The Ultimate Packing and Planning Guide for Your Ocean View Stay in Costa Rica
A lot of times its as easy as book, go, arrive and enjoy. When planning your visit to Costa Rica especially to Pura Vista Hotel, here are some planning tips to consider:
TRANSFERS & TRANSPORTATION: Mention Pura Vista Hotel for discounts and on point pricing - see our List of Transportation. An airport transfer costs on average $50-100 depending on the size of car and size of party. Tours often include transfers from the hotel. Pura Vista Hotel is exclusively located in a quiet cove where you can Walk to The Beach and beachside restaurant Father Rooster but if you’d like to adventure out to town or other towns a car or golf cart rental is recommended. If you’re more chill and like to stick to tour transfers that can be enough for a short visit. If you’re staying the week or longer consider Booking a car if you’re going to multi locations and prefer to take yourself to tours etc.
SEASONS: Research the time of year based on weather and preferred activities. In Playa Ocotal at Pura Vista we are in a micro climate that’s more dryer than most of the country with high season beginning in November and lasting through April. During rainy season (June-November) we see a lot less rain than most of the country but the landscape bursts with green and Whale Season is Always Magical (July-Dec). October is our rainiest month but again a special time watching the storms dance over the ocean is the perfect relaxing retreat with windows of beach time and loads of wildlife at its finest. It’s our favorite time of the year next to the dry season. When you plan to travel beyond Pura Vista Hotel - be prepared for wetter rainforest like climates as it is called rainy season for a reason. :)
PASSPORT: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry. They like you to be super in the clear.
VISA? Check if you need a visa to enter Costa Rica based on your nationality.
INSURANCE: Consider getting travel insurance to cover medical emergencies and trip cancellations. There are really good medical facilities in town for minor needs.
Check out Coco Medical.
PACKING: Pack light, ***bring your reusable water bottle, travel towel, travel large brim hat, reusable grocery bag to avoid plastic waste, lightweight coverups to protect your skin inlacing a good rashguard, mini flashlights (better than walking around carrying your phone light), reef safe sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, swimsuits, personal mask and snorkel (there are rentals but recommend investing in personal quality masks as they last and elevates the experience 10x) AND comfortable walking shoes that turn into water shoes for rafting and various terrain along with flip flops. If you’re planning to adventure to Arenal or Monteverde lightweight waterproof boots are recommended.
SPANISH: Some basic Spanish phrases can go a long way Hola, Gracias, Por Favor, Pura Vida…. Or as We like to say Pura Vista! :) Many Tico’s know English so you can usually find someone to translate but it helps to try and they’ll love you for it. :)
ITINERARY: Plan your activities in advance, book tours in advance (especially during high season Dec-March). BOOK your car for bigger travels and golf cart in advance as well. We will be adding some suggested itineraries to the blog soon. :) If you have one you’d like to share we’d love to hear from you… :)
HEALTH & WATER: Definitely the name of the game is stay hydrated and eat healthy. Pura Vista Hotel water is filtered. We drink from the tap. But you should always be cautious and take necessary health precautions, such as getting vaccinated if required and avoiding tap water in other areas of travel as we don’t know the extent of other water sources.
WILDLIFE: Be mindful of wildlife and nature conservation principles while exploring this biodiverse country. Don’t feed animals, don't touch animals. Reef Safe Sunscreen is key - especially at Pura Vista Hotel and other beaches. Spray sunscreens are a BIG No No…. Learn More. Take photos, be in the moment and protect the environment.
CURRENCY: Familiarize yourself with the local currency (Costa Rican colón) and have some cash on hand for smaller purchases. We recommend bringing a few hundred in cash. They have a currency exchange booth at the airport and there are ATM’s at the bank in Playa Coco-@$500 withdrawal limit daily. Most places will take credit cards but there are higher than usual credit card fees. Make note in most bills it includes tip except during tours and other services BUT it’s always good to tip extra for anything worth tipping as. hourly wages are low and people work hard here.
FOOD: Costa Rica is one of 5 Blue Zones in the world - boasting a longevity due to the healthy living. In addition, the country is a melting pot of international cultures melding a variety of flavors with the fresh produce here. Between healthy diets of fresh fruit, beans, rice and the active lifestyle of Costa Rica - you can explore the variety of restaurants and experience what we consider a wellness retreat from the usual consumer driven world. At Pura Vista Hotel we include a continental breakfast with locally baked breads, fresh fruit, jams and boiled eggs along with our separate A La Cart menu you can purchase from here current menu. Also see the list of recommended restaurants by taxi, car, cart or scooter. The closest in walking distance and on the beach is the famous Father Rooster. We recommend stopping by Auto Mercado in Playa del Coco on your way to Playa Ocotal to pick up some cheese, nuts, extra snacks, your favorite drinks…. Stop by any of the local fruit vendors to buy some fresh fruit.
AIRPORT: Bring your reusable water bottle BUT make sure it’s empty when you go through security. Fill it up once you’re through and hydrate as much before you’re on the flight. *It’s not recommended to drink water from the planes and your body will so appreciate the extra hydration upon arrival. A lot of plans have chargers for your devices but best to be charged up. Make sure you have scheduled an airport transfer to your hotel or car rental but there are usually lots of taxi there at the airport ready for transfers. Cost should be @$50-60 for a small car. Check out the currency exchange booth at the airport to get some colones now. There is an atm in Playa del Coco but this will save you an extra trip.
Come back to see updates. Message us with any suggestions on what are your key planning tips to Pura Vista Hotel? We look forward to keeping this list fresh with planning ideas. :)
With your rooms booked, trip planned, and bags packed, you're all set for an incredible escape to Pura Vista Hotel. Next, it's time to focus on the finer details of your journey to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Consider creating a flexible itinerary that balances relaxation with exploration, and take a moment to research local dining options and activities that pique your interest. ***Adding an ultimate restaurant guide for guests at Pura Vista Hotel**** Finally, immerse yourself in the excitement of your upcoming adventure and get ready to soak in the natural beauty, luxurious amenities, and unforgettable moments that await you in Costa Rica. Your tropical paradise is just a heartbeat away!
Oh and did you hear that by staying at Pura Vista Hotel, you're not only treating yourself to an unforgettable experience but also supporting sustainable tourism and local communities. Learn more about the Coral Restoration Project in Ocotal and how Pura Vista Hotel in involved.