Apr 1, 2026
Less Screen, More Sea: Unplugging in Costa Rica


Less Screen, More Sea: Unplugging in Costa Rica

“Work hard, play hard.” It’s a motto that had its moment. Now it mostly feels like a polite way of saying burnout, then try to recover on a long weekend while answering emails by the pool.

 

The digital world doesn’t just live in our pockets anymore. It hums in the background of everything. Notifications nudge. Algorithms anticipate. Even our downtime gets scheduled, optimized, and quietly interrupted. We tell ourselves we’ll switch off, just after this one message, this one scroll, this one quick check. You can probably guess how that goes.

That’s where places like RipJack Inn and Playa Grande come in. Not as an escape in the dramatic, run-away-from-your-life sense. But as a reset. A return to something slower, simpler, and honestly a little more human. Here, the rhythm is set by the ocean, not your inbox. Mornings unfold without urgency. Sunsets don’t compete with screens. And for the first time in a while, your attention isn’t being pulled in twelve different directions.

Less screen. More sea. It sounds simple. But the shift it creates is anything but.

Golden sunset over Playa Grande beach in Costa Rica with waves rolling onto the shore, capturing a peaceful digital detox setting

The Endless Age of Distraction

Driven by technology, multitasking, and information overloading, the modern attention crisis has been slowly eroding our ability to focus. Mental exhaustion and decreased productivity are fueling daily anxieties. “Popcorn mind” is becoming normalized. Notifications constantly ask us to switch between tasks so frequently that we lose track of what we’re doing. We are everywhere, except the present. 

 

There are too many tabs open in our brains. 

 

Technology today is designed to be addictive through intuitive algorithms. Social media pings, news alerts, infinite-play autoscrolling, and, of course, work emails. All deliberate, psychological hooks. The cost? Busy all the time but rarely productive in anything meaningful.

 

One of the scarier (and more damaging) outcomes is the loss of deep thinking. Creative work becomes more exhausting. Reading long-form content becomes more challenging. And socializing is frequently interrupted by a buzz on the phone, a lit-up screen, or worse… the “phantom pings.”

 

From Noise to Nature: A Better Kind of Stimulation

Crashing waves. Fresh air. Birds’ songs. A single soundtrack.

 

Here, sensory overload is healthy and nurturing. Barefoot grounding brings us back into our bodies. Ocean waves fill your ears and nose. The environment quickly pulls your attention into the moment. Reality. REAL reality.

Nature On. Notifications Off.

Playa Grande serves as its very own digital detox retreat. Nature replaces your notifications and becomes your new “feed.” A sprawling, quiet beach allows you to get lost in watching the waves, the surfers, dogs, and kids playing without confinement. Local wildlife: turtles nesting on schedule, continuing a beautiful cycle of creation and life. Howler monkeys playfully swinging in the trees, reminding you we share this Earth with magnificent creatures who co-exist peacefully despite the chaotic modern world thrust upon them.

Slow Mornings That Don’t Demand

BEEP BEEP BEEP.  That triggering sound that jump-starts a fight-or-flight response, spikes your heart rate, and so sweetly starts your day with increased blood pressure. 

 

Gone. 

 

The sun is warming your skin, gently stirring your body’s natural hormones to wake you and begin your day. This is your alarm clock when you choose to unplug. Slip out of bed and enjoy your coffee with an ocean view instead of a screen. Step into a wide-open space with unlimited time to think, journal, or simply exist. Productivity is redefined. Bespoke. You, as the tailor, not technology.

Movement As Play, Not Obligation

RipJack Inn’s boutique beachfront hotel offers yoga and Pilates classes, a beach volleyball court, and surf lessons when your body wants to move. Not because of the imaginary productivity pressure that you must fit in a workout. But rather, because your body is craving to move in a playful, unobligated way.


What Really Happens When You Log Off

At first, it just feels quieter. Weird almost. No constant pull, no reflex to check, no low-level urgency humming in the background. But give it a little time, and something deeper begins to shift. Your body softens, your mind clears, and the version of you that isn’t running on notifications starts to reappear.

Nervous System Reset

Every notification sets off a spike in your nervous system, regardless of whether you feel it right away or not. Fight-or-flight is triggered, heart rate and cortisol levels spike, and dopamine and serotonin are dysregulated. 

