I was searching for a short escape from the cold Northeast Winter, and my first thoughts were Florida and the Bahamas. It turns out my options were either too touristy, too pricey or the available flights were awful (didn’t help I was using frequent flier miles that limited my options). Suddenly Costa Rica popped in my head and off I went to Playa Grande, a small surf town just north of the more popular Tamarindo. As a bonus, I had enough Chase Ultimate Rewards Points to stay four nights instead of the three I was limited to in the Bahamas.
The great thing about a Costa Rican beach vacation is there are plenty of opportunities to mix in active pursuits with your beach and pool time. Surfing and yoga are ingrained in the “Pura Vida” lifestyle and you can find both at Rip Jack Inn. The friendly and helpful staff at Rip Jack can arrange surfing lessons and trips to popular surf breaks and assist with board rentals.They recommend Frijoles Locos for rentals but there are several surf shops nearby to assist you.
If you don’t surf there are plenty of other opportunities to fit in your daily workout. Go for a long walk or run on the expansive and uncrowded beach or, better yet, take advantage of Rip Jack’s twice daily yoga classes at the onsite yoga shala. The yoga classes were fantastic and one of the highlights of my trip. The instructors were helpful, knowledgable and catered to beginners as well as advanced yogis. With classes ranging from gentle Hatha to intense power yoga there is most definitely a class you’ll love.
Let’s not forget you’re on vacation to recharge yourself, so after surfing or yoga take time to soothe your tired muscles. Rip Jack can arrange an in-room massage or a massage at Frijoles Locos Day Spa. Prices are very reasonable and certainly cheaper than you’ll find at many resorts and spas.
After you’ve soothed your tired muscles and your mind, head to the beach or the pool to settle in with a good book, feel the warm sun on your face and wait for happy hour to arrive at 4:00.
Bonus Tips:
- Playa Grande is about a one hour drive from the Liberia airport and a private transfer costs about $80.
- The geography is dry and desert-like so if you’re looking for lush rainforests you’ll need to go to the Central and South Pacific or Caribbean Coast.
- Good times to visit are at the start of dry season (Jan-Feb) and June – August when rain showers may be daily but are brief.