Costa Rica is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a beach vacation with a twist. With its natural beauty and friendly people, Costa Rica’s beaches are sure to please even the most discerning traveller. The country has plenty of unique things to do, including surfing lessons and canopy tours. However, if you’re looking for something different from your typical beach excursions, there are also plenty of activities that will make any trip one to remember!
Jardin Yankuam
Jardin Yankuam is a botanical garden located on the outskirts of Jaco, about 20 minutes away by car. The garden boasts over 200 species of tropical plants and trees, a butterfly sanctuary, an aquarium with freshwater fish, and a turtle exhibit.
The entrance fee is $5 USD per person (kids under 5 are free), but if you’re planning to spend some time here or take advantage of one or more of the tours offered (which cost additional fees), it’s worth it!
There are two main areas: the Tropical Garden and the Children’s Park. The Tropical Garden features dozens of species spread across several acres; there are paved paths through all of these areas so that visitors can easily walk from one area to another without getting lost too much. If you’re interested in learning more about Costa Rican flora and fauna (or even just looking for something fun to do with your kids!), this is worth checking out!
Los Sueños Golf Club
San Jose’s Los Sueños Golf Club is the longest golf course in Central America and has hosted many professional tournaments. It was designed by Jack Nicklaus, who also designed several other famous courses such as Muirfield Village Golf Club and The Bear’s Club. If you’re looking for a challenge, this is the spot. With a total of 18 holes that range from 3235 yards to 6882 yards long! The Championship Course boasts some pretty impressive scenery—it takes place on land that used to be part of a coffee plantation, so as you play your round, you’ll get great views of rolling hills covered with lush vegetation like tropical plants and palm trees. Each hole features its own unique characteristics:
● Par 4 Hole 9 – This hole plays uphill through dense jungle foliage before turning right near the green, where plenty of bunkers are waiting for errant shots.
● Par 4 Hole 12 – This dogleg right par 4 involves navigating across water hazards on both sides before making it around another water hazard onto an elevated fairway leading up toward a green guarded by deep bunkers at both front corners.
Canopy Safari
Canopy tours are basically zip-lines but offer a much more interactive experience. In addition to going across the canopy on a cable, you’ll also be able to walk around in it, which is great for anyone who wants a better perspective of the environment and wildlife. If you’re afraid of heights or don’t like adrenaline sports, this might not be for you—there are some pretty long drops that can make anyone feel uncomfortable!
However, if you’re okay with heights (or have overcome your fear) and want an immersive experience instead of just zipping through trees at high speeds like zip lining, this tour may be worth trying out! You’ll get an idea of what life looks like from above: seeing how huge trees really are and how small we humans are in comparison; getting up close and personal with animals such as monkeys and sloths; learning about all kinds of plants; feeling eyes watching us even though there aren’t any people nearby—it’s pretty cool stuff!