 

When we eliminate the stressors (ahem… social media), the benefits are quite impressive:

  • Cortisol levels lowered → reduced anxiety and physical tension

  • Improved heart rate variability and autonomic balance 

  • Neurochemical restoration → improved mood regulation

  • Improved ability to sustain attention on tasks

  • Improved memory consolidation

Creativity Reboot

When you’re regularly switching between apps and checking emails, your brain’s default mode network (DMN) is interrupted. Take a wild guess at what restores it. That’s right, mental rest. 

 

This beautiful, large-scale network of interacting brain regions enables self-reflection, memory recall, future planning, and social interactions. A digital detox is the perfect remedy for improving your ability to sustain attention, stimulate your thinking, reboot your creativity, and possibly even keep your mental health in tip-top shape.

Improved Sleep Quality

Our beloved screens emit a blue light that tricks our brains into thinking it’s daylight, suppressing our body’s natural production of melatonin (the sleep hormone). When we ditch them, our melatonin production kicks back in, leading to faster sleep onset and deeper, more restful sleep. 

 

In addition to kicking the blue hue at night, you can now fill that void with healthier, more productive sleep hygiene practices such as reading, journaling, meditation, or a relaxing bath. Win!

Real Conversations

Removing the mere presence of a phone significantly improves social skills. Fewer distractions allow for deeper, more present, and empathetic real-world interactions. Without the temptation to check notifications, you can be an active listener, leading to more meaningful and empathetic conversations.

 

The Ultimate Out-of-Office Destination

Your nervous system has been in airplane mode for years. Just not the kind you want. Rest isn’t the reward; it’s the requirement. And RipJack Inn’s beachfront hotel is the perfect place to kick it off. 

 

There is Wifi, cell signal, and plenty of plugs… but you won’t be needing any of those. At RipJack Inn, unplugging doesn’t feel like effort. It happens naturally. Tucked just steps from the beach and surrounded by the raw, untamed beauty of Playa Grande, the environment does what willpower usually can’t. The ocean sets the pace, the light shifts your rhythm, and suddenly your phone feels… irrelevant.

Days unfold without urgency. You move between the beach, the pool, and open-air spaces that invite you to linger a little longer than planned. There’s no pressure to document, respond, or keep up. 

Just space to breathe, to rest, and to remember what it feels like to be fully present in your own life.

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Mar 6, 2026
A Boutique Hotel in Costa Rica That Feels Like Home

A Boutique Hotel in Costa Rica That Feels Like Home

There are places you visit. And then there are places that quietly adopt you.

Tucked along the golden shores of Playa Grande, steps from the wild Pacific and the protected beauty of Las Baulas National Marine Park, RipJack Inn is way more than a boutique hotel in Costa Rica. It’s a pillar of the local community (for almost 22 years, and counting!). And when you stay here, you don’t just check in. You belong.

become-part-of-the-RipJack-Inn-family-and-Playa-grande-community

“Hey Siri, Find a Hotel Near the Beach”

Travelers searching for accommodations or wellness retreats near Playa Grande often start with practical questions:

Is it close to the beach?
Is it peaceful?
Is it worth it?

At RipJack Inn, the answers are easy. Yes, yes, and absolutely yes.

But the real magic? It lives in the intangible.

It’s in the way staff greet returning guests by name, even years later.
It’s in the way the owners treat their team like extended family. Especially when it really matters.
It’s in the quiet pride you feel knowing your stay supports local Costa Rican families, not a corporate chain.

In a world of automated check-ins and templated hospitality, RipJack Inn offers something increasingly rare: genuine human connection.

The Best Days of Your Year Begin Here

Home is not defined by walls or décor. It is defined by how you feel in a space from the moment you arrive.

For nearly twenty-two years in Playa Grande, RipJack Inn has grown alongside the local community. Children of original staff members have grown up. Guests who once came as newlyweds now return with teenagers. Local partnerships have deepened. Roots have taken hold. When a place commits to a community for that long, it carries a steadiness you can feel and trust.

The owners and team at RipJack understand something essential. Vacation days are not casual. 

They are counted. 

Saved. 

Anticipated. 

They are the few precious weeks each year when you finally step away from obligations and give your full attention to the people beside you and the person within you.

That responsibility is not taken lightly.

The team approaches every detail with care, ensuring your days feel extraordinary, from the way they greet you to the pace of your mornings. Not extravagant. Not overdone. Simply meaningful.

