Costa Rica   Travel Guide

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costa rica tourist activities

23 Best Things To Do in Costa Rica

Updated October 27, 2023

Costa Rica's strikingly diverse terrain – lush forests, wildlife reserves, hot springs and tropical beaches – offers a little something for every traveler. Beach lovers should head west and stay along the Pacific Coast; Guanacaste  and the  Nicoya

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Nicoya Peninsula Nicoya Peninsula free

The Nicoya Peninsula's sparkling, nearly 80-mile shoreline boasts beach-centric towns with cream-colored shores and dense forests. Half of the peninsula is found in the Guanacaste province, while the other half sits in the Puntarenas province. If you're looking for a shortlist of towns or attractions to visit while traveling around the peninsula, consider the following:

Tamarindo: For the most developed beach town, head to Tamarindo on the north end of the peninsula. Tamarindo's beaches gained popularity after being featured in the 1994 surf movie "Endless Summer II," and today, the town is home to a bustling nightlife scene and well-regarded restaurants. Some of its most popular beaches include Playa Grande and Playa Negra. You'll also find sea turtle beaches and birding hot spots along the Nicoya Peninsula – especially at Marino las Baulas National Park – in addition to leatherback turtles and more than 100 bird species at Playa Grande. In addition to its natural wonders, Tamarindo is also home to some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica . 

costa rica tourist activities

Guanacaste Guanacaste free

Costa Rica's "Gold Coast" is one of the nation's top destinations, and that's not just because of its secluded beaches. The northwestern province's dry, sunny savannas contrast the misty cloud-covered rainforests found in other parts of the country. To the east, you'll admire volcanoes comprising the Cordillera de Guanacaste. Along the coast – which extends all the way to the Nicaraguan border – you'll find pockets of white sand flanking all-inclusive resorts and remote fishing villages. Farther inland, you'll discover a thriving cowboy culture that has flourished since Spanish colonial rule in the 19th century.

More notable highlights include the pristine, palm-studded Playa Carrillo, Rincón de la Vieja National Park and Costa Rica's first national park, Santa Rosa.  

costa rica tourist activities

Ecotermales Fortuna Ecotermales Fortuna

Located just outside the town of La Fortuna, the Ecotermales Hot Springs offer a relaxing break perfect for soothing post-hike muscles. Its magnesium-rich waters are heated by the natural energy of Arenal Volcano and collect in several rock-edged pools that are surrounded by lounge chairs and a lush tropical rainforest, not to mention views of the volcano. Constantly moving, the natural water refreshes itself every 45 minutes. Bathers will find five pools ranging from 90 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit, as well as a pair of bars and an on-site restaurant. There are also cool water pools and a waterfall perfect for enjoying a hydromassage.

Most recent travelers thoroughly enjoyed their experience at the hot springs, praising the clean facilities, the affordable drinks and the tasty food. Even in light rain (which is frequent in Costa Rica), visitors called it "paradise on Earth." Several visitors said the hot springs never felt crowded thanks to the size and variety of the pools. 

costa rica tourist activities

Popular Tours

La Fortuna Waterfall, Hanging Bridges, Arenal Volcano Combo Tour

La Fortuna Waterfall, Hanging Bridges, Arenal Volcano Combo Tour

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Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, Hot Springs Full Day Tour

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Guachipelin Adventure Volcano Zipline Horseback River Tubing Combo

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costa rica tourist activities

Manuel Antonio National Park Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica's smallest protected green spaces, but don't let its size throw you off. Within the park's 7 square miles, you'll find untamed beaches, secluded coves with coral reefs, nature trails and a thick rainforest. You can stretch out on the park's coastline or wander along one of the walking paths to spot rare birds, camouflaged iguanas and purple and orange crabs. If you're a lover of furry creatures, this park shelters sloths and a large population of monkeys. Though you can explore the park on your own, there are a variety of organized tours that take the hassle out of planning and range from guided hikes and kayak tours to boat rides, zip line tours and more.

For beach lovers, Playa Manuel Antonio is the most popular thanks to its spectacular views. But if you're hoping to avoid your fellow tourists, venture to Playa Espadilla, which combines an arching white sand beach with a rainforest backdrop. Many consider it one of the prettiest beaches in the area. Part of the beach is in Manuel Antonio National Park (where an entrance fee required), though the section near the town of Manuel Antonio (called Playa Espadilla Norte) is free to enjoy. Water sports enthusiasts can also sign up for surfing lessons and catamaran and banana boat rides.

costa rica tourist activities

San José San José free

San José, Costa Rica's vibrant capital, serves as a central base for exploration and features a large international airport. You'll likely want to stop here before heading off to the country's magnificent rainforests and beaches. A bustling metropolis, San Jose is home to a bevy of cultural attractions. For visitors, the city's museums and distinct interconnected  barrios  (districts) are the major draws, not to mention the vibrant dining scene.

Barrio Amón is popular with tourists for its centuries-old mansions and photo-worthy architecture. Barrio Escalante is equally popular for its variety of restaurants, bars, cafes and bakeries. If you plan on staying in the city for a few days before connecting elsewhere, consider heading downtown to the Plaza de la Cultura for the exquisite collections at the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. For even more treasures, don't miss the Jade Museum, which sits in front of the Plaza de la Democracia. Both museums house dazzling and rare pre-Columbian artifacts. Other must-sees include the National Theater of Costa Rica, the National Museum of Costa Rica and the Central Market.

costa rica tourist activities

Jacó Jacó free

Far away from northern Costa Rica's foggy rainforests lies Jacó, a beautiful town teeming with shops, restaurants and beachfront hotels (some of the top Costa Rica all-inclusive resorts can be found here). It's also the closest beachside retreat to San José , the country's capital. Surfers should venture to Playa Hermosa, host of many surfing competitions and tournaments, for the best waves. If you're looking for a more relaxing stretch of sand with calm waters, consider Playa Herradura and Playa Blanca – two beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Nature seekers should head to wildlife havens like the Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls, a 60-acre property that's home to the country's colorful birds and resident monkeys. For those who want a bigger dose of nature, Carara National Park is home to crocodiles, jaguars and the endangered scarlet macaw. For even more wildlife, venture about 45 miles down the coast to Manuel Antonio National Park . If you're traveling sans kids, you may also want to take advantage of the town's rollicking nightlife scene.

Recent travelers highlight one major drawback: the town's popularity. In addition to crowded beaches, family travelers cautioned against the rip currents at Playa Jacó and to heed the posted signs. For most travelers, surfing was the main draw, in addition to the unique gray and black sand beaches. Other reviewers said the national parks were a must.

costa rica tourist activities

Arenal Volcano Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica's best-known stratovolcano, stands more than 5,000 feet high and appears to touch the clouds. For the latter half of the 20th century, admirers traveled to its base in droves to catch a glimpse of its glowing rocks and the molten lava tumbling down its sides. But Arenal wasn't always spewing fiery lava, rocks and ash. The volcano sat dormant for 400 years, then on July 29, 1968, Arenal awoke from its slumber. A thunderous earthquake shook the area and a subsequent explosion of lava wiped out three nearby villages. Frequent eruptions continued until 2010, when the volcano re-entered a resting cycle.

Today, you can explore the area by visiting the nearly 30,000-acre Arenal Volcano National Park, which is part of the larger 500,000-acre Arenal Tilaran Conservation Area. Given the area's immense size, the opportunities for adventure and exploration are nearly endless. Popular activities and attractions include hiking trails, hot springs, horseback riding, zip lining and river rafting.

costa rica tourist activities

Corcovado National Park Corcovado National Park

Visitors travel to this more than 160-square-mile misty rainforest for its wildlife. In fact, the park is in a region that's considered one of the most biologically diverse areas in Central America. Visitors have the opportunity to spot more than 300 different bird species, 140 types of mammals, 40 fish species and more than 100 different amphibians. Buzzing insects and chirping birds can be seen and heard as you stroll through the verdant jungle. Trek along the many trails and you're likely to spot macaws, tapirs, jaguars, sea turtles or squirrel monkeys. What's more, Corcovado National Park features an untamed beach area. For the adventurous, there’s primitive camping.

Note that permits and a reservation with an official guide are required to access the park. Permits can be obtained through a tour operator ; many local hotels work with tour operators and can book a tour for you. Past visitors spoke highly of Corcovado Info Center .

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Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour

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Tortuga Island Full Day Tour from San José with Lunch

Tortuga Island Full Day Tour from San José with Lunch

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All Inclusive Catamaran Eco Adventure from Manuel Antonio

All Inclusive Catamaran Eco Adventure from Manuel Antonio

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costa rica tourist activities

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve

Imagine winding through a forest that touches the clouds with its strikingly tall trees that wrap you in a sea of green. Add to that more than 100 mammals, 400 types of birds and 1,200 amphibian species, and you have Monteverde's lush 35,000-acre reserve. What's more, Monteverde Cloud Forest is home to more than 2% of the world’s biodiversity and 10% of its plants are endemic to the preserve. With its unique setting, Monteverde is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica. Adventurous travelers explore Monteverde Cloud Forest from a zip line, but there's also a tram for those who’d like to see the cloud forest without long hikes. For more information about zip line tours, consult the Sky Adventures official  website . If you'd prefer to stay on ground, the reserve also offers guided walking tours year-round (for an extra fee).

More than a couple travelers called the experience of hiking through the cloud forest "magical." Recent visitors praised the forest signage and said it was easy to navigate with their group. Most said the park was a must-see example of Costa Rica's rich wildlife diversity. Recent visitors recommended taking a zip line tour to avoid the crowds and admire the reserve from an aerial view. Past visitors highly recommend hiring a guide if you've come to the reserve in search of wildlife as the local guides will be able to help you easily spot the animals. Another visitor recommended packing plenty of water and rain gear.

costa rica tourist activities

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca Puerto Viejo de Talamanca free

The village of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, located on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, comes alive with reggae music, funky bamboo bars and a wild nightlife. Surfers crowd coconut-fringed Cocles Beach, a top-rated surf destination, and foodies check out the downtown's Caribbean-influenced cuisine. Meanwhile, nature lovers venture inland to explore rainforests and nearby Cahuita National Park or the Jaguar Rescue Center. Along the coast, you'll discover remote bungalows and empty stretches of sand.

Several recent visitors mentioned the rip current at Playa Cocles, the top surfing spot. Travelers recommend visiting Playa Negra's black-sand beach – located in the northwest end of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca – for its unique geography and lack of tourists. If you're just hoping to relax or swim, reviewers say the soft sand and stunning waters at  Playa Punta Uva can't be beat

costa rica tourist activities

La Paz Waterfall Gardens La Paz Waterfall Gardens

La Paz may seem quiet and still at first glance. Though take another look, and you'll find this 70-acre eco-park buzzing with activity. From croaking frogs and fluttering butterflies to rumbling jaguars and howling spider monkeys, the park is a wildlife lover's paradise. For nature-seekers, the hiking trails, along with the garden's five flowing waterfalls are both must-dos. The entire La Paz Waterfall Gardens is draped in a sea of leafy green canopies dotted with colorful orchids. In addition to dining, visitors can book accommodations at the on-site Peace Lodge.

Recent travelers said La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a must-see for every first-time visitor to Costa Rica. Others were pleased with the friendly and knowledgeable staff and the ability to see the property in two hours. However, a few noted that the attraction felt very touristy, and some were disappointed with the small size of the animal enclosures. If you don't want to pay the admission price, you can see the waterfalls from the highway, according to visitors. Reviews for the buffet were mixed: some enjoyed the food, while others described it as overpriced.

costa rica tourist activities

Tabacón Hot Springs Tabacón Hot Springs

After a trek to  Arenal Volcano , take some time to soak in the Tabacón's luxurious thermal springs. With its serene flowing waterfalls, tropical foliage and mineral-rich natural springs, the Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort is a blissful escape for travelers. The volcano-heated mineral water collects in pools with temperatures that range from a refreshing 72 degrees to a muscle-relaxing 105 degrees. Next to the thermal baths, the Tabacón's top-notch spa boasts volcanic mud wraps, coffee exfoliations and a host of massage therapies. After relaxing under the canopy of trees, dine in one of two restaurants serving Costa Rican flavors along with international favorites. Luxury lodging is available on-site for overnight guests.

Past visitors called the experience relaxing and beautiful, with great facilities. A handy tip from recent travelers: Bring water shoes to protect your feet as you walk from one pool to another. Though past visitors bemoaned the presence of tour bus crowds, many still said this is a "must-do," especially if you're looking for a relaxing afternoon.

costa rica tourist activities

Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge

Bird-watchers rejoice: This swampy wildlife refuge houses thousands of water birds, including storks, cormorants and roseate spoonbills, along with rare jabirus. To spot these animals, you'll want to plan your visit during the dry season (July to November), when the refuge becomes a vital feeding ground for the birds. Note that this remote haven sits near the Nicaraguan border and a day tour is required to visit. Visitors will notice an abundance of wildlife, such as monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, lizards and possibly freshwater sharks along the Rio Frio.

Recent travelers enjoyed visiting the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge; many took a boat cruise to see the wildlife and birds. In fact, some reviewers said they were overwhelmed by the amount of birds they saw, in addition to the monkeys and sloths that tend to hide in the trees. Many visitors recommend bringing insect repellent and binoculars. 

costa rica tourist activities

Arenal 12 Zipline Cables Experience with La Fortuna Waterfall

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Volcano Hike, Waterfall Swim & Hot Springs Combo on Rincon de la Vieja

Volcano Hike, Waterfall Swim & Hot Springs Combo on Rincon de la Vieja

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Manuel Antonio Park Nature Guided Tour

Manuel Antonio Park Nature Guided Tour

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costa rica tourist activities

Tortuguero National Park Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park sits tucked away in a northeastern pocket of the Caribbean coast and is only accessible via plane or boat (though boat is the most common). Tied to Costa Rica's mainland by weaving rivers and canals, this isolated park is the second-largest wetland in Costa Rica and lures nature seekers looking for a remote piece of jungle paradise. At various times during the year, visitors can spot sea turtles – green, leatherback, hawksbill and loggerhead – nesting in the area. If you want to witness turtle nesting, plan a visit between July and mid-October. Turtle nesting walks can be arranged through a licensed guide (past visitors praised Tortuguero Tours and Tortuguero Eco Experiences). The Asociacion de Guias de Tortuguero is another resource for finding local guides.

Tortuguero National Park is also an important manatee habitat. With numerous aquatic trails (travel within the park is by canoe or skift), visitors can admire more than 400 different bird species, hundreds of different mammals and reptiles, followed by more than 400 arthropods (insects and spiders). The park is also home to white-faced monkeys, toucans, jaguars, bright lizards, red-eyed frogs and blue morpho butterflies. 

costa rica tourist activities

Nauyaca Waterfalls Nauyaca Waterfalls

Costa Rica could be called the land of waterfalls as there are hundreds nestled in the rainforests. The Nauyaca Waterfalls are located along the country's South Pacific coast, and they're considered a must-see if you're exploring this area of Costa Rica. Discovered and managed by the same family, the popular Nauyaca Waterfalls feature two tiers of falls within a nearly 30-foot-wide canyon that are part of the Barucito River. The upper section of the falls measures approximately 145 feet; the lower section spans 65 feet and features a six-foot-deep pool that visitors can swim in. There are additional pools for wading and swimming in the area as well.

You have a few options for reaching the falls. The hike to the waterfalls from the parking lot is about 2 miles (which will take approximately an hour). However, you can also sign up for horseback riding or four-wheel drive vehicle tours, which can be reserved through the same company that manages the falls. Whichever way you choose to access the falls, note that advance reservations are required.

costa rica tourist activities

Catarata del Toro Catarata del Toro

Measuring approximately 300 feet, this waterfall plunges over the edge of an extinct volcanic crater and is surrounded by lush tropical landscaping and mist. Unlike some of the country's other popular waterfalls, admiring Catarata del Toro doesn't necessarily require a strenuous hike. The waterfall is privately owned, and can be viewed from the on-site restaurant and several lookout points. If you'd like to get closer, there is a trail departing from the visitor center.

The first part of the self-guided trail is flat and features three lookout points. The second part of the hike requires that you traverse more than 300 concrete steps. The total length of the trail is about 2 miles round-trip. Though you can't swim in the pool at the bottom of the falls, it's still worth the trek for the views alone, according to recent vactioners.

costa rica tourist activities

Irazu Volcano Irazu Volcano

Standing 11,260 feet tall, Irazu is the highest active volcano in Costa Rica (its last eruption was in 1994) and one of the most popular for Costa Rica visitors. From its peak on a clear day, visitors can see across Costa Rica to both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, and with the aid of a telescope, Lake Nicaragua. As a stratovolcano, it features five different craters at its peak, giving the Irazu Volcano an irregular shape. The scenery is described as moon-like, and provides a stark contrast to the lush terrain the rest of the country is known for. It also lacks the animal diversity found elsewhere due to the dry conditions, altitude and volcanic activity. Aside from the view, perhaps the biggest draw to a visit to Irazu Volcano is its craters. There are a variety of paved paths that allow visitors to safely and easily observe the craters, including the popular Diego de la Haya crater, which fills with an aquamarine lake if the precipitation conditions are right.

According to recent visitors, you'll want to plan your trip here early to avoid the usual tourist crowds (which start arriving around 10 a.m.) and to enjoy the view before the clouds and fog start to roll in. Note that the crater lake only fills during periods of rainfall, and may be empty during your visit. Reviewers also advised wearing layers and bringing a jacket or other warm clothing as it can get chilly due to the elevation.

costa rica tourist activities

Rio Celeste Rio Celeste

The turquoise waters of the Celeste River attract visitors from far and wide to the Cordillera de Guanacaste, a volcanic mountain rage that sits in the northwestern corner of the country near the Nicaragua border. Visitors are drawn to this region for Tenorio Volcano National Park, which is home to the nearly 300-foot-tall Rio Celeste Waterfall. The waterfall attracts visitors for its brilliant blue water. Local lore attributes the stunning beryl-tinted waters to God, who legend says rinsed his paintbrushes in the river after painting the sky blue. However, scientists attribute the color to a chemical reaction between the volcanic minerals in the water. (If you want to observe the falls and the pool at their most striking, visit in the dry season; rain can dull the blue tint of the waters.)

To reach the waterfall, you'll have to traverse a short, relatively easy trail. The first portion is paved, and then it transitions to gravel. To get closer to the waterfall, you'll have to descend a set of concrete steps. After admiring the waterfall, you can turn around, or keep going to discover the rest of the natural wonders along this approximately 3 1/2-mile path, including Laguna Azul (another blue pool) and El Teñidero (the meeting of two rivers, Quebrada Agria and Rio Buena Vista).

costa rica tourist activities

North Fields Cafe: Craft Specialty Coffee and Chocolate Tour

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Manuel Antonio Canopy Tour - Longest Twin Zip Line in Central America

Manuel Antonio Canopy Tour - Longest Twin Zip Line in Central America

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Marlin del Rey Catamaran Snorkel Sunset Cruise from Tamarindo or Playas del Coco

Marlin del Rey Catamaran Snorkel Sunset Cruise from Tamarindo or Playas del Coco

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costa rica tourist activities

Pacuare River Pacuare River

For whitewater rafters, the top destination in Costa Rica sits on the Caribbean side along Pacuare River, or Rio Pacuare, which is home to rapids ranging in difficulty from Class II to Class IV. Along with its thrilling rapids, the river is also known for its wildlife, including sloths, toucans and parrots, and dramatic scenery: you'll be surrounded by a lush rainforest and cascading waterfalls.

Keep in mind: The river runs faster and the rapids are more challenging from June to October, with the highest water flows in September and October (peak rainy season). If you're up for the challenge the upper section of the river, which spans 16 miles, is rated difficult to extreme. For novices, the lower section of Pacuare River is tamer. Guided tours , which include access to helmets, life jackets and an experienced river runner, are a must. Exploradores Outdoors earns high praise from past travelers for its adept and friendly guides.

costa rica tourist activities

Caño Island Caño Island

As one of the top diving and snorkeling destinations in Costa Rica, Caño Island draws travelers for its diverse marine life. Only accessible by organized tour, the waters surrounding the island are crystal clear and the coral reef protects smaller marine life. Scuba divers and snorkelers swim with several types of rays, along with whale sharks and even sea turtles. Most tours last all day and include a 45-minute boat ride to and from the island; visitors should come prepared with motion sickness medication as the water can be choppy. 

Several recent snorkelers said the experience topped their expectations, with sharks and turtles swimming close by and dolphins visible on the boat ride to the island. For other avid divers, the quality of the coral reef seemed to be declining, a problem the world over due to climate change. Several reviewers reported being stung repeatedly by tiny jellyfish, which are known to frequent the waters around the island. Wearing a rash guard can help protect your skin from the jellyfish.

costa rica tourist activities

Jade Museum Jade Museum

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costa rica tourist activities

El Toledo Coffee Tour El Toledo Coffee Tour

costa rica tourist activities

Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary

costa rica tourist activities

FLAMINGO, Guanacaste All Inclusive Catamaran Snorkel Adventure

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The Original Canopy Tour Monteverde, Zipline

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Upper Balsa River White Water Rafting Class 3/4 in Costa Rica

Upper Balsa River White Water Rafting Class 3 / 4 in Costa Rica

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PlanetWare.com

18 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Costa Rica

Written by Lana Law Updated Apr 25, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Costa Rica is a wonderland of natural attractions, with volcanoes, beaches, cloud forests, and wildlife. This is a country that appeals as much to bird-watchers and luxury travelers as it does to surfers and backpackers.

The busy city of San Jose is home to the country's best museums, lovely squares, and cultural attractions, but the real treasures lie beyond the capital, in the forests and small coastal towns and villages.

Endless stretches of beach line the Pacific Coast, with small towns that cater to surfers and sun seekers. The province of Guanacaste in Costa Rica is considered the best place to visit for beautiful beaches and beach towns.

Inland, the forest-covered mountains offer their own adventures, from volcanoes and waterfalls to ziplining and extraordinary wildlife viewing. Although wildlife is prevalent throughout the country, the lush south is where tourists tend to head if they are looking to find animals. The areas south of Jaco down to the Osa Peninsula are some of the best places to visit for wildlife.

For something completely different, check out the Caribbean coast with its calm waters and unique cultural vibe.

Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Costa Rica.

