Costa Rica Through Three Generations: Sun, Sand, and a Few Monkeys
Costa Rica Through Three Generations: Sun, Sand, and a Few Monkeys
Costa Rica has been on our family’s “must visit” list for years. So, three generations packed their bags, grabbed their passports, and headed south for a vacation that blended a little bit of everything: adventure, luxury, beach time, and plenty of laughter.
Here’s our story from the beautiful Guanacaste region of Costa Rica.
Riu Palace Guanacaste
Our adventure started at the Riu Palace Guanacaste, a resort that immediately won us over with its wide, flat layout and jaw-dropping backdrop of volcanic mountains. The beach here is anything but ordinary, think black sand from centuries of volcanic activity and a deep navy-blue ocean that seems to stretch forever.
Pro tip: bring a pool float, you’ll thank us later.
The Riu Palace packs in the fun with:
- Five restaurants and five bars (including a swim-up)
- 24-hour room service
- A coffee bar with pastries and ice cream (coffee lovers like us had to sneak into the lounge behind it in the mornings)
- No reservations for restaurants. It’s first come, first served, so line up before 6 pm to claim your spot
The mornings are magical. Around 7 AM, grab some French toast from the buffet and wander down the left side of the beach. That’s where we found a family of white-faced monkeys ready to show off.
Trinity: Riu Land is a hit for kids, and the app makes it easy to keep track of activities. Just be prepared for lots of vendors on the beach.
Gayle: I’ve stayed here three times, and it’s one of my favorite RIUs. The food is great (they even offer gluten-free options), and the beach is perfect for those who want to see monkeys up close. It’s only about 45 minutes from the airport, which makes it super convenient for families.
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica
From classic Costa Rica to a touch of Hollywood glam. Walking into Planet Hollywood felt like stepping onto a red carpet, complete with movie characters greeting us at the entrance. Everyone is treated like a star here, and it’s hard not to enjoy the VIP vibes.
Highlights include:
- Just 35 minutes from the airport
- 592 rooms and seven restaurants
- Star Class perks: premium liquor, butler service, upgraded amenities
- Private cabanas with plunge pools available for an extra cost
Gayle: Planet Hollywood is modern and exciting, perfect for guests who love a lively atmosphere. Just note: the beach here is small. For clients who prioritize the beach, I’d recommend other options.
Secrets Papagayo
If Planet Hollywood is all about glitz, Secrets Papagayo is about romance and tranquility. Tucked away just 20 minutes from the airport, this resort feels intimate and authentically Costa Rican. With only 202 rooms spread across 33 acres, it feels like a private paradise.
What stood out:
- Five restaurants and four bars
- No wristbands (we love this)
- Preferred Club guests enjoy oceanfront rooms, cabana beds, and spa perks
- Food and drinks? Absolutely amazing.
Trinity: If you book here, choose an oceanfront room. Walking straight to everything is worth it compared to waiting for the shuttle.
Gayle: This place feels like Costa Rica. It’s small, boutique-style, and ideal for couples. I’d send honeymooners or sisters’ trips here in a heartbeat. And being so close to the airport? Big win.
What We Missed
We didn’t make it to Dreams Las Mareas this trip, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive from the airport. But from past clients, we know it’s a fantastic option for weddings and groups who don’t mind the distance.
Beyond the Resorts
Costa Rica is more than its beaches (though those are unforgettable). We also explored:
- La Fortuna & Arenal – Volcano views, waterfalls, and hot springs.
- Monteverde – Cloud forests, hanging bridges, and zip-line adventures.
- Wildlife encounters – Sloths, monkeys, and birds around every corner.
And yes—you can safely drink the water here, which makes travel even easier.
Three Generations, Three Perspectives
Traveling together gave us the chance to see Costa Rica through different lenses. Here’s what each of us loved most:
Gesica (the practical planner): I loved how easy Guanacaste, Costa Rica was to navigate! Short airport transfers, safe drinking water, and resorts that really worked for different types of travelers. Plus, those monkeys at breakfast? Worth the trip alone.
Gayle (the seasoned explorer): Secrets Papagayo stole my heart with its boutique feel and true Costa Rican charm. And the Riu Palace proved once again why it’s a great family-friendly option. I also loved being close to the airport, no long drives for me!
Trinity (the next generation): The activities and kid-friendly touches at Riu Palace were fantastic. For couples, though, Secrets Papagayo was unbeatable, I’d send honeymooners there in a second. And yes, I might have taken way too many monkey photos.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica truly offers something for everyone:
- Families: Riu Palace Guanacaste
- Couples: Secrets Papagayo
- VIP vibes: Planet Hollywood
- Adventure seekers: La Fortuna & Monteverde
From volcanic beaches and jungle adventures to poolside relaxation, our family found Costa Rica to be a destination we’d return to again and again.
And if you’re lucky, you’ll share your breakfast with a few monkeys too.