RipJack Inn welcomes you as a guest whose story matters. Whether you are here for a surf trip, a wellness retreat in Costa Rica, a romantic getaway, or a long-overdue family vacation, the team understands that this chapter of your year carries weight.

There is a quiet intentionality in how things are done. Unscripted moments that come from years of listening to travelers and understanding what truly makes a stay memorable.

The Power of Staying Somewhere That Cares

RipJack Inn understands that a Costa Rica beach vacation is more than a destination. It is about how you feel while you are there and how you carry that feeling home. The goal is simple and ambitious at once: for everyone who walks through the door to feel like family.

Family celebrates together. Family supports one another. Family makes space at the table.

For more than two decades, RipJack has continued to welcome new guests with the same care that built its foundation. When you choose to stay here, you are choosing a place that values your time, honors your presence, and invites you into a community that extends beyond your departure date.

And when your trip ends, the door remains open.

Because home is not a single visit, it is a place you can return to again and again, knowing you will be greeted as if you never left.

Supporting Local Families by Simply Showing Up

Travel has an impact. Where you stay matters.

Playa Grande itself feels like a secret whispered between surfers and sunset lovers. Known for world-class waves, sea turtle nesting grounds, and uncrowded beaches, it offers a slower rhythm than nearby Tamarindo.

Choosing a family-owned hotel in Playa Grande directly supports the people who live here year-round, the staff who raise their children in Guanacaste, the local farmers who supply ingredients, and the surf instructors who grew up on these beaches.

RipJack Inn doesn’t just employ locals. It invests in them. It celebrates birthdays, supports families, and builds long-term relationships that extend far beyond hotel operations.

When you book a stay here, you become part of that ecosystem.

Your vacation becomes a vote for sustainability.
A vote for community.
A vote for people over profit.

And that feels good in a way no infinity pool ever could.

The Ripple Effect of Belonging

The most beautiful part of RipJack Inn isn’t the architecture or the proximity to the beach (though both are lovely).

It’s the ripple effect.

Guests who feel cared for become more mindful travelers.
Employees who feel valued create extraordinary experiences.
Owners who lead with heart inspire loyalty that spans decades.

That ripple extends outward. Into Playa Grande, into Costa Rica, and into the lives of everyone who passes through.

When you leave, you take more than photos.
You take perspective.
You take friendships.
You take the quiet reminder that hospitality can still be deeply human.

And often, you start planning your return before your plane even lands.

When You Stay at RipJack Inn, You Join Something Bigger

There’s something powerful about becoming part of a close-knit hotel family, even temporarily. 

Staying here feels different.

Because it is different.

You share space with stories. You contribute to a legacy. You step into a rhythm that honors people first. And long after the tan fades and the suitcase is unpacked, the feeling remains.

The feeling of being seen.
The feeling of being welcomed.
The feeling of belonging.

That’s the real luxury. In an era of polished marketing and curated perfection, RipJack Inn quietly proves that authenticity wins.

And at RipJack Inn in Playa Grande, Costa Rica, it’s waiting for you.

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Aug 14, 2025
Breathing in Wellness: How Negative Ions at Oceans and Waterfalls Boost Your Health


Breathing in Wellness: How Negative Ions at Oceans and Waterfalls Boost Your Health

Imagine standing at the base of a roaring waterfall in Costa Rica. The air feels crisp, cool, and somehow alive. Or picture yourself paddling out on a surfboard, waves swelling beneath you, salt spray on your face. That invigorating sensation you feel? It’s not just in your head — it’s in the air itself, thanks to negative ions.

What Are Negative Ions?

Negative ions are oxygen atoms charged with an extra electron. They occur naturally when air molecules are broken apart by sunlight, radiation, or moving water. Waterfalls, ocean waves, and even heavy rainstorms create some of the highest concentrations of negative ions found in nature.

The Science Behind the Benefits

Research suggests that negative ions may:

  • Enhance mood and reduce stress by increasing serotonin production in the brain.

  • Support respiratory health by binding to airborne particles (like dust, pollen, or smoke) and helping clear them from the air you breathe.

  • Improve sleep quality by regulating levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

  • Boost mental clarity and alertness, possibly by increasing oxygen flow to the brain.

While the science is still evolving, numerous studies point to measurable improvements in well-being when people spend time in environments rich in negative ions.

