Last November, I was in Costa Rica for some rest and relaxation. This was my fourth time in the country (you could say I like it there!), so I didn't feel a strong pull to do any super touristy things. I really just wanted to unplug, read, soak in some sun, and enjoy myself. So that's what I did.

Shot on a mix of Portra 400 and Ektar 100.

This was my second time in Playa Hermosa, and it was nice to see that not too much has changed since I was last there about six years ago. The town/beach is a mix of friendly locals and retirees, and has super laid back vibe. This isn't the place to go if you want to meet backpackers and party, so keep that in mind. And with its calm waters, it's also not a great place for surfing, if that's your thing. This is a truly mellow, quiet place. If you're looking to relax, this is it.

Getting there: Liberia Airport is only 30-45 minutes away, and it's an easy drive on good roads from there to the beach. So you can literally be soaking in the sun less than two hours after you land!

Stay: Villa del Sueno

Eat: Bosque del Mar (fantastic food, a generous happy hour on a veranda overlooking the beach, and good prices for what you get compared to other restaurants in the area), Villa del Sueno (in low season they only serve breakfast, so keep that in mind), Aqua Sport (very casual, right on the beach and they have slushy mojitos that are a godsend in the heat and humidity), Pizzeria Bocelli (if you're craving Italian), Ginger (tapas). These are just a few - there are a number of other great places to eat in the area, so don't be afraid to ask around for suggestions and explore!

Explore/Do: All of the hotels in the area offer day tours to various sites around Costa Rica and even up to nearby Nicaragua. For my money though, this is an ideal area to laze it up and do as close to nothing as possible.

Don't miss experience: A meal at Ginger's. The food is amazing, the drinks are tasty, and it's like dining in a super classy treehouse!