Add fitness, yoga, meditation, or massage therapy for a restorative balance to your active days.
Welcome to Pura Vida Travel Consulting
Where personalized guidance, local expertise, and pura vida hospitality come together to help you experience Costa Rica with confidence, ease, and connection.
Whether you’re planning your first trip to Costa Rica or looking to deepen your experience of this vibrant country, James Flores is your trusted local consultant. Born and raised in the beach town of Sámara, James brings decades of insider knowledge, a deep love of Costa Rican culture, and a genuine passion for helping travelers feel at home.
Your Journey,
Your Way
Every service is customized based on your needs, interests, and goals. From itinerary planning to on-the-ground support, James acts as your bilingual, culturally-savvy liaison to ensure your time in Costa Rica is seamless, meaningful, and unforgettable.
I had a great time with James Flores in Sámara, Costa Rica. The owner, James Flores, is a local Tico who embodies the Pura Vida lifestyle. The retreat is right on the beach, where the surfing and swimming is fantastic. No matter your level of experience, James is very helpful and makes sure you have a great time out on the waves.
The retreat itself is top notch—you can kick back and relax, or dive into all the adventures Costa Rica has to offer. The town of Sámara is quaint and charming, with amazing restaurants and friendly locals.
I went with my wife and son, and we all had an unforgettable experience. We’ll definitely be going back. I highly recommend James Flores!
—Barry Williams (A.K.A Greg Brady/Brady Bunch)
Custom Itineraries
Local connections
Travel Support
Core Services
Work with James to design a personalized Costa Rican experience—from adventure-packed days to restorative escapes.
Airport transfers, rental car referrals, hotel recommendations, restaurant bookings, and reliable transportation options. We even have a small airbnb on the beach …
For beginners to advanced surfers. Learn ocean awareness, board control, and wave reading with a personalized, step-by-step method that blends technique with …
Why Work with
James Flores?
James isn’t just a guide—he’s your insider connection. With deep roots in the Nicoya Peninsula and throughout Guanacaste, he’s networked with the best professionals, service providers, and experiences Costa Rica has to offer. His warm, welcoming energy makes every client feel like family.
I’ve known James for years. He’s passionate about travel, surfing, and fitness! I reached out to him on a recent trip to Costa Rica .. I’m glad I did! He helped me plan my trip from when to visit to where to catch the best surf breaks! Great guy with a wealth of knowledge! Pura Vida!
I went with my wife and son, and we all had an unforgettable experience. We’ll definitely be going back. I highly recommend James Flores!
– Scott Perkins / Precision carpet and Janitorial / #Boulder Co.
Why work with Pura Vida
Bilingual, personalized, and rooted in local expertise
James brings more than 30 years of experience living in Costa Rica and navigating its vibrant culture, terrain, and systems. Fluent in both English and Spanish, he bridges the gap between visitors and locals—ensuring you feel seen, supported, and understood every step of the way
Safety, professionalism, and attentiveness
Whether you're booking a surf lesson, planning a trip, or asking for relocation advice, James takes your well-being seriously. He works only with trusted partners, double-checks details, and prioritizes your safety and comfort—so you can focus on enjoying the journey.
A soulful, connection-based way to explore Costa Rica
This isn't just about seeing the sights—it's about experiencing the heart of the country. James offers a grounded, human-centered approach that helps you connect with the land, the people, and your own sense of adventure and belonging.
Comprehensive support for every adventure
From surf lessons to wildlife tours, relocation guidance to cultural immersion—James offers a full spectrum of services designed to make your Costa Rican experience seamless, memorable, and transformative.