Best. Time. Ever.

Costa Rica | Jun 26 - Jul 3, 2025

We had such a fantastic time from start to finish! We had never used a service before but when our travel dates changed and we had to start from scratch because there were no vacancies to be had for a party of nine, kimkim and Holden came in clutch. In only 24 hours he had an even better plan than our initial one!!! We laugh about how grateful we are that our first plans fell apart.

The biggest bonus to using kimkim and that Holden addressed thoughtfully and thoroughly was logistics. We had an idea of all the things we wanted to do but were overwhelmed with trying to figure out the best areas in which to stay, how long to plan to get where, how many daily activities to schedule and how to do it efficiently. In the end, the pace was perfect and we loved every single excursion provided through Serendipity Adventures-Mariano, Alex, Julio, Ricardo, Antonio, Jeffery and Jarrell were kind and capable guides. We even made a last minute change because we wanted to watch the USA vs. Costa Rica game with some locals. Kimkim (Wilman) was happily accommodating.

Turns out that both the places we stayed-which were not on our radar-were perfect for us. Arenal Monoa & Hot Springs Resort was a treat given the amount of rain we had while visiting. The staff was courteous and hard-working; we hardly wanted to leave to see the town just minutes away. The daily view of what we started to call "our" volcano was breathtaking in all its versions. At Margaritaville in Playa Flamingo, the all-inclusive feature and reasonable size of the facility made things relaxing with teenagers. They could roam independently and meet their own needs when they were tired of being forced into games of corn hole and pool volleyball. The beach was the visual highlight and provided plenty of
boogie boarding fun!

So much more that could be said but all my accolades probably have people thinking this is a fake review. It's not. To keep it real, the roads and navigating are atrocious. If you or anyone in your party has trouble with car sickness be forewarned. Worth it in the end though! Pura vida! We loved Costa Rica.

Thank you kimkim team and Holden for knowing what would make for wonderful memories:)

Hotel Reviews

Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs

Fortuna

The resort and grounds were lovely and the staff was hard-working and courteous. The view of the volcano and abundance of wildlife right on the property was amazing.

Authenticity & Character

The view while dining from the main restaurant is fabulous!

Location

The 3 hour drive from the airport is a bit of a grind but once you are there, it's lovely. I wish that excursions could be a more convenient distance away. The majority of ours were close to 2 hours away.

Staff

Everyone was kind, welcoming, and accommodating.

Cleanliness & Comfort

The grounds were well cared for and the rooms were serviced with attention.

Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo

Guanacaste

We loved that Margaritaville wasn't a mega resort where you have to wait for elevators to arrive and we could physically check on our teenagers with ease. The staff, especially upon check-in and check-out, were efficient, helpful and welcoming. The placement on the beach makes for a beautiful setting.

Authenticity & Character

It certainly has a theme but it is not over the top.

Location

We loved that it was a relatively short distance from the airport and so scenic once you arrive.

Staff

The staff at the pool bar quickly became friendly faces we enjoyed seeing.

Cleanliness & Comfort

The rooms themselves were quite nice and housekeeping kept it spotless.

Activity Reviews

Private Río Celeste & Tenorio Volcano National Park Guided Hike

Arenal/La Fortuna

Mariano was a blast! We learned so may fun facts from him. His sense of humor eased the long ride there and back. The park was full of surprises including white-faced monkeys, an eyelash viper, and various other creatures. The falls were so pretty and the fact that a member of our party is named Celeste made it more special.

Quality of Experience

Food

We liked that it was a typical kind of Costa Rican lunch. We seemed to hit the buffet late so there were limited options.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Mariano was a delight!

Transport

Dios mio! We had all kinds of issues with roads but our driver hung in there with a good attitude.

Whitewater Rafting Sarapiqui River (Class III-IV)

Costa Rica

We had a blast and felt secure the entire time being that we were a small tour of just two boats and a safety kayaker all for us! The guys were super fun and easy to be around. Do it!

Quality of Experience

Serendipity was fantastic. We loved the guys including the cook who made us a delicious meal! Our teens were so happy!!!

Food

That was a little feast after our time on the river. Who knew you could make that happen with a hot plate and a cooler?!?! Our kids devoured the chicken tacos, guacamole, and pineapple! Jeffery was hard-working and kind. We really appreciated him.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Alex was our driver and his ability to spot wildlife on the drive was mindblowing! He is FULL of information while being humorous. We appreciated that he took a stop for us to use a nicer bathroom and get a snack on the way there.

Transport

Alex was prompt and detail-oriented. He was looking out for our best interest from start to finish.

Private Sunset Cruise

Costa Rica

WOW, just wow! We had the most amazing sunset cruise and snorkel. This experience exceeded our expectations. Jeffrey and Jarrell were top notch. Their love of sailing was evident and put us at ease to enjoy the experience. Jeffrey shared his sailing knowledge willingly and informatively while Jarrell was our snorkeling and sea life expert. They were a great duo. We were so impressed with their attentiveness and genuine interest in our having an enjoyable and relaxing time. My son started to get a little seasick and Jarrell somehow realized and brought him something helpful to drink. The meal we had was fresh and simply delicious. Their margarita was exceptional! I told them both that they made their mothers proud!

Quality of Experience

The experience was the epitome of PURA VIDA!

Food

Simple, fresh and authentic!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Genuine and attentive young men that made the outing very memorable.

Transport

What could be better than a 50 foot sailboat all to ourselves?

Big Arenal Mundo Aventura Zipline

Arenal/La Fortuna