One Day in Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica: Itinerary to Transform and Travel
Updated: Sep 11, 2021
Hello to the Pura Vida once again! If you didn't know, I left Atlanta, GA in 2020 to travel to Costa Rica for my first stop for my travel to 7 Continents.
In 2016, I came to Costa Rica for the first time with our transformational retreats and knew I wanted to come back to discover new parts of Costa Rica. Earlier in 2021, I came to Costa Rica for about three months visiting La Fortuna, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, and Escazu near San Jose.
What an adventure!
Before I left Costa Rica last time, I knew I wanted to travel to Costa Rica again to explore new parts of the country, partner with travel brands for digital marketing projects, and create retreats with influencer marketing.
During the summer, while I visited Tulum, Mexico three months, I decided to travel to the Osa Peninsula in the south of Costa Rica when I returned for the third time. My third time in Costa Rica ended up including a press trip and digital marketing project for a month to the Osa Peninsula.
National Geographic describes Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula as “The most biologically intense place on earth.”
No matter how much time you have in Costa Rica, visiting the Osa Peninsula for even a short visit is well worth the trip. Let's talk about what I recommend for One Day in the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica.
One Day in Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
While the Osa Peninsula has a population of about 30,000 residents, about 60,000 people visited Drake Bay in 2019 alone.
That's one of the reasons why I decided to spend not just One Day in Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica but about a month on a digital marketing press trip in Costa Rica. If you are curious about my creating and adventuring, check out my third month in Mexico in 2021!
If you don't know where to start with your time in and near Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica, I am here to help you #createit! Traveling helps you transform in more ways than one when you travel globally.
While there is plenty to experience one day all around the Osa Peninsula to transform and travel whether you come solo, with family, or with a group, you will definitely want to consider staying longer.
Follow this One Day in Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica Itinerary to Transform and Travel. It will help you make your travels transformational even it's a short trip.
My recommendations for a day in the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica includes transportation through Sierpe to go on the boat, sunrise in Drake Bay, snorkeling at Cano Island, sunset, and favorite food spots: La Chosa in Drake Bay and Marisqueria Corcovado Seafood in Puerto Jimenez.
Getting to Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
Getting to the Osa Peninsula isn't the easiest place in the world to travel to. At the same time, you can make an adventure out of it for sure.
I flew from Cancun Airport direct to San Jose, Costa Rica with Volaris Airlines for about $140 USD one way. While you may find flights to San Jose, Costa Rica, or Liberia, Costa Rica airport on most international airlines, you have options for travel to the Osa Peninsula.
Within Costa Rica, you may find flights with Sansa Airlines and Nature Air to travel to the Osa Peninsula. As of August 2021, with luggage over 30 lbs, the one-way flights are about $155 USD with 2+ week advance purchase.
If you opt to drive to the Osa Peninsula, the roads are well paved and well-marked until you get to the northern part of the Osa Peninsula in Sierpe. Depending on which part of the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica you are going to, it is about 5-8 hours away by car from San Jose, Costa Rica.
While you may decide to fly or drive, you could make the travel to Osa Peninsula a unique adventure like I did! I found out about the daily Tracopa Bus at 8:30 am daily from San Jose, Costa Rica from My Tan Feet for about $12 USD (cash only currently) to Sierpe.
I promise the adventure gets better from Sierpe to Drake Bay, Costa Rica. From Sierpe, you may take the afternoon boat through the mangroves and the ocean to Drake Bay for $20. The one-way cost of the adventure ±$32 USD.
The actual adventure = priceless!
I loved taking the bus and boat! It was five times cheaper, and with airport travel and waiting, the travel time is only about 2 hours longer.
My Visit to Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
Thanks to my press trip to Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula, it will likely not be my last.
There is so much to experience in and near the Osa Peninsula including beaches, nature, and wildlife. Although I enjoyed a month from the middle of August to the middle of September in 2021, there is so much to experience!
I enjoyed experiencing Sierpe, Drake Bay, Cano Island, Puerto Jimenez, and nearby areas during my visit to Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica.
Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica Stays
After arriving by bus in Sierpe, Costa Rica, and on the shores of Drake Bay, Costa Rica, I spent my first night in the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica at Casa Tuanis.
Airbnb in Drake Bay, Costa Rica
I found Casa Tuanis via Airbnb in the center of town and was easily walkable to the grocery store, restaurants, and the beach.