1. Manuel Antonio National Park

2. arenal volcano (volcan arenal), 3. monteverde and the cloud forests, 4. tamarindo, 5. dominical, 6. mal pais and santa teresa, 8. wildlife viewing, 9. diamante eco adventure park, 10. osa peninsula and corcovado national park, 11. tortuguero national park, 12. the national theater in san jose, 13. irazu volcano national park, 14. braulio carrillo national park, 15. rincón de la vieja national park, 16. the crocodile bridge on the tarcoles river, 17. la paz waterfall gardens, 18. kiteboarding in costa rica.

Playa Espadilla fronting the town of Manuel Antonio

Set on the edge of the town of Manuel Antonio, Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica's top destinations for wildlife viewing. It also has the added bonus of being home to beautiful soft-sand beaches.

Some of the usual wildlife sightings in the park are howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, sloths, white-nosed coatimundis, and the hard-to-miss capuchins. You can also expect to see iridescent butterflies and a myriad of colorful birds flitting about. You can walk the trails on your own, but for a more in-depth experience consider joining a guided tour of Manuel Antonio Park Nature. Guides often know exactly where the animals are and carry tripods and telescopes, ideal for wildlife viewing and photography.

Manuel Antonio National Park

Part of the attraction of Manuel Antonio National Park is its proximity to the town of Manuel Antonio. In town, you can find hotels within easy walking distance of the park, as well as restaurants and other retail.

Most of the action in town is centered around the beautiful oceanfront beach, where umbrellas and beach chairs line the sand and surfers enjoy the usually gentle waves. This is a popular place for beginners to take surf lessons. Across the road from the beach and higher up on the hillside are restaurants and stores, some of which can get loud in the evenings.

If you want to linger here for a few days and treat yourself to a luxury stay, Manuel Antonio is home to one of the top beach resorts in Costa Rica.

Arenal Volcano (Volcan Arenal)

The Arenal Volcano National Park, found in the rugged Cordillera de Tilarán, is one of the top volcano viewing areas in the country. The main attraction here is the Arenal Volcano, a cone-shaped mountain with huge ash columns frequently streaming from the crater.

Arenal was dormant from AD 1500 until a massive eruption on July 29, 1968, which killed 82 people and destroyed two villages. Since then, it has seen regular activity and, depending on the day or week, visitors can expect to see anything from a cloud of ash to glowing red lava flowing down the mountain.

The park is also known for its wide range of biodiversity, with approximately half of all Costa Rican birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals represented somewhere within its boundaries.

The Arenal Observatory Lodge , originally a private observatory established in 1987, is the only lodge within the Arenal Volcano National Park boundaries. It is located on a macadamia nut farm on the south side of the volcano. From the lodge, check out the excellent views of the volcano and Arenal Lake in the opposite direction. Numerous hiking trails are in the area; many lead to waterfalls and old and recent lava flows.

Monteverde and the Cloud Forests

The Cloud Forests near Monteverde and Santa Elena are some of the best places to visit in Costa Rica for ecotourism. If you are itching to immerse yourself in nature and see unique plants and wildlife without venturing too far off the beaten path, this is definitely the place to come.

The clouds covering these forests provide the moisture necessary to sustain the area's unique habitats. While many people come simply for the bird-watching, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve sustain various mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. Keep an eye out for colorful frogs and howler monkeys. Jaguars and pumas are more elusive. Organized hikes are one of the best ways to see the forest. Another option are canopy tours that may involve ziplines or bridges and even cable cars.

Monteverde and Santa Elena are the two main tourist centers in the region, with accommodation, restaurants, and even shops and artists' galleries. This area, located northwest of San Juan, is a little more than four hours by bus. It can be cold up here, so be sure to bring warm clothes.

View over Tamarindo

If you're looking for an action-packed beach town to settle in to for a while, Tamarindo is just the place. Located on the Nicoya Peninsula in Guanacaste, Tamarindo is a top destination for surfing, beaching, and fun. Once a quiet fishing village, the town has grown into a tourist haven, where you can find a good assortment of restaurants and hotels.

The town is spread along Tamarindo Beach , a beautiful wide crescent that runs for approximately 1.5 kilometers. The area is known for surfing, with a range of breaks ideal for both experienced surfers and learners. The biggest waves are generally found here in November and December.

Sunset in Tamarindo

The area around Tamarindo offers eco-friendly adventures and activities that include snorkeling, diving, horseback riding, ziplining, and turtle watching in season. Nearby Playa Grande is one of Costa Rica's most important nesting grounds for leatherback turtles. Throughout October and March, more than 100 turtles can be seen nesting and laying their eggs overnight.

Goods for sale in Dominical

Dominical is a tropical backpacker's haven and one of the best places in Costa Rica for surfing. Lovely beaches, cheap accommodation, casual open-air restaurants, and a great bohemian vibe are what this town has long been known for. But, in the surrounding mountains, resorts, small inns, and luxury rentals attract an upper-end crowd.

A long stretch of beach fronts the town and in behind, under the shady trees, vendors set up tables and sell crafts and other items. In recent years, the once dirt streets have been paved, sidewalks have been bricked, and what was formerly a dusty beach town has become a much more refined tourist destination. Outside of town are quieter beaches, where it's possible to find your own special place.

Beach at Dominical

Dominical is a fantastic place to spot wildlife without venturing too far from civilization. Toucans, monkeys, sloths, and scarlet macaws are common sights even right in the town of Dominical.

The annual Envision Festival draws a crowd to Dominical in late February or early March. This event focuses on music, arts, wellness, sustainability, and includes things like yoga and other workshops.

Mal Pais and Santa Teresa

Mal Pais on the Nicoya Peninsula, is an area along the coast known for great waves that attract surfers from around the world. The town of Santa Teresa is the main hot spot in the area, however a chain of villages and beaches lie along the Mal Pais, including the villages of Mal Pais and Manzanillo .

Today, the area is a mix of backpackers, surfers who never managed to leave, and tourists who wish they had planned a longer vacation. The area is more trendy and has more of a scene than places like Dominical , and development in the area has turned it more upscale.

Jaco

Jaco is a good choice for anyone looking to get out of San Jose but still wanting the comforts and amenities of a larger town or city. The beach here is spacious, pleasant, and has an active vibe.

The surfing and swimming here are both very good, with smaller waves than other areas along this section of coast. What Jaco does have that sets it apart from the numerous coastal towns along this stretch of the Pacific is modern apartments and stores, a strong selection of good restaurants and hotels, and other modern conveniences that have made it a popular choice with expats and retirees.

Palm trees on the beach in Jaco

Jaco is less than a two-hour drive from San Jose . If you are arriving in San Jose and want to get out of the city right away but don't want to drive too far your first day, this is an easy destination to reach. You can also base yourself here and explore nearby beaches and attractions on day trips.

Capuchin monkey near Ojochal

Costa Rica is one of those rare countries where the wildlife alone can be worth the trip. What the country may lack in cultural attractions, it more than makes up for with interesting and prevalent wildlife experiences.

You rarely need to search out animals. Monkeys make regular appearances around the towns, cappuchins hang out around restaurants, scarlet macaws soar through the skies, and toucans rustle in the branches nearby.

Wildlife

Opportunities to see wildlife are not limited to any one area, but visiting the parks or taking organized tours with knowledgeable guides will improve the chances of seeing some of the more elusive species.

As a general rule, you may have better luck seeing a wider variety of animals in the south of Costa Rica. A guided walking tour through Manuel Antonio National Park will almost guarantee you sightings of sloths and different types of monkeys, along with a variety of other animals. Plan a stay at an eco-lodge in the Osa Peninsula or stay at a small mountainside resort or inn around Dominical, Uvita, or Ojochal, and the wildlife will likely to come to you.

But the north is also full of wildlife. Even if you are staying in downtown Tamarindo, howler monkeys are a common sight in the trees and on overhead wires along the streets. Keep your eyes peeled, and you're sure to see some interesting critter.

Ziplining over the jungle

If traipsing through the jungle in the heat is not your idea of fun, head out on a trip to Diamante Eco Adventure Park. Here, the animals, including monkeys, sloths, jaguars, and pumas, are easily spotted in their natural habitat. On-site biologists care for these non-releasable animals and are also on hand to answer any questions you may have. In addition to the large animals, a butterfly enclosure is available to walk through. If you are lucky, one of these gentle and colorful creatures may even land on you.

It wouldn't be Costa Rica if there wasn't an opportunity to go ziplining, and if you want to try it, this is one of the best places to strap in and fly. The most popular zipline at the Diamante Eco Park is the Superman course. You literally jump off the top of a mountain and zip down one mile towards the ocean – head first!

If you'd rather learn about Costa Rican culture and immerse yourself in the country's rich biodiversity, take the Costa Rican Cultural Experience tour. Here, the friendly guides showcase Tico life, food, and culture while teaching you about the local plants that surround you.

Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park

In southern Costa Rica, beyond the beautiful beaches of Dominical, is the remote Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park

The park, established in 1975, protects what is considered to be the best remaining stretch of Pacific coastal rainforest in Central America. It has an extensive trail system and is popular with travelers who enjoy long-distance hikes.

In addition to surfing, other popular activities in the region are diving, snorkeling, and fishing. Puerto Jiménez is the area's largest town, and several fine lodges are found in the Drake Bay area.

Tortuguero National Park

For something a little different and a little off the beaten path, visitors may want to head to Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean Coast. This area, accessible only by boat or plane, is one of the wettest areas in the country and offers something different than the rest of Costa Rica. The park is an important breeding ground for the green sea turtle and as a result, turtle watching is the main activity here.

While there are many beaches, the coastal area is not suitable for swimming as the surf and currents are rough and strong. Sharks are common. Hundreds and even thousands of green and leatherback turtles can be viewed (guides are necessary) nesting and laying eggs on the beaches overnight. Recent conservation efforts have increased the number of turtles nesting in the area.

From the hiking trails or boat rides along the canals, it's possible to spot monkeys, sloths, and kinkajous. Peccaries and tapirs are also present but more difficult to see. Freshwater turtles, lizards, snakes, frogs, toads, and other amphibians are also common.

The National Theater in San Jose

Costa Ricans take pride in the National Theater, which is considered to be the most impressive building in San José. In the 1890s, the ruling coffee barons voted for a tax on coffee exports in order to fund the construction of the theater, and European artisans were imported to design the building.

Completed in 1897, the building features a classical Renaissance columned façade topped by statues symbolizing Dance, Music, and Fame. Inside, the pink marble foyer features allegorical figures of Comedy and Tragedy, and painted murals depicting themes in Costa Rican life.

The most famous of the paintings is one showing coffee harvesting and export painted by Arturo Fontana in Milan in 1897.

Irazu Volcano National Park

The Irazú Volcano is the highest active volcano in Costa Rica at 3,342 meters. The summit of the volcano is a lunar-like landscape with craters. Irazú's Principal Crater is 1,050 meters in diameter and 300 meters deep, and the Diego de la Haya Crater is considerably smaller and contains a small lime-green lake that sometimes appears red.

Marked trails lead to these craters and two other smaller ones, one of which also contains a lake. A pyroclastic cone can also be seen, which has been formed from fragmented volcanic rock. From the summit, it's possible to look out to the Pacific and Caribbean on clear days.

Braulio Carrillo National Park

Braulio Carrillo National Park, a 30-minute drive from bustling San Jose, encompasses rugged mountains, waterfalls, canyons, dormant volcanoes, and virgin rainforest. The park's proximity to the country's main gateway means it is an easy way to see some of Costa Rica's unique plants and wildlife.

Many different habitats exist in the park due to the variety in elevation, which ranges from the top of the Barva Volcano (2,906 meters) to less than 50 meters in the Caribbean lowlands. The park is home to mammals such as jaguars, pumas, tapirs, sloths, and monkeys, but easier to see and hear are several species of birds including the Quetzal (national bird), toucans, and eagles.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park

The Rincón de la Vieja Volcano is the main attraction in this park. One of the most popular things to do is a hike to the summit. This 9.6-kilometer trail leaves from Las Pailas and passes through a variety of ecosystems as it climbs to the top. The views are spectacular. You can see the Nicoya Penisula, and on a clear day, right into Nicaragua.

Other less strenuous trails lead to waterfalls and hot springs. The park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, with tapirs; sloths; monkeys; and large cats such as the jaguar, puma, and ocelot inhabiting the park.

Crocodiles on the Tarcoles River below the Crocodile Bridge

If you want to see a crocodile in Costa Rica, a stop at the Crocodile Bridge will almost guarantee your success. Located about 25 minutes north of Jaco along Highway 34, this is a quick, fun, and easy stop. The Crocodile Bridge spans the Tarcoles River, which is known for having a huge population of American crocodiles.

You'll find a parking area on the north side of the bridge, along with some stores, souvenir sellers, and a Pops ice-cream shop. The bridge has a pedestrian area to walk out on, with railings on the river side and a barrier on the traffic side, so you don't have to worry about traffic. Viewing the crocodiles couldn't be easier, as they bask on the muddy riverbed below.

La Paz Waterfall

This privately owned nature park is a must-see attraction in Costa Rica. Spread out over 70 acres, the park is home to a wide variety of wildlife including monkeys, butterflies, hummingbirds, and others.

The highlight of the park is La Paz waterfall. Rainwater from the cloud forests tumble off a high ledge, dropping 37 meters into a pool below. In addition to the waterfall, your admission ticket includes access to the serpentarium, butterfly observatory, jungle cat exhibit, and ranarium (frog exhibit).

Official site: www.waterfallgardens.com

Kiteboarding at sunset

Costa Rica is becoming one of the "go-to" places for kiteboarding travelers. On the far northwestern coast near the Nicaraguan border is a place where the winds are strong and consistent.

Each day, the wind blows down from the massive Lago Cocibolca in Nicaragua and across the beautiful Salinas Bay. Bring your full quiver of kites, but it's likely that your seven-, nine-, and 11-meter sizes will get the greatest workout. Get the arms and legs tuned up, as it can be quite gusty at times.

Comfortable, but basic accommodation is either on the beach or up in the hills from Salinas Bay. If you'd like a more luxurious set of 5-star digs, head to the Dreams Las Mareas .

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Costa Rica Travel Life

50 BEST Things to do in Costa Rica: Your 2024 Bucket List

By Author Costa Rica Travel Life

Posted on Published: April 8, 2022  - Last updated: January 10, 2024

50 BEST Things to do in Costa Rica: Your 2024 Bucket List

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Costa Rica is truly one of the most beautiful countries on the planet. This small Central American country is well known for its abundance of wildlife, natural attractions, fun activities, and friendly people. It is not only the most developed country in Costa Rica but also the safest.

This makes Costa Rica a popular place for tourists!

Bailey and I first visited Costa Rica back in 2017 and have been coming back ever since – we even lived there at one stage. We have done some pretty cool activities during that time, most of which I’ll never forget.

To help other travelers, we have come up with the 50 best things to do in Costa Rica. This list includes lots of specific activities in Costa Rica, top tours (including multi-day tours ) as well as general activities with info about where to enjoy them.

So, if you’re planning on visiting Costa Rica for the first time or returning again, this blog on the best things to do in Costa Rica is perfect for you!

Don’t have time to read the full article?  Check out our list of our absolute favorite things to do in Costa Rica:

  • Spot sloths in Manuel Antonio National Park on this guided tour .
  • Look into a volcano crater at Poás Volcano.
  • Go on a whale watching tour–like this one in Drake Bay .
  • Hike to Nauyaca Waterfalls, the most beautiful waterfall in Costa Rica!
  • Swim with turtles and explore the reef around Caño Island on this snorkeling tour .

1. Explore Manuel Antonio National Park

2. visit an animal rescue center, 3. stare into poás volcano, 4. learn to surf, 5. go whale watching , 6. hike to nauyaca waterfalls, 7. explore caño island, 8. take a trip to la fortuna waterfall, 9. explore marino ballena national park , 10. see the blue water of rio celeste , 11. day trip to tortuga island, 12. navigate a canyon to reach la leona waterfall, 13. go hiking in arenal volcano national park, 14. relax in hot springs, 15. see wildlife in corcovado national park, santa teresa, tamarindo/ guanacaste , 17. explore downtown san jose, 18. visit the crocodile bridge , 19. go ziplining, 20. go whitewater rafting , 21. visit tortuguero national park, 22. see bioluminescent plankton, 23. explore mangroves, 22. bird watching , 24. explore rincon de la viejo national park, 25. see sea turtles, 26. go fishing , 27. enjoy a sunset cruise, 28. hike in cahuita national park, 29. eat local food, 30. go on a night walk, 31. see a sloth, 32. enjoy the nightlife, 33. walk the hanging bridges in la fortuna , 34. visit monteverde cloud forest, 35. atv tour, 36. go canyoning, 37. coffee tour, 38. chocolate tour, 39. eat freshly-caught seafood, 40. drink delicious craft beer, 41. wander la paz waterfall gardens, 42. stay in a luxury treehouse, 43. visit irazu volcano , 44. enjoy a beach day , 45. go on a hike , 46. take a cooking class, 48. farm-to-table dinner experience , 49. visit montezuma waterfalls.

  • 50. Drive the "Waterfall Trail"

Renting a Car

Book shuttles, fun things to do in costa rica.

A birds eye view of Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the best national parks in Costa Rica . This sprawling coastal area is filled with tons of biodiversity and natural beauty.

Within the park, there are several short hiking trails including “The Sloth Trail,” where you have great chances of seeing two and three-toed sloths. Other trails lead to spectacular viewpoints over the coastline or to pristine beaches and mangroves. Some wildlife you should expect to see includes snakes, monkeys, sloths, macaws, and more.

The park sits on the doorstep of the small town of Manuel Antonio (2.5 hours from San Jose) and is only a short drive from the city of Quepos. It’s best to  stay in Manuel Antonio  to explore the park, which you can do on your own or on a guided tour from Manuel Antonio .

A sloth in Manuel Antonio National Park

This specific tour  is the best option for those staying in Manuel Antonio town. The tour is only $30 USD and includes a 2-hour guided walk through the park. However, don’t just visit during the day.  This jungle night tour  is awesome too, and Andre is talented at spotting critters in the dark! 

Manuel Antonio National Park is open from 7 am to 4 pm every day except Tuesday. Entrance tickets to the park, which cost $18.08 USD for adults and $5.65 for children,  NEEDS to be purchased online in advance . When booking, you need to select the day that you’re visiting. This is beacuse the park has limited tickets available every day. If you are booking a tour, check if it includes your entrance ticket or not.

Check out the  best things to do in Manuel Antonio , where I have lots of detailed info about visiting the park. Also, don’t miss the  best restaurants in Manuel Antonio  during your visit!

A sloth at the Jaguar Rescue Center, Puerto Viejo

Costa Rica has worked really hard to protect its local wildlife. However, there are still issues that lead to animals needing help. Luckily, all over Costa Rica you’ll find non-for-profit organizations rescuing these animals and rehabilitating them for release.

Visiting one of the many animal rescue centers in Costa Rica is a great way to support the cause (your entrance fee goes directly to helping the animals) and see some really cool animals for yourself that are elusive in the wild. You can see baby sloths, jaguars, pumas, monkeys, crocodiles, snakes, and more.

Some of the best wildlife rescue centers in Costa Rica are:

Jaguar Rescue Center  – Located in Puerto Viejo , this is my overall favorite wildlife rescue center. Tours to the center cost $24 USD and include an in-depth look at the different animals, including their baby sloth program. You can also volunteer here, which is very popular.

Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center  – Rescate is located on the outskirts of San Jose and is a cool thing to do in the city. The property is huge, and on a self-guided tour, you’ll get to see just about all of Costa Rica’s wildlife! Only 2% of the animals here stay for life, which is fantastic! Entry is $35 USD for adults and $15 USD for kids.

Kids Saving the Rainforest Wildlife Rescue Center and Sanctuary  – If you’re visiting Manuel Antonio, this rescue center should be high on your bucket list. The non-profit rescue center was created in 1999 to help protect the diverse wildlife of Costa Rica . They do this by rehabilitating wildlife, scientific research, and promoting conservation and reforestation. Tours at the center cost $60 USD for adults, $45 USD for children under 12, and are free for children under the age of 3.

Alturas Wildlife Rescue Center  – This non-profit wildlife rehabilitation center, located near Uvita and Dominical, has the goal of releasing every animal they rescue. This involves treating animals in their veterinary clinic and slowly training animals to live in the wild again. It’s a costly but rewarding process that saves thousands of animals. Tours through Alturas cost $33 USD for adults and only $17 USD for children.

Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary  – This small wildlife rescue center is located in Nosara (one of my favorites town to surf in Costa Rica ) and, like the centers above, is focused on rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife. Guided tours of the center are $60 USD. In addition you’ll also get to be led through the sanctuary by the female founder who will explain to you the different trees and plant that make up this ecosystem.

A lady at the edge of Poas Volcano Crater

Poás Volcano is one of the world’s largest open volcanoes, the crater drops a whopping thousand feet below and stretches over a mile in diameter. The active volcano had its last eruption in September 2019, but it is closely monitored so that visitors are safe. From the viewing area, you’ll be able to look right into the volcano crater – a unique experience that is easily one of the best things to do in Costa Rica.

Visiting Poas Volcano is easily done on a  day trip from San Jose  or  Alajuela , with tours running from both and a  bus running from Alajuela .

Once at the volcano, you’ll watch a video about Poás Volcano and get some safety information. With your hard hat on your head, you’ll then enjoy a short 500-meter (0.3 mi) hiking trail that leads out to a viewpoint on the edge of the crater. You get a total of 20 to 30 minutes at the crater before returning to the visitor center.

Poás Volcano is best visited in the early morning or afternoon due to cloud cover. Also, while the weather may appear warm in San Jose, the temperatures at the volcano are much lower, so bring a jacket to help keep you warm.

To access the park, you NEED to  buy your tickets online and pick your visiting date and precise time for your entry. Once you arrive at the park, ensure you have your ID and entry permits at hand. If you don’t, you will be turned away and need to purchase your tickets from a nearby shop at a premium (security at Poas will tell you where.) 

If you don’t have a car or would prefer a guide, you can  join this guided Poás Volcano tour from San Jose . The tour includes a visit to Poás Volcano Crater and La Paz Waterfall Gardens, which begins with a romantic breakfast at the Doka Coffee Estate, followed by a tour of the coffee estate where you’ll learn all about how the coffee plant turns into a cup of coffee.

Related Read: There are some really beautiful hotels located very close to the airport in San Jose – read all about them!

A man surfs on a beach in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica on a beautiful sunny day

Costa Rica is well known as a top surf destination. With great beginner, intermediate, and advanced waves, it’s become a great place to both learn and fine-tune your skills. Although you can surf on both coastlines, the most popular coastline to surf is the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica.

Surfing is popular in most coastal towns, beginning as south as Uvita and going as far north as Jaco on the inland coast. Places such as Dominical and Playa Hermosa are very popular.

