Visiting Costa Rica during the holidays is pure magic — sunny beaches, warm breezes, fresh seafood, and that signature Pura Vida ease. But high season also means fuller beaches, busier restaurants, and a whole lot of shared spaces. Want to make your trip smoother (and be the guest every host hopes for)? Here are a few insider tips to help you shine.
1. When to Book ATVs… and When to Skip Them
ATVs are one of the most in-demand holiday activities, especially in Guanacaste. Here’s the etiquette that makes everything run smoother:
Book early:
Christmas week fills up 2–3 weeks in advance. If you’re even thinking about an adventure, reserve it. You can always adjust — but it’s much harder to snag a last-minute spot.
Know your group:
ATVs are best for confident drivers. If someone is nervous or inexperienced, consider a UTV or a guided buggy instead — safer, more comfortable, and everyone gets to enjoy the scenery (and come home with all limbs intact).
Avoid driving near private homes or protected areas:
Noise + dust + unsuspecting monkeys = not a great mix. Stick to designated ATV trails and beaches that allow it.
2. Beach Etiquette Around Wildlife (AKA: Yes, the Monkeys Will Steal Your Snacks)
Costa Rica’s wildlife is enchanting — but also wild. A few things make a big difference in keeping animals safe (and guests happy):
Give space:
If a turtle or iguana wanders nearby, keep a respectful distance. Crowding them is stressful and can disrupt natural behavior.
Don’t feed wildlife:
Not even “just a little.” Human food can make animals sick and encourages aggressive behavior (hello, thieving monkey gangs).
Watch your bags:
Monkeys and coatis know a zipped bag is a treasure chest. Keep food sealed and in your sight — they’re fast, clever, and shameless.
Leave shells where they belong:
It’s part of Costa Rica’s protected ecosystems. Snap a photo, leave the beauty behind.
3. The AC Question: Why 22–26°C Is the Sweet Spot
Every villa in Costa Rica has a story about guests who set the AC to “Arctic tundra” and accidentally froze the unit — causing it to stop cooling altogether.
Here’s the etiquette (and the science):
Keep AC above 22°C (71°F):
Tropical ACs aren’t designed for ultra-low settings. Running them at 18°C can freeze the coils, strain the system, and actually make the room less cool.
Try 24–26°C during the day:
It’s comfortable, efficient, and keeps humidity down without overworking the unit.
Cool tip:
Close windows and curtains during the heat of the day — it makes a huge difference.
Your hosts, their AC tech, and the planet all thank you.
4. Tipping Guidelines for High Season
Service culture in Costa Rica is warm and hospitality-driven, and while tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s greatly appreciated — especially during the bustling holiday months. Here’s a quick guide:
Restaurants:
A 10% service charge is usually included. Adding another 5–10% for exceptional service is a lovely gesture.
Housekeepers:
$5–10 per day per bedroom
(High season is their Super Bowl — this means a lot to them.)
Private chefs:
10–15% of the total bill or experience.
Tour guides:
$10–20 per person depending on length and level of service.
Drivers / airport transfers:
$5–10 per group for short rides; $10–20 for long distances.
If you’re staying with Elysium, we’re always happy to guide you based on the services you’ve booked and the size of your group.
Final Touch: Be a Pura Vida Guest
Being a dream guest in Costa Rica is less about rules and more about embracing the spirit here: kindness, gratitude, flexibility, and respect for nature.
Treat people warmly.
Tread lightly outdoors.
Keep an eye on the AC.
And enjoy every second of holiday bliss in paradise.
