Costa Rica Family Travel Diary — Tambor Area (Family of Five)
Day 1 — Touchdown in San José
We arrived in San José in the late afternoon, all five of us buzzing with excitement. The warm air wrapped around us the moment we stepped outside, carrying hints of rain, coffee, and city life. We didn’t stay long, but if you ever have extra time here, the Museo del Oro Precolombino and the Central Market are great family stops.
Space A Travels Tip: San José is busy and energetic. If you’re traveling with kids, plan short, manageable activities before heading to the coast.
Day 2 — The Tiny Plane & the Wildest Landing Ever
This morning we boarded the smallest plane we’ve ever seen. The kids were thrilled; the adults exchanged “here we go” looks. The views were unreal—mountains, jungle, coastline—and the landing strip at Tambor Airport felt like something out of an adventure movie.
Space A Travels Tip: Regional flights in Costa Rica often have strict luggage limits. Pack light and keep essentials in your carry‑on.
Day 3 — Our House in Paradise
Our rental house near Tambor was straight out of a dream. Perched on a hillside, it had sweeping ocean views, open‑air rooms, and a pool that instantly became the kids’ favorite place. Tropical flowers lined the paths, geckos darted across the walls, and howler monkeys called from the distance. It felt like our own private jungle retreat.
Space A Travels Tip: Many homes in this region are eco‑designed with open windows and natural airflow. Expect a few friendly critters—it’s part of the charm.
Day 4 — Eating Like Locals
We spent the day exploring local restaurants, and the food was incredible. Here are some favorites in the Tambor/Montezuma/Cobano area:
🍽️ Local Restaurant Recommendations
- Restaurante Cristina (Tambor) – Fresh seafood, beachfront views, great for families.
https://www.facebook.com/RestauranteCristinaTambor(facebook.com in Bing) (bing.com in Bing) - Soda El Buen Sabor (Tambor) – Affordable, authentic Costa Rican dishes. https://www.facebook.com/sodaelbuen
- Puggo’s (Montezuma) – Cozy, creative Mediterranean‑Costa Rican fusion.
https://www.facebook.com/puggosrestaurant(facebook.com in Bing) (bing.com in Bing) - Café Organico (Montezuma) – Smoothies, pastries, and great breakfast options.
https://www.facebook.com/cafeorganicomontezuma(facebook.com in Bing) (bing.com in Bing) - Soda Tipica Las Palmeras (Cobano) – A local favorite with hearty plates.
https://www.facebook.com/sodatipicalaspalmeras(facebook.com in Bing) (bing.com in Bing)
Space A Travels Tip: “Sodas” are the best way to eat like a local—delicious, affordable, and perfect for families.
Day 5 — Nature Trails & Wildlife Everywhere
We spent the morning hiking, and it felt like the jungle was alive around us. We spotted monkeys swinging overhead, iguanas sunning on rocks, butterflies the size of our hands, and birds in neon colors.
Nearby nature highlights include:
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Near Tambor
- Curu Wildlife Refuge – Calm beaches, monkeys, deer, and great family‑friendly trails.
- Montezuma Waterfalls – Beautiful and refreshing; bring sturdy shoes.
- Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve – One of Costa Rica’s oldest protected areas.
Space A Travels Tip: Bring water shoes. Trails can be muddy, and some waterfall paths cross streams.
Day 6 — Beach & Pool Day
We spent the morning at Playa Tambor, a calm, family‑friendly beach with warm water and gentle waves. Perfect for swimming, shell‑collecting, and letting the kids run wild.
In the afternoon, we returned to our pool, where the kids invented games and we lounged under palm trees. The sunsets here are unreal—pink, orange, and gold melting together over the ocean.
Nearby Beaches Worth Visiting:
- Playa Pochote – Quiet, great for kayaking.
- Playa Santa Teresa – Trendy surf town with great food.
- Playa Montezuma – Funky, artsy vibe with tide pools.
Space A Travels Tip: If you’re beach‑hopping, bring snacks and plenty of water—shops can be spread out.
Day 7 — A Reluctant Goodbye
Packing up felt bittersweet. None of us were ready to leave the house, the pool, or the easy rhythm of life here. As our tiny plane lifted off the hillside runway, we all agreed: this wasn’t just a vacation—it was a memory we’ll carry forever.
Space A Travels Tip: If you have time before your flight home, stop at Tambor Tropical Beach Resort for one last beachfront meal.
“It’s a Wild and wonderful destination, we will definately go back !”
All of these islands have pristine shores, swaying palm trees, aquamarine waters and lots of ocean-side adventure. There usually are fees for shore excursions and equipment rental. Every destination offers something a little different for cruise passengers.
Even at first glance, CocoCay looks like the quintessential Caribbean hideaway. There are wide stretches of beach in quiet coves, island huts in bright Caribbean pinks and blues, and a colorful straw market offering Bahamian crafts and goods.
Many of the island buildings look brand new and they are. In 2002, the company invested more than US$ 21 million to turn this 140-acre (0.5 km) slip of land into a destination their passengers would never forget. Nature trails wind through the isle, which is home to wild chickens, peacocks and occasional iguanas. Those seeking solitude will enjoy the hammocks that are hung under coconut trees in quiet locations.
Sea lovers have plenty of activities to choose from. Hop on a jet ski (US $ 95 for 50 minutes) and speed across waters so clear that you can see orange starfish 20 feet below, or don a snorkel mask and explore life under the sea up close.
For a great view of the island, try your hand at parasailing (US $ 79 per hour). You’ll soar 200-400 feet in the air and maybe even take a cooling dip in the water before returning to the boat.