The Airbnb in Drake Bay is perfect for a stay with a private room, town access, and community shared space with kitchen, living room, and outdoor space for <$30 USD a night.
For my one night in Drake Bay, the Airbnb with Casa Tuanis ended up being perfect! I arrived at about 6 pm at the Airbnb. The owner, Jamaica arranged a taxi for me to come to the Airbnb. It is easily walkable with little to no luggage.
However, with a 35 lb ish suitcase and a 15+ lb backpack going uphill, it is a bit challenging I would imagine. The taxi from the shore to the Airbnb is about $5 USD. Totally worth protecting my back and yours!
I am grateful I stayed at Casa Tuanis the night before my snorkeling in Cano Island, Costa Rica.
Sustainable Farm Stay with Travel Brand near Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica
For the rest of my stay for about a month in the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica, I stayed with Cindy, the owner of Tropical Escapade and other travel brands. This is an adventure and experience that will forever live in my heart.
Cindy herself goes above and beyond to introduce you to farm life with wildlife and wonder!
As a result of my press trip and digital marketing project via a platform Workaway, I got to experience and adventure filled with awe and wonder at an almost entirely sustainable farm stay nearby Puerto Jimenez.
Every single day, I experienced immersion in wonder and wildlife with the sights and sounds of Scarlett Macaws, Hawks, Howler Monkeys, Hummingbirds, and Squirrel Monkeys to name a few of my newfound friends.
In the midst of helping with business consulting and digital marketing,
I experienced incredible impactful adventures like:
1 Picking oranges and making fresh orange juice
2 Helping with different phases of cacao and chocolate making
3 Knocking coconuts out of the tree and drinking fresh coconut water
4 Daily discovering new fruits like dragon fruit, rollinias, jovo, and more!
On top of that, I worked out in new and unique ways, as well as learned about planting and growing fruits and vegetables!
All shots are my own on Canon EOSM100, Sony A330, and/or my iPhone 12 Mini or Airbnb photos.
Fun Facts About Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
The Osa Peninsula is a true jewel of land, water, and life. When you visit, you will be immersed in lush landscapes, incredible wildlife, paradise beaches, untouched scenery, tropical rainforests, and an incredible ecosystem of marine life.
Although the peninsula covers just 700 square miles on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, the Osa's geological history makes it home to a nearly unparalleled amount of biodiversity.
National Geographic named the Osa Peninsula as “the most biologically intense place on earth,. It is easy to understand why since it is surrounded by the Pacific that is home to 2.5 percent of the world’s biodiversity, including tapirs, pumas, four specifics of monkeys, over 350 bird species, and marine animals including sharks and manta rays.
Geographically, Osa Peninsula is bound on the north by Sierpe, on the northwest by Drake Bay, on the west by the Pacific Ocean, and on the east by the Golfo Dulce.
If you love tropical landscapes, you will love the Osa Peninsula. Whether you decide to stay in Drake Bay, in the larger town of Puerto Jimenez, or spend some time in both as I did, you will love it.
Why I Create Travel Guides Globally
Although I stayed in the Osa Peninsula for about a month, I love to create adventure days to share for myself and others whether you are somewhere short or long-term, and want to create adventure days too.
My story includes being conceived in Bulgaria, born in Poland, and in 4 countries by the time I was 2 (including a refugee camp in Italy.). I am in awe of the transformation from the inside out of my life in every area including health, wealth, business, and travel.
That's why I created One Day Travel guides all around the world. In my Top 10 Things to Do, you will find even more reasons to experience the cities and countries I share on my travels globally to 7 Continents.
My travels and experiences in and near the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica included nature, adventures, and sustainability!
Travel fills me up. New people, adventures, and experiences are something I love.
Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica in Under 60 Seconds
No amount of time may capture a location or city.
At the same time, I love capturing the spirit of a place in under 60 seconds!
You are welcome!
One Day in Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
One Day in the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica is not nearly enough. At the same time, if it is all you have, let's make it count in every way!
Depending on when you arrive, and where you stay, feel free to modify your experiences!
I'm sharing here a full 24 hours for your one day in and around the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica from morning to night!
My recommendations for a day include transportation through Sierpe to go on the boat, sunrise in Drake Bay, snorkeling at Cano Island, Playa Preciosa, and favorite food spots.
