Highlights

San Rafael de Escazú

There are two parts of Escazu; San Rafael de Escazu is right at the exit of the highway as you come from San Jose. It is modern and trendy, a good neighborhood with pretty houses, condos and many high end restaurants, hotels, bars, lounges and 3D cinemas. It is home to some of the most exclusive Hotels in Costa Rica. Escazu Costa Rica is also excellent for those who enjoy gourmet food. Find Indian and Italian to Spanish and French, to Costa Rican and chinese!

The Old Colonial Escazu

As you go up from San Rafael in the mountains of Escazu you will reach the old town of Escazu. This is a lot more traditional than San Rafael, with lots of typical little restaurants and inns. As you keep going up you reach yet another town, San Antonio de Escazu. From there you may visit some outstanding lodges and restaurants, offering spectacular views and outstanding food in a great friendly and elegant ambiance. If you like hiking, you may take a walk up Pico Blanco towards the big cross of Escazu.

At first, the trail is fairly flat. The views are superb and it is still very rural, considering it is so close from the city. The whole hike takes about 3 hours but is well worth it. Another interesting thing to do is the vegetable market on Saturday where you may meet the local people.  Mostly people go to the old Escazu and to San Antonio to enjoy the incredible views of the Central Valley.

Multiplaza

The Multiplaza is the best mall in Costa Rica. Spend an entire day shopping at designer stores including Oscar de la Renta and Kenneth Cole. After you’re shopped out you can see a movie at one of the two movie theaters, chose a high-end restaurant to enjoy and pick up your favorite imported groceries from Auto Mercado.

Tips

Visit between December-April:

Escazu is in Costa Rica’s Central Valley, which means the weather feels like spring almost all year round. Between December and April the skies are clear and dry 24/7.

Go Shopping:

Escazu is home to Costa Rica’s best shopping mall. You’ll find international brands, a movie theater and food court all under one roof.

Go on Day Trips:

There are several day trips from San Jose that are worth going on. Visit the Poas Volcano, La Paz Waterfall Gardens or the waterfall at Finca San Gerardo.

Visit Nearby Cities:

There are several small cities and suburbs close to San Jose that you can spend a half a day or full day exploring. Visit Cartago, Sarchi, or Heredia. 

Dining

Whether you’re looking a traditional Costa Rican casado, Italian, Vietnamese, South American, Indian, vegan or North American food, you will find exactly what you want to eat in Escazu. Stop by PHO for class Vietnamese, Pimento for Italian or Mediterranean or Factory Steak and Lobster for incredible sea food. You won’t go hungry during your stay in Escazu!

Where to Stay

The Escazu hotels are perfect for tourists looking for a relaxing, high-end stay in the city. If you want a 5 star hotel right next to the Multiplaza, stay the  Real Intercontinental.  For a boutique feel stay at the Hotel Alta las Palomas and enjoy a pool, sauna, private jacuzzi and bar/lounge. For a family-friendly hotel, book your room at the Residence Inn. There you and your whole family can get pampered in the luxury spa, work out in the fitness center and take a dip in the pool. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, try the Courtyard Marriott and enjoy a restaurant and pool.

Getting There

Closest International Airport: Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)

Escazu is only about 15 minutes away from San Jose and 30 minutes away from the SJO international airport. My Costa Rica can arrange a private transfer or shuttle ride for you, or you can rent a car or order an Uber, now available in San Jose.