Why Oceans and Waterfalls Are Ion Hotspots

When water crashes against rocks or shorelines, it splits into tiny droplets. This process — called the Lenard effect — releases negative ions into the surrounding air. That’s why you feel so refreshed after standing near a waterfall, walking along the surf, or catching a wave. For surfers, every ride delivers a double benefit: the joy of movement and immersion in a natural, ion-rich environment.

Costa Rica: A Living Laboratory of Negative Ions

Costa Rica offers the perfect combination of pristine beaches and dramatic waterfalls. Imagine breathing deeply at La Paz Waterfall Garden, feeling the mist on your face, or taking in the ion-rich breeze at Playa Grande after a morning walk or surf session. Whether you’re exploring Las Baulas Marine National Park beaches or riding the warm Pacific swells in front of Hotel RipJack Inn, the country’s landscapes immerse you in the kind of air that science — and your body — loves.

The Takeaway

Negative ions aren’t just a scientific curiosity — they’re part of a deeply human experience of nature. Whether you’re standing at a Costa Rican waterfall, paddling into your first wave, or simply wading into the ocean, you’re not just enjoying the view — you’re breathing in a dose of natural wellness.

So, if your body and mind are craving a recharge, Costa Rica’s beaches, waterfalls, and surf breaks are waiting, with the science of negative ions on your side.

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Jul 30, 2025
Playa Grande Night Market, Costa Rica


🌙 Playa Grande Night Market 

📅 Date & Time: Wednesdays from • 6 PM–9 PM

📍 Location: El Beach Club, beachfront at Playa Grande next to the MINAE office.  

 
As the sun dips toward the horizon, strings of warm lights illuminate colorful vendor booths. Locals and visitors gather, weaving between stalls filled with unique artisan goods.  
 
A line of food trucks produce delicious smells of fresh food.  You can also find cold pressed juice and sweet treats which means that there is something for everyone!  My favorite was  Pitahaya which was provided by the local fruit stand.
 
The market was buzzing. I picked up a pair of hand‑crafted earrings and admired a local painter’s pottery. Booth owners shared stories about their pieces, making each item feel special. A photographer’s prints caught a romantic sunset framed by palm silhouettes.
 

📝 Reflections of the Playa Grande Night Market

Atmosphere: Warm and beachy, with a strong local feel. Not overwhelmed by commercialism, more like a community stroll under fairy lights.

Food & Drink: Delightful range from light bites to handcrafted pastries and local beverages. Bring small bills because many vendors don’t have change  .

Artisan Goods: Quality crafts focused on Costa Rican aesthetics and sustainability. A great chance to support local businesses.

Music & Entertainment: Live acoustic sets, casual dance spaces for families and kids.
 

✅ Tips for Visitors

•Arrive around 6 PM to beat crowds and catch the full market atmosphere.
•Cash is king so bring small bills and coins.
•Get there early because things run out fast.
•Combine with a sunset drink at nearby RipJack Inn during its 4‑6 PM happy hour prior to the night market.   .
 
The Playa Grande Night Market invites you to slow down and enjoy creative local culture.  You can savor delicious bites and connect over live music  A serene yet spirited way to spend an evening in Guanacaste…highly recommend!
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Jul 19, 2025
Eco-Friendly Travel Tips When Visiting Costa Rica


Eco-Friendly Travel Tips for Costa Rica Visitors 

Costa Rica is more than just a tropical paradise, it’s a global leader in eco-tourism, conservation, and sustainable living. With lush jungles, protected coastlines, and an incredible amount of biodiversity, it’s no wonder that millions visit every year to experience its natural magic.

At RipJack Inn, we’re passionate about preserving the beauty of Playa Grande and beyond. Whether you’re surfing, hiking, or just relaxing on the beach, here are simple and impactful eco-friendly travel tips to help protect this beautiful country during your stay.

1. Pack Light, Pack Green

Before you even arrive, your suitcase can make a difference

✅ Choose reef-safe sunscreen (more on that below)

✅ Pack a reusable water bottle

✅ RipJack Inn provides eco-friendly toiletries which means you do not have to pack your own

✅ Use quick-dry clothing that doesn’t require ironing

✅ Skip single-use items like travel-size plastics

Bonus: Lighter luggage reduces your carbon footprint while flying!