After Jaco, you’ll need to travel across the Gulf of Nicoya to Santa Teresa. Those wanting to learn should add Santa Teresa to the top of their list. It’s Santa Teresa is a vibrant town with amazing restaurants , great surf schools, and also lots of fun things to see and do . From there, you can surf the entire coastline to the north, with some of the most popular surf beaches being Tamarindo , Playa Grande, and the famed Witch’s Rock.

Witch’s Rock  is a beach break for intermediate and advanced surfers. Getting there is a bit tricky, but there are  tours from Tamarindo . Keen surfers should speak to locals for transport, and if you want to spend a few days surfing, the beach break is located at  Naranjo Beach . People often camp here so they can surf.

Another surf beach with just as much hype is Nosara. Surfing is easily the most  popular thing to do in Nosara , and the entire town caters to surfers. After your surf, be sure to check out some of the  best restaurants in Nosara – it’s a foodie paradise!

A humback whale in Uvita, Costa Rica

Seeing whales in the wild is a dream for many travelers, including myself. Although Costa wasn’t the first place I saw whales, it was the first place I saw a baby whale swimming with its mother. It was such a surreal experience that happened on my way to Corcovado National Park from  Puerto Jimenez  (a remote town on the southern coast).

The good news is that you don’t have to travel all the way to Puerto Jimenez to see whales in Costa Rica . In fact, whale watching tours can be done all up the Pacific Coast, including from  Drake Bay ,  Uvita , Manuel Antonio, Jaco, Tamarindo, in the Gulf of Nicoya, and in the Gulf of Papagayo. The trick is to pick the right time of year!

In Costa Rica, the two whale watching seasons run from December to March and July to October when the whales come to give birth in the calm waters. However, the best months to visit Costa Rica for whale watching are January to February and July to September.

If you’re visiting during this time, be sure to book a whale watching tour and enjoy this memorable activity in Costa Rica!

A lady poses for a photo at Nauyaca Waterfalls, Costa rica

The most beautiful waterfall in Costa Rica is  Nauyaca Waterfalls . These two spectacular waterfalls are a combined 197 feet tall (60 meters) and are surrounded by lush rainforest and wildlife. This place is a must-visit if you plan on visiting Uvita, Dominical, or Manuel Antonio.

Dominical is the closest town to the entrance, it’s only a 15-minute  drive to the ticket office from town. The ticket office is where you’ll need to buy your entrance ticket ($12 USD at the office or $10 USD online). Then, it’s another 1.2-mile drive (2 kilometers) to the parking lot, where you’ll begin the hike to the base of the waterfall.

The trail from the parking lot is 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) each way along a dirt road, and it’s best to visit in the morning, as it’s a hot walk in the afternoon sun. Thankfully, once you arrive at the waterfall, you’ll quickly forget the hike. 

My recommendation is to visit the top waterfall first to check out the view and then walk down the bottom for a swim (the top isn’t for swimming.) Make sure you spend lots of time enjoying the water, it’s so beautiful. 

Related Read: Dominical is the town closest to Nauyaca Waterfalls, learn about all of the best hotels in Dominical !

A turtle swims by while snorkeling at Caño Island, Costa Rica

One of the best snorkeling and dive sites in Costa Rica is  Caño Island Biological Reserve . This small island is located off the coast of Drake Bay but can also be visited from Uvita and Sierpe too.

Tours to Caño Island Biological Reserve involve taking a boat out to the island where you can either snorkel or scuba dive. The reef here is filled with wildlife, and during my tour, I got to swim with turtles, sharks, and a huge variety of fish.

You can both snorkel or scuba dive around the island, but visitors are no longer allowed to step foot on the island itself. The best place to start your tour is Drake Bay , and from there, the island is only a 40-minute boat ride away. In fact, tours to Caño Island are considered one of the best things to do in Drake Bay .

From Uvita and Sierpe, you’ll need to take an extra-long boat ride through the mangroves (and a short shuttle from Uvita,) but for keen divers or snorkelers, the trip is well worth it!

Caño Island Biological Reserve is my second favorite place to dive or snorkel (number one is mentioned further on in this blog) in Costa Rica and a must-do for ocean enthusiasts!

A lady enjoys the view of LA Fortuna Waterfall

It should come as no surprise that La Fortuna Waterfall is one of the top attractions in Costa Rica. This stunning 230 foot (70 meter) waterfall shoots out from a tall cliff into a powerful pool below that’s surrounded by lush forest. Visiting is nothing short of breathtaking.  

Visiting La Fortuna Waterfall is easily done without a tour. You can get a taxi or drive yourself from La Fortuna town to this parking lot , where you’ll pay the entrance fee and begin hiking. The trail is well maintained and leads down to the waterfall via lots of concrete steps. It only takes 15 minutes to get down but a little longer on the way up – it’s 500 steps!  

Once at the bottom, you can get some great pictures and swim in the pool below the waterfall, or visit the calmer pools downriver for a more relaxing swim. The water is cold but super refreshing, and the entire area is gorgeous.  

La Fortuna Waterfall from a viewpoint

We spent around 1 hour at the waterfall before “enjoying” the 30-minute walk back up. This walk takes some people much longer, so be prepared and take your time. Keep an eye out for wildlife too. We saw lots of toucans during our visit.  

Entrance to La Fortuna Waterfall is $18 USD, and you can purchase them at the gate or  here online in advance and skip the line  (it’s the same price.)

If you don’t have transport or would prefer a guide, there are some great La Fortuna Waterfall tours that also include epic extras. My pick is this guided tour of La Fortuna Waterfall . For $91 USD, you’ll get to hike near the stunning Arenal Volcano, take a swim in La Fortuna Waterfall’s cool waters, and then visit a natural hot spring – which you get to enjoy with a cocktail in hand. It’s a popular tour with hundreds of 5-star reviews that you can book online here !

Visiting La Fortuna Waterfall is one of the best things to do in La Fortuna , so don’t miss it!

Arial View of Whale Tail in Marino Ballena National Park, Uvita

Without a doubt, the number one thing to do in Uvita is to visit Marino Ballena National Park and enjoy a walk out to the famous “Whale Tail”. 

Marino Ballena National Park is a small marine and coastal national park that protects this gorgeous coastline. The shape of the sandbar in the park is completely natural and very fitting to the area considering Uvita is one of the best places to go whale watching in the country . With an aerial view at low tide, you can see this sandbar looks exactly like a whale’s tail – hence the name.

From Uvita, you can easily visit the national park and the Whale Tail. For the best experience, you should  aim to visit the park at around low tide  when you can actually walk onto the Whale Tail.

Although the Whale Tail is the main attraction, the beach itself is also spectacular. In fact, you can spot lots of wildlife in the coastal rainforest area and find secluded places to relax and enjoy a swim.

The entrance to the park is $6 USD for adults, and local guides wait at the entrance to the park in case you want to do a tour. Expect to pay around $40 USD per person for a guided tour, but this price is entirely negotiable depending on group size.

After you’ve explored the beach, it’s time to see the marine park. On this incredible whale watching tour in Marino Ballena National Park , you head out on a boat in search of these majestic creatures. For over 3 hours, you’ll explore the coastline heading out as far as Caño Island.

Marino Ballena National Park is open every day from 7 am to 4 pm. Tickets to the park can be bought directly at the park entrance gates in Uvita and do not need to be purchased in advance.

Rio Celeste Waterfall, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is home to lots of rivers, but few are as beautiful as Rio Celeste . Located around 1.5 hours north of La Fortuna, this natural attraction is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica. 

Rio Celeste is famous for its bright blue color. This natural phenomenon is caused by the mixing of two rivers that literally turns the water Gatorade blue – I’m not joking! 

This happens because acidic and neutral waters combine, and they create enough particle concentration to reflect light. It’s similar to glacier lakes that reflect rock flour. 

Rio Celeste is explored by hiking the  Rio Celeste Trail , which is 3 kilometers/1.9 miles each way. The main highlight at Rio Celeste is Rio Celeste Waterfall – it’s arguably the most beautiful waterfall in Costa Rica and is located around a 30-minute walk from the entrance.

The mixing of two rivers at Rio Celeste

Further along, you’ll see the Borbollones or Bubbling Hot Pot. This part of the river is really hot, and you’ll smell the sulfur before you see it! 

Finally, you’ll end your hike at the Teñideros, which is where the two rivers meet (pictured above). Here, you can literally see the water turn blue as the streams meet – it’s so cool! Teñideros is 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) from the park entrance. 

You can choose to either do a tour to Rio Celeste from La Fortuna or visit on your own. Visiting on your own is easy. Just be sure to leave La Fortuna before 7 am so you can get to  the park entrance  before it gets really busy. 

If you need to book a tour,  this specific full-day tour to Rio Celeste  is a top choice. It’s highly rated and includes lunch, transport, and an expert guide who will help to point out the native wildlife.

The main beach on Tortuga Island, Costa Rica

The small island of Tortuga is the ideal beach getaway in Costa Rica. Together with Alcatraz Island, the area makes up the  Islas Negritos Biological Reserve . It’s home to fantastic snorkeling, white sand beaches, and good vibes!

Tours to Tortuga Island are very popular from Jaco , Montezuma , Paquera , Punta Arenas , Santa Teresa , Playa Herradura and even the city of San Jose . You can only reach Tortuga Island with a tour, and these are all full-day trips.

On tours to Tortuga, you’ll take a boat ride out to the islands and take in the fantastic views along the way. Then it’s off to two snorkeling spots to swim with turtles, sharks, and lots of fish. The snorkeling here is the best I have seen in Costa Rica – even better than Caño Island! 

Afterward, the boat drops you on Tortuga Island for a delicious lunch and plenty of drinks (beers, juice, and soda.) You’ll have a few hours to relax, play volleyball, kayak, or drink lots of coco locos. Overall, it’s really an enjoyable day out and one of the best tours in Costa Rica !

La Leona Waterfall

If you’re going to be anywhere in the Guanacaste Province of Costa Rica , seeing La Leona Waterfall is a must. This is an easy day trip of around 1 to 2 hours from Tamarindo, Playa Coco, and Playa Flamingo. You’re even closer (around 20 minutes!) if you’re in Liberia, making it one of the  top things to do in Liberia . 

Visiting La Leona Waterfall requires a tour because you need to navigate a canyon to reach it. You can do this by driving to one of the tour offices near the waterfall, such as Guanaverde Experiences. From here, you can do tours of the waterfall starting from $30 USD.  This tour through Guanaverde Experiences  is top-rated and includes all the equipment needed, including a dry bag to take your camera or phone. 

Once you make it to the La Leona Waterfall your guides will serve you fruits and ice cream with a fresh fruit juice. Sounds like the perfect day to me!

Arenal Volcano as seen from Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal Volcano is the showpiece of La Fortuna, Costa Rica. While you’re here, you can’t miss seeing the volcano up close. A visit to Arenal Volcano National Park is  one of the best things to do in La Fortuna  and will take you to the base of the volcano and slightly up the steep face. The views here are incredible!  

You can explore Arenal Volcano National Park on your own or on a tour. It’s $15 USD admission for adults and $5 USD for children to get into the park. Once inside, you can hike on the many trails, see the lush forest, and even spot where lava flowed down the volcano when it last erupted in 2010.  

Come early in the morning (they open at 8 am) before the heat of the day sets in, so you have plenty of time to explore before they close at 4 pm. 

If you would prefer to join a guided tour, this afternoon Arenal Volcano tour  includes a hike on the west side of the volcano taking you across gorgeous hanging bridges. It also includes a visit to a swimming hole beneath a waterfall. Then you’ll visit a museum and take a dip in the natural Tabacon Hot Springs – one of the best hot springs in La Fortuna !  

For a longer tour, I suggest this private hiking adventure  to spend a full day in Arenal Volcano National Park. You’ll explore narrow jungle trails, climb over huge lava rocks, jump in an emerald green lake for a swim, and relax in natural hot water pools.  

The view from above of the Tabacon hot Springs in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is well known for its volcanoes that have showered the countryside in volcanic ash rich in minerals – it’s one of the reasons the country is so green! Another benefit of these volcanoes is the hot springs they create.

The best place to enjoy these hot springs is in La Fortuna around Arenal Volcano. There are  so many different hot springs to visit in La Fortuna ; you could visit a different one every day for weeks! There are a variety of hot springs for all budgets, from luxurious resorts to family-friendly pools and even natural hot springs.  

One of the most popular hot springs in La Fortuna is  Tabacón Hot Springs . The pools here are surrounded by a gorgeous tropical garden. The water temperatures range from 72 F to 105 F (22 C to 40 C), and the main area has a swim-up bar and waterslide. I love the incredible view of the Arenal Volcano from the secluded pools in the lower section. If you’re  staying at the resort , access to the hot springs is free, or if you aren’t a guest, you can purchase a day pass for $81 USD or one that includes either dinner or lunch for $149 USD.

For families, I recommend checking out  Los Lagos Hot Springs . The passes here are reasonable at $20 USD and include admission to hot and cold pools and wildlife exhibits on-site. You can also choose to purchase the day pass that includes either lunch or dinner for $37 USD. The large pools here are fed by crystalline rainforest springs and are surrounded by colorful plants and flowers. There are also fun waterslides, waterfalls, and a faux volcano.  

Baldi Hot Springs  is one of the most developed and visited hot springs in La Fortuna, not to mention the most lively one! Set amongst lush vegetation, this hot spring resort boasts 25 thermal water pools with temperatures ranging from 93°F to 152°F (doesn’t it sound dreamy?!). It also comes complete with a massive jacuzzi for up to 60 guests. A standard day pass here will cost you $27 USD, a pass with lunch or dinner for $49 USD, or a pass with both lunch and dinner for $71 USD.

A monkey in Corcovado National Park

Corcovado National Park certainly isn’t the most popular national park in Costa Rica, but it’s the most important. In fact, Corcovado National park is home to 2.5 to 3% of the world’s biodiversity, which is huge! It’s the best place to see a huge variety of Costa Rica’s wildlife, including big cats and tapirs.

The park is most commonly visited from Puerto Jimenez and Drake Bay.

From Puerto Jimenez, you can  take this day tour to the La Leona Ranger Station  to enjoy the hiking trails and wildlife with a guide. There is also this  three-day tour that includes a stay at the ranger station  – it’s the best way to see wildlife!

From Drake Bay,  this full-day guided tour is a great option . It involves taking a boat from Drake Bay to Sirena Ranger Station and walking the trail network there. During my visit, we saw every species of monkey in Costa Rica, lots of rare birds, jaguar footprints, rodents, and other wildlife, including snakes.  You can also do an overnight tour , which I regret not doing!

Although not as popular, tours leave from Uvita too.  This specific tour  visits the San Pedrillo Ranger Station, where you’ll enjoy a hike through the park in search of wildlife.

Overall, Corcovado National Park is the best national park to visit for those who came to Costa Rica to see wildlife. Bird watchers and animal photographers love this place!

16. Go scuba diving/snorkeling 

A manta ray while scuba diving in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Snorkeling and diving are two of my favorite activities in the water, and Costa Rica is the perfect place to enjoy them! I mentioned Caño Island and Tortuga Island above, but there are lots of other amazing places to snorkel and dive in Costa Rica :

A really popular dive site and one of the best is just off the coast of Santa Teresa. Here you can dive with a huge variety of ocean life such as sharks, rays, lobsters, crabs, and depending on the time of year, giant manta rays (January to April) and humpback whales (August to September!) You’ll also have the chance to see giant schools of tuna!  Iguana Divers  is the best company to choose in Santa Teresa, and they know all the best spots!

The Catalina Islands and Bat Islands are another two dive sites around Tamarindo with lots to see. Known as one of the  best things to do in Tamarindo , the Catalina Islands are home to an abundance of sea life suited to diving and snorkeling. You can do  this Catalina Island Diving Tour  and dive with turtles, manta rays, small reef sharks, and lots of fish.

For a more adventurous dive, head to the Bat Islands. This is a fantastic opportunity for Advanced Open Water certified divers to challenge themselves and swim with large sharks.  The tour includes two dives , one at Bat Island (where the bull sharks are) and the second near Playa del Coco, where you can see manta rays, turtles, and other ocean life. 

Of course, there are many more dive sites across the country including Refugio Nacional Gandoca-Manzanillo (Puerto Viejo) and  Cocos Islands  – known as one of the best dive sites globally for diving with large animals.

San Jose city

San Jose isn’t usually at the top of everyone’s Costa Rica bucket list, but as someone who once lived in San Jose, I find that such a shame. San Jose offers a unique experience in Costa Rica and a chance to see stunning architecture, learn about some history, visit a few museums, and even eat at some pretty amazing restaurants . The city is the country’s capital, after all!

One of the best things to do in San Jose when you arrive is to join a tour of the city. You can either do  paid tours such as this one  or the  free walking tour  that is on most days. Another fun thing to do is to take a tour of the National Theater of Costa Rica . Tours cost only $6 USD, and before or after, you can enjoy a coffee at the onsite cafe – they have some delicious coffee!

San Jose also provides a base to explore the surrounding area on day trips . You can enjoy  tours to Poas Volcano ,  La Paz Waterfall Garden , and the  Britt Coffee Tour .

San Jose is often the start or finish of a trip in Costa Rica, so get out and explore – it’s one of the best things to do in Costa Rica!

A crocodile at the Jaco crocodile bridge

Seeing crocodiles was never on my Costa Rica to-do list, however, after enjoying some of the  best things to do in Jaco , I stumbled upon the Crocodile Bridge over Tarcoles River .

Tarcoles River is home to one of the world’s largest crocodile populations. These are saltwater crocodiles and some are well over 15 feet (5 meters) long!

This bridge is located around 30 minutes north of Jaco and crosses over the Tarcoles River, and is a popular gathering spot (I think it’s because the locals feed the crocodiles from the bridge.) Just park your car at one end of the bridge and walk over to see the huge crocodiles in the wild.  

When we visited, we saw over 15 crocodiles! There’s a popular sand bar where they like to hang out halfway across the bridge, but you’re guaranteed to see some!

Another fun way to get up close and learn about crocs is  on a crocodile cruise like this one . It’s around 2 hours long and you’ll get to explore the Tarcoles River on a guided boat tour, spotting crocodiles, reptiles, and birds along the way. The boat also serves Costa Rican coffee and refreshments.

Because your guide on board is also a bird expert they will be able to spot from over 50 different bird species that call this place home.

Ziplining in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Ziplining is one of those activities you can do in just about every tourist town in Costa Rica. The mountains and rainforests are perfect for this adventure activity, and I’ve done some awesome tours.

Although you can zipline in most towns, not all are created equal. To help you choose, I’ll list the best places to zipline in Costa Rica in order of my preference:

Monteverde:   Ziplining in Monteverde comes in at number one for us simply because the cloud forests and mountains here make the courses that much better. On top of that,  if you book this ziplining tour , you’ll get to enjoy Costa Rica’s longest zipline at 5,220 feet or almost 1 mile (1.59 kilometers!) This is easily one of the best things to do in Monteverde !

La Fortuna:  Next has to be La Fortuna! Like Monteverde, ziplining in La Fortuna has you gliding over the central valley area. In fact,  this specific ziplining tour  has 12 different cables to experience and one of which will have you soaring right over the top of La Fortuna Waterfall!

Manuel Antonio:  If you’re traveling as a couple or just want to experience ziplining with friends, then go ziplining in Manuel Antonio. In the foothills of Manuel Antonio is  Central America’s longest dual zipline  at 4,300 feet or 0.8 miles (1.3 kilometers.) It has 14 tree platforms, three natural walks, six hanging bridges, and more!

Jaco:  The last place I really loved ziplining was in Jaco . Although the ziplines in Jaco are not as long as the ones mentioned above, the views of the ocean and available tours make it a great option. But, instead of just going ziplining, combine a few activities and  join this ATV, zipline, and waterfall tour – it’s great value and so much fun!

Pacuare River white water rafting

I’ve been whitewater rafting all over the world, including in Futaleufú – well known as one of the top 3 rivers to whitewater raft in the world. Even though my standards are relatively high, I loved whitewater rafting in Costa Rica . It’s without a doubt one of the best adventure activities in Costa Rica!

I’ve personally done two tours, one down the Pacuare River and the other down the Tenorio River . I loved both and certainly got the adrenaline rush I signed up for! Of course, these aren’t the only two rivers you can whitewater raft. In fact, most tourist destinations offer some form of whitewater rafting. Below are a few of the best rivers and where you can do tours from.

San Jose, Puerto Viejo, and Puerto Limon: The Pacuare River is one of the most well-known rivers in Costa Rica. Tours here typically leave from either San Jose , Puerto Viejo , or Puerto Limon. Although a fantastic river, tours from San Jose are really long (12 hours) and require a lot of driving. For that reason, it’s best to only do tours from Puerto Viejo (just over 2 hours driving each way) or Puerto Limon.

Guanacaste (Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, Playa Coco): From the Guanacaste Region and Monteverde, rafting tours are popular down the Tenorio River. The river is known for having lots of class III and IIII rapids. Tours from Tamarindo and the nearby beach towns are the most popular with this specific tour leaving from all locations .

La Fortuna: Since it’s surrounded by rivers, there are plenty of options for whitewater rafting in La Fortuna. The most popular with families is this white water rafting tour down the Balsa River , which has class II and III rapids. For more experienced rafters, you can do tours such as this one down the Rio Sarapiqui or Rio Toro. These are class III and IIII rivers and some of the best in Costa Rica.

The view from Cerro Tortuguero

Tortuguero National Park is a really special part of the country as it’s one of the most important nesting sites for sea turtles. The park has a huge stretch of beach where 20,000 green sea turtles come every year to nest –  the largest colony of turtles on the globe ! The highlight here is seeing thousands of turtles nesting on the beach, which happens at different times throughout the year (July to October is best).

Tortuguero itself is an area that can only be accessed by boat or plane. It’s one of the most remote Costa Rica tourist attractions. The beauty here is because it is preserved and protected, so it’s known as one of the wildest national parks in the country.  

If you’re not planning to stay in the area, it’s a  great day trip from San Jose . You can take a 30-minute plane ride from San Jose or a three-hour bus ride to Cariari, Caño Blanco, or La Pavona followed by a one-hour boat ride. Another great option is booking  this tour that includes transportation , so you’re all set to explore this incredible area. It’s a long day (12 hours) but worth it.

Those with more time can actually make the trip to Tortuguero to stay a few nights. Once you’re here, savor this truly unique location by taking in one (or more!) of the  amazing tours offered here .

