Our section on the most important Costa Rica April news: from celebrity vacations to the opening of luxury resorts and the filming of popular reality shows, Costa Rica continues to solidify its reputation as a premier travel destination. Here’s a detailed look at the biggest news stories from the Tico Times this month.
Ivanka Trump in Costa Rica enjoying a surfing vacation
One of the most talked-about stories this month is the vacation of Ivanka Trump, daughter of former U.S. President Donald Trump. Arriving on April 11, 2025, Ivanka is staying in a private residence located between Playa Hermosa and Santa Teresa, areas renowned for their stunning beaches and vibrant surf culture. This marks her fourth documented trip to Costa Rica, reflecting her deep affection for the country.
Ivanka is taking private surfing lessons at Take Off Surf School, a popular choice among both locals and tourists. The school’s owner, Jesús Zabala, expressed his admiration for her enthusiasm and skill, noting that she began her lessons on her arrival day. However, strong waves have temporarily halted her surfing activities. Zabala praised Ivanka’s family as being down-to-earth and respectful, despite their high-profile status.
This vacation highlights the appeal of Costa Rica’s natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle. Ivanka’s previous visits have been well-documented on her social media, showcasing her love for the local surf scene. While images from her current trip have been scarce, this discretion underscores the respect locals have for the privacy of high-profile guests.
Reference:
Times, T. (2025). Ivanka Trump Enjoys Surfing Vacation in Costa Rica. [online] The Tico Times | Costa Rica News | Travel | Real Estate. Available at: https://ticotimes.net/2025/04/14/ivanka-trump-enjoys-surfing-vacation-in-costa-rica [Accessed 4 May 2025].
Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Opens, Redefining Luxury Tourism
On April 24, 2025, the Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique opened its doors, marking a significant milestone in the country’s luxury tourism sector. This $200 million resort, developed by Garnier & Garnier and managed by Hilton, features 188 rooms, including 40 suites, and is situated on a picturesque cliffside overlooking Playa Penca.
The Waldorf Astoria aims to blend sustainable architecture with the essence of Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” ethos. The resort’s design incorporates native flora and fauna, creating an eco-conscious luxury experience. General Manager Ruben Gabino emphasized that the resort represents a vision of tourism that respects and regenerates the environment while providing guests with a unique experience.
Guests will enjoy a variety of amenities, including a 17,000-square-foot spa inspired by local cenotes, multiple dining options that highlight Costa Rican flavors, and various recreational facilities. The resort also plans to create around 800 jobs, contributing significantly to the local economy. The Waldorf Astoria’s arrival positions Guanacaste as a hub for exclusive experiences and luxury tourism, competing with elite properties like the Four Seasons.
Reference:
Times, T. (2025). Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Opens, Redefining Luxury Tourism. [online] The Tico Times | Costa Rica News | Travel | Real Estate. Available at: https://ticotimes.net/2025/04/24/waldorf-astoria-costa-rica-opens-redefining-luxury-tourism [Accessed 4 May 2025].
ABC’s Bachelor in Paradise in Costa Rica
In another exciting development, Costa Rica has been selected as the filming location for the tenth season of ABC’s Bachelor in Paradise. Production is set to begin in late April, marking a new chapter for the popular reality dating show, which previously filmed in Sayulita, Mexico. This change highlights Costa Rica’s appeal as a destination for film and television projects.
Host Jesse Palmer noted that Costa Rica offers a fresh setting with its beautiful beaches and lush jungles, which will add a new dynamic to the show. The specific filming location has not yet been confirmed, but it is likely to be in Guanacaste or the Nicoya Peninsula, known for their stunning beachfront resorts.
This season will introduce new contestants, including participants from the senior-focused series The Golden Bachelor, alongside familiar faces from previous seasons. This mix of ages and experiences aims to refresh the show’s format and keep audiences engaged.
The production is expected to support Costa Rica’s economy, particularly in tourism and hospitality. Local businesses, including hotels and service providers, will benefit from the influx of cast and crew members over several weeks. The global audience of the show will also promote Costa Rica as a travel destination, potentially increasing tourism numbers that have been down so far this year.
Conclusion
April 2025 has been a vibrant month for Costa Rica, showcasing its charm through various high-profile events. Ivanka Trump’s surfing vacation highlights the country’s appeal to celebrities, while the opening of the Waldorf Astoria marks a new era in luxury tourism. Additionally, the filming of Bachelor in Paradise promises to bring global attention to Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes.
For families and adventure seekers looking to explore this beautiful country, Epic Adventures offers local tours in the Manuel Antonio and Quepos areas. With its breathtaking scenery, rich biodiversity, and welcoming culture, Costa Rica remains a top choice for unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re seeking to surf, unwind in luxury, or experience the thrill of reality television, April has demonstrated that Costa Rica is the ideal destination.
Reference:
Times, T. (2025). Costa Rica to Host ABC’s Bachelor in Paradise Season 10. [online] The Tico Times | Costa Rica News | Travel | Real Estate. Available at: https://ticotimes.net/2025/04/24/costa-rica-to-host-abcs-bachelor-in-paradise-season-10 [Accessed 4 May 2025].
Hearon, S. (2025, April 23). Bachelor In Paradise Season 10 Moving to Costa Rica with Hannah Brown. Us Weekly. https://www.usmagazine.com/entertainment/news/bachelor-in-paradise-season-10-moving-to-costa-rica-with-hannah-brown/