2. Say No to Single-Use Plastic

There have been big strides in banning single-use plastics in Costa Rica,

  • RipJack Inn provides bio-degradable straws upon request
  • Bring your own water bottle (Playa Grande tap water is safe to drink!). You will also find several purified water stations around the property to keep your bottles full which means you will keep yourself hydrated.
  • Ask for “sin pajilla, por favor” (no straw, please) when ordering drinks if an establishment used plastic straws.
  • Avoid plastic-wrapped snacks or souvenirs

3. Choose Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Standard sunscreens can contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are harmful to coral reefs and marine life. Opt for mineral-based sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

You’ll be protecting your skin and the ocean at the same time, especially important when swimming, snorkeling, or surfing at Playa Grande.  We sell Sun-Bum sunscreen in the gift shop at RipJack Inn which is 100% reef-safe which means we’ve got your covered!  You can also purchase re-usable water bottles so that you can take advantage of the free water stations around the property.

Eco Friendly Travel Sun Bum Sunscreen

4. Respect Wildlife and Nature

The biodiversity in Costa Rica is stunning, but it’s also fragile.

  • Don’t touch or feed wild animals (including monkeys and raccoons)
  • Keep your distance from nesting turtles and never use flash photography
  • Stick to marked trails when hiking or exploring
  • Leave shells and sand where they belong…on the beach!

Remember: we’re visitors in their home.

5. Support Local and Sustainable Businesses

When you buy local, you help preserve culture and reduce the environmental impact of imported goods.

We work with local farmers and vendors whenever possible, and we’re proud to be part of the Playa Grande community.

6. Be Energy and Water Conscious

It’s easy to forget when you’re on vacation, but small changes matter.

  • Turn off lights and AC when leaving your room
  • Take shorter showers
  • Reuse towels instead of requesting daily replacements
  • Close doors and windows to keep cool air in

Every drop and watt saved helps preserve Costa Rica’s natural resources.

7. Travel Slower, Travel Deeper

Instead of rushing to check every tourist box, consider spending more time in one place.

Sustainable travel is as much about mindset as it is about habits.

Pura vida, is more than a phrase, it’s a way of life. It means living simply, gratefully, and in harmony with nature. When you travel with intention and care, you become part of that beautiful philosophy.
 

At RipJack Inn, we invite you to be a mindful traveler, not just for your own experience, but for the generations that will come after.

Let’s keep Playa Grande wild, beautiful, and thriving, together.

 

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Jun 27, 2025
Local Events & Festivals You Can’t Miss in Guanacaste

Guanacaste isn’t just home to stunning beaches, surf breaks, and national parks—it’s also rich in culture, tradition, and community spirit. Throughout the year, towns and cities across the province come alive with music, dance, food, rodeos, and parades that reflect the heart and soul of Costa Rica.  Keep reading to learn about the many events available to enjoy.

If you’re planning a stay at RipJack Inn in Playa Grande, here’s your guide to the local events and festivals in Guanacaste you won’t want to miss.

1. Fiestas Típicas (Traditional Town Fiestas) Various dates year-round across different towns

These are local celebrations held in nearly every town throughout the year—each with its own version, but all including:

  • Traditional bull riding (toros a la tica)
  • Marimba music & live bands
  • Street food like chicharrones and arroz con pollo
  • Carnival rides and games
  • Community dancing and parades

The vibe is warm, welcoming, and full of pura vida energy. Ask the RipJack front desk about local fiestas happening during your stay—they’re often just a short drive away!

 2. Día de la Anexión de Guanacaste (Guanacaste Day) July 25

This is the biggest holiday in Guanacaste, celebrating the region’s annexation from Nicaragua to Costa Rica in 1824. Expect:

  • Folkloric dancing in colorful traditional dress
  • School parades with drums, banners, and horses
  • Rodeos and community events
  • Delicious local food and drinks

It’s a day filled with pride, tradition, and joy—and a great time to witness Guanacasteco culture at its most vibrant.

3. Tope & Bull Riding Festivals (Rodeos y Topes) January – April (high season)

Topes are lively horse parades where locals showcase their horses in decorated tack while music plays and the streets fill with dancing and spectators. Combined with bull riding events, these festivals offer a deeper look into Guanacaste’s cowboy culture (called “sabanero” life).

Town favorites:

  • Liberia
  • Santa Cruz
  • Filadelfia

Whether you’re a spectator or jumping in to dance, the energy is contagious!