You can  canoe  or  kayak  through the wetlands, keeping an eye out for sloths and monkeys. There are night tours where you’ll explore the park to see all the amazing critters who only come out after dark. And of course, there are tours dedicated to seeing the turtles who call this park home. You can easily spend a few days exploring the park and all the  activities Tortuguero has to offer .  

bioluminescent plankton in Paquera, Costa Rica

There are only a few places in the world where the ocean seems to glow in the dark, and Costa Rica is one of them! The amazing bioluminescent plankton float just under the surface and flash bright blue as you pass by. The light show by these tiny critters is used to scare off predators and help them find food.  

These creatures are so tiny that a single drop of water can contain thousands. Together, they create this magical phenomenon that looks like thousands of blue, glowing stars – definitely a Costa Rica bucket list activity! The best areas to see bioluminescent plankton are in the waters around Paquera Bay and the Gulf of Nicoya. Another hot spot is around Puerto Jiménez.  

One of the best ways to see the plankton is by gliding above them in a kayak. As you float across the water, every time you dip your paddle in, it will create bursts of sparkling light around you.  This kayak tour  (and what I did) gives you a full hour to explore Paquera Bay under the stars. This is one of the best places to go kayaking in Costa Rica and seeing the bioluminescent plankton below and the stars above you is honestly incredible.  

Another option to see them is by boat.  This boat tour  leaves from the small beach next to the ferry dock in Paquera. Partway through the tour, they anchor the boat so you can get out and swim amongst the glowing light.   

Puerto Jiménez is another popular spot to view these amazing creatures. This sunset tour  includes kayaking while the sun sinks below the horizon. Then, once it’s dark, you’ll get to snorkel to see what bioluminescence looks like underwater. I actually did this tour and got to see dolphins too!

While the bioluminescence can be seen year-round in Costa Rica, if you can, try to go in the few days after a full moon. The darker sky helps you see more of this amazing sight as the water lights up. 

Kayaking through mangroves

Mangroves can be found all over Costa Rica. These special forests are made up of a variety of shrubs and trees and can be found where any river meets the ocean. Mangroves are some of the best spots to see wildlife, including hundreds of types of birds , sloths, and monkeys. You typically won’t have to travel far to explore a mangrove swamp in Costa Rica. Here are some of the most popular places in Costa Rica to go on a mangrove tour:  

Drake Bay: The Sierpe Terraba Mangrove Forest is the largest in the country. It’s around the Drake Bay, Sierpe, and Uvita area. You can rent a kayak or boat or take a river safari tour  to explore the waterways through the trees. This is a fun way to see many animals including capuchin monkeys, squirrel monkeys, macaws, iguanas, crocodiles, and sloths in Costa Rica .  

Manuel Antonio: Near Quepos and the Manuel Antonio National Park, there are thousands of acres of protected mangrove forest.  On this tour, you can take a kayak  out on the water to paddle peacefully through the shade of the mangroves and spot all different kinds of animals.  

Tamarindo: Not far from the beaches of Tamarindo, you can escape the crowds by exploring the mangroves of Las Baulas National Park.  Take a boat tour  to beat the heat and enjoy the shade as you explore the vast network of the forest. Your guide will help point out wildlife like howler monkeys, crocodiles, and tropical birds too!

Puerto Jimenez: Puerto Jiménez is close to the winding mangrove forests inside the Preciosa Platanares Wildlife Refuge. There are 70-foot (21 meters) tall mangrove trees here, and it’s best to  explore the winding river by kayak . You’ll have a guide to help you spot animals and snacks after you finish paddling.  

Two macaws in the Punta Islita Wild Macaw Reserve

It goes without saying that bird watching is one of the most popular things to do in Costa Rica. The country is well known for its beautiful bird species that include scarlet macaws, toucans, hummingbirds, quetzals, and more. The best part is that there really isn’t a town in Costa Rica you can’t go bird watching.

One of the most popular places is Monteverde – especially for those who want to see the rare and beautiful quetzals. Bird watching tours in Monteverde are best done in Curi Canchi Nature reserve and this tour is a great option .

Round trip transportation is included and this tour leaves very in the morning so that you can spot birds when they are most active.

If you love macaws you’re in luck. They can be seen all over the country but no place is better than Puerto Jimenez! We saw them daily in our hotel and around town even getting as close as a few meters.

Other great places to go bird watching includes Manuel Antonio, Carara National Park in Jaco , Uvita, Dominical, and more.

Boiling mud pot in Rincon de la Vieja national park, Guanacaste,

Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park is another volcanic national park located just over 2 hours from Tamarindo and only 35 minutes from Liberia.

Those with their own vehicle can drive out to the Rincón de la Vieja and enjoy one or many of the hiking trails through the park. These include the trail to the Las Pailas (boiling mud pots.) This is an easy walk that takes around 20 minutes each way. Another cool hike is the  Catarata La Cangreja trail , leading to a breathtaking waterfall. This trail is around 3 miles (4.8 km) each way. 

Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park is also where you’ll find the Rio Negro Hot Springs as well as adventure centers offering horseback riding, ziplining, and tubing. One of the most popular adventure combo tours is the  Guachipelin Adventure Volcano tour , with departures from most towns in Guanacaste including Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, Playa Conchal, Liberia, and more.

There are also guided hiking tours,  such as this guided hiking tour  from Tamarindo and  this guided hiking tour from Liberia . These are more for those interested in the national park’s history, flora, and fauna, not the offered activities.

Entry to Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park costs $17 USD for adults and $5.60 USD for children without a tour and is open from 8 am to 3 pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

Turtles walk to the ocean at Playa del Ostional

One of the most amazing creatures in Costa Rica is the sea turtle. Hundreds of thousands of sea turtles come to the beaches every year to lay their eggs. Seeing turtles in Costa Rica should definitely be on your bucket list!  

While different species of sea turtles can be found across the country, the two best areas to spot them are Tortuguero National Park and Ostional Wildlife Refuge. 

While in Tortuguero National Park, you can spot turtles on your own while exploring, however, to view turtle nesting sites, you’ll need to  book this tour . Most nesting sites are protected and can only be visited with a guide. This ensures you won’t disturb the animals. Plus, turtles only lay eggs at night, so having a guide to assist you in the dark is helpful too!   

There are also peak times of the year to visit where you’re more likely to see the turtles nesting. In Tortuguero, the nesting season for green sea turtles is from July to October and from February to June for leatherback sea turtles. While I missed the nesting season during my December visit, I did see baby turtles make their way to the ocean. It was a really special moment.  

The Ostional Wildlife Refuge is located on the Nicoya Peninsula near Nosara. Here you’ll find Ostional Beach where olive ridley sea turtles come to lay their eggs in an annual event known as “arribada”. Only nine locations on the globe see these turtles arrive by the thousands and this is one of them!

You can come anytime during the year, but the peak time to visit is in September and October. You can book tours in Nosara for around $60 USD and they will be able to let you know if the turtles are nesting.

Fishing off the coast of Tortuguero

Anyone reading this who enjoys fishing as much as I certainly won’t want to skip a fishing charter in Costa Rica. Not only can you do fishing charters all along the coast, but the fish love to bite!

There are two main types of fishing charters in Costa Rica . The first is inshore tours, which typically only head out as far as 5 miles and aim to catch fish such as tuna, roosterfish, mahi-mahi, jack crevalle, bigeye trevally, needlefish, barracuda, and snapper. Although prices range, expect to pay between $250 to $480 USD for a half-day tour for up to 5 people.

The second option is offshore tours, which head out much farther and are full-day tours. On these, you can go for all the fish above as well as big game fish such as sailfish and marlin. These tours cost around $700 USD per boat.

The best places to go fishing in Costa Rica are Santa Teresa , Jaco, Uvita, Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio/ Quepos .

A lady relaxes with a drink in hand on a cruise in Tamarindo, Costa rica

Cruising the coast on a sailboat or catamaran is such a fun way to enjoy a beautiful day in Costa Rica. I did my first catamaran cruise in Manuel Antonio after getting a bit of national park fatigue (and a sore neck from looking up). It turned out to be such a fun day out, and although the tours call themselves “sunset cruises”, they are so much more.

The tour I did in Manuel Antonio  set sail around 2 pm as we enjoyed the breathtaking coastal scenery and a few drinks (it’s an open bar!) We searched for wildlife such as dolphins and whales before going snorkeling, jumping off the boat, and using the waterslide. Our boat had great people on board, and the drinks were flowing until dinner. As we enjoyed our dinner, the sun began to set, and we headed close to the shore to spot birds feeding in the forest – we even saw scarlet macaws!

If that doesn’t sound like a great afternoon out, I don’t know what will!

Sunset cruises are popular in a few places in Costa Rica . Another one of the top destinations is Tamarindo , which has one of the  top-rated sunset cruises in Costa Rica  (also leaves from Playa Coco). It’s a very similar cruise to Manuel Antonio’s and includes an open bar and meal.

A monkey in Cahuita National Park

Cahuita National Park is a beautiful area near Puerto Viejo best known for the coral reefs and the more than 500 species of fish that live in them. The park itself was created to protect the reefs as well as the mangrove and tropical rainforest here. It’s free to enter, but donations are encouraged for park upkeep.  

If you want to explore Cahuita by land, there’s a long trail that winds through the forest. This is a great area to spot sloths and monkeys!  

There are a few beautiful beach areas as well – keep an eye out for which ones allow swimming. Snorkeling is allowed, but only with a certified guide to ensure the coral is protected. There are even two different shipwrecks here in the shallow water you can see while snorkeling.  

You can drive yourself to Cahuita National Park, and it’s a really popular spot from nearby Puerto Viejo – you’re only 15 minutes away! If you’re staying around Puerto Limon, it’s about a 45-minute drive along the coast. From San Jose, this is a longer trip of around 4 hours. If you don’t have a rental car , buses leave San Jose daily for Cahuita, so that’s another option.  

If you’re interested in tours with transportation,  this tour goes from Puerto Viejo to Cahuita National Park. You’ll have a professional naturalist tour guide to help you spot animals, including white-faced monkeys, snakes, raccoons, and more. It also includes a visit to Cahuita’s hidden waterfall, where you can take a swim.  

This full-day tour from Puerto Limon also includes a stop at Cahuita National Park. It includes a short city tour of Limon, a covered boat cruise down the Tortuguero Canals, a visit to the Chiquita banana plantation, and a one-hour hike through the park.  

Typical casado at Taylor's Restaurant

One of the best things to do in Costa Rica is eating! The food here is delicious and known for using fresh ingredients from fruits and vegetables to seafood. The cuisine in Costa Rica is influenced by Spanish, African, and Indigenous cultures. 

While you’re here, try the traditional dish called a “Casado”. It isn’t one food, but a variety of foods all served together or “married” together since the word Casado means “marriage.” It typically has rice, beans, some type of meat like chicken or fish, and then a salad. It can also come with sides like fried plantains, avocado, tortillas with cheese, or even vegetable stew. There are so many different takes on the Casado, but all are guaranteed to fill you up for a relatively reasonable price.  

Don’t forget to try the Gallo Pinto while you’re here. This is one of the most famous dishes in Costa Rica ! The main ingredients are rice and beans, and then they are mixed with other foods like red peppers, cilantro, onions, and Salsa Lizano to give it a bit of spice. It sounds simple, but it’s really tasty. You can even have this for breakfast alongside a couple of eggs and tortillas.  

Some other popular dishes to try include Arroz con Leche, Sopa Negra, and Patacones.

Two red-eyed tree frogs on a night tour in Costa Rica

While the country is beautiful during the day, many of Costa Rica’s wildlife comes alive at night. There are so many animals who live in the many rainforests that only come out once the sun disappears. In fact, about 80% of the mammals here are nocturnal.  

If your heart is set on seeing many of the animals who call this place home, consider going out at night. Having a guide is a good idea for this as they know just where to look and can spot animals in the dark that you may have missed. 

This night walk in Monteverde  will take you through the Monteverde Wildlife Refuge. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot many different animals, big and small, including sloths, foxes, frogs, and maybe even some sleeping birds.  

I particularly enjoyed this Rainforest Night Walk and Dinner tour  in La Fortuna. You get a 90-minute hike through the forest, a visit to a frog sanctuary, and it ends with a traditional dinner prepared on a wood-burning stove. We saw a huge green lizard and even a bullet ant, which has the most painful sting of any insect in the world – luckily, we kept our distance! The meal after the hike was one of the best local meals I had!  

You can also spend two hours exploring the rainforest around Manuel Antonio with this night walk . It starts in a green cathedral-like forest with beautiful butterflies before entering the pitch-black jungle filled with the sounds of insects and frogs. You’ll get the chance to see and photograph tree frogs, snakes, colorful insects, and more.  

A sloth in Costa Rica

One of my favorite activities in Costa Rica is spotting sloths! They can be found all over the country in national parks, wildlife rescue centers, or even in towns.

Sloths are most common in the wild in places like Puerto Viejo, Manuel Antonio, Uvita, Tortuguero, Dominical, and around the Osa Peninsula . You may spot them snoozing in palm trees at the beach or climbing trees along the side of the road. Sloths very rarely come down to the ground, so look up!  

Sloths are pretty predictable creatures, so the locals here often know exactly where they like to hang out. If you want a better chance of seeing a sloth, take a tour while you’re in a national park or wildlife reserve, and often your guide can take you right to one!  

Some of the best sloth watching tours are in La Fortuna . There’s a great area to see lots of sloths known as Sloth’s Territory. You can take an observation hike  through the property along La Havana River. Two and three-toed sloths make their home here. The tour includes a guide and a professional telescope to help see the sloths up close. I have done this tour and enjoyed it, we even saw poison dart frogs.

For a full day experience,  this tour leaves from San Jose for Tenorio Volcano National Park. You can see the incredible Rio Celeste with its gorgeous blue waters and visit the Sloth Sanctuary.  

In Guanacaste National Park,  guided tours  offer the chance to see sloths in the wild. There’s also a waterfall, butterfly garden, and a visit to a coffee and banana plantation included.  

People party in the plaza in Montezuma, Costa Rica

Costa Rica has an electric nightlife created by both locals and tourists. Although I am personally not much of a party-goer, I do enjoy a few beers after a day of exploring and found Costa Rica perfect for this.

Not only will you often find live music at bars and restaurants, but with pretty relaxed street drinking laws, people tend to just hang out in the town square or on the beach. One of my favorite street parties was in Montezuma ! On top of that, lots of hostels around the country have fun bars with live music and games.

A great hostel to check out for a party is Selina . They have multiple locations around Costa Rica, including in Puerto Viejo , Manuel Antonio , La Fortuna , Monteverde , Santa Teresa , Nosara , San Jose , and Tamarindo . When I lived in La Fortuna, I spent lots of time at the Selina having a few beers!

One of the hanging bridges at Mistico Hanging Bridges in La Fortuna

If you want to get amongst the treetops to spot wildlife, I highly suggest visiting the  Mistico Hanging Bridges  while in La Fortuna. The hanging bridges are located on a large property that a local family privately protects. Although not a national park, you’ll find just as much wildlife here as you would in places such as  Manuel Antonio .  

In the park, there are 14 bridges that you can visit, with 6 of them being hanging bridges. The trail through the forest is 3.2 kilometers/2 miles long, and although the 6 hanging bridges are the main attraction, there’s lots more to see. I loved the two viewpoints of Arenal Volcano. My favorite spot was behind the restrooms at the ticket office! 

Tours at Mistico Hanging Bridges can be done self-guided or on a tour from La Fortuna . On a self-guided tour, the entrance to the Mistico Hanging Bridges is $26 USD for adults, $16 USD for teens, and kids under 10 go free! You are then free to explore at your own pace, and 2 hours is more than enough time.  

If you want to do a guided tour, I highly  suggest this specific tour with Mistico . They know the property well and know exactly where to find wildlife such as sloths, monkeys, snakes, and more. It’s a 2.5 hour guided walk that includes transport from La Fortuna, your entrance ticket, and an expert guide for only $45 USD. 

Hanging Bridge in Monteverde Cloud Forest

One of the best Costa Rica activities is exploring the Monteverde Cloud Forest . As the name suggests, this tropical forest is full of low-hanging clouds and mist. It’s one of the rarest habitats in the entire world and is truly a must-see.  

The Monteverde Cloud Forest is located about halfway in-between San Jose and Liberia. If you’re coming from either of those places, it’s around a three-hour drive. While the cloud forest is the main draw, plan to spend a few days here to explore all the  other things to do in Monteverde (the town here is called Santa Elena).

Once here, there’s a $25 USD admission to pay at the entrance gate. The park opens at 7 am, and get here early as often there’s a line-up by 8 am. Once inside, you are free to explore the network of trails here that covers about 8 miles (13 kilometers). One of the best trails is the Sendero Trail which leads to a suspension bridge – a great place to spot some of the many birds that live here.  

If you want to learn more about the cloud forest and all the animals inside it, I recommend booking a guided tour. The guides on these tours are amazing at spotting animals like monkeys, sloths, and birds that you might have walked right by.  

This private tour  allows you to explore the forest at your own pace with an expert guide. Your chances of spotting rare birds are greatly increased and you’ll learn a ton. Or, for a totally different experience,  book a night walk through the forest to see all the animals that wake up at night – about 80% of the mammals here! 

Related Read: Another must-do here is a coffee tour in Monteverde ! Our absolute favorite is the Don Juan tour which includes tastings of coffee, chocolate, and sugar cane.

Riding an ATV in Jaco Costa Rica through the jungle

Riding an ATV through Costa Rica is so much fun! You can cover a lot of ground while exploring and get to certain areas you just couldn’t reach in a car.  

ATV tours are offered throughout the country, so wherever you’re based, it’s likely an option. However, my favorite areas to ride an ATV through are Tamarindo and La Fortuna. Don’t be intimidated either, it can be your first time on an ATV and you’ll still have fun. Tours are great options if you don’t have much experience as you’ll get instructions and advice before you head out. 

In Tamarindo, you can take an ATV to see a variety of beaches on this beach adventure tour . You’ll kick up sand, cross a river, and have some great mountain views. Keep an eye out for rare trees that this area is known for including Guanacaste, pochote, and teak.  

In La Fortuna, taking an ATV out for a spin is also one of the best things to do. You can ride an ATV right next to Arenal Volcano! Prepare to get muddy on this volcano ATV tour  where you’ll see impact craters from the volcano’s last eruption, a river with volcanic mud, and Arenal Lake. This is without a doubt my favorite place to ATV!

Canyoning in La Fortuna

Canyoning is an outdoor adventure sport that combines navigating through obstacles, including canyons and rivers, and rappelling down waterfalls. It’s one of the best things to do in Costa Rica as the country is known for all the incredible obstacle courses created by Mother Nature.  

While there are places to go canyoning all over the country, without a doubt, the BEST place is La Fortuna. If you’re around Jaco, that’s also another good option. You’ll need to book a tour for this to ensure you have the right safety equipment and guide to the area. 

In La Fortuna,  explore the Lost Canyon on this tour . You’ll rappel down a 150-foot (46 meters) cliff known as “Big Boy” and drop into a natural swimming pool at the bottom. Then, you’ll descend into the Lost Canyon to explore a 200-foot (61 meters) cliff and waterfall. The tour also includes lunch and transportation for under $100 USD.  

In Jaco, I loved this action-packed canyoning tour . You’ll take a short hike into the canyon and jump-start the adventure with a zipline above a waterfall. Then you’ll rappel down four different waterfalls, scramble over rocks and boulders and finish with more ziplining. It’s all based on a beautiful 800-acre property where you’re likely to spot monkeys, toucans, and scarlet macaws along the way.  

The big tanks at Hacienda Alsacia - Starbucks Coffee Farm

While you’re in Costa Rica, make sure you stop for a cup of coffee. Costa Rica is famous for its coffee. The country produces more than 1.5 million bags of coffee every year that is shipped all over the world! But while you’re here, you can enjoy a fresh cup of coffee with coffee beans grown probably not far from where you’re sitting.  

If you travel across Costa Rica, you’ll see the coffee fields covering the hillsides. The majority of the country’s coffee is grown in the Cartago, Alajuela, Puntarenas, Heredia, and San José regions. Thanks to ideal growing conditions – volcanic soil, good climate, and high altitude, the coffee is top-notch.  

Most of the coffee here (almost 90%) is grown by small farmers. One of the best things to do in Costa Rica is to get the freshest cup of coffee and learn about this important crop on a coffee tour.  

Coffee tours are offered all over Costa Rica , so you’re sure to find one near where you’re staying. Here are a few great options by location: 

  • La Fortuna – Visit a family-owned farm near La Fortuna on this tour . You’ll see how coffee goes from bean to cup and see how it is grown, roasted, and ground.  
  • San José –  Tour the Doka Estate  coffee plantation to get up close to coffee production and have a bonus visit to the working sugar mill that processes sugar cane.  
  • Quepos/Manuel Antonio – Learn about the history of the coffee bean  while touring a local farm  and enjoying a variety of tasty samples. 
  • Guanacaste (including Liberia & Tamarindo) –  Tour a coffee farm  on this day trip from the Guanacaste area that also includes visiting a nearby waterfall.  

making chocolate in Limon, Costa Rica

Chocolate is a favorite sweet treat of mine and I’m not alone – around one billion people eat chocolate every day! In Costa Rica, cocoa beans and chocolate have a long history. Cacao beans were sacred to the Indigenous people here and even used as currency. The beans were also made into a special drink for ceremonies and celebrations.  

Today, cacao beans are still a very important crop in Costa Rica. There are lots of different farms that offer chocolate tours throughout the country. You’ll have a chance to learn about the origins of chocolate and taste some (easily the best part!)  

By far, the best chocolate tour I’ve been on is at the  Rancho Raices de Osa  in Puerto Jimenez. We toured the beautiful property to see the chocolate-making process from start to finish. We learned about organic farming, got the chance to try the cacao along the way at every stage, and even snack on some fresh fruit. Then, we made our own chocolate and finished off with a refreshing cacao face mask.

In other parts of the country,  this tour in La Fortuna  and  this tour in Manuel Antonio  both take place at cocoa plantations. If you’re in the San José area,  visit Botánica Chocolate  to sample different cacao recipes from ancient cacao beverages to the chocolate we love today.  

Tuna at El Point, Jaco

As a foodie, I love trying out different restaurants, and Costa Rica has some amazing ones. The country has two coastlines – Pacific and Caribbean – so seafood is one of the specialties for sure. You know if it’s local seafood, it’s going to be fresh!  

Wherever you are in the country, don’t leave without trying some ceviche. It’s perfect for a hot day, and you’ll find it in most restaurants. This seafood dish combines diced cubes of raw fish that are tossed with a citrus juice like lemon or lime. The reaction of the citrus marinade with the seafood helps tenderize the fish and adds flavor.  

