Pura Vida Unleashed: Surf, Hike, Repeat with Scottlyn

Touch down at Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport and feel the anticipation build as you journey through the lush Guanacaste countryside to Tamarindo, a lively surf town where the Pacific meets golden sands and the air is filled with the promise of adventure.

After settling in, the evening is yours to explore the vibrant local scene, stroll along sun-dappled streets lined with colorful shops and open-air cafés, watch surfers carving through the waves at sunset, or simply kick back and let the laid-back rhythm of Tamarindo ease you into the pura vida lifestyle that defines Costa Rica’s coast.

Begin your day with a scenic drive to Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park, a geothermal wonderland where steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and lush forests create a landscape that feels both ancient and alive. Your guided hike winds through trails shaded by towering trees, offering glimpses of playful monkeys, vibrant toucans, and rare orchids while your guide shares stories of the volcano’s powerful eruptions and the local legends that swirl around its slopes.

After a well-earned lunch, venture to La Leona Waterfall, where a short trek through the forest and rocky riverbeds leads you to a hidden cascade pouring into a turquoise pool, perfect for a refreshing swim, snapping unforgettable photos, and soaking in the wild beauty before returning to Tamarindo for a relaxing evening.

Wake to the sound of the ocean and get ready for a morning surf lesson on Playa Tamarindo, a beach famed for its gentle, rolling waves and welcoming surf community. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, expert instructors will guide you through the basics, helping you catch your first wave or carve with confidence, all against the backdrop of palm trees and the sparkling Pacific.

With salt still in your hair and a sense of accomplishment, the afternoon is yours to shape, perhaps you’ll wander the estuary in search of crocodiles and exotic birds, browse artisan markets for handmade treasures, or simply relax on the sand, letting the sun and sea breeze work their magic as the day drifts into another unforgettable sunset.

Enjoy a leisurely start to your day, soaking up the Tamarindo vibe before boarding a luxury catamaran for an afternoon of pure ocean adventure. Glide along the Pacific coastline, stopping to snorkel in secluded coves where colorful fish dart among coral reefs and, with luck, dolphins or sea turtles might make a cameo.

Lounge on deck with a cold drink, savor a fresh lunch, and let the warm breeze carry your worries away. As the sun begins its descent, the catamaran positions itself for a front-row seat to one of Costa Rica’s legendary sunsets, the sky ablaze with pink, orange, and gold, casting a magical glow over the water and capping off your day with a sense of wonder and gratitude.

Return to shore with sand between your toes and stories to share on your last free night in Tamarindo.

Savor your final breakfast in paradise, taking in the morning light and the sounds of the Pacific before checking out and joining your group transfer back to Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport.

As you travel through the lush landscapes one last time, reflect on the volcano hikes, surf sessions, hidden waterfalls, and sunset sails that have filled your days with adventure and your heart with memories, a true celebration of Costa Rica’s wild, untamed spirit and the friendships forged along the way.