A Beautiful Discovery in Costa Rica: Love, Intention, and the Magic of Pura Vida

Location:

Costa Rica has a way of opening hearts and quieting minds. For me, it was love at first sight—turquoise waves, emerald jungles, and the feeling that life could truly be simple, intentional, and joyful.

Packing Tips for Your Costa Rica Adventure

My Favorite Must-Haves:

After spending time in Costa Rica, I compiled a list of my must haves to make the trip perfectly seamless!

Suitecase | This suitcase from amazon is carry on size and fit EVERYTHING!

Travel Shorts | I wore comfy shorts, similar to the ones linked, for the plane ride. And a big sweatshirt of course!

Hat | You need a fun flashy hat in Costa Rica! I wore this every day.

Slides | These are my new favs. I wear them every day. I’m going to get them in every color. It’s like walking on clouds!

Water Shoes | These were ideal for water adventures (boat trips, hiking to the waterfall, walking in the river)

Bug Repellant Bands | I wore these for a hike and didn’t have a single bug bother me!

Dry Bag | This was nice for our phones and wallets when we did water adventures.

Sunglasses | The sun is shining! Be sure to have some inexpensive sunglasses. These are my daily go-to

Romper | This is perfect for over a bathro

Favorite Yoga Shorts 

 

Morning Bliss: Yoga

There’s nothing quite like rolling out your yoga mat as the sun rises over the ocean. The salty breeze, the sound of waves, and the golden warmth on your skin set the tone for a day lived in flow. Whether you’re an experienced yogi or a beginner, the energy of this place naturally encourages mindfulness and movement. I started my day with a yoga flow, whether it was a class at the Bodhi Resort or just out on the deck at our home! What a great way to start the day!

 

Adventures on the Water

Although I’m not a huge boat fan, I had to say YES to experiencing a local boat tour to the Pink Beach Island where we drank fresh coconut water, swam in the pacific, and got a panoramic view of paradise!

Fresh, Local, and Full of Flavor

Costa Rica is a foodie’s dream. Imagine sipping freshly pressed juices, indulging in farm-to-table meals, and discovering the pure bliss of ceviche!  Many local restaurants use produce grown just steps away and seafood caught that morning—so every bite tastes like nature intended.

Living with Intention

What made this trip transformative wasn’t just the views or the food—it was the people and their way of life. The pura vida lifestyle is about choosing presence, connection, and gratitude. I returned home feeling deeply inspired to live with intention, focusing on what really matters.

Costa Rica gave me more than an adventure—it gave me perspective. Whether you’re looking for romance, reconnection, or just a deep breath from the everyday rush, this place will hold you, love you, and send you home lighter than you came. It was truly a beautiful discovery of love, intention, and the magic of Pura Vida!

XOXO

Em