Ten years ago, I got married in Costa Rica.
Our stay at The Springs Resort and Spa was the perfect kickoff to our honeymoon, with a direct view of Arenal Volcano.
I still remember stepping out onto the terrace that first morning: the heat, the greenery, the sheer scale of everything around us, and all that nervous energy… let’s be real.
What’s interesting is I don’t remember every detail of the itinerary (even though I wrote out the full week’s plan on colorful tropical stationery).
But I do remember how the trip felt.
And looking back now, the success of that experience came down to a few key decisions—ones that consistently show up in the best Costa Rica honeymoons we plan today.
If you’re planning a Costa Rica honeymoon, this is how to get it right.
1. Choose 2–3 Locations (Not 5)*
One of the biggest mistakes couples make is trying to see too much.
More destinations sounds exciting, but it usually leads to:
- Too much time in transit
- Constant packing and unpacking (I mean, don’t newlyweds have enough going on?)
- A trip that feels rushed instead of relaxed
The best Costa Rica honeymoon itineraries focus on two or three regions that each offer something different.
A classic route:
- Volcano and hot springs near Arenal
- Cloud forest in Monteverde
- Beach time in Manuel Antonio
This gives you variety without losing the flow of the trip. I should also say that this is the classic Costa Rica experience, and certainly not the trip for every couple. Talk to a Costa Rica Expert about how to make this trip yours.
*Caveat: The number of destinations recommended is dependent on the duration of your trip and the destinations in question. Talk to an Expert for a personalized recommendation.
2. Start Somewhere That Immediately Feels Different
Starting at Arenal Volcano set the tone for our entire honeymoon.
There’s something powerful about arriving somewhere that instantly feels removed from everyday life—lush, warm, and immersive.
Waking up with a volcano view, relaxing in hot springs, and being surrounded by lush rainforest created that shift right away for us.
For many couples, Arenal is an excellent first stop on a Costa Rica honeymoon for exactly this reason, but definitely not the only option.
3. Skip the Rental Car
Transportation decisions shape your experience more than you expect.
Driving in Costa Rica can involve:
- Mountain roads
- Changing conditions
- Longer travel times than anticipated
Who needs that stress? On a honeymoon, that’s not where you want your attention.
Using private transfers or drivers allows you to:
- Stay relaxed throughout the trip
- Enjoy the scenery
- Arrive feeling refreshed
It’s one of the simplest ways to make your honeymoon feel effortless.
4. Choose Hotels That Enhance the Experience
Where you stay matters just as much as where you go.
At The Springs Resort and Spa, the views and setting were a big part of what made the experience memorable. It was also a great option for our small group as there is so much to experience right on the property.
If it’s just you and your honey, you might talk to a Costa Rica Expert about other intimate hotel stays in the area to consider.
When planning your Costa Rica honeymoon, look for hotels that:
- Take advantage of the natural surroundings
- Offer privacy and space
- Feel integrated into the landscape
Boutique hotels and eco-lodges often create a more intimate experience than large resorts.
5. Plan a Few Highlights, But Not Every Hour
You don’t need to fill every day with activities.
In fact, the best honeymoons are built around a few standout experiences, not constant scheduling.
For example:
- Arenal: hot springs, ziplining, or a waterfall visit
- Monteverde: guided wildlife walk or hanging bridges
- Manuel Antonio: national park tour or a sunset cruise
Everything else can stay flexible.
6. Build in Time to Slow Down
One of the biggest differences between a good trip and a great honeymoon is time.
Not just having it, but feeling it.
Make space for:
- Slow mornings
- Time at the pool or hot springs
- Evenings without fixed plans
This is when the experience becomes more personal and more memorable.
7. Make the Trip Feel Easy from Start to Finish
Looking back, what stands out most is how seamless everything felt.
We weren’t thinking about logistics. We weren’t adjusting plans.
We were just present.
That’s ultimately what defines a great honeymoon.
A well-planned Costa Rica honeymoon isn’t just about destinations. It’s about how everything fits together.
Final Thoughts
Ten years later, I don’t remember every detail.
But I remember the feeling of being somewhere completely different. The pace. The space.. The way everything just worked.
That’s what lasts.
If you focus on a few key elements like fewer destinations, the right starting point, thoughtful hotels, and time to actually enjoy it, you will end up with a honeymoon that stays with you.
And because I’m walking down memory lane, here’s a flashback blog post that I wrote 10 years ago about our time at The Springs Resort: The Springs Resort Opens New Luxury Aracari Building
Ready to plan your dream honeymoon? Let’s get started. Need ideas? Browse our honeymoon packages.
Costa Rica Honeymoon FAQ
How do you plan a Costa Rica honeymoon?
Start by choosing 2–3 destinations, arranging transportation in advance, selecting boutique hotels, and balancing activities with downtime.
Is Costa Rica good for a honeymoon?
Yes. Costa Rica offers a mix of luxury, nature, adventure, and relaxation, making it ideal for honeymoon travel.
What is the best Costa Rica honeymoon itinerary?
A popular itinerary includes Arenal, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio for a mix of rainforest, wildlife, and beach. There are many variations on this theme, depending on your interests and travel style.
How long should a Costa Rica honeymoon be?
7–10 days is ideal for experiencing multiple regions without rushing.
