San Jose
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a surprising yet very successful destination for gay men and women. It's democracy has long embraced same sex relationships and it's political stability, with no military forces, plus a strong desire to develop tourism in an eco friendly way, make it a welcome contrast to many neighbouring countries.
So if you are seeking a holiday destination which is easy to get to, offers a warm welcome to gay men and women, whether alone or as couples, has a good mix of bars, clubs, restaurants, saunas and hotels, superb beaches, a rainforest backdrop unlike anything in Europe and with superb excursions to see wildlife, volcanoes and waterfalls then Costa Rica has to be worth a second look.
The capital city, main town and centre of gay life in Costa Rica, San Jose is located 3500 feet above sea level in the middle of the central valley and enjoys a year round spring like climate. It’s a fairly typical Spanish colonial city with a mix of prosperous and less prosperous areas. Highlight has to be the National Theatre and a walking tour around the building is well worthwhile as is heading down the hill to the central market area where souvenirs are half the price of the resorts.
San Jose's gay scene is developing fast. There are now around a dozen downtown bars and clubs, four saunas, an internet café, and more than a handful of gay friendly restaurants, hotels and other businesses.
But San Jose is more an entry and exit point for all that Costa Rica has to offer rather than a destination. You should plan on staying as long as you can in the gay popular chill-zone of Manuel Antonio on the Pacific Coast but even then Costa Rica has much more to see.
The Caribbean coast at Tortugera is a magical wilderness of wild life and waterways where turtles lay their eggs on the beach. Arenal, Guanacaste or Monte Verde are definitely the thrill areas with tree top canopy abseiling and other adventure sports. Just contact us to arrange side trips to these areas.
For a Tailor-made trip to Costa Rica please fill out our Enquiry form (top right hand corner) and we will be happy to quote and assist you with your travel requirements.
Click to view the Independent Gay Guide to this destinationAccommodation
Adventure Holiday
Sightseeing