American cash and Costa Rican colones. If you want to purchase souvenirs everyone takes US dollars as well. The grocery stores prefer colones or credit card. Some ATMs will give you colones and some will give you either currency. You will need 30 US departure tax to leave country.
Insect repellent. I made the mistake of thinking I was resilient to mosquitoes. On a trek to a waterfall and hot pool I came home with an armful of mosquito bites.
Sunscreen. Use lots of sunscreen,the average temperature in Costa Rica is 33 C and trust me it is hot.
Hat. Always wear a hat even if you don’t think it’s fashionable! It should a hat with a brim protects you better than a ball cap..
Dress casually and leave your expensive jewelry at home. We didn’t have any problems with pickpockets but they are out there. Any style of dress is acceptable at the beach so a sun dress is comfortable in the heat.
Beach vendors. There are beach vendors selling their wares but are very polite once you say “No Gracias”.
Tamarindo. It is a great little beach town with surfers , wide beaches and warm water. The sand is grainy and soothing on your feet while walking along the beach.
Dining out. The service fee is included in the food bill. Don’t add a tip but if going on an adventure the driver does appreciate a tip.
Howler monkeys. If you hear strange and loud sounds in the morning, it could be the Howler monkeys establishing their territory! I woke up at 430 am and I thought it was a wild boar in agony. Look up in the trees when walking to the beach and sometimes you can see them . We saw them walking along the power lines.They travel in packs.
Sunset. The sunset is spectacular and if you venture to the beach about 5pm to one of the beachfront restaurants, you can enjoy the 2 for one Happy Hour drink prices. It is a great way to end a great day!
Beaches. We found a great beach today about 2 kms from our condo and it is called Langosta Beach. The water was great for swimming and not very busy.