Sunset Arrival in Drake Bay, Costa Rica by Boat
A great way to start your adventure to the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica is with a splash by taking the afternoon boat from Sierpe to Drake Bay, Costa Rica.
You will leave Sierpe around 4 pm going through Mangroves and the ocean at sunset arriving on the shores of Drake Bay, Costa Rica.
Talk about taking travel to a whole new level.
Sunrise in Drake Bay, Costa Rica
A great way to start your day in Drake Bay, Costa Rica the next morning is with the sunrise. I stayed at Casa Tuanis for my one night in Drake Bay and walked to the beach for sunrise in less than 10 minutes.
Visit Cano Island and Snorkel or Scuba
Visiting Cano Island to snorkel or scuba is a must in the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica. From Drake Bay, you may visit Cano Island with about a 45-minute boat ride away from Drake Bay.
I understand why Cano Island is considered by many to be the most beautiful snorkeling and diving in Costa Rica and in the world. When Tropical Escapade invited me to experience snorkeling in Cano Island, I said YES, please!
Although I have seen pictures of Cano Island, they do not do the island and its surroundings justice.
You feel as if you have stepped into a magical moment. As if the island and snorkeling were not incredible enough, on our way back we ended up getting a show from Humpback whales for over an hour!
Playa Preciosa (Precious Beach) in Puerto Jimenez
If you are anything like me, you are nowhere near done with water adventures! When I asked Cindy, the owner of Tropical Escapade for the best beaches nearby in Puerto Jimenez, she immediately mentioned Playa Preciosa.
Puerto Jimenez is a larger town in the Osa Peninsula, and about an hour away from Drake Bay.
The beach did not disappoint! The first time I visited, there was a low tide so I could walk across to one of the most pristine and private beaches I have ever seen. I walked for about 3 miles along the coast loving every minute.
Foodie Experiences
There are incredible options for foodie experiences in the Osa Peninsula you will love!
La Chosa in Drake Bay
Steps from Casa Tuanis in Drake Bay is La Chosa. I ate here after my adventure to Cano Island and loved it! Their Ceviche and Watermelon juice is incredible!
Hellens Cafe in Puerto Jimenez
Hellens is adorable, and right on the main street of Puerto Jimenez.
They have the BEST Casado I have ever tasted in Costa Rica!
I have tried Casado in 5+ cities in Costa Rica!
Casado is a traditional dish with either meat, chicken, fish or vegetarian options served with rice, beans and vegetables. You may see in the middle picture I opted for chicken, beans and vegetables.
Marisqueria Corcovado in Puerto Jimenez
For my seafood lovers, make sure you go to Marisqueria Corcovado along the coast in Puerto Jimenez. They have some of the best Ceviche and Patacones (plaintains made into pancakes)!
Iguana Lodge in Puerto Jimenez
Iguana Lodge is located along the coast of Playa Preciosa. Stop by for an incredible Hummus and fruit Ceviche with pineapple, mango, tomatoes and onions!
Reasons to Stay in Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica Longer
It is easy to see One Day in the Osa Peninsula is not enough!
If that is all you have, enjoy it to the fullest and make plans to come back!
Beyond the lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and incredible wildlife, there is so much more!
In the Osa Peninsula, you may want to visit Corcovado National Park, and nearby Golfito!
If you haven't yet, definitely check out my One Day Travel and Top 10 Things to Do in 5+ locations in Costa Rica alone!
Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica One Day Travel
As you may clearly see, the Osa Peninsula in the south of Costa Rica has limitless options for One Day and more! Why do you think I spent a month in the Osa Peninsula?
Whether you want to immerse yourself in nature, water, and wildlife, you will love it!
Have you visited Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula before?
Is it on your bucket list?
If you haven't, what activity here interests you the most to do in One Day in Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica?
Travel Guides
Mexico Travels
One Day in Tulum, Mexico and my Top 10 Things Tulum, Mexico Things to Do
Guatemala Travels
One Day in Antigua, Guatemala and my Top 10 Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala
Costa Rica Travels
One Day in La Fortuna, Costa Rica and my Top 10 Things to Do in La Fortuna!
One Day in Monteverde, Costa Rica and my Top 10 Things to Do in Monteverde!
One Day in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica and my Top 10 Things to Do in Manuel Antonio!
One Day in Escazu, Costa Rica & Top 10 Things to Do in San Jose, Costa Rica!
