Costa Rica—known for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and thrilling wildlife—is the perfect destination for a romantic honeymoon. But what if you’re on a budget? The good news is, as someone who had their own dreamy honeymoon in Costa Rica, I can confidently say it doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With the right planning, you can experience all the beauty and adventure the country has to offer without overspending. Here are all the tips and tricks to make your Costa Rican honeymoon unforgettable—and affordable.

1. Travel in the Off-Season

Plan to visit during the rainy season, preferably August-November (it’s not that rainy I promise). We saved over 40% on accommodations and activities when we traveled in September of 2024. And not to mention fewer tourists and less crowds. While there was still rain it was often short-lived and never ruined our time there. If anything the rainy season made Costa Rica more green and beautiful with color.

2. Use Sky Miles

Start stacking those credit card points, they will pay for your flight and lodging. We all know weddings are NOT cheap! I was using the Capital One Venture card during the course of my wedding, you earn 2x points on every purchase and not to mention the bonus miles when you sign up. The miles are equivalent to 100 miles = $1.00. By the time our wedding was over and paid for, we had over $2000 which covered both our flights and a couple of nights at our first stay.

3. Cross Search Pricing

Cross search pricing between google, trip advisor, expedia, booking.com and the actual resorts website. While it’s tempting to just book the first deal you find to save you from stress, it’s worth it to check out every platform. We found most of our resorts and activities through Tripadvisor, but then we started searching through other sites to get the best deal. I even recommend calling the resorts themselves to see what discounts they’re offering.

4. Rental Car

• Don’t book through the local car rental service, after reading several negative reviews on other people’s experiences, it seemed best to avoid them. 
• Book a small fuel efficient SUV, nothing too fancy. It’ll get you to everywhere you need in Costa Rica.
• Do NOT get the recommended protection package, instead purchase the Collision Waiver and Third Party Liability as add ons. You will still be protected but you are not paying for the extras. 

5. Enjoy Free and Low-Cost Activities

Costa Rica offers a wide range of activities that won’t break the bank. If you’re a nature lover, you’re in luck—many of the country’s most stunning natural attractions are free or low-cost to explore. Free activities can include hiking, visiting beaches, waterfalls, looking at wildlife (you will more than likely see a monkey while in Costa Rica). Low-cost activities can include coffee and chocolate tours, renting bikes, swimming holes (some places have an entrance fee), and visiting National Parks.

BONUS TIP!

Create Your Own Romantic Moments

A honeymoon is about creating memories together. While luxury experiences are fun, sometimes the most memorable moments come from simple activities and that is exactly what Michael and I did. The first resort we stayed at had a private secluded beach, and one evening we went down there and it was just us. It started to rain and the moment felt timeless and romantic. It was like we stepped into a dream where it was just the two of us and the world slowed down just enough for us to be fully present with each other. Definitely one of our biggest honeymoon highlights.

Our September Itinerary

• September 21 – Flew into Juan Santamaria International Airport
• September 22-25 – Stayed at Tulemar Resort in Maneul Antino
• September 22 – Tour of the Hacienda Alsacia Starbucks Coffee Farm
• September 23 – Sloth walk at Tulemar. The resort is an institute for the well-being and conservation of sloths. We had a few hanging outside our villa
• September 24 – Explore the area
• September 25-29 – Stayed at Nayara Springs, located at the base of the Arenal Volcano
• September 26 – Don Olivo Chocolate tour, HIGHLY recommend this tour. The guide showed us around the property and picked fruit right off the trees for us to eat. During the tour we made chocolate and got to enjoy it at the end 🙂
• September 27 – Spa day
• September 28 – Explore the area
• September 29 – Head home

Talk to you soon,

Hannah