Close your eyes and visualize Costa Rica for a few seconds. What comes to mind? We bet you can see the sparkling beaches and the sprawling rainforests and inhale the rich aroma of world-famous coffee. The beloved Central American tourist destination is also renowned for its breathtaking sunsets.
Costa Rica has always been a coveted holiday spot, although it wasn’t immune to the dampener of the global pandemic. However, a recent OECD report finds that the country has recovered well and that tourism will boost employment further. Costa Rica has also emerged as a sustainability leader, receiving global recognition for its commitment to renewable energy and ecotourism.
If your 2025 vacation plans include watching the sunsets on this charming coastal land, you will find these tips helpful.
Getting the Timing Right
Wouldn’t it be painful if watching the famed sunsets was high on your agenda, but missing the timing ruined everything? Since Costa Rica is close to the equator, it has quick sunsets whose timing doesn’t differ much through the year. The sun may go down as early as 5 PM when you’re just rising from a siesta.
The predicted sunset time on local weather websites gives you a rough idea of when to expect the spectacle. However, atmospheric refraction can impact the perceived positions of the horizon and the sun’s upper limb. It can make the predicted times inaccurate in some situations.
A more reliable way to ensure you don’t miss the sunset is to plan for a few hours of downtime in the evening. This time should be free of other scheduled activities. Another tip is to find a hotel in Costa Rica that offers a fabulous view of the sunset. You can lounge at the poolside or enjoy a rejuvenating smoothie.
If that’s not an option, look for one from where you can easily commute. Ideally, select Pura Vida accommodation within walking distance from the beach. It encompasses the simplicity and purity that Costa Rica is known for. You can easily venture out by hearing the general hubbub around the gorgeous sunset views.
Picking the Ideal Vantage Point
Although most of Costa Rica enjoys beautiful sunsets, some places are particularly famous for enthralling sunset skies. The beaches of Jacó and Santa Teresa are top picks. Manuel Antonio is another favored choice; its access to wildlife watching makes it perfect for nature lovers.
While in Costa Rica, you should not miss the sacred associations of sunset that you can find in some locations like Nosara. Domo Hotel notes that a beloved local tradition in Nosara is to come together to watch the sunset. It lets you feel the power and companionship of the community. Plus, you cannot help but internalize the peace and faith that comes with sunset gazing – a quiet reassurance of the cycle of life.
More adventurous travelers can seek opportunities like hiking to the Central Volcanic Mountain Range, reaching its highest accessible point. The Tico Times reported last year’s event, during which participants had the chance to view the sunset from over 3,000 meters above sea level. Imagine the heady feeling you will get up there, all your problems sliding away under the untouched glory of the sun.
Which Offers a More Striking Sunset View: Beach or Mountain?
While on the beach, your view of the sunset is unobstructed. You can feel the expanse of the ocean as the sun sinks. It generates nostalgia and bittersweet emotion – feelings many associate with beaches.
However, a mountainous vantage point generates more dramatic sky sights. Your view will be more layered and rugged. Costa Rica offers many climbing challenges, from Cerro de la Muerte to the Volcán Turrialba.
Trusting Your Eyes, Not Your Camera
Thousands have tried to capture sunsets on their cameras, but few have been successful. Natural events can be elusive, sneaking away from being photographed or captured.
Costa Rica’s sunsets are fast and transient. Consequently, your camera sensor can struggle with the difference in lighting and finding the right exposure level. The worst side effect of this situation is that you miss the delight of the sunset because you were fiddling with gadgets the entire time.
Lifewire recommends keeping the horizontal lines straight by using grid overlays. An iPhone has many advanced shooting options to help you make a better composition. Another trick for sunset photography is to explore HDR or High Dynamic Range. You can blend two images exposed variably for the shadows and the highlights.
Plan a trip that gives you ample time to absorb a sunset with your eyes and the camera. But if you must pick, trusting your memory is preferable. The imprint of the sun skiddling down the horizon is one you can frequently recreate in your mind’s eye.
All the best for your trip to Costa Rica. Here’s hoping it brings you the pura vida you seek, from the magnificence of sunsets to the soulful taste of Picadillo and Chifrijo. Just remember to carry sunscreen!
Image: Pexels, Diego Madrigal