Not to mention our Inspiring Travel Now & in the Future Project &
Costa Rica Retreat coming in August 2021!
CREATE WITH OUR COMMUNITY
https://www.fitlifecreation.com/freebies
FIT Life Creation: Lifestyle Brand: Health, Wealth, Biz in 1
Think Amazon Meets Airbnb for Transformation with
Influencer Marketing (Revolve / Like it to Knowit) and Fundraising Twist.
CREATE IN OUR COMMUNITY
1 LIFESTYLE TRANSFORMATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP FREEBIES LIBRARY
2 LIFESTYLE TRANSFORMATION LIVE EVENTS AND RETREATS
3 CONNECT AND CREATE COMMUNITY IN OUR LIFESTYLE ENTREPRENEUR COLLABS
4 WELLNESS, MEDIA, LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL FOR BRANDS
5 INSPIRING TRAVEL NOW & IN THE FUTURE
6 ONLINE COURSES & INITIATIVES
CREATE WITH OUR COMMUNITY
https://www.fitlifecreation.com/freebies
Learn More About our Travel Project:
Inspiring Travel Now & In the Future
Creator & Travel Series Contributions for Creators
If you would love to be considered for our Travel Series, our form.
Note: We ask for personal reflections like this piece and examples below.
https://www.fitlifecreation.com/post/one-day-in-cancun-mexico-itinerary-to-transform-and-travel
https://www.travtasy.com/2019/10/cuba-travel-guide-tips.html & no mention of anything not aligned to wellness, transformation and travel.
We are a transformation brand with a mission of "FIT" Following Love in All We Do, Impacting People, and Transforming the Mind. We focus on transformation and cover wellness, marketing, business in travel to help people create a life and business they love.
If we select you, currently our pieces are for press only for blog & our show. Once we start paying for articles, we will go back to prior articles and authors and pay you for your pieces starting at $25 and growing step by step.
We will ask for :
1 Your Draft Story
2 Photos 5 Min High Quality
3 Follow Format & Spacing Like in Our Pieces
4 Submit in Word with Clear Instructions on Photos
5 Attach Photos Separately Matching Labels
6 Final Summary
7 Once we Accept, Will Ask for Voice Over for Show of Article in Your Voice
You may use Quick Time or Zencaster for Free (Do not record until we approve)
Essentially follow the template and format you see
Include After Approval:
1 Your Media Kit
2 Confirm You Will Back Link on Your Blog/Media Page & Share on Social
3 5+ High Quality Images
4 3+ Back Links to Your Platform
5 1+ External Press You Have
We invite you to explore a live podcast feature & influencer features as well.
Note that in your submission.
We reserve the right to feature you in our masterminds & online courses with the article & encourage you to view collaborations.
It's a FIT Life Creation Podcast on:
Tag us on social media for a chance to win one of our giveaways:
a month in the mastermind, a course, and/or event ticket!
@katrinajuliafit @fitlifecreation #createitgiveaway
FIT Life Creation: Lifestyle Brand: Health, Wealth, Biz in 1
Think Amazon Meets Airbnb for Transformation with
Influencer Marketing (Revolve / Like it to Knowit) and Fundraising Twist.
CREATE IN OUR COMMUNITY
1 LIFESTYLE TRANSFORMATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP FREEBIES LIBRARY
2 LIFESTYLE TRANSFORMATION LIVE EVENTS AND RETREATS
3 CONNECT AND CREATE COMMUNITY IN OUR LIFESTYLE ENTREPRENEUR COLLABS
4 WELLNESS, MEDIA, LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL FOR BRANDS
5 INSPIRING TRAVEL NOW & IN THE FUTURE
6 ONLINE COURSES & INITIATIVES
#google #pinterest #youtube #instagram #facebook #twitter #createalifeandbusinessyoulove #LifestyleEntrepreneur #LifestyleBrand #TransformationCoach #createcultivate #experiences #fitlifecreation #katrinajulia #LivePlan #CANVA #KAJABI #WIX #TEACHABLE #CANON #STORY #onlinecourse #howto #travel #content #creator #createcontent #oneday #mexico #videography #foodmarket #doubledecker #contentcreation #blogger #presstrips #lifestyleblogger #travelblogger #onedayguide #top10travel #costarica #puravida #oneday #top10 #osapeninsula #puertojimenez #drakebay #canoisland