ATV Riding, Waterfalls and Beach Bumming in Sardinal

by SMG

The Zulu Brownz family taking in the view from the top of a waterfall in Sardinal, Costa Rica. (photo credit: Black and Wanderlust)

Probably one of our favorite family adventures thus far was the four-hour ATV waterfall and beach tour in the town of Sardinal, Costa Rica. After a brief instructional session on operating the vehicles, we were guided from town streets onto the dirt roads. For the first two hours, we navigated multiple terrains—muddy lakes, hills, narrow and rocky trails. Howler monkeys, sounding like tiny gorillas, shouted from the treetops. Our tour guide even warned us to jump into the water if one approached too closely.

We stopped at the top of a waterfall where other families were swimming and captured some amazing pictures. After a quick picnic break, we continued on the second half of the tour.

Flying at 40–45 miles per hour on the freeway sections made me feel like a complete badass. The trip to the beach was even more challenging: steep inclines, narrow paths, and tricky dips tested our ATV skills to the fullest. We parked at Playa Panama for a refreshing dip in the cool, calm waters, surrounded by thousands of tiny, sardine-like fish. Floating and swimming until our hearts were content, we finally made our way back—slightly exhausted but absolutely exhilarated.

Faith Lesson #1: Trust in Guidance

Just like the tour guide navigated us safely through unfamiliar terrain, God provides guidance in our lives. Sometimes we think we need to control every turn, but surrendering to divine direction allows us to move confidently—even when the path seems uncertain.

Riding our ATVs through a shallow river in Sardinal, Costa Rica—part of the adventure that had us laughing, splashing, and testing our skills. Sardinal, Costa Rica (photo credit: Black and Wanderlust)

Flying at 40-45 miles an hour on an ATV, navigating mud, hills, and narrow trails, reminded me that family adventures are as much about trust and teamwork as thrill and fun.

Faith Lesson #2: Courage in the Unknown

The steep hills and rocky trails were intimidating, yet we pushed forward. Courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s stepping into the unknown while holding onto faith, trusting that the lessons and growth await on the other side.

As we reflect on this journey, we realized that even when paths are steep and uncertain, supporting each other makes the climb enjoyable and safe. This adventure wasn’t just about thrill—it was a metaphor for partnership, parenting, and trust. Next time life throws a curve or a hill appears, we know we have each other and the tools to navigate it.

Transformational Practice: Reflective Adventure

Take your next challenge—big or small—and treat it as an adventure. Journal your fears, your excitement, and what you learn along the way. Notice how your support system (family, friends, faith) helps you navigate obstacles. Celebrate small victories as markers of growth.

What family adventure has pushed you past your comfort zone and strengthened your bonds? Share your experiences in the comments below.

#familyfun #familyfriendly #familyadventures #atvriding #beach #beachbums #atvtours #CostaRica #Sardinal #PlayaPanama #TheZuluBrownz #BlackandWanderlust

©2018 A Zulu Brownz Ink

All rights reserved

SMG is a storyteller, photographer, and founder of Black and Wanderlust™. She captures life’s adventures and quiet moments alike, blending faith, family, and wanderlust into stories that inspire intentional living and authentic joy.