In Dominical, there are  many great restaurants  to try, but my favorite for fish tacos was  El Pescado Loco . In particular the fried fish tacos were fresh and cooked to perfection! And don’t get me started on their chips and guac. It’s a simple establishment where the locals really take pride in their food.

I also loved the beachside restaurant  Playa de Los Artistas  in Montezuma. It’s considered one of the top restaurants, and it’s among my  favorites in Montezuma . The menu is tailored to whatever fresh and local ingredients they have on hand, with a focus on seafood. I recommend the seared tuna with sour and sweet sauce and toasted cacao and mint, or the octopus in red wine.  

If you’re visiting Jaco, be sure to check out El Point . It’s one of the best restaurants in Jaco and their tuna with mango chutney is so delicious!

Two beers at Butterfly Brewing Co

The craft beer industry is booming in Costa Rica with breweries popping up across the country . This is great news for craft beer lovers like me. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a cold one in paradise!

One of the biggest names in microbrewing is  Costa Rica Craft Brewing . They are based out of San José, but you’ll find their beers widely distributed. The two most popular drinks are their Libertas Tropical Golden Ale and La Sequa Red Ale.  

My favorite spot for craft beer in Jaco is at  PuddleFish Brewery . They have a rotating selection of beers on tap, but the mango pale ale and strong IPA were great when we popped in. They also  offer tours  so you can see the brewing process and try a few samples to figure out what you like.  

In Tamarindo, pay a visit to  Volcano Brewing Co . Have a drink at the beachside restaurant and pub that often has live music and plenty of sunshine. I had lunch here too and highly recommend the pulled pork sandwich paired with an IPA or a Pale Ale – I tried both, and they were delicious.  

I was thrilled to see a brewery open in Nosara when I was last there.  Guiones Brew Co  is making a name for themselves with a few great beers on tap (especially their IPA) and excellent wood-fired pizzas. It gets busy here for supper, so book in advance to secure a table.  

In the small town of Montezuma is Butterfly Brewing Co. they are located amongst the forest and all their beer is delicious!

La Paz Waterfall, Costa Rica

For an incredible day trip from San Jose, the  La Paz Waterfall Gardens  are less than an hour from the city center. It feels like stepping into another world with lush forest, five different waterfalls, and picturesque hiking trails among both rain and cloud forest.  

The property also houses the biggest butterfly garden in the world; an animal sanctuary with jungle cats, sloths, monkeys, a hummingbird garden, a frog pond; and a trout lake where you can catch your own fish for lunch!  

You can drive yourself here in a rental car and it’s best to come early in the day. You’ll want a few hours to explore while the park is open from 8 am to 5 pm. If you want to skip the line, you can  purchase a ticket in advance . Admission is $51.20 USD per adult and $33 USD for children.  

If you don’t have a car,  this guided tour includes transportation from San Jose as well as the entrance fee. You’ll also have a tour guide to navigate the trails with you and help you spot amazing wildlife that might be hiding in the trees.  

La Paz Waterfall Gardens is close to the Poas Volcano, so it’s worth visiting both on the same day! You can also drive yourself to the volcano and I recommend doing this first to have the best chance of clearer weather earlier in the day. Or, join t his guided tour that includes Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Gardens to easily have the chance to see both!  

Nayara Tented Camp in La Fortuna

Sleeping among the treetops was, and still is, a highlight of my travels through Costa Rica. Imagine mornings waking to the sound of birds, watching hummingbirds feed, or even sloths passing by – you never know what you might see!

Some of the best treehouse hotels in Costa Rica are:

TreeHouse Lodge  – This gorgeous moderately priced hotel is located just outside of Puerto Viejo in Punta Uva. Their treehouse bungalow is so cool and often fully booked up. Expect to live amongst a living tree with spectacular views of the forest! There is also a hot tub and a terrace to relax at.

Finca Bellavista  – This next hotel is actually a community of treehouses  located near Piedras Blancas National Park . They have some really cool treehouses that can accomodate larger groups, including the El Castillo Mastate, which is 30 meters off the ground! If you want to be fully disconnected from the rest of the world this is a great option!

Topos Tree House  – Located in Cahuita, this one-of-a-kind two-bedroom treehouse is the perfect treehouse experience. It’s very common to see sloths from the house as well as monkeys! It still located in a private jungle but it’s not too far of a walk from some great restaurants and the beach.

Hotel Costa Verde  – This cool hotel in Manuel Antonio has amazing rooms that include a cockpit cottage (an old plane) room among the treetops. There are three different pools on-site so you can avoid too much of a crowd. This treehouse hotel has its own restaurant and a bunch of activites that you can participate in right from the property including horseback riding, hiking and fishing.

Nayara Tented Camp  – This luxury treehouse hotel is located in La Fortuna with magnificent views of Arenal Volcano. The rooms sleep up to four people and come with their own private infinity pool. This is luxury! Other features include an Argentinian restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa.

view into the Irazu Volcano blue crater

In the province of Cartago, to the east of San José, you will find the  Irazu Volcano . This is Costa Rica’s highest volcano, and it’s still active!

It’s very accessible to get to Irazu, and you can rent a car or take a bus. If you enjoy hiking, this is also a great place since the volcano has its own national park with trails and amenities like a cafeteria, parking, toilets, and picnic areas. The entrance of the national park is $15 USD and its opening hours are from 8 am to 4 pm. 

You can also book a half-day tour  to visit the volcano which includes transportation and snacks! This tour will stay 3 hours at the volcano. Plus, on the way back, it will also stop to tour the Basilica de Los Angeles in Cartago, the Costa Rican Cathedral of la “virgencita” (the patron saint of Costa Rica to whom the Costa Ricans pay homage every August during its pilgrimage.)

Walking along North Espadilla Beach, Manuel Antonio

Who doesn’t love a day at the beach? Costa Rica is home to some of the best beaches in Central America! The white sand is often lined with lush jungle, and spending the day down at the beach is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica.

My favorite beaches to just relax are on the Caribbean side in Puerto Viejo. There are clam bays here where you can just lay back and relax in the ocean drinking fresh coconuts. Another place with breathtaking beaches is Manuel Antonio. Both inside and outside of the national park, the beaches are spectacular! When choosing  where to stay in Manuel Antonio  – I love choosing a hotel near the beach!

Of course, the beaches are beautiful everywhere in Costa Rica including Uvita, Dominical, Jaco, Santa Teresa, Tamarindo, and more. You name a place on the coast, and I guarantee there’s a great beach nearby!

A lady stands on the hand at Mantra Trail hike within Hacienda y Beneficio La Chimba to the Mantra hand

It’s safe to say you’ll do a lot of walking in Costa Rica if you want to explore some of the best attractions – many of which I have mentioned above! However, just in case the hikes above, such as Rio Celeste, La Fortuna Waterfalls, or Nuayaca Waterfalls aren’t enough, there are some other cool hikes to enjoy.

Mantra Trail La Chimba  – Located just outside San Jose, this beautiful 4.5-kilometer (2.8 miles) each way hiking trail takes you through the coffee plantations to a giant hand made of wood that overlooks the valley. The trail opens at 5:30 am and costs $12 USD to hike.

Cerro Chirripó, Parque Nacional Chirripó  – Cerro Chirripo is Costa Rica’s highest peak and on a multi-day hike you can literally stand on top of Costa Rica. Sitting at 12,533 feet (3,820 meters) above sea level, hiking Cerro Chirripo begins from the town of San Gerardo de Rivas. It’s best suited to advanced hikers.

Bajos del Toro Waterfall Hike  – The Bajos del Toro Waterfall hike is a beautiful trail located 2 hours from San Jose in Bajos del Toro. The 1.3-mile (2.1 kilometers) loop track is moderately difficult and leads to the stunning Bajos del Toro Waterfall. Entry is $14 USD for adults and $7 USD for children.

A local Costa Rican woman cooks on a cooking class

As you’ll quickly discover, the food in Costa Rica is SO good. The best way to take the tastes of the country home with you is by learning how to cook Costa Rican food.  

I did a cooking class with a local lady in Puerto Viejo and it was amazing! You get one-on-one instruction and get to eat your creations – how good is that?  

There are lots of options for cooking classes across the country, but these are a few different options.  

  • La Fortuna –  Join a Costa Rican family  in their home to make a traditional Casado as well as picadillos, tortillas, and guisados. You’ll even mix up a tropical cocktail called Kiss of the Cacique.  
  • Jaco – Learn from cookbook author, Melissa Guzman, in her home or have her come to wherever you’re staying for a  private cooking class . She’ll teach you healthy and classic dishes including ceviche and soup while you prepare a delicious lunch. 
  • Manuel Antonio – Take a cooking class  at a beautiful property that houses a botanical garden, vanilla plantation, cacao plantation, and sugarcane mill. You’ll start with a hike to learn about the local and fresh ingredients before getting to work in the kitchen. 
  • Online – Wherever in the country you may be, join this cooking class via ZOOM . You’ll get a list of ingredients to buy ahead of time and then learn recipes like empanadas, tortillas con queso, and Arroz con Pollo. The chef will pass down her secrets in the kitchen and the stories behind local dishes.  

Stand up paddle boarding in Manuel Antonio

SUP or stand-up paddleboarding is a fun way to explore the coastline of Costa Rica while also staying active. Rentals are also relatively cheap, usually costing around $10 USD per hour depending on where you are.

Three of my favorite places to SUP in Costa Rica are Manuel Antonio, Puerto Viejo, and Samara! In fact, in Samara, the waves are perfect if you have ever wanted to try SUP surfing – it’s actually one of the best things to do in Samara ! Afterward, be sure to check out the best restaurants in Samara and before you go, the best hotels !

Related Read: If you’re planning on driving in Costa Rica , be sure to read our guide before renting a car in Costa Rica !

Farm to table Uvita

One of the best meals I enjoyed in Costa Rica was at a small mountainside restaurant inside of a Bed and Breakfast in Uvita called Oasis Uvita . They offer an epic farm-to-table dinner experience and the chef creates an amazing meal based on what’s available and fresh! The restaurant offers 3 or 4-course meals and the food is delicious. On top of that, the location is perfect so you might even consider staying here!

Farm-to-table dining experiences are becoming more popular throughout Costa Rica and you can now do them in places such as Hacienda Okhra in Santa Teresa, Farm to Table Escondido in Monteverde, and La Casa in Nosara.

Sitting at the top on Montezuma Waterfall, Costa Rica

  Montezuma Waterfalls  is one of the few free waterfalls you can visit in Costa Rica .

You can easily walk to Montezuma Waterfalls from town and hike the somewhat confusing trail (read our things to do in Montezuma blog for more info) to explore the waterfall. The lower falls are the easiest to get to and involve walking along the right-hand side of the river for 20 minutes until you reach the waterfall. Although easy to get to, the lower falls are not the best place to enjoy a swim. 

Although visiting Montezuma Waterfall is free, there is a 1,000 colones fee (cash only) to use the trail up to the upper waterfalls. Be sure to bring suitable footwear and be prepared to get them wet. 

Please Note:  There is a free traill from the lower falls to the upper falls too. But it is dangerous to climb, and 1,000 Colones ($1.60 USD) is not worth your life, so please take care! 

50. Drive the “Waterfall Trail”

A waterfall at Pozo Azul between San Jose and La Fortuna

If you’re looking for some adventurous waterfalls to explore, head down the waterfall trail between San Jose and La Fortuna. I have to be honest though, I made this name up myself but trust me, this is one epic road trip!

The road is actually Highway 708, it starts about a 1.5-hour drive outside of San Jose city limits near a town called  Bajos del Toro . The highway runs between Parque Nacional Juan Castro Blanco and Parque Nacional Volcán Poás. Once you pass Bajos del Toro, you will drive a route that allows you to stop at several different waterfalls. They are all privately owned so the entrance fees vary, however, they are much cheaper than the more developed popular waterfalls all over the country.

We visited a few of them and our favorite was called Pozo Azul . Here, we paid 3,000 Colones (around $5 USD) each and walked to a viewpoint over the top of a huge waterfall. We then climbed to the bottom of the waterfall for an even more spectacular view. This involves navigating loose rocks and a steep climb – but that’s what we loved about it!

The entire time we were there we only saw a handful of other people. It’s definitely more of an off-the-beaten-path destination.

Other waterfalls in the area include Catarata del Toro , Tesoro Escondido Waterfall , and Cataratas Las Gemelas. However, this trip isn’t just about the waterfalls, the road is stunning and stop at La Terraza del Café de Logan for a coffee on the way.

Tip:  This road connects San Jose with La Fortuna, so you can choose to drive this route if you’re headed that way. Keep in mind, you should have a reliable car to drive this route. It travels along steep cliffs through gorgeous mountain towns. Pozo Azul is also home to a campsite and restaurant.

Getting Around Costa Rica

Bailey with our rental car near Rio Celeste Costa Rica

How you choose to get around Costa Rica is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your holiday here! How you do it depends on your budget, travel style, and comfort level. 

Without a doubt, the number one way to explore Costa Rica is in a rental car. We book rental cars on the Discover Cars website as we have had good experiences with them in the past.

One of the things you need to watch for when renting a car in Costa Rica is the mandatory insurance that the government requires you to have. There are a lot of very cheap rentals that don’t include this mandatory insurance (TPL) in the original booking price, but there are also ones that do. To avoid additional surprise charges when you pick up your rental car, be sure to rent a car that includes the mandatory insurance when you book.

Thankfully, on Discover Cars it’s easy to tell apart the companies that include the mandatory insurance and those that don’t. The trick is you can’t pick any car on their website. In the picture below, you can see this rental car, with pick up in Jaco, includes the TPL. That means the mandatory insurance is included in the price. Any cover you get above that is extra.

Of course, I still suggest getting the full coverage offered by Discover Cars, which covers you even more.

You can  browse cars on Discover Cars here .

TPL Cover Costa Rica

If renting a car isn’t in your budget, you don’t feel comfortable driving in Costa Rica , or you just don’t like driving, shuttles are the next best option. There are hundreds of shuttle routes available all over the country, and they are very affordable.

Shuttles in Costa Rica are specifically for tourists and often include pick up and drop off at your selected hotels and airports. The drivers also speak some English, and the vehicles have air conditioning. You’ll also be guaranteed a seat when you book a shuttle (which isn’t the case with the public bus system.)

To get the best price, use the website  Bookaway . They compare all the offers and prices of shuttle companies in Costa Rica so you get the best price! Honestly, we have saved so much money using Bookaway! 

You can search for shuttles online on Bookaway here.

Lastly, you can use the public bus system. On short journeys, such as from San Jose to La Fortuna or Uvita to Manuel Antonio, this system is great. However, the longer the journey the more hassle and time spent on a bus. It’s undoubtedly best to save the public bus in Costa Rica for short and straightforward trips!  

The public buses are definitely the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica, but they are not always very reliable and schedules often change without notice and delays are to be expected. The buses can also be very crowded and hot – so just be prepared!

It’s also good to speak some Spanish if you plan on riding the public bus since most drivers and ticket booth operators don’t speak English.

A selfie of Bailey and Daniel

Costa Rica isn’t one of the best places to visit in the world for no reason. The above activities and attractions in Costa Rica, along with the friendly faces and safe environment together, make this country one of my favorites!

Thanks so much for reading! I hope you enjoyed this guide to the best things to do in Costa Rica. It’s truly one of the most enjoyable blogs I have written, and I am sure you have lots of great ideas for your upcoming trip! If you did enjoy this guide, then be sure to check out more of our in-depth guides to Costa Rica, such as:

Things you NEED to know about shuttles in Costa Rica

Is Costa Rica expensive? Cost of traveling to Costa Rica

BEST beachfront resorts in Costa Rica (for all budgets!)

8 of the best places to visit in Costa Rica

Sarah Gilbert

Mar 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Woman hiking the Arenal 1968 Trail, Costa Rica.

Costa Rica has many beautiful places to visit. Here are the best © MB Photography / Getty Images

Costa Rica is home to everything from steamy rainforests and misty cloud forests, to still-smoking volcanoes and sublime beaches strung along Pacific and Caribbean coastlines.

The country’s motto is pura vida – or pure life – and a quarter of its landmass is protected by national parks and reserves , offering a wealth of wildlife watching among untamed nature.

And there’s enough adrenaline-fuelled action to satisfy the most demanding thrill-seeker, from white water rafting to zip lining and serious surf breaks. Below, we look at the places you won’t want to miss.

1. La Fortuna

Best place for outdoor adventures  

Volcán Arenal’s picture-perfect cone looms over the town of La Fortuna . Up until 2010, it thrilled visitors with plumes of smoke and lava pyrotechnics, but today climbing to the summit is illegal.

You can still get up close to its lava-covered lower slopes by taking the Las Coladas trail, one of several unforgettable hikes around Volcán Arenal National Park, about 7km (10.5 miles) west of La Fortuna.

Hike down to La Fortuna’s impressive waterfall , which plunges out of thick vegetation into an emerald-green pool, or get muddy on a spelunking tour through the limestone labyrinth of the Venado Caves . 

Near Volcán Arenal National Park, around 7km (10.5 miles) west of La Fortuna, there’s horseback riding, mountain biking, rappelling and ziplining on offer too, along with kayaking and windsurfing on Lake Arenal. The region’s natural hot springs make the perfect place to ease weary muscles.

Humpback whale breaching off the coast of an island

2. Osa Peninsula  

Best place for getting off-the-beaten path

The wild and remote Osa Peninsula is all rainforests, rivers and mangroves, ringed by pristine beaches. 

Wake to a chorus of chirrups, whoops, caws and the sonorous roar of howler monkeys. Watch spider monkeys put on an impressive display of treetop gymnastics while scarlet macaws squawk and preen.

It’s just a typical morning in the Parque Nacional Corcovado , one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

The gin-clear waters of Bahía Drake are home to humpback whales and dolphins, and it’s the jumping-off point for diving and snorkeling tours to the marine playground of Isla del Caño.

Planning tip: The whale season generally runs between the months of December and April and July and October.

3. Monteverde

Best place for birds, butterflies and cloud forest canopy tours

Away from Costa Rica’s sun-soaked beaches and steamy rainforests, Monteverde’s mist-wreathed cloud forest reserves sit high on the country’s mountainous spine. It’s one of the world’s biodiversity hot spots, with a staggering array of flora and fauna. 

At Curi-Cancha – a cattle ranch turned private reserve – trails wind through primary, secondary and open forests buzzing with jewel-colored hummingbirds and rowdy toucans. 

Look out for the aptly named resplendent quetzal with its brilliant green and crimson plumage and sweeping tail feathers – they’re easier to spot during the mating season from March to June. 

For a bird’s eye view of the forest, take an adrenaline-fueled ride on a zipline, skimming the canopy at high speed – Sky Trek Monteverde has an automatic braking system, useful for kids and anxious adults.

Planning tip: Take a guided night walk to discover a different side to the forest, when nocturnal critters such as sloths, snakes and kinkajous get active to a soundtrack of the frog chorus.

A surfer wades out to join other surfers in the water

4. The Nicoya Peninsula  

Best place for sand and surf

Famed for its postcard-perfect beaches and sweet Pacific swells, Nicoya has something for wave riders of all levels.

There’s wildlife too: just north of the party town of Tamarindo , Grande Beach – part of Las Baulas National Marine Park – is a nesting site for leatherback turtles from October to March.

Among the peninsula’s finest strips of sand are the blissfully secluded Playa Barrigona and Sámara , popular with both Ticos and visitors thanks to its calm, safe waters that are ideal for novice surfers. 

Further south, the remote, jungle-backed town of Santa Teresa – long a haunt of surfers-in-the-know – is now a hip hangout with cool cafes, sushi restaurants and designer boutiques.

Like an advert for living the pura vida , Nicoya has been named one of the world’s five Blue Zones , where residents have longer-than-average lifespans thanks to their healthy habits.

Planning tip: Nicoya’s surf season runs from December to April; most surf schools are closed during the rainy season, from August to November.

5. The Caribbean Coast

Best place for turtle spotting

On Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast , the flooded forest of Parque Nacional Tortuguero has been dubbed a mini Amazon.

It’s home to 400 bird species and from July to October, it's a sanctuary for nesting green sea turtles. Look out for manatees, caiman and crocodiles as you tour its skinny waterways by boat or kayak.

To the south is the diminutive Parque Nacional Cahuita and its namesake village, which protects coastal rainforest, coral reefs and pristine beaches.

Further south, the laid-back Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is the Caribbean Coast’s most developed beach town, with an Afro-Caribbean vibe and lively nightlife.

The village of Manzanillo is quieter, set in the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge , where you can snorkel the reefs, kayak through mangroves and hike along rainforest trails. Cycle 4km (2.5 miles) to chill on the idyllic palm-fringed beach at Punta Uva – set your alarm to catch a spectacular sunrise.

People walk along the edge of a beach next to a jungle

6. Manuel Antonio National Park

Best place for getting up close to wildlife

Fronted by spectacular volcanic-sand beaches and backed by lush rainforest,  Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio is Costa Rica’s smallest national park and one of its most popular.

Hiking along its well-marked trails is one of the easiest ways to spot wildlife – but don’t expect to have it to yourself.

You may spot a black spiny-tailed iguana perched above the entrance gate, boisterous squirrel monkeys scampering from tree to tree or marauding racoons searching for a snack.

And with the help of a guide, you might catch a glimpse of a flamboyant poison dart frog no bigger than a thumbnail or a shadow that turns into a snoozing three-toed sloth.

Planning tip: Get to the park before 10am to avoid tour groups and peak heat – it opens at 7am and is closed on Tuesdays.   

7. The Central Valley

Best place for volcanoes, coffee and rafting

At the heart of the country, the  Central Valley encompasses the cities of San José, Heredia, Cartago and Alajuela, and three active volcanoes. Irazú is the country’s highest – on a clear day, you can see both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts from the summit. 

Turrialba is its most active, and at  Poás you can peer into its enormous craters, one belching sulfurous mud, another filled with a shimmering lagoon.

Close to Poás, the  La Paz Waterfall Gardens  offers a multitude of natural wonders and Costa Rica’s largest animal sanctuary, and the town of Turrialba is the launching pad for white water rafting on the scenic  Pacuare River , a waterway packed with adrenaline-inducing rapids.

And don’t miss a tour around an organic coffee finca, such as  Finca Rosa Blanca , to see how the beans are plucked, dried and roasted before a cupping session.

8. San José

Best place for museums and nightlife

Don't bypass the urban jungle:  San José , Costa Rica’s cosmopolitan capital, is worth a stopover.

