Central Pacific
Take the highway out of San Jose to the west towards Alajuela. You'll exit onto highway 34 which will swing to the south and on down to your first central Pacific stop, Puntarenas. From there, you follow the coastal road to the east. If planning on heading across the Nicoya Gulf, Puntarenas is the port to take one of the two ferries servicing daily. Flights are also available to Playa Tambor, in the southern tip of the Nicoya gulf and the Mid Pacific village of Quepos.
The temperatures hover in the eighties making it truly tropical. During the rainy season, May through November, the climate gets very humid but lends to the tropical atmosphere and tends to bring the temperatures down. Prepare yourself for blue skies and emerald landscapes!
With the humidity comes the mosquitoes. Be sure to bring along insect repellant as well as a soothing aloe lotion to relieve the itching. When hitting the trails and forests be sure to avoid perfume and fragrant shampoos, this only attracts the mosquitoes. As with the other areas in Costa Rica, a hat, sunglasses and sunblock are wise choices. Lightweight cotton clothing, sturdy hiking shoes for trails, a rain poncho and snorkeling equipment are all you should need for this area.
Found just before the small town of Bijagual, Agua Viva Waterfall is a great destination for a day trip. The 45 minute walk down the steep trail will reward you at end with cool pools of water and an almost 200 meter high waterfall that crashes down a rock face. Take along good hiking boots and a large bottle of water! For a truly postcard experience, head to Montezuma in the southern part of the Nicoya Peninsula. This area is a true gem when it comes to perfection. Extremely picturesque and contrasting, Montezuma will provide you with full relaxation beneath swaying palm trees and cool rolling waves. The Montezuma area features splendid beaches as well as a vineyard tour which will crown the visit with a wine feast.