Expedia Viewfinder partnered with Pura Vida Bracelets to urge travelers to find their own versions of pure life in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica epitomizes the pura vida spirit with an ever-present sense of living life to the fullest. From the enchanting scenery to the endless opportunities for adventure, there’s a little reminder around every corner encouraging everyone to slow down and revel in the moment.
Expedia Viewfinder and Pura Vida Bracelets partnered to showcase opportunities for finding fulfillment and gratification in Costa Rica. After all, it was in this laidback destination where Pura Vida Bracelets cofounders, Griffin Thall and Paul Goodman, traveled post-graduation and found inspiration from the lifestyle to build their business around. For globetrotters exploring Central America, slow down, appreciate, and discover pura vida spirt in these Costa Rican hot spots.
Soda La Naranja
This coastal country has a diverse and cultured food scene serving up everything from Mexican to Thai. For those in the mood for experiencing the local grub though, head to Soda La Naranja in Montezuma for some authentic Costa Rican fare. Nosh on gallo pinto and casados, and don’t miss out on the fresh juice selection.
Witch’s Rock
IMAGE: Trevor Murphy
According to Thall, “Go out and surf,” is one of the best pieces of advice he ever received from a local. Do as the locals do and shred the waves at Witch’s Rock in the Santa Rosa National Park. Popularized in the cult classic, “Endless Summer II,” this favorite surf spot features a clean, sand- bottom beach break ideal for novices and experts alike.
Manuel Antonio National Park
IMAGE: Flickr/Creative Commons/Sean Hobson/Via/https://flic.kr/p/93QWiy
What Manuel Antonio National Park lacks in size, it more than makes up for in diverse flora and fauna. This national park is one of the smallest in Costa Rica, but it is home to 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds. It also boasts beaches, forests, mangrove swamps, and even lagoons. Hit the trails and look out for sloths and iguanas, or take flight through the rainforest on a canopy zip line. To further experience this oasis up close and personal, check out the kayaking, horseback riding, four-wheel driving, and parasailing options.
Catarata del Toro Waterfall
IMAGE: Flickr/Creative Commons/Steve Jurvetson/Via/https://flic.kr/p/b2WuTZ
Nothing says “pura vida” like marveling at the Catarata del Toro Waterfall. In fact, Thall says venturing to a waterfall is a 100% must-do activity during Costa Rican travels. The Catarata del Toro Waterfall is one of the country’s best- kept secrets as the ancient volcanic crater features cascading water, fluttering hummingbirds, and captivating views. Though it’s a hike to climb down the steps to the falls, the unspoiled serenity is well worth the workout.
Graffiti Restro Café and Wine Bar
IMAGE: Mike James
It’s rare to find a restaurant both locals and tourists can agree on, but Graffiti just may be the exception. Everyone seems to rave about the “ghetto gourmet” surf-and-turf cuisine at this boutique bistro in Jaco Beach, which is one of Thall’s favorite towns in Costa Rica. Dedicated to the Slow Food Movement, the eclectic restro café takes an innovative approach to its one-of-a-kind gastronomy. Kick back and toast travel adventures with a signature Graffiti aloe tini and a brag-worthy order of coffee-and-cacao- crusted beef tenderloin.
Chloe Mulliner
Staff writer for Expedia
IMAGE: Trevor Murphy
According to Thall, “Go out and surf,” is one of the best pieces of advice he ever received from a local. Do as the locals do and shred the waves at Witch’s Rock in the Santa Rosa National Park. Popularized in the cult classic, “Endless Summer II,” this favorite surf spot features a clean, sand- bottom beach break ideal for novices and experts alike.
Manuel Antonio National Park
IMAGE: Flickr/Creative Commons/Sean Hobson/Via/https://flic.kr/p/93QWiy
What Manuel Antonio National Park lacks in size, it more than makes up for in diverse flora and fauna. This national park is one of the smallest in Costa Rica, but it is home to 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds. It also boasts beaches, forests, mangrove swamps, and even lagoons. Hit the trails and look out for sloths and iguanas, or take flight through the rainforest on a canopy zip line. To further experience this oasis up close and personal, check out the kayaking, horseback riding, four-wheel driving, and parasailing options.
Catarata del Toro Waterfall
IMAGE: Flickr/Creative Commons/Steve Jurvetson/Via/https://flic.kr/p/b2WuTZ
Nothing says “pura vida” like marveling at the Catarata del Toro Waterfall. In fact, Thall says venturing to a waterfall is a 100% must-do activity during Costa Rican travels. The Catarata del Toro Waterfall is one of the country’s best- kept secrets as the ancient volcanic crater features cascading water, fluttering hummingbirds, and captivating views. Though it’s a hike to climb down the steps to the falls, the unspoiled serenity is well worth the workout.
Graffiti Restro Café and Wine Bar
IMAGE: Mike James
It’s rare to find a restaurant both locals and tourists can agree on, but Graffiti just may be the exception. Everyone seems to rave about the “ghetto gourmet” surf-and-turf cuisine at this boutique bistro in Jaco Beach, which is one of Thall’s favorite towns in Costa Rica. Dedicated to the Slow Food Movement, the eclectic restro café takes an innovative approach to its one-of-a-kind gastronomy. Kick back and toast travel adventures with a signature Graffiti aloe tini and a brag-worthy order of coffee-and-cacao- crusted beef tenderloin.
Chloe Mulliner
Staff writer for Expedia