There’s a dazzling collection of gold at the Museo de Oro Precolombino y Numismática , while the state-of-the-art Museo de Jade houses the world’s largest collection of pre-Columbian jade, or you can tour the architectural splendor of the Teatro Nacional .

The buzzy Mercado Central is perfect for souvenir shopping, and trendy Barrio Escalante is the city’s gastro hub, where you can feast on farm-to-table fare and sample local craft brews – there's organic coffee for the morning after.

Planning tip: If you want to go museum hopping, buying a three-museum pass covering the Museo de Oro Precolombino y Numismática, Museo de Jade and Museo Nacional will save you money.

This article was first published March 2021 and updated March 2024

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60 Things to Do in Costa Rica – For All Budgets and Interests

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things to do in costa rica infographic

Are you looking for fun things to do in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is the kind of place where you will never get bored. There is always some fun activity to take part in.

After living in the country for several years we have been fortunate enough to participate in almost all the fun things that Costa Rica has to offer.

With so many Costa Rica activities to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. To help you out, we have compiled a list of 60 things to do that are guaranteed to make your trip an unforgettable experience.

We included info on where to participate in each activity, how to organize your adventure, and money-saving tips.

Alright, lets get planning all your fun things to do in Costa Rica!

Go Ziplining

zip lining monteverde

Nothing screams “Costa Rica” like soaring over the tree tops in a fun zip-lining adventure. There are zip-lining companies located all throughout the country. These companies range in price points and overall experience. 

We like zip lining in Monteverde or La Fortuna because there are several companies to choose from and the views are excellent. 

Check out our guide to ziplining for all the details.

Visit a Waterfall

la paz waterfall

There are so many waterfalls to choose from in Costa Rica! A few of our favorite “must-visit” spots are; La Fortuna Waterfall , Montezuma Waterfall , Nauyaca Waterfall , Rio Celeste , Llanos de Cortez , and La Paz Waterfall .

Check out our guide to waterfalls for all the details. 

Go to a Soccer Game

Ticos love soccer (or football as I guess we should call it). In every town you can almost always find a soccer field in the town square.

It’s fun to watch a local game or if you would like an even more exciting experience, try to catch a professional game at the national stadium in San Jose. 

Check out a Museum

If you find yourself with some time in San Jose , why not check out a museum? Especially on a rainy day, this is a great activity.

A few of the museums you can visit are the Jade Museum, The National Museum, and the Children’s Museum. 

Try Some Craft Beer

beer dominical

In recent years a ton of craft breweries have started sprouting up around the country. You can find breweries in almost every town. 

If you want a really unique experience we suggest going on a craft beer walking tour in San Jose with a guide (or making your own tour).

Check out our guide to craft beer for all our tips. 

Watch the Sunrise

sunrise in cahuita

On the Caribbean coast, it is possible to enjoy the sunrise every morning around 5:30.

Personally, I feel there is no better way to start my day than watching the sunrise. It always feels a bit magical to get up before everyone else and sit on a peaceful beach while the world restarts again.

One of the best things about the sunrise in Costa Rica is that you can also enjoy the sounds of all the wildlife waking up.

Watch the Sunset

tambor costa rica sunset with pink sky

O the Pacific Coast you can enjoy the sunset every day around 5:30 pm. We suggest bringing a few drinks to the beach to watch the sunset before dinner.

Or, enjoy an early dinner at a beachfront restaurant and watch the sunset as you eat.

Keep in mind that the second the sun starts to go down the mosquitos tend to come out in full force. 

See Sea Turtles

ostional costa rica

There are a few places throughout the country to see mom sea turtles laying eggs and babies making their way into the ocean for the first time. 

Our favorite places to experience this are in Tortuguero on the Caribbean Coast and Ostional on the Pacific Coast. 

In Tortuguero, turtle season is best between July and October. 

In Ostional, it really depends, but usually, October and November are good months to visit. 

Visit a Coffee Farm

hacienda alsakia coffee tour

Do you drink coffee every morning? I think I am one of the rare people who grew up with two non-coffee-drinking parents. But, I have been converted to the good side of life and enjoy it now.

Anyway, in Costa Rica you can learn all about how coffee is grown and produced at one of the many coffee farm tours throughout the country.

Our favorite area to enjoy this is actually in Alajuela , very close to the San Jose International Airport. We suggest arranging your tour with Doka Estates .

It’s the perfect activity if you find yourself spending a night there after arriving in the country or before the conclusion of your trip.

Check out our guide to coffee farms for all the details.

Explore a National Park

corcovado

Costa Rica is home to many many national parks located all throughout the country. The most popular national park is Manuel Antonio National Park located on the Pacific Coast. Here you can see a ton of wildlife in a condensed area. 

We also love Cahuita National Park and Corcovado National Park . Well, we actually love all the national parks, but those two are really great to visit. 

Walk on Hanging Bridges

hanging bridge

Seeing the rich landscape of Costa Rica from above is always a treat. There are hanging bridges located all throughout the country, but La Fortuna and Monteverde definitely have the most hanging bridge park options.

We suggest visiting hanging bridges as part of a combo tour with zip lining and other fun activities. 

things to do in costa rica infrographic

Visit Cocos Island and Dive with Sharks

If you want to take your scuba diving one step further, consider booking a multi-day liveaboard trip to Cocos Island. Cocos Island is a national park located way off the Pacific Coast. This adventure is only for those of you who are more experienced divers.

We have a full guide to this for more info.

Experience Bioluminescence

The absolute best place to experience bioluminescence in the country is on the Nicoya Peninsula in Paquera. This is possible year-round, but it is best during a new moon for optimal darkness. 

Arrange Your Bioluminescence Tour

See Wildlife with a Guide

guide manuel antonio

It is always possible to spot wildlife on your own, but guides are always better at spotting things. If you hire a guide at a national park, they likely walk that same area every day and know exactly where all the animals hang out.

Plus they are usually super knowledgeable about the animals.

And, they often carry a telescopic lens so you can get up a close up view of sloths and monkeys hiding way up in the trees. 

Go Swimming

It is possible to go swimming from the beach throughout the country. The water is always warm enough. We suggest asking at your hotel before swimming though. They can tell you which areas to avoid due to rip currents. 

Visit a Volcano Up Close

poas volcano

There are several volcanoes throughout the country that you can visit. Our suggestions are:

Poas Volcano : Located in Alajuela. This volcano is easy to get to from the San Jose Airport area. You can visit the crater up close. 

Arenal Volcano : Arenal is conical volcano that serves as a stunning backdrop for the town of La Fortuna.

Rincon de la Vieja : This is an active volcano located about an hour from the Liberia International Airport. It is a great place to go hiking and see bubbling mud and steam rising from the warm ground.

Irazu Volcano : Irazu is located in the town of Cartago near San Jose. This is the highest volcano in Costa Rica. 

Cross the Border into Panama

bocas del toro hotel

For more fun, extend your vacation down into Panama and visit Bocas del Toro . This is a series of island off of the Caribbean coast that is a literal paradise. 

Go Birdwatching

It is always possible to go birdwatching on your own, but we definitely suggest taking a guided tour if you want to ensure you will almost definitely see birds. 

Don’t forget your binoculars!

Go on a Whale Watching Tour

The best place to go whale watching in on the Pacific coast in Uvita. Usually, September is the best month to see the migrating and take a whale-watching tour.

We have a guide to whale watching tour here.

Relax at a Hot Spring

la fortuna hot spring

Hot Springs are located throughout the country, but the absolute best place to enjoy a soak in a spring is definitely in La Fortuna. Here you can enjoy the beautiful backdrop of the Arenal Volcano and hot springs at all different price points.

Check out our guide to hot springs in La Fortuna for more info.

Have a Picnic at the Beach

One of the most popular activities for Costa Rican families is to have a big family gathering on the beach with tons of food. This is something you can definitely do as well. Just visit a grocery store to grab your favorite picnic treats and enjoy a beach day.

Just keep in mind that it is sometimes difficult to find shade. And if you do find shade, make sure you aren’t sitting underneath potentially deadly coconuts. 

Try a Retreat Experience

If you are looking for a unique experience that will allow you to reconnect with yourself, we suggest checking out a retreat. There all sorts of different retreat options throughout the country from yoga to detox retreats. 

We created a complete list you can check out for more ideas. 

Relax at Your Hotel Pool

View of woman from behind with brown hair in infinity pool looking at the ocean in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has so many fun adventure activities, but you’re also likely visiting for vacation. So, sometimes you just need to take some time and soak up the relaxed life by your hotel pool. 

Explore Caves

There are two places we suggest visiting if you would like to explore caves. These are Barra Honda National Park on the Nicoya Peninsula and Venado Caves just north of La Fortuna.

Take the Puntarenas Ferry

ferry terminal costa rica

This isn’t an activity I would necessarily seek out, but if you need to get to the Nicoya Peninsula, this is often the best way to do it.

It’s a nice ride that takes about 80 minutes. The ferry moves at a snail’s pace, but the views are great.

You can find out more in our guide to the ferry in Costa Rica .

Check Out a Beach Bar

cocktail costa rica

If you are looking for a full tropical experience, check out a beach bar and enjoy a fancy cocktail. We have a full guide to beach bars for some good ideas.

Oh, and we have a guide to cocktails if you would like to pre-decide what you would like to drink.

Try the Local Cuisine

casado

Have you ever eaten Gallo Pinto? What about patacones? We definitely suggest trying all of the local cuisine while you are visiting.

If you want some great ideas, check out our guide to food .

If you are already PADI certified or looking to complete your certification, there are many places to go diving. The most popular area is in the Guanacaste region. 

Visit Sarchi to See the Ox Carts

oxcart

Not too far from the San Jose International Airport, there is a town called Sarchi. This is a furniture-making town and home to the creation of the colorful ox carts you will often see throughout the country. It’s a nice little day trip to enjoy some culture.

Take a Wildlife Boat Ride

palo verde

Our two favorite places to take a wildlife boat ride with an experienced guide are in Tortuguero along the river waterways and in Palo Verde National Park . 

On both tours, you guide will point out various wildlife during your fun trip.

Search for Secret Beaches

samara

Fun fact, by law all beaches in Costa Rica need to have public access. This means that no beach is off-limit to your exploration. a fun thing to do in Costa Rica is to just get in your rental car and drive to do a little beach hopping.

Our favorite place for this is in Guanacaste. You’ll find a lot of side roads that end at the beach.

Relax at a Spa

Sometimes you just need to relax and enjoy a spa treatment. Almost all resorts have a spa and some allow outside guests to arrange a treatment.

Alternatively, you can always ask at your hotel about getting a massage. Usually, they will be able to set this up for you.

Go Kayaking

kayak

There are not that many places to kayak because the water is not always that calm. However, there are rivers and lakes which you can kayak on. A few of our favorite places to rent a boat or go on a kayak tour are:

Lake Arenal in La Fortuna, Samara (you can rent a kayak on the beach), and Playa Biesanz in Manuel Antonio. 

Go Horseback Riding

horse riding

It is possible to enjoy a horseback riding tour almost anywhere in the country. These tours range from beach tours at sunset (which is always a really nice experience) to tours along jungle hills.

Learn About the Indigenous Culture

In Costa Rica and throughout Central America there are several indigenous tribes. In Costa Rica, some of them now support themselves by welcoming tourists to visit their villages or buy their artisanal products. This is a great way to support the locals while learning about the culture. 

Go Souvenir Shopping

60 Things to Do in Costa Rica - For All Budgets and Interests

In almost all touristy towns you will be able to find plenty of souvenir shops. Personally, we love buying souvenirs from artist stands and from the grocery store.

Yeap, Costa Rican coffee or chocolate makes a great souvenir and you can buy at almost any grocery store. 

Check out our guide to souvenir shopping for all the details .

Go Snorkeling

It is possible to take a boat tour that combines a nice day on the water with snorkeling almost all along both the Pacific and Caribbean coast.

If you would like a more budget-friendly version, just bring your own snorkel mask from home and swim out from shore to enjoy the underwater life.

60 Things to Do in Costa Rica - For All Budgets and Interests

Fishing tours are usually a more high-budget activity with a half-day or full-day tour costing usually $300 +

But, despite the high price tag, this is the perfect adventure activity for all you fishing fans. 

Thomas loves fishing, so we have accumulated tons of info, which you can read all about in our g uide to fishing in Costa Rica .

Take a Cooking Class

Are you interested in Costa Rican cuisine? One of the best ways to learn all about it is with a cooking class.

Visit a Farmer’s Market

ticos farmers market

Most larger towns have a farmer’s market once a week. I suggest asking at your hotel. They can likely direct you to when and where one will occur near you. 

We love farmers’ markets and go to our local one in San Jose every Saturday morning. Our favorite thing to do is buy crazy fruits that we have never seen before. 

Take a Night Time Wildlife Tour

This is possible in a few different spots throughout the country, but we especially love taking a nighttime wildlife tour in Monteverde. There are numerous companies that offer this.

Basically, you will go with an experienced guide and walk around a property while wearing a headlamp to look for night active animals. 

Visit a Wildlife Rescue Center

A wildlife rescue center is a good way to see a lot of animals in a condensed area. These rescue centers work hard to rehabilitate animals that have been injured or taken in illegally as pets.

A few places to check out are; The Jaguar Rescue Center, RESCATE WILDLIFE RESCUE CENTER, and KIDS SAVING THE RAINFOREST.

surfing costa rica

It is possible to surf on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts throughout the year. This is something to do in Costa Rica that people of all skill levels can enjoy. 

You can choose between bringing your own board, renting a board, taking lessons, or even enjoying a surf retreat. 

Our favorite surf spots are; Nosara , Tamarindo Beach , Pavones (home to the longest left hook in the world), Playa Hermosa , and Playa Grande.

Check out our guide to surfing for all the details.

Take a Yoga Class

A lot of small boutique type of hotels offer yoga classes. Another great way to enjoy yoga is by just going to the beach and doing some sunrise or sunset yoga on your own. 

The most popular yoga vibe towns are; Nosara, Samara, Avellenas, and Puerto Viejo.

Also, if you are interested in a yoga retreat, we have a guide to tons of great options . 

Go Inner Tubing

We did this activity with our families and it was so fun for people of all ages. We suggest this activity in La Fortuna. Go Adventure Park offers a great tour with transportation from your hotel.

See Crocodiles Up Close

crocodile

If you find yourself driving to the Southern Pacific area you will pass over a bridge for Rio Tarcoles soon before you get to Jaco. If you pull your car off to the side of the road you can walk onto the bridge and see the huge crocodiles below. 

Check our guide to Rio Tarcoles for all the details.

Find a Volunteer Opportunity

There are opportunities throughout the country ranging from helping with wildlife to teaching English in school.

These opportunities range from a day activity to a several-month commitment.

You can find out more in our guide to volunteering in Costa Rica .

Check out a Butterfly Garden

butterfly eating

One of the best way to visit a butterfly garden is in a combo tour at a ziplining/ hanging bridge park. Usually, they will teach you about the butterfly lifecycle and you can then walk around and see a variety of butterflies including the blue morpho.

Try White Water Rafting

In Costa Rica, it is possible to enjoy white water rafting for all skill levels.

Check out our guide to white water rafting to find the perfect place for your skill level and interests.

Take a Food Tour in San Jose

San Jose is not the nicest city in the world (and that is coming from people who live there). But, you might find yourself with a day or two there if you are flying in or out of the Juan Santamaria International Airport. 

To get the most of your time there we suggest taking a walking tour. Our favorite company for this is San Jose Urban Tours. They offer a day and evening tour. 

Check them out.

San Jose Walking & Bus Tour  – A great tour for people of all ages. There is some walking but it is not too strenuous, you can sit in a comfortable bus while learning about the city, and lunch is included. 

San Jose Night Food Tour & Dinner  – One of my absolute favorite tours in San Jose (because…food). This is a great way to learn about the San Jose sights and food culture. Your tour ends with a delicious authentic three-course meal. 

Walking & Food Tour  – Walk with a small group and dedicated guide through San Jose to learn about the culture and cuisine. Food samples are included. 

Bites & Bike Tour  – A fun way to experience Costa Rica with a knowledgeable guide. Bikes and helmets are provided. 

Rappel Down a Waterfall

Man rappelling down a waterfall in Costa Rica

If you are looking for one of the most thrilling things to do in Costa Rica, check out rappelling.

We created a complete guide to this including some of the best places to enjoy this activity throughout the country.

Enjoy a Catamaran Tour

We love catamaran tours because it is the perfect activity for people of all ages to enjoy. It is usually possible to join a group or if you are traveling with friends or family you can arrange your own private boat. 

Find out all the details here .

Go to the Cinema

I know, you didn’t come all the way to Costa Rica to go and see a movie. But, if you end up with a really rainy day, it might be the best option for you. The price of cinemas in Costa Rica is usually very reasonable and the theaters usually show movies in English with Spanish subtitles.

Just double-check before buying tickets to make sure it is not dubbed.

Learn how Chocolate is Made

chocolate

If coffee isn’t your thing, how about chocolate? Everybody loves chocolate, right? A visit to a chocolate farm is the perfect thing to do in Costa Rica. You not only get to learn all about how cacao is grown and turned into chocolate, but you also get to eat chocolate.

And, usually, you can eat a lot of it…like as much as you want!

There are chocolate farms located throughout the country, but our personal favorite is Rainforest Chocolate in La Fortuna .

Rent SUP Boards

This is not available everywhere because in a lot of places, the waves are too big. One of our favorite places for stand up paddle boarding is on Lake Arenal near La Fortuna.

Take an ATV Tour

We love ATV tours because they check all the boxes, in our minds. They are thrilling, can be done by almost all ages, and you will usually have the chance to see wildlife. ATV tours are available all around the country.

Take a day trip to a remote island

isla tortuga close up

Isla Tortuga is a remote island located off of the Pacific Coast. It is possible to take a day tour here which includes snorkeling and lunch from Manuel Antonio, Jaco, or the Nicoya Peninsula.

You can read more in our Isla Tortuga guide .

Go Parasailing

Our favorite parasailing spot is with Aguas Azules Parasailing & Watersports Tours in Manuel Antonio. It is a heart-racing experience with an absolutely amazing view.

Visit a Trucha

People fishing around small lake in Alajuela, Costa Rica

This isn’t a normal touristy thing to do, but we love it!

A trucha is basically a small lake that is stocked with fish.

You are given a line with some bate on the end and can stand there trying to catch a fish.

Once you do, it is handed over to the on-site restaurant and they will cook your fish up for you with some side dishes.

It is a fun activity for people of all ages and will give you a little taste of Costa Rican culture.

Learn about Sugar Cane Production

Sugar cane is commonly grown in Costa Rica. This is then processed to make candy and sugar. If you would like to learn all about the production process you can always visit a place that produces sugar cane.

One of our favorites is this combo tour in Monteverde .

FAQ: Things to Do in Costa Rica

What is the number one thing to do in costa rica.

It is hard to say that there is a number one thing to do. Some of the most popular activities include; zip lining, wildlife tours, surfing, hiking in national parks, and visiting volcanoes.

Does Costa Rica have nightlife?

Yes, Costa Rica has a good nightlife scene depending on where you go. San Jose, Jaco, and Tamarindo are known for their good scene.

What are some fun things to do in Costa Rica?

Some fun things to do are; go snorkeling, rent an ATV, go whitewater rafting, relax on the beach, visit a beach bar, hike up a volcano, and slide down a waterfall.

In conclusion, as you can see you will never run out of fun things to do in Costa Rica! From beaches to jungle activities, there is something for everyone and for all budgets.

If you have any questions don’t hesitate to leave them in the comment section below. We are always happy to help you out with planning your adventure to Costa Rica

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Costa Rica Travel Details : What You Need to Know

🚗 Should I rent a car in Costa Rica?

Having a rental car will give you the most flexibility when traveling in Costa Rica. This will also allow you to take fun day trips on your own.

  • Save 10% Plus Other Perks with Our Adobe Rental Car Discount
  • You might also consider; shared shuttle services or private transfer services

🏄🏽 How can I book things to do?

We find that Viator tends to have the most comprehensive selection of activities with secure booking and good cancellation policies.

🍍 I’m overwhelmed with planning. Can you help?

Of course! I suggest joining our Facebook group for specific questions and head to our Start Here Page to get started planning.

✈️ What is the best way to book a flight?

Usually, we have the best luck finding great prices with Skyscanner . Check for flights to both San Jose Airport (SJO) and Liberia Airport (LIR).

🛏️ What is the best way to book my Costa Rica hotels?

We highly suggest Booking.com for hotel bookings and typically use VRBO for Costa Rica vacation rentals.

🗣️ What is the main language in Costa Rica?

The main language in Costa Rica is Spanish. Most people working in tourism speak at least some English.

💰 What is the currency in Costa Rica?

The currency used in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC). However, the US dollar is widely accepted in most tourist areas

📞 What is the best way to stay connected?

An eSIM from Airalo is the easiest way to get 4G data while traveling in Costa Rica.

🌴 Is Costa Rica safe?

Generally, Costa Rica is considered safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it’s best to use caution and be aware of your surroundings.

🛂 Do you need a passport to go to Costa Rica?

Yes, Costa Rica is its own country. You will need a passport to visit.

costa rica tourist activities

Hi! We’re Thomas (the German) and Sarah (the US-er)

We met in Virginia, moved to Germany, and since 2016 we have lived in sunny Costa Rica. It was a spontaneous decision to move here, but it was the best decision! Now we spend our days roaming the country to bring you the very best in Costa Rica travel here on Costa Rica Vibes. Sarah is the writer. Thomas is the one keeping it all together. Want the whole crazy story?

costa rica tourist activities

Sarah McArthur

Sarah McArthur is the co-founder and main writer of Costa Rica Vibes. She is originally from the United States but has lived in sunny San Jose, Costa Rica since 2016.  She has traveled all over the country and now considers herself a self-proclaimed Costa Rica travel expert.  Want the whole crazy story?

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I am tentatively planning a family vacation to Costa Rica in May 2020. A few questions for you… (1) Is late May a bad time due to it being the start of the rainy season? (2) Our children are adrenaline junkies and fearless. We’d be looking for great waterfall hikes (where they can cliff jump – they did this in Maui and loved it). (3) What other activities are a “must do” for an adventurous family (kids are 14, 12 and 11)? We loved Maui because it gave us a taste of everything from the beach to the rain forest to the volcanos to exploring quaint Hawaiian towns. We’re looking for a similar experience in Costa Rica. What area would be most practical to stay to accomplish this? (4) Finally, I read an article on “what NOT to do in Costa Rica” and it was frightening! It talked about the poisonous snakes, frogs, spiders, disease ridden mosquitos, etc. I’m all for an outdoor adventure, but definitely don’t want to come across these deadly creatures. Was the article exaggerating?!? Thanks in advance for any guidance/ideas you can offer.

