lebanese, and Italian. The indigenous peoples are the Bribrí, Cabécar, Maleku, Teribe, Boruca, Ngäbe, Huetar, and Chorotega groups making the blended culture quite wonderful and unique!
Where to Stay?
It depends on your plans, but one thing is for sure! You have the most amazing GayTravel Approved® resorts and hotels in Costa Rica to choose from, and they are awaiting your arrival!
Costa Rica Marriott Hacienda Belen
This gorgeous hotel is the perfect home base with a blend of high-tech and high-touch combined with a terrific location. Complimentary shuttle service from the airport means you don't have to think, and you'll be whisked to your spacious and luxurious room where you can unwind and relax from your travels.
For Families and Golf Enthusiasts
Los Suenos Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort
This beachfront resort boasts a private beach and a championship 18-hole golf course. Ever dreamed of riding a horse on the beach? Well, giddyup because Jaco Beach has everything you'll need. Hiking the canopy of the rainforest along the Green Coast is another great option, or discover Carara National Park.
The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa
Located on the North Pacific side of Costa Rica, The Westin Reserva Conchal is beckoning! With a golf course that defies description, you can practice your swing in paradise! Your sporting spirit will soar on the Robert Trent Jones, 18-hole, par 71 golf course. No matter what your skill-level may be, you cannot help but appreciate the scenery around you as you feel the gentle breezes from the beach blow across the course to the lush tropical landscape.
When the focus on health and wellness is of paramount importance, this all-inclusive resort and spa is the perfect place to unwind and reset your mind and body. We highly recommend their Wellness Package which gives you access every day to the Spa's hydrotherapy pool as well as 15% off spa treatments and a welcome amenity.
When Love is in the Air
W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal
Their slogan is "Bold by Nature" and the essence of this stand-out hotel combined with its location in Costa Rica - The GayTravel Awards "Nature" Destination of the Year, makes it easy to recommend this amazing hotel for your wedding day. Their expert planners will help make your special day something to remember for the ages! Whether you take advantage of the great outdoors including the exotic mangroves and the tropical beaches or the over-the-top ballroom as your backdrop, your wedding will be spectacular. With their "whatever/whenever service" you and yours can Wed Your Way!
El Mangroove, an Autograph Collection
Guanacaste is known for its forests and mangroves. El Mangroove overlooks the stunning Gulf of Papagayo. The moment you arrive, you will feel connected with nature because the hotel's design is inspired by Costa Rican culture, the lush forests, and the sun-drenched beaches. Be sure to take a private boat tour and afterward unwind with a massage at Bearth Spa.
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
A hacienda-style hotel with beautiful views of Guanacaste. Beach bonfires, yoga classes, sunset cocktails, and even an astronomy observatory... these special activities are just a few of the many that await!
Punta Islita, an Autograph Collection
Another Guanacaste gem is Punta Islita. LGBTQ+ travelers will revel in the complimentary eco-adventures and cultural experiences. Being surrounded by the beautiful ocean and tropical forest will make you feel relaxed and refreshed. Be sure to spend time at the Wild Scarlet Macaw Reserve, the Camaronal Sea Turtle Refuge, and explore Carrillo and Samara's surrounding beach towns.
Adults Only
Gaia Hotel and Reserve is located on the Pacific Central Coast and is nestled in the coastal forests of Manuel Antonio. The combination of an eco-friendly hotel with its own private reserve that helps protect the wildlife is truly unique and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For foodies, you'll love fine dining La-Luna, their onsite restaurant and for spa aficionados, enjoy a spa treatment at Terra Spa.
As part of their incredible win in The 2021 GayTravel Awards in the "influencer" category, @michaelandmatt went "off the radar" to Costa Rica and tapped into some self-care and healing connection with nature. Here is their post about what they learned from the experience and how hopeful they are about all the exciting upcoming changes in their lives.
For more current information, please refer to the Visit Costa Rica tourism site.
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