Manuel Antonio and Quepos

After an exciting time in Monteverde, it was time to head to the Pacific coast for a few days. This was our longest travel day. The drive was beautiful, driving back down the mountains, and then driving along the coast. This is the Costa Rica that most people think of: crystal-clear blue water, brown sand, and tropical heat.

We stayed in Quepos, a port city that was a little rough around the edges. Once I spent a few days there wandering the streets, I found it a little charming in all of its grunge. From there it's a short bus ride to Manuel Antonio, a beach town that's filled with charming restaurants and shops, and a gorgeous view of the beach and ocean.

The second day we were there, we spent the entire day laying on the beach, and swimming in the massive waves. I went with a few of the guys to get surf lessons. Let me tell you, I earned a new level of respect for surfers. It's very hard to do. I think I swallowed my weight in salt water. The worst part was after I finished, and was ready to go back out again. It seemed as if I would walk into the ocean 5 feet, and a strong wave would push the board and I back to shore 15 feet. It was a never-ending vicious cycle.

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