4. Semana Santa (Holy Week) March or April (week leading up to Easter)

This is a religious and cultural week observed nationwide, but towns in Guanacaste honor it with processions, reenactments, and church celebrations. Expect:

  • Beautiful, solemn processions with candles and flowers
  • Limited alcohol sales and some quiet beach time midweek
  • A festive, family-friendly atmosphere as the weekend approaches

*Pro tip: Book early if you’re traveling during Semana Santa—it’s a very popular time for both locals and tourists.

5. Turtle Nesting Season Events October – March

While not a traditional “festival,” turtle nesting season in Playa Grande is an unforgettable experience and a natural celebration worth attending.

Join a guided night tour to witness leatherback turtles nesting in Las Baulas National Park—just steps from RipJack Inn. It’s one of the most awe-inspiring events nature offers in Guanacaste.

 

6. Independence Day (Día de la Independencia) September 15

Costa Rica’s independence from Spain is celebrated nationwide with:

  • Parades with schoolchildren in traditional dress
  • Torch runs and flag-raising ceremonies
  • Patriotic music, drums, and dancing in the streets

While more prominent in cities like Liberia, even small towns get festive—so you’ll feel the excitement wherever you are.

7. Food & Artisan Markets (Ferias & Ferias Culturales) Weekly or Monthly

Many towns in Guanacaste (including Playa Grande, Tamarindo and Brasalito) host local artisan markets where you’ll find:

  • Handcrafted jewelry, art, and souvenirs
  • Homemade jams, soaps, and cacao products
  • Street food, live music, and a fun community vibe

Ask our team at RipJack about market days during your stay—these are great for picking up authentic, sustainable souvenirs. The night market in Playa Grande happens every Wednesday evening.

Plan Your Visit Around the Culture

Whether you’re here for surfing, yoga, or just soaking up the sun, timing your visit with a local celebration can turn a great vacation into a truly unforgettable one. Guanacaste’s festivals are vibrant, heartfelt, and full of tradition—and they’re always open to visitors with a smile.

Come for the beach. Stay for the culture.  Book your room now!

Pura vida, and see you at the fiesta!

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Jun 21, 2025
Group Vacations & Family Gatherings at the RipJack Villas

Tucked away in the serene paradise of Playa Grande, Costa Rica, RipJack Inn offers more than just a tropical getaway—it’s a place where connections deepen, minds reset, and memories are made. Our four private villas provide an ideal setting for group vacations, family reunions, private celebrations, and corporate retreats looking to escape the ordinary.

Each of our four villas includes two bedrooms and two bathrooms, offering comfort and privacy for large groups or families. With modern amenities, tasteful decor, and natural surroundings, our villas provide the perfect balance of coziness and tranquility. Whether you’re planning a week-long yoga retreat or a weekend family gathering, your group will feel right at home.  Each villa can sleep up to six people.  The villas are completely enclosed and private and have a shared pool for everyone to enjoy.

What really sets the Villas apart is that they are operated by Boutique Surf Hotel RipJack Inn.  This means that you have all the privacy of a vacation rental with all the services of a hotel.

Just a short walk from the villas is Playa Grande’s stunning beach—perfect for surfing, sunset strolls, or simply soaking up the pura vida lifestyle. And when it’s time for adventure, we can connect your group with local tours, surf lessons, nature hikes, or boat trips through nearby estuaries.

Let us help you plan your next group vacation, whether you’re leading a retreat, gathering your family, or planning a corporate escape, our team is here to help you create a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Ready to plan your next group vacation?  Contact us today to learn more about booking all four villas at RipJack Inn.a 

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Sep 22, 2024
Beach Volleyball Court at RipJack Inn!

At RipJack Inn, we’re always looking for ways to elevate your beachside experience, and we’re thrilled to announce the newest addition to our lineup of activities—beach volleyball! Whether you’re an experienced player or just looking to have some fun in the sun, beach volleyball offers the perfect blend of fitness, friendly competition, and coastal relaxation.

Why Beach Volleyball?

Beach volleyball is not only an exhilarating way to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also a fantastic workout. It combines cardio, strength, and agility, all while keeping things fun. Check out the top 10 benefits of beach volleyball here. Plus, it’s a great way to meet new people! Guests of all skill levels are welcome to join in, whether you’re looking to challenge your friends or meet fellow travelers for a casual game.

Bringing the Community Together

Beach volleyball isn’t just about the game—it’s about creating memories and fostering connections. Our new court is open to guests and locals alike, offering a space where everyone can come together. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, there’s no better way to bond than with a fun and energetic game right on the sand. Reserve the court today!