Hi Betsy! 1. No, May is great! You may have some afternoon rain but it shouldnt be too bad. Plus you won’t have as many tourists and prices tend to go down. 2. Oh, Costa Rica is great for adventure! The one waterfall I know you can jump off of is Uvita waterfall. However, I’d suggest going to two spots. I would pick a beach spot and a jungle spot. For jungle, La Fortuna would be perfect. You can rappel down waterfalls, go zip lining, go white water rafting, etc. For a beach town, Uvita might actually be a great choice for you. It is a bit of a drive (maybe about 4.5 hours from La Fortuna, but you can go mangrove kayaking, snorkeling, slide down the uvita waterfall, hike to Nauyca waterfall, and more! 4. There are for sure some poisonous critters, but really you shouldn’t worry. Just stay on paths when hiking. snakes freak me out so bad, but I have only seen a few here and only when guides point them out. Frogs will hop away before you get a chance to get close to them, and spiders you wont really see. Also, yes it is possible to get diseases from mosquitos. There is dengue and Zika here, however, in my four years here I have only known one person to get Dengue and nobody who has gotten Zika. In La Fortuna mosquitos are not usually a problem (its too high in elevation) but on the beach you normally only need to worry about them once it starts getting dark out. Just load up on bug spray and you will be fine. Let me know what you decide and I can give you more info if you need. 🙂

Thank you so much for the reply. Since I originally posted we BOOKED our trip (May 2020). We will be staying in La Fortuna area as a “home base.” We’ve shown our kiddos some pics and they are SO excited. I’ve read your blog on car rental and feel it would be best for our family – even with the mandatory insurance fees and deposit. Once I’m ready, I’ll book through your site (hopefully that helps you). I work for a global company and with a simple call can add international calling to my Verizon plan. Will my GPS then work? I was reading what you wrote about the SIM cards but was slightly confused. When we were in Canada, the signal was hit or miss at times. If I am driving in Costa Rica, I want to be sure I have GPS at all times. Driving in Maui was easy, but that’s the US, so I’m sure it will be different.

Our resort (Los Lagos) appears to offer horseback riding. We’ll probably do that one day. We’ll also plan to do the Mistic Bridges, a waterfall hike/cliff jumping (thanks for the suggestion on Uvita) and possibly ATV riding (I’ve seen that offered). I believe there are hot springs at our resort, but Tabacon looks beautiful, so that may be an activity as well.

So, my question for you at this point is if we forgo the rental (although I’m leaning toward it), is there a private transportation company you suggest? The resort sent me some transfer prices to/from SAN José airport, but they seemed much higher than costs I’ve seen in Costa Rica discussions.

Any thoughts/ideas are much appreciated! Betsy

Yes, having a car will give you the flexibilty of getting around easier, but you could always just rent a car from Adobe for a few days while in La Fortuna if you would prefer that. They will even deliver the car for you for free at your hotel if you would like. The drive from San Jose is not bad, but if you would like to look at shuttle companies, our go-to is Interbus. They tend to be the most reliable/reputable for that route that we know of. However, you are right. For the whole family, the shuttle can be pricey. It may come out cheaper to rent a car for your whole trip instead. You should be totally fine using your phone with Verizon international plan. My mom did that last time she was here and had no problems with getting a signal and using Waze for directions during her whole trip.

Let me know what other questions you have. 🙂

We are wanting to take our son and daughter to Costa Rica for our son’s senior trip this coming March, but I am feeling completely overwhelmed with trying to plan it. I have read we should split our time between Arenal and Manuel Antonio. Would you agree with that? And should we try and get a hotel or VRBO? There is so much that I don’t even know where to start. Would appreciate any help you could offer. Thanks.

Hi Christy! How long are you planning to come for and what activities are on your “must do” list? Arenal and Manuel Antonio are great for a mix of beach and jungle with tons of activity options. Also, I suggest Airbnb for places to stay. That way you can get a whole house just for your family and have the flexibility of cooking your own meals when you want and you’ll have privacy. You can usually get great places on Airbnb that aren’t too pricey.

Thank you. Going in July with my son staying by in La Fortuna and of course we are on a budget!! This article was quite helpful.

Oh good! Let us know if you have any specific questions as you finish planning your trip. We are happy to help you out. 🙂

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Costa Rica Travel Information

50 Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

November 1, 2023 By Sammi 136 Comments

Costa Rica is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforest, fantastic outdoor adventure and abundant wildlife. With over 25% of its land protected, Costa Rica is one of the best destinations in the world for nature, outdoor adventure, wellness and wildlife watching!

Some of the top attractions in Costa Rica are Arenal Volcano , Manuel Antonio National Park , La Paz Waterfalls , Papagayo Peninsula, Tamarindo beach , Rio Celeste , Monteverde Cloud Forest and Corcovado National Park . Top things to do in Costa Rica are hiking, waterfalls, surfing, ziplining, yoga and fishing.

If you plan to visit Costa Rica and are wondering what to do in Costa Rica, here is our list of 50 best things to do in Costa Rica.

What to Do in Costa Rica

For more Costa Rica fun, subscribe to our Youtube channel ! Also, if you want to do any of these activities, get our exclusive Costa Rica tours discounts in La Fortuna, San Jose, Guanacaste, Manuel Antonio, Tortuguero and more!

1. Ziplining

Ziplining is a MUST DO in Costa Rica. Costa Rica is world famous for its long cables and spectacular views. Don’t miss a chance to fly over the rainforest!

Ziplining in Monteverde

The best places for ziplining in Costa Rica are Monteverde, La Fortuna and Guanacaste. However, there are many ziplines throughout the country. You can find beginner and family friendly ziplining tours to adrenaline ziplines with extra superman cables and tarzan swings!

Recommended Ziplines

You can read about some of our favorite ziplining tours in Costa Rica: Vista Los Sueños (Jaco), Hacienda Baru in Dominical, 100% Aventura , Guachipelin in Hacienda Guachipelin, and Sky Adventures in Monteverde, SkyTrek in La Fortuna, Selvatura Park in Monteverde and Diamante Eco Adventure Park in Guanacaste. (We have discounts for Diamante and Vista Los Suenos which you can get in the link).

Average cost of ziplining tours in Costa Rica is around $80 USD.

Tip: In Costa Rica, we call ziplining tours “canopy tours” so if you see the word “canopy”, that is the same as ziplining.

2. Sunset Sailing Cruise

If you’re planning a beach vacation, you must book a sailing cruise! Sunset cruises are one of the best things to do for families, friends and couples in Costa Rica because you sail underneath a beautiful sky while watching the sun go down. Eat, snorkel, swim, relax and enjoy the fresh ocean air.

Sunset sailing cruise Tamarindo

Similarly, you can opt for a morning cruise which offers better snorkeling. This is an excellent half day trip in Costa Rica to see the stunning tropical coastlines.

Recommended Catamaran Sailing Tours

You can find sunset sailing cruises in nearly all tourist beach towns on the Pacific coast such as Playas del Coco, Flamingo, Potrero, Tamarindo, Samara and Manuel Antonio. We did a catamaran cruise in Manuel Antonio and a sunset sail with Kayak Jaco out of Playa Herradura (near Jaco).

Sunset sailing cruises run from around $75-95 USD per person and usually include snorkel equipment, fruit, water, drinks, snacks or lunch.

3. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Thanks to having both Pacific and Caribbean seas, Costa Rica has good snorkeling and scuba diving . Therefore, if you love the ocean, snorkeling or scuba diving is definitely a must do in Costa Rica!

50 things to do in costa rica - snorkeling

We recommend to take a snorkeling tour because most snorkeling off the beaches aren’t that good in Costa Rica. The sunset sailing cruises mentioned above offers opportunities to snorkel.

Scuba Diving

For scuba diving, the best dive sites are Bat Islands , Las Catalina Islands , Cocos Island, Gulf of Papagayo , Tortuga Islands ship wrecks, Cahuita National Park , and Caño Island .

A PADI certified 2 tank dive costs roughly $115 USD and the best towns to stay at for scuba diving are Drake Bay , Flamingo , Playas del Coco , Uvita , Playa Ocotal, Manuel Antonio, Cahuita and Tamarindo. You actually don’t need to be certified to try scuba diving as there are “Discovery dives” which are dives specifically for those who don’t have their certification.

4. Private Boating Tour in Gulf of Papagayo

The Gulf of Papagayo up in the north Pacific coast of Costa Rica is in our opinion, one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica. Made made up of many small bays, the Papagayo Gulf has a myriad of boat access only white sand beaches and amazing snorkeling spots. So the best way to experience the Gulf of Papagayo to the fullest is a private boat tour.

It’s one of our favorite things to do in Costa Rica and always on the itinerary whenever we have friends or family visiting!

Boating at the pacific ocean

One of our friends has a boating company in Playas del Coco and we love going boating with him since he knows the best snorkel spots and hidden beaches. Check our link to read more about it and request a boat tour!

5. ATV Tour

Add some adrenaline to your vacation on an ATV tour! Drive through forests and jungle to reach beautiful viewpoints. It’s even more fun in the rainy season when you can get a bit muddy!

things to do in cost rica atv tour

You can find fun ATV tours in many places like La Fortuna, Tamarindo, Monteverde, La Cruz, Flamingo, Samara, Herradura, Jaco, Santa Teresa, Uvita and Manuel Antonio.

Many ATV tours go up mountains to beautiful view points or waterfalls.

People from all over the world come to Costa Rica just to surf as it has some of the best waves in Latin America.

Some of the best surf spots in Costa Rica are Pavones, Jaco , Santa Teresa , Playa Hermosa (Jaco) , Playa Cocles , Dominical , Playa Matapalo (Osa Peninsula), Nosara , Playa Avellanas , Playa Tamarindo and Playa Grande. However, this is just a small sampling of the great surfing beaches here.

things to do in costa rica - surfing

Likewise, if you really want to learn to surf, sign up for a surf camp! For lessons, a 2 hour group surf lesson costs around $65 USD per person. You can also rent a board for around $20 USD a day.

7. Canyoning

Canyoning (rappelling down waterfalls) is an incredible adventure activity in Costa Rica. It’s one of my personal favorite things to do in Costa Rica since it’s a heart pumping adventure in the middle of a beautiful rainforest. So exhilarating!

Rappeling waterfalls in La Fortuna

One of our favorite canyoning tours in Costa Rica is in La Fortuna . The first waterfall they take you to is nearly 200 feet tall!

Want to go canyoning? Get 7% off the Arenal canyoning tour here!

Additionally, other great places for canyoning is the Gravity Falls with Desafio in La Fortuna, Explonatura in Turrialba and Finca Modelo in Monteverde.

8. Try a Copo or a Churchill

A copo is a sweet Costa Rican beach treat that you must try. It’s shaved ice with kola syrup, powdered milk and condensed milk. Some versions called the churchill are more intense with ice cream and fruit added on top! You can find copos in nearly all beach towns and cities. Look for a man or woman pushing a cart that says “COPO” on it!

things to do in costa rica - try a copo

Also, the town of Puntarenas is famous for churchills so the best place to get one is there. You can’t get a more local dessert than that and it’s a yummy way to beat the heat!

9. Partake in the Fiestas Civicas (Local Parties)

Costa Ricans sure do love to party and you can join the fun in the fiestas civicas , or the local parties. In these parties, they have rides, games, food, music, dancing and bull riding. For those who want to experience local culture, this is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica.

These fiestas are held all year long throughout the country and you will see signs for them in town. The most common months are December, July, February and March. If you’re in the Brasilito/Tamarindo area, the fiestas are usually mid March. December has epic ones for Christmas parties in a district called Zapote in San Jose. Other popular festivities are the Palmares Fiestas and Puntarenas Carnaval.

things to do in costa rica - fiestas civicas

One of the highlights of the parties is the bull riding, a long standing Costa Rican tradition. Costa Rica does not partake in bull fights so instead, they ride bulls and then once the rider is bucked off, they let the bull run around the ring and chase people for entertainment. Once the bull is bored chasing people, they do not kill it. They put him back in the corral and bring in the next rider.

So if you feel daring, for just $10-15 USD per person, you can hop into the stadium with other daring locals and get chased around by a bull!

10. Cruise Through the Gulf of Nicoya to Tortuga Island

The Gulf of Nicoya is home to several beautiful islands and you can take a day trip to Isla Tortuga, which has a stunning white sand beach. The day trip cruises 1.5 hours through the Gulf of Nicoya for spectacular views. Then you’ll get to enjoy the island for 5 hours and then cruise back at sunset.

things to do in costa rica - Tortuga Island day cruise

The Tortuga Island cruise is an excellent day excursion from San Jose , Puntarenas and Jaco. If you want to do this tour, we have a $10 USD discount. Check our post on the Tortuga Island day tour here to get it!

11. Take a Cooking Class

Delight your taste buds and learn about Costa Rican food and traditional cooking methods on a Costa Rica cooking class. We did a La Fortuna cooking class and farm to food tour that was incredibly interesting and enlightening as we learned all about the “farm to table” concept.

la-fortuna-cooking-class-and-farm-tour

If you love food tours and are interested in learning about Costa Rican food culture, then you have to take a cooking class!

12. Walk Through the Zarcero Topiary Gardens

Zarcero is a cute little Costa Rican town, about 1 hour outside the capital city. Zarcero is famous for its beautiful topiary gardens and church.

Things to do in Costa Rica - Zarcero topiary gardens

Visitors can walk through the gardens, visit the church and try the local cheese, tortillas and hot chocolate. It’s such a cute little town for a less touristy destination to experience local culture.

13. Rincon de la Vieja Combination Adventure Tour

In the Rincon de la Vieja area, there are several adventure parks that allow visitors to experience the best of the tropical dry forest and volcano in one day.

We love the Guachipelin 1 day adventure combo tour which is a full day of ziplining, horseback riding, lunch, river tubing, hot springs and mud baths.

Things to do in Costa Rica - Guachipelin adventure tour

Other great adventure parks are Rio Perdido, Buena Vista and Vandara . For a full day of fun, relaxation and adventure, get a discount off your Vandara passes here! (30 minutes from Guanacaste Airport).

The parks are about a 1.5 hour drive from Gulf of Papagayo and Tamarindo/Conchal area and definitely worth a day trip. If you rented a car, you can purchase park passes and visit on your own. If you don’t have your own transportation, the best way to visit is by booking a tour that includes roundtrip transportation, activities and a bilingual guide. Interested in booking the Guachipelin 1 day adventure tour? Get our discount here!

14. Stand Up Paddle Board

Stand up paddle boarding is very popular in Costa Rica. It’s a ton of fun, great exercise and a fun way to enjoy the ocean. Many SUP tours will go to a beautiful secluded beach to do some snorkeling or through a bay for nice views.

Things to do in Costa Rica - stand up paddle board

I did a 2 hour SUP tour with Kayak Jaco from Playa Agujas . We stand up paddle boarded to Playa Mantas and the beautiful white sand beach Playa Blanca.

You can also SUP on rivers and lakes! You can do a SUP tour on the Baru River by Dominical or stand up paddle on Lake Arenal.

15. Llanos de Cortes Waterfall

This is one of the best waterfalls in Guanacaste , the stunning Catarata Llanos de Cortes. It’s one of our favorite things to do in Liberia, Costa Rica since it’s only 20 minutes from the city and the best way to cool off on a hot day.

things to do in costa rica - Catarata llanos de cortes waterfall

You can swim, have a picnic and take lots of very nice pictures at this waterfall. It’s only a 5 minute walk down from the parking lot so it’s easily accessible for everyone. Here is our guide to visiting Catarata Llanos de Cortes .

16. Del Toro Waterfall

Catarata del Toro is a stunning 270 foot (83 meters) waterfall in an extinct volcano crater in Bajos del Toro . The Del Toro waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in Costa Rica and is a must see for those who love waterfalls and visiting off the beaten path destinations.

Catarata del toro - things to do in costa rica

This waterfall is in the small rural town of Bajos del Toro , about 2 hours from San Jose. You can stop by on your drive from San Jose to La Fortuna but we highly recommend to stay a couple nights in Bajos del Toro if you love hiking and waterfalls. The town is a non-touristic destination with tons of excellent waterfall hikes.

For more information, check out our post on Catarata del Toro.

17. See Sea Turtles at Ostional Wildlife Refuge

Costa Rica is home to some very important sea turtle nesting beaches so if you have ever wanted to see a sea turtle in the wild, you have several opportunities in Costa Rica. Furthermore, Costa Rica has two beaches that experience mass turtle nestings, called arribada in Spanish.

One of them is open to visitors, the Ostional Wildlife Refuge. The best time to visit Ostional Wildlife Refuge is May – December as that is when the biggest sea turtle nestings occur. Visitors can only enter the refuge with reservations and a guide.

Sea turtles

Other excellent places to see turtles are Tortuguero , Osa Peninsula, Tambor Bay, Hermosa Wildlife Refuge and Montezuma. Learn more about where and when to see turtles in Costa Rica here.

18. Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center in Puerto Viejo

If you want to learn more about the wildlife of Costa Rica, the Jaguar Rescue Center is one of the best places to do so. It is a rescue center in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca that takes in injured animals and then rehabilitates and releases them back to the wild.

Jaguar Rescue Center Puerto Viejo

They offer guided tours so visitors can learn about the work they do and learn more about the animals. The center does great work when it comes to conservation and educating the public on how to interact with wildlife.

Other excellent rescue centers and animal sanctuaries to visit are Toucan Rescue Ranch, Centro de Rescate Las Pumas, Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary and Proyecto Asis. You can take guided tours to learn more about their programs and animals.

19. Fishing

Costa Rica is one of the best countries for fishing with healthy waters and knowledgeable locals. Sport fishing in Costa Rica is purely catch and release and you can catch fish like marlin, rooster fish and sail fish.

Fishing Mahi Mahi

If you go in shore fishing and catch tuna snapper or mahi mahi, you can keep it. Many restaurants will cook the fish for you too which is nice!

Best places to go fishing in Costa Rica are Playa Flamingo, Tamarindo, Playas del Coco, Quepos, Paquera , Playa Herradura, Mal Pais , Puntarenas and Drake Bay.

20. Take a San Jose City Tour or Walk Through Downtown On Your Own

Although San Jose isn’t a huge capital city, it’s the best place to get a glimpse of the typical city life as over 1 million Costa Ricans out of of a population of 5.3 million live and work in San Jose.

San jose walking

Usually 1 or 2 days in San Jose is enough time to see the city and get a taste of what it’s like. There are a handful of small museums and cultural sites, and also excellent shopping. If you’re interested in learning more about San Jose, take a San Jose city tour .

If you don’t want to take a tour, we recommend to walk through Central Avenue (Avenida Central). That is the main street that goes through downtown San Jose. You can visit places like the Central Market , National Theater or the museums on your own.

For a full day of Costa Rican culture, we highly recommend a dinner show which is the next thing to do in Costa Rica on our list.

21. San Jose Dinner Show

A dinner show is an excellent way to end a day full of Costa Rican culture. There are a couple of great ones in San Jose: Mirador Tiquicia and Ram Luna.

We have visited Mirador Tiquicia which has a dinner show on Fridays and Ram Luna Restaurant which offers a buffet and dinner show on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Additionally, they both have a spectacular view of San Jose!

Ram Luna dinner show food

For a full day of Costa Rican culture, we recommend to do a San Jose city tour and then the Ram Luna or Mirador Tiquicia dinner show.

22. Kayak in Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park, or the “Amazon of Costa Rica” is a place like no other in the country, famous for turtle nestings and rainforest canals. Additionally, the national park is boat access only so it’s quite an adventure to get there!

Once in Tortuguero, you can take boat rides through the national park to see wildlife but our favorite way is to go by kayak.

Tortuguero national park Canals

Kayaking allows you to go to areas that motored boats can’t go. Furthermore, you don’t disturb the wildlife so you can get very close as you glide quietly on the water, surrounded by lush jungle with no one around. Kayaking in Tortuguero is one of our favorite things to do in Costa Rica!

Want to visit Tortuguero? Check our Tortugero National Park guide. It is on the Caribbean side so the best time of the year to visit is September and October as it is drier and it’s the peak time for turtle nestings. Get our Tortuguero tour packages discount here!

23. See a Volcano

Visiting a volcano is a MUST SEE in Costa Rica! Thanks to Costa Rica’s location and its tectonic plates, there are many inactive and active volcanoes in the country. The best ones to see are Arenal , Turrialba , Irazu and Poas Volcano .

things to do in costa rica - volcanoes

They are all active at some level and the national parks are open for visitors. Make sure you put at least one volcano on your itinerary!

24. Hike Arenal Volcano National Park

And speaking of volcanoes, one of the best ones to see is Arenal Volcano. Arenal Volcano National Park is the best volcano for those who want to see the “cone” shape. This volcano erupted back in 1968 but nowadays, visitors can hike through the remaining lava beds for beautiful views of the volcano and Lake Arenal.

things to do in costa rica - arenal volcano national park

This is a great national park for first timers since it’s easy to get to and the trails aren’t too tough or long. If you walk the Coladas trail, you will reach a viewpoint to see Lake Arenal and the volcano. Visiting Arenal Volcano is a must when in La Fortuna!

25. Ride a Tram Through the Rainforest

There are a few trams in Costa Rica that take you through the forest up to stunning views. For those who aren’t big hikers or can’t do a lot of strenuous movements, the tram is the best way to experience the lush tropical rainforest.

Aerial tram Atlantic

Along the way, it’s possible to see various birds, monkeys and other wildlife and it’s great to go with a guide who can point out the different plants and flowers you see.

Sky Tram at Arenal and Monteverde are excellent ones and Rainforest Adventures Park Atlantico has a wonderful tram. Veragua, a research center and adventure park on the Caribbean coast has an aerial tram too.

26. White Water Rafting Pacuare River

For a full day of fun and adventure, the Pacuare river white water rafting tour packs all that and more. Paddle through class 3 and 4 (and 4+) rapids in the canyons of Costa Rica, bathe in the cool fresh waters and experience a trip of a lifetime.

White water rafting Rio Pacuare

This is my favorite tour I’ve ever done in Costa Rica and there are also multi-day white water rafting trips for the more adventurous ones. You can even go white water as a way to get around Costa Rica as many companies pick up in San Jose and drop off in La Fortuna or Puerto Viejo! This is definitely one of the top adventure activities in Costa Rica.

