Pura Vida in Guanacaste: My Costa Rica Getaway + Event Planning Tips
I just got back from the most refreshing trip to Guanacaste, Costa Rica—and let me tell you, this destination is pure magic. I stayed at a friend’s beautiful home tucked into the hills, where the mornings started with the sound of howler monkeys echoing through the trees. If you’ve never heard one before, imagine a combination of a dinosaur growl and a morning alarm… but somehow peaceful.
Between the scenery, the adventure, and the venue potential everywhere you turn, this place is an event planner’s paradise.
A View Made for “Yes!” — Top of the World
One of the highlights of the trip was visiting Top of the World, an incredible lookout point with sweeping Pacific Ocean views. You truly feel like you’re standing at the edge of the sky.
For couples, this spot is made for proposals and intimate wedding ceremonies. The backdrop is perfection—rolling hills, sparkling coastline, endless sky—but it can get windy.
Event Planning Tip: Handling Windy Venues
If you’re planning an event on a bluff or high viewpoint like this:
Secure décor with hidden weights or floral foam anchors.
Avoid light linens—opt for thicker fabrics or clipped table runners.
Choose wind-friendly hairstyles (think chic ponytails, braids, or textured waves).
Use microphones with wind screens for any spoken vows or speeches.
Keep candles covered with hurricanes or switch to LED for reliability.
With the right prep, the wind goes from “problem” to “atmospheric moment.”
Adventures: Ziplining, Dining, and Skinny Cows (Yes, Really)
We also ziplined on Costa Rica’s tallest and longest line—The Superman. You fly face-first over miles of mountains and valleys. It’s equal parts exhilarating and humbling, and absolutely bucket-list worthy.
For meals, we tried several beachfront restaurants where the sand is your floor and the sunset is your entertainment. And let’s talk about the food: Costa Rican cows are surprisingly skinny… but the steaks? Thick, juicy, and absolutely delicious. It doesn’t make sense, but somehow it works. Pura vida magic.
Beaches for Days
We visited several beaches—each gorgeous in its own way—but Playa Flamingo was my favorite. Soft sand, calm water, and that perfect mix of peaceful and lively.
November is technically Costa Rica’s shoulder season, the very beginning of summer. It’s warm, vibrant, and not overly crowded—the perfect time to go if you want great weather and more relaxed tourist traffic.
A Hidden Gem for Soccer Lovers
Just when I thought the area couldn’t get any better, we toured a set of beautiful soccer fields nearby—lush, well-maintained, and surrounded by tropical greenery.
These fields would be perfect for:
Team camps
High-level training sessions
Retreat-style conditioning weeks
Youth or pro development programs
With the ocean minutes away and warm weather year-round, it’s an unbeatable destination for a mix of training and relaxation. Truly a sports planner’s dream setup.
Final Thoughts
Guanacaste has something for everyone—adventure, relaxation, breathtaking event venues, incredible food, beaches, wildlife, and even world-class sports facilities. Whether you’re planning a destination wedding, a team retreat, or your next vacation, this region delivers.
I can’t wait to go back—and next time, I may just bring a full event plan with me.