We know that vacation is a time to relax, but it’s also the perfect opportunity to stay active in fun and refreshing ways. Beach volleyball is not only a great workout, but it’s also a fantastic way to unwind and de-stress. You’ll get a full-body workout with every serve, spike, and dive, all while soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the fresh ocean breeze.

The Volley Bar at RipJack Inn

Our brand new Volley Bar has a floor filled with sand and is a seamless extension of the volleyball court. Join us here before, after or during a game for a cold beer or a fruit filled smoothie.  RipJack Inn has brought the beach to the bar with an extremely casual dining environment.  You can go from an exciting game to a relaxing meal without missing a beat. Enjoy the casual atmosphere of our restaurant while watching a match or jump into the action yourself!

Ready to make a reservation? Click here to book your stay at RipJack Inn and join us for an unforgettable beachside experience! 

Not saying with us, no problem! Click here to reserve the volleyball court!

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Sep 12, 2024
Independence Day in Costa Rica

Independence Day in Costa Rica: A Celebration of Freedom and Tradition

Costa Rica’s Independence Day, celebrated on September 15, is a significant event that unites the country in a display of national pride, history, and culture. It commemorates the day in 1821 when Costa Rica, along with other Central American nations, gained independence from Spanish rule. For Costa Ricans, this day is a reflection of their dedication to peace, democracy, and their rich cultural heritage.

The Lantern Parade

On the eve of Independence Day, the country’s children participate in a lantern parade. The lanterns, known as “faroles,” symbolize the light of freedom. These lanterns are handmade, often resembling traditional Costa Rican houses or national symbols, and are proudly carried through the streets.  Each school organizes a parade every year.  Make sure and keep your eyes peeled on Saturday, the 14th for the local Playa Grande Parade.  The parade will happen as soon as the sunsets to allow the lanterns to illuminate.

The Local Dishes

Costa Rica’s Independence Day is not only about national pride but also an opportunity to indulge in the country’s culinary delights. Traditional dishes such as gallo pinto (a rice and beans dish), tamal (a corn-based meal wrapped in plantain leaves), and chifrijo (a mixture of rice, beans, pork, and avocado) are enjoyed by families as they gather to celebrate.

Costa Rica’s Independence Day is more than just a holiday; it’s a celebration of the country’s identity as a peaceful, democratic nation. Make sure and join us in the restaurant at RipJack Inn on Sunday the 15th of September to enjoy the best Chifrijo in town!

Pura Vida!

Chifrio typical Costa Rican food for Independence day
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Sep 11, 2024
5 Reasons Digital Nomads Love RipJack Inn

In today’s world, more people are embracing the freedom to work remotely, and finding the right place to balance work and relaxation is essential. If you’re a digital nomad looking for the perfect spot to stay productive while enjoying the beauty of Costa Rica, RipJack Inn in Playa Grande offers everything you need.

From reliable internet to a peaceful atmosphere and exciting outdoor activities, here are five reasons why RipJack Inn is the ideal destination for your next work adventure.

1. Reliable High-Speed Internet
At RipJack Inn, we understand how crucial a fast and reliable internet connection is for digital nomads. Whether you’re hosting a virtual meeting or uploading content we’ve got your back!  We have installed fiber optic cable in the new restaurant allowing you to work efficiently from anywhere in the hotel.

2. Peaceful, Inspiring Environment
Playa Grande’s serene beach and RipJack Inn’s tranquil surroundings offer the perfect setting for focus and creativity. The sound of ocean waves and lush nature creates a peaceful environment where you can be productive and recharge your mind.

3. Multiple Workspace Options
From cozy nooks in your room to open-air workspaces by the pool or our new restaurant, you’ll find plenty of comfortable places to set up your laptop. Our boutique hotel offers flexible spaces to suit your working style and mood.

4. Adventure at Your Doorstep
After a productive day, unwind with surfing, boogey boarding, or a walk along the beautiful  beach, located just steps from the hotel. Embrace the “work-life balance” lifestyle, with plenty of exciting activities available to explore.

5. Healthy Dining & Wellness
Fuel your productivity with nutritious meals from our on-site restaurant, which focuses on fresh, local ingredients. Plus, our yoga classes offer the perfect way to destress and maintain your physical and mental well-being during your stay. 

And don’t forget to have some fun at Playa Grande’s orignal Happy Hour!  Because all work & no play……

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