Tao Destinations Costa Rica Surf Resort Review

I’ve been waiting for over a year to get this post out. I’m so excited to get it up for you finally! Last year right before the world shut down due to COVID-19, we had the most amazing opportunity thanks to Tao Destinations, an all-inclusive surf resort in Avellanas, Costa Rica. Avellanas is a sleepy little surfer town on the Pacific side of Costa Rica. It is a bit off the beaten path but not too far off, making it a great spot to vacation without all the chaos of a major tourist destination.

Now that travel is opening back up; I’m so happy to share our experience at Tao Destinations.

Staying at Tao Destinations

Are you looking for an adventurous vacation? Costa Rica is the perfect place for a getaway, and the people at Tao Destinations will help make your adventures even more perfect!

Tao Destinations is a new quaint all-inclusive surf resort in Playa Avellanas. It’s only an 8-minute walk to the beach. Perfect for small families or a group of friends looking for a great place to surf and enjoy the warm water and sunshine!

To get to Tao Destinations, you fly into Liberia (airport code LIR). Someone from Tao Destinations will pick you up and drive you to the resort. It is about a 1.5-hour drive from the airport. From there, they can help arrange tours and set up a rental car that will be delivered right to you at the resort.

Surfing with Tao Destinations

If you are learning to surf, the water is calm and warm, great for beginners right there at Playa Avellanas. Even Piper, our 7-year-old, got up on a surfboard! I wish I took pictures! It was the one time I didn’t bring my camera with me to the beach.

They have several options for surfers of all skill levels. Head to their website for more details on Tao Destination’s all-inclusive surf camp, daily sessions, and surf school.

Tao’s Restaurant

We started our day at breakfast at Tao’s restaurant every day of our trip. I love Costa Rican breakfasts. They have something for everyone. The girls loved all the tropical fruit and smoothies. I couldn’t get enough of the “typical breakfast.” It may be typical in Costa Rica, but it’s so good! Gallo Pinto (beans & rice), eggs, and fruit and breakfast burritos.

We ended our day with delicious dinners at Tao Destinations. Everything from the tropical fruit to the Costa Rican chicken (the best chicken ever), and steak tacos, food in Costa Rica is incredible. Then cold smoothies by the pool listening to the monkeys howl.

Our Room

The room we stayed in has a large beautiful open floor plan with a king-size bed and a twin bed that the girls shared. There’s a refrigerator to keep snacks and drinks cold, free WiFi, and a cozy spot to sit and relax. The back french doors open up right to the pool. I loved all the details in the construction, from the wood beams on the ceiling to the custom-made bedframes.

The resort was under construction when we stayed with them. I can’t wait to go back and see everything completed! It is a beautiful property with the most friendly staff, a great pool, tropical flowers, and a cute family of monkeys living in the nearby trees.

New rooms being built.

Costa Rica is full of adventure and the perfect destination for families who love excitement. The wildlife is abundant, and the beaches are all stunning. You won’t want to miss an adventure in the rainforest. Or chocolate tasting at a local Costa Rican chocolate factory.

We’ve been to Costa Rica twice so far, both trips were very different, and both were amazing. I’d jump on a plane and go back tomorrow if I could! If you are thinking about Costa Rica, I recommend booking it! We will definitely be going back again!

A special THANK YOU to Tao Destinations for hosting us!!

Now that I’ve shared all the fun stuff, here’s what you need to know about traveling during COVID times.

How to travel to Costa Rica during COVID-19?

Now that vaccines are available and coronavirus numbers are lessening in many areas. Travel to and from Costa Rica has opened back up!

Things to know:

• You do not have to present a negative covid test to enter the country.

• You must purchase travel insurance. With three requirements as stated by the Government in Costa Rica.

Travel insurance must be valid for the entire duration of your stay.
Coverage in the amount of a minimum of $50,000 (US Dollars) if you become ill from COVID-19 during your visit.
A minimum of $2,000 (US Dollars) for quarantine expenses due to a COVID-19 infection.

• To return to the US, all travelers ages two and up will need to present a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of the departure date.

• Of course, like most places, masks are required.

*For the most recent travel requirements, check out Visit Costa Rica’s Entry Requirements