To help you plan your trip to Playas del Coco, we compiled a list of items that would be wise to pack for your vacation. Everything mentioned in the list below is available to purchase in the area however, you will suffer from some sticker shock if you are conscious of prices. It is quite expensive! Make sure you are fully prepared for your trip so you can save your pennies for nice dinners, excursions, and some Holiday shopping if desired.
Clothing
The Province of Guanacaste does not have a dress code of any sort. The goal is to be comfortable and casual. Here are some items you must remember to pack while visiting Playas del Coco and surrounding areas:
Bathing Suits
Obviously, we never forget a bathing suit while packing for a much-anticipated holiday. Remember to bring a few pairs as you will be wearing them daily with the heat. No need to second guess that bikini. Where it. Flaunt it!
Moisture-Wicking Clothes
Along with packing all your cute vacation-mode clothes, you will want to pack a few moisture-wicking items. Thankfully our units have dryers and areas you can hang-dry your clothes. When you are doing any excursions; especially in the Rainforest, the most comfortable clothes will be quick-dry ones.
**If you plan on visiting any large cities like San Jose, you will want to have a pair of pants and light jacket. While you can certainly wear tanks, leggings, etc, the city is typically a bit more modest. Pants/jeans is generally what is worn in the city. There are a couple of reasons for this: The city gets cooler in the evenings. You will stand out more if you where beach clothing which can make you a target for crimes or scams. Planning a modest outfit is recommended due to these reasons.
Rain jacket or Poncho
If you are visiting during the rainy season, it’s best to pack a good quality rain jacket to be prepared. Even if you are vacationing during the dry season, depending on the excursion you decide on, you may want to have a light one on hand while in the rainforest.
Footwear
Flip flops
Essential for the beach and getting some small errands done. Who doesn’t want to wear flip flops on vacation! Do not forget or you will be spending a hefty amount of money on a pair of Havana’s. They are NOT cheap in CR.
Hiking Sandals/Shoes or Runners
Depending on the activities you plan on doing while visiting CR, a comfortable pair of shoes is necessary for hiking or going on certain excursions. Places like Rio Celeste have extremely steep stairs; you will not want to be in flop flips during that decline! Be mindful of which type of comfortable footwear you will pack during the time you travel. Dry Season is great for runners however Wet Season you may prefer a close or open toe hiking sandal.
*If you are planning on spending a lot of time in the jungle, we would strongly advise to have a good solid pair of hiking boots or even rainboots. Keep in mind this is the jungle and depending how adventurous you would like to get this will offer the most protection against snake bites, scorpion strikes and mosquitoes.
**Always give your footwear a good shake if you’ve taken them off during an excursion :)
Mosquito Repellent
Repellent is essential when travelling to Costa Rica. They are present all year round along with these little annoying bugs called Gnats. The stores carry a lot of brands however it’s extremely expensive to purchase. Best to bring a couple bottles with you to be on the safe side.
When we are touring the jungle, we don’t mess around and typically use DEET to keep the bugs away. When around our beach or in the city, we rely on something more natural that works perfectly well for us. Repell Lemon/Eucalyptus insect repellent is what we use.
Whatever brand you get, make sure it’s something that has good reviews for areas that are known for bugs. Having said that, we’ve been to Costa Rica where we barely even noticed a single Mosquito. November and May are shoulder months between the dry and wet season and typically the worst for Mosquito's.
Sunscreen
Sun protection is available for purchase in CR however, you may have picked up by now that it’s VERY expensive. Best to bring your own. Bonus is it’s “Reef Safe”
Toiletries
Shampoo, Conditioner, Aftersun Lotion, Toothbrush, Mouth wash, Floss, Tampons, Face wash, Leave in hair conditioner, Hairbrush, Hair ties, Wet wipes, tampons, extra contact lenses, Sinus medication, Gravol, Pain Relievers and any prescriptions you may currently have.
It's also a good idea to write down any medications you are taking and have the list with you at all times should you need to urgently refill.
It’s not a huge deal if you forget any of these items. They are readily available at any local grocery store of pharmacy. You guessed it…much more expensive.
Backpack
Much more comfortable that walking around with a shoulder bag. Great to keep your extra face masks, sanitizer and travel wet wipes with you. Don’t forget to make sure it’s a waterproof backpack if travelling during the rainy season.
Sports towel
These are great to have in your backpack to keep dry.
Sunglasses and Hat
The sun is hot and intense during the dry season. You will want both. Our suggestion would be to travel with a cheap pair of sunglasses for the times you’re at the beach or on an excursion. You don’t want to lose or break a nice expensive pair. Save those for lounging and nice outdoor meals.
Camera’s
Please do not forget your camera’s. This country is too beautiful not to capture your memories on a good quality device if available. Another great option is a Go-Pro! Don’t forget your charging cables and extra SD cards.
Phone Chargers
Pretty self-explanatory. A Battery pack would be great if you had one for charging on the go.
Don’t forget to bring these to Costa Rica
Original passport
Original valid driver’s license (if you are renting a car)
Credit cards you plan to use (don’t forget to tell your credit card company you are travelling overseas)
Travel insurance (remember you must purchase insurance in order to enter Costa Rica that will cover medical and lodging costs)
Your return flight ticket out of Costa Rica (printed or saved on your phone)
Hotels, tours, car rentals and flight reservations (printed or saved on your phone)
If at any point you do not have something that is needed, please reach out during your visit. We may have some extra's in the unit or with our property managers that can be given or lent out during your stay with us. Happy to help make your trip as easy and memorable as possible!
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