PS. If you want to do the tour, we have a Rio Pacuare white water rafting discount !

27. Explore Mangroves

Mangroves are an incredibly important in this natural world as they support coastal and marine ecosystems. They are home to a myriad of wildlife such as birds, crocodiles, snakes, crustaceans, fish and much more. In Costa Rica, there are many mangroves that you can explore by boat or kayak.

kayaking through Damas Island Mangroves by Manuel Antonio

Popular mangrove tours are Damas Island Mangrove in Manuel Antonio (boat or kayak), Rio Baru (kayak/SUP), Sierpe Mangrove (boat) and Las Baulas National Park (boat/kayak) in Tamarindo/Grande.

28. Take a Guided Walk at Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see wildlife thanks to its lush rainforest and small park size. A visit to Manuel Antonio National Park is a must do if you are visiting the Central or South Pacific Coast.

Manuel antonio national park wildlife

You can visit Manuel Antonio National Park on your own or book a guided tour which is the easiest option. Guided park tours include roundtrip transportation, park tickets and a bilingual guide to point out flora and fauna. (Get 7% off your Manuel Antonio National Park guided tour here ).

29. See Rio Celeste Waterfall and River

One of Costa Rica’s most magical places is Rio Celeste, a sky blue river in Tenorio Volcano National Park. This bright blue river is stunning and it’s even more beautiful in person. It’s hard to believe the water is that blue but it really is!

Rio celeste Costa Rica

You can hike through Tenorio Volcano National Park to see the waterfall and the union of the two rivers which creates the blue color. You’ll be in awe of this spectacular natural beauty when you see for yourself just how blue the water is!

Read our guide to visiting Rio Celeste for more information on how to best experience one of the top sights in Costa Rica. We also highly recommend to stay a night or two in Bijagua , the town that is the gateway to Rio Celeste. It’s a beautiful, small rural town that is excellent for birdwatching, nature and wildlife. Also don’t forget to visit the Rio Celeste Free Pool to swim in the sky blue river!

Rio Celeste is one of the MUST SEE places in Costa Rica!

30. Wildlife Watching Safari

One of the best things to do in Costa Rica for families is a wildlife watching safari. In Costa Rica, they offer it by motorized boat or raft.

From La Fortuna, we did an incredible safari float by raft in the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, which is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see wildlife. Floating down the river in a raft allowed us to get up close to animals without disturbing them.

Safari float Tour

There are two safari floats from La Fortuna: Penas Blancas , the most common one and the Rio Frio tour which is operated exclusively by one of our tour partners. Both are wonderful! If you’re short on time, Penas Blancas is the best choice. For a more intimate and personal experience, Rio Frio is quite special. Get a discount off both these tours here!

In Guanacaste, there is a safari float down the Corobici river which offers the same experience. You can also do river boat rides like in Palo Verde National Park , Damas Island in Manuel Antonio or at Hacienda El Viejo in Guanacaste in a motorized boat.

31. Learn about Costa Rican Coffee

Costa Rica grows some of the best coffee in the world and if you’re a coffee lover, you’ll want to take a tour of a coffee plantation to find out why it’s so darn good.

things to do in costa rica - coffee tour

It’s an incredibly educational and enlightening experience as you learn how a cherry gets from the plant into your cup. Plus you get to sample delicious coffee at the end!

Our favorite coffee tour is Doka Coffee Estate but there are many others. Golden Bean in Turrialba, Britt in Heredia, Coopedota in San Gerardo de Dota, Espiritu Santo in Naranjo, El Cafetal in Monteverde and Finca Rosa Blanca in Heredia are all excellent.

You can even visit Hacienda Alsacia, Starbucks’s coffee plantation! Since coffee grows best in higher altitudes, the best places for coffee tours are San Jose, Alajuela, Heredia, Grecia, Heredia, Turrialba and Monteverde.

The best time to take a Costa Rica coffee tour is October – March as that is the production and harvest season. Coffee tours are a must do in Costa Rica!

32. Take a Chocolate Tour

In addition to coffee tours, a chocolate tour is an excellent cultural experience. For the past several years, Costa Rica has seen a resurgence in their chocolate production. Cacao grows very well in the tropical climate and you can take tours to see how they grow and process cacao to make chocolate.

things to do in costa rica -Chocolate tour

The best places to take a chocolate tour is Puerto Viejo and La Fortuna. We did a chocolate tour with the BriBri indigenous community outside Puerto Viejo which was fascinating since cacao plays an important part in the BriBri culture. The Puerto Viejo chocolate tour is another excellent one.

We also did one with Rainforest Chocolate Tour in La Fortuna and Costa Rica Best Chocolate in Sarapiqui which was really fun and informative.

33. See the Crocodiles at the Crocodile Bridge

The Crocodile Bridge is famous for one reason which you can guess: crocodiles. As you walk across the bridge and look down, you can see up to 10 or 15 giant reptiles laying around just a little below you.

things to do in costa rica -Rio tarcoles crocodiles

The bridge is in the town of Tarcoles, a little bit before Jaco and it’s worth stopping to see the giant crocodiles.

However, please be very careful walking on this bridge. There is now a small pedestrian path but please do not act like a stupid tourist and climb over the bridge. Do not dangle off of it, climb over it or jump off. Those crocodiles are right under the bridge for a reason!

34. Walk to the Whale’s Tail at Marino Ballena National Park

Inside Marino Ballena National Park is a section where two beaches come together. In low tide, it looks like a whale’s tail! And this part of the national park is appropriately named “Whale’s Tail” because Uvita is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see humpback whales!

Make sure you visit during low tide so you can walk to the whale’s tail.

Marino ballena national park

Another nice thing about this national park is that it’s not very popular but it is very big. You will feel like you have the entire beach to yourself and the sunsets there are spectacular.

35. Try Gallo Pinto and Salsa Lizano at a Local Restaurant

Food is for us, the ultimate way to know a country’s culture. So when you are in Costa Rica, make sure to go to a soda , which is what the locals call a traditional restaurant. They’re usually a small, open air family run restaurant serving only Costa Rican food .

As for what food to eat, the most traditional breakfast is gallo pinto, which is rice and beans. This is usually paired with eggs, plantains, a tortilla and cheese. You will also see a brown sauce on the table called “Salsa Lizano.” It’s Costa Rica’s classic sauce and I recommend to put some on your pinto. Delicious!

things to do in Costa Rica - eat gallo pinto

Then if you go for lunch, you can order a casado which is a plate of rice, beans, salad, meat and usually plantains or a picadillo or some sort. You can have that for lunch or dinner.

36. Go to a Local Bar and Get an Imperial and Chifrijo

And continuing on the topic of food, if you like to drink, then you must visit a local bar. Not the tourist bars, the bar in the small village outside the touristic destinations. There you can have the ultimate Costa Rican bar experience, surrounded by local farmers enjoying a beer after a hard day’s work and singing old Spanish ballads on karaoke night.

We recommend to try a chifrijo which is a mix of rice, beans, pico de gallo and chicharrones (fried pork) with chips. This is a classic Costa Rican bar food.

Chifrijo

You can find it on the menu at most Costa Rican bars and sodas but it may be under another name. If you don’t see it, just ask. A chifrijo and Imperial beer is just about as Costa Rican as you can get at a bar.

37. Eat Rice and Beans

If you go to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, particularly Puerto Viejo , you’ll be surprised to see that the culture, food and people are completely different thanks to the Afro-American influence on the Caribbean coast.

Rice and beans

Instead of gallo pinto, they eat rice and beans which has coconut milk in it. Their culture is highly influenced by the nearby Caribbean islands so you’ll find plenty of jerk chicken and other yummy dishes.

Our favorite place to get rice and beans in Puerto Viejo is Soda Lidia’s Place. Get the chicken and add some hot sauce, it’s heavenly!

38. Beach Hopping

The coasts of Costa Rica are full of gorgeous beaches and you can find beaches of all characteristics: white sand, dark sand, turquoise waters, clear waters, and much more. Make sure you take a day to explore up and down the coast to see the stunning beaches in Costa Rica.

Beach hopping Guancaste

The best part is that no beach is ever so full that you can’t find a spot to lay down and if you explore a bit, you may even have a beach all to yourself. And all beaches are public by law so it’s one of the best cheap activities to do in Costa Rica.

Find out what the best beaches in Costa Rica are!

39. Enjoy the Hot Springs in Arenal

La Fortuna has some of the best hot springs in the country with the Tabacon river supplying natural hot water to the springs. Some hotels have their own private hot springs or you can go to free access part of the river where the locals go.

things to do in costa rica -Hot springs arenal

Tabacon, Baldi, Ecotermales and the Springs are some of the most popular hot springs in Arenal. So if you’re visiting La Fortuna, going to the hot springs is a must! You can read more about the best hot springs in Arenal in this post.

40. Go Whale Watching

Costa Rica has the longest humpback whale watching season in the world so your chances are pretty good to see these magnificent creatures. If you love whales, this is a must do activity in Costa Rica.

things to do in costa rica -Humpback whale watching

The best places for whale watching is down in Uvita , Drake Bay , Golfo Dulce and Gulf of Papagayo . The best months are August and September but in you have a chance to see them from July – November and January – March.

We have seen humpback and pilot whales in the Gulf of Papagayo, Las Catalinas and Uvita. It was amazing!

41. Try a Cold Coconut Water (Pipa Fria)

You’ll see signs for cold coconut (pipa fria) at every beach town and you definitely want one. It’s cold coconut water and is oh so delicious on a hot day!

things to do in costa rica -Pipa fria coconut water

I love watching the vendors hack off the top with a huge machete. They are coconut experts! You can find vendors at nearly every beach and it costs around 500 colones a pipa fria. You can even upgrade your coconut and get a coco loco with rum!

42. Go Bird Watching

With over 800 species of birds living in Costa Rica, any bird lover will be in paradise. Snap photos of hummingbirds, toucans, macaws, parrots and other gorgeous tropical birds all throughout the country.

Birdwatching

Wildlife and bird lovers have to put a bird watching tour on their “things to do in Costa Rica’ list. And if you’re a birder who wants to see the Resplendant Quetzal, January – April are best times in Monteverde, particularly the Curi Cancha Reserve . We saw several Resplendant Quetzals there in March. For a more “off the beaten path” birding destination, check out San Gerardo de Dota , San Ramon or San Vito.

For the hardcore birders, stay at one of the eco lodges built specifically for birding such as Trogon Lodge, Maquenque Lodge , Villa Lapas or Selva Verde Lodge .

43. Hang Out in the Town Square

To experience a bit of local life, head to the town square and park. Here is where you’ll see locals hanging out and relaxing in the evenings. La Fortuna is one of our favorite town squares to get an ice cream and people watch. It’s so picturesque with the church and volcano in the backdrop!

things to do in Costa Rica - people watch

Other places we like to people watch is at Plaza de la Democracia in San Jose , the park in Playas del Coco , topiary gardens in Zarcero , the park in front of the red church in Grecia and in front of Amy’s Restaurant in Monteverde .

44. Go on a Night Walk

The jungle changes drastically when the sun goes down and the best way to experience it is to go for a guided night walk. Guides will point out creatures that are only seen in the dark such as insects, spiders, frogs, snakes and more.

things to do in costa rica -Night walk

We’ve done several night walks in Costa Rica. In La Fortuna, we did an exclusive night walk ( get 7% off this tour ). In Osa Peninsula we did a night walk at Leona station with La Leona Eco-Lodge, in Braulio Carrillo we did a night walk with Rainforest Adventures and in Monteverde we did one at Finca Santa Maria . For night walks in Manuel Antonio, our partner offers jungle night walks ( get 7% off in the link ).

45. Watch a Futbol Game at the National Stadium in La Sabana

Futbol is a huge passion of all Costa Ricans and there are games held in the stadium year round. Cheer for the local teams and experience one of the country’s favorite past times.

Futbol match

La Sabana in San Jose is their biggest stadium but they also have stadiums in Heredia, Puntarenas, Alajuela, Limon and Cartago. We watched the Panama vs Costa Rica game in La Sabana (qualifiers for World Cup) and it was really fun to see all the Ticos cheering and going crazy!

46. Try Costa Rican Local and Craft Beer

Costa Rica has a few locals beers to try, Pilsen and Imperial are the most popular. Head to the bar to have a beer and you’ll also get a great glimpse into Tico life since beer is heavily ingrained in their culture. All bars in Costa Rica offer some sort of happy hour, some places even have happy hour all day!

things to do in costa rica - Beer on the beach

Costa Rican craft beer is growing immensely in Costa Rica. Now, many bars and restaurants serve craft beer! In San Jose, you can even take a beer tour with Costa Rica’s Craft Brewing Co to learn more about it. Micro-breweries are popping up all throughout the country which is great for beer lovers.

47. Nauayca Waterfalls

I’ve already mentioned a few waterfalls in this post but I can’t forget the majestic Nauyaca waterfalls ! These two stunning waterfalls lie deep in the rainforest up in the mountains of Dominical and it’s an incredible place to visit!

50 things to do in Costa Rica Nauyaca waterfalls

The waterfalls are on a private property owned by a local family. You can hike (4 kilometers or 2.5 miles) one way, take the local horseback riding tour or ride their 4×4 truck. Definitely a must if you’re in Manuel Antonio, Dominical, Uvita or Ojochal.

48. Hike Corcovado National Park

As one of the most biologically diverse places on earth, Corcovado National Park is an absolute must for hikers and wildlife lovers. It’s such a unique place in Costa Rica! You’ll feel like it’s a different world with the sheer amount of wildlife around. Corcovado National Park is in the Osa Peninsula, which holds around 6% of the world’s biodiversity.

things to do in costa rica - Corcovado national park

You can do a one day hiking trip to the ranger stations such as La Leona, San Pedrillo and Sirena but the ultimate way to experience the national park is to do an overnight hiking trip. The most popular one is from La Leona to Sirena where it’s possible to see tapirs, pumas, anteaters and more.

You have to go with a guide to visit Corcovado National Park and purchase tickets in advance. If you want to visit Osa Peninsula, check our Osa Peninsula guide for more tips on how to visit.

49. Walk the Hanging Bridges in the Monteverde Cloud Forests

Walking the hanging bridges in Monteverde gives you a great view of the cloud forest. You can see lush green forest all around you and even some wildlife if you have a good eye. It’s an unforgettable experience and let’s be real. The bridges are one of the most instagrammable places in Costa Rica!

things to do in costa rica - Hanging bridges monteverde

All these bridges are very stable and is one of the best ways to take in the forests. Many of the adventure parks have their own hanging bridges like Selvatura and Sky Trek. Additionally, there is one hanging bridge inside the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve .

There are hanging bridges parks in other places in Costa Rica such as Mistico Hanging Bridges in La Fortuna, Rainmaker by Parrita and Heliconias Lodge in Bijagua.

50. Enjoy the Pura Vida Life!

Pura vida is the slogan of Costa Rica and directly translated to English it means pure life. Costa Ricans use this as a way to say anything good. Life’s good, pura vida. That guy’s my friend, he’s very pura vida.

They also say it as hi, goodbye, thank you and you’re welcome. So above all, the most important thing to do in Costa Rica is to enjoy the pura vida life.

things to do in costa rica - Pura vida

Costa Rica is a country full of love and peace and their people know how to live and enjoy. They’ll teach you how to be grateful for what you have and you’ll take all those things with you when you go back to your home country. Hopefully your trip here will give you a new perspective on life and to appreciate what is given to you.

Need some Costa Rica travel planning tips? Check these articles out!

Best destinations in Costa Rica for 1st timers

10 mistakes to avoid traveling in Costa Rica

15 things to know before you visit Costa Rica

2 week Costa Rica itinerary for first timers

Costa Rica Vacation Checklist

  • First time to Costa Rica? Read our First Time in Costa Rica guide.
  • Not sure how to move around Costa Rica? Read our How to Get Around Costa Rica guide to find the best transportation method for you.
  • Click the link to get our detailed Costa Rica Packing List so you know what essential items to bring.
  • Do not forget to purchase Travel Insurance for your trip to Costa Rica.
  • Stay connected by purchasing a prepaid SIM Card in Costa Rica.
  • Save money with Mytanfeet Deals for tours and hotels. Save more money with our Costa Rica Car Rental Discount.

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Reader Interactions

Hillary says

November 3, 2019

Hi, We live in Seattle and want to visit CR for the first time in Feb 2020. My husband wants to surf but my kids will want to do the ziplining and hot springs etc. Do you have a recommendations or a1 week itinerary example for the northern area from Liberia? I know my kids won’t want to drive long hours after flying so far. Thanks

yeison says

November 7, 2019

Hello Hillary,

Here is a list of our favorite itinerary ideas for your trip

August 5, 2019

Hey. Some great suggestions in here for sure!

We’re planning a visit (for three weeks!) in April next year. We plan to drive all over the country, see and do as much as we can.

In your opinion, bearing in mind we cross over into May (we fly back on the 6th), what way round would you do the trip? Clockwise or anti-clockwise? Does it matter?

Honestly it doesn’t matter, whatever works for you guys and which international airport you guys fly in and out of

July 12, 2019

I can’t wait to get out to Costa Rica now. I’ve had so many people say to just go do it, now I can see why.

July 1, 2019

This is a great list – thank you for sharing! Costa Rica has always been on my bucket list and I’m considering visiting last week of August 2019. I understand its rainy season, yet very green. Would we able to do many of the adventures you’ve listed above? Is there a particular area we should spend more time in? I don’t mind summer rains and drizzles, as long as they are not heavy and daily and impact my ability to explore beautiful CR. Thank you!

To add – I want to zipline Explore the rainforests Raft Light hike and little beach

Has June been heavier than usual rain this year? That my indicate what to expect from August. With climate change these days, weather is getting harder to gauge.

July 2, 2019

June has been heavier in rain (as well as May). Tropical weather is hard to predict especially with the climate change which is really affecting the seasons here. You can still do the activities but make sure you do all of them early in the morning as it usually starts raining by afternoon.

I would stick to the Pacific coast as that area tends to be drier than the rest of the country. If you go to the Caribbean, up in the mountains or South Pacific, those areas tend to rain more that time of year. You can read more about Costa Rica weather here.

March 23, 2019

Hi Bhatt, it’s a bit much for 10 nights but you can do Rio Celeste on your way from la Fortuna to Tamarindo and just stay one night in Jaco. You’ll only be able to stay a couple nights in each place though and keep in mind that San Jose – La Fortuna, la Fortuna – tamarindo and Tamarindo – Jaco are long drives (if your flying in travel days are included in the 10). Many activities in those areas you can do on your own unless you want to do activities like ziplining, rafting, etc. I do recommend to do one guided hike, either in La Fortuna or at Manuel Antonio.

You can read our posts on those places here:

Things to do in Manuel Antonio Things to do in Arenal and La Fortuna Things to do in Jaco Things to do in San Jose Things to do in Tamarindo Rio Celeste

Hi, We love your post. Learned a lot about Costa Rica. We will be there in May for 10 nights. We just booked a car from your website.We are planning to go to San Jose- La Fortuna-Rio Celeste- Tamarindo-Jaco-Manuel Antonio and back to San Jose. Do you think we have enough time for all the stops? Do you recommend any tours to any of these locations or we can do it ourselves ? We are family of five with teenagers. Thank you.

Barbara says

January 30, 2019

hi! i love your site. i’ve gotten so much information from it. i’m heading to costa rica at the end of february for my birthday! im so excited and through my research i’ve found so many things that i’d like to do there. we will be renting a car and i think i have finally narrowed our trip down to 4 stops being, arenal, monteverde, manuel antonio, and uvitas. i would like to see a couple of waterfalls, probably la fortuna and nauyaca, hanging bridges, zipline, take a dip in the hot springs, hike, and scuba dive off cano island. now for the tricky part. i only have 7 full days! is it possible? how many days should i spend at each stop? i know that the trouble is that there are 4 stops instead of 3 which means one stop will have to be for one night only. do you think there is a way we can perhaps stop and pass through one of them? for instance when going from monteverde to san manuel. is there a way we can drive down to san manuel. spend the day at the park/beach and then drive on through to uvita? would it be safe to drive that route after sundown? many thanks for any insights you can provide.

Hi Barbara, that’s definitely way too many places for only 4 days and all the destinations are very far apart for driving (arenal – monteverde around 3.5 hours, monteverde to MA is 5, MA to Uvita is around 1.5 and Uvita back to San Jose is around 3.5-4). I would cut out a couple places, for only 7 full days we usually recommend two destinations. You could stop by MA on your way to Uvita but Monteverde to MA is already a 5 hour long drive (and to and from Monteverde is a long, windy, curvy mountainous road that can be very tiring to drive because you have to go slow and carefully) and you would want to spend at least 3-5 hours in the park to get a good experience and the park closes at 4 PM. Remember it also gets dark by 6 PM every day.

I would take out Monteverde and do something like La Fortuna days 1-2, Manuel Antonio 3-4, Uvita 5-7.

Atisha Edwards says

October 30, 2018

Hi! I really enjoyed this list. I am looking to go to Costa Rica and January for about 5 days. My friends and I are looking to stay in San Jose. Is there any activities you’d recommend that is within close proximity.

Hi! You can read in this post for things to do in San Jose: Things to do in San Jose and day trips: Day trips from San Jose

March 31, 2018

How far is Territorio de zaquates from guancaste region?

Hi, it’s about a 4 hour drive. They are currently closed right now though and don’t have any public walks schedule for 2018 so far. You can check their websites for updates

Ferenc says

January 20, 2018

Thaks for this blog! I am going to CR for 16days alone. Should I rent a small car (no 4wd)? Or try to travel with bus/shuttle?

And one more quetion: i am not a big beaher, but i will lay down there, how could You manage values during swimming etc.? Can not left in the car, how is the beach theft safety?

Thanks, Ferenc from Hungary

It will depend on where you’re going in Costa Rica, you can check in this post the road conditions for popular routes and destinations: Costa Rica road conditions. If you’re going to places like San Jose, Arenal, Jaco, Manuel Antonio, Samara, Coco, Tamarindo, Puerto Viejo, then you don’t need to rent a 4wd or 4×4. A sedan will do for those destinations. But if you’re going to places like Monteverde, Osa Peninsula, Uvita or up in the mountains, then a high car like an SUV will be necessary.

As for swimming at the beach, definitely don’t leave your valuables at the beach unattended. Find a place where there are a lot of people and try to bring minimal valuables as possible. You can ask people near you to keep an eye on your stuff and always swim close to your things, don’t swim off far away and always look at it every couple minutes, if it’s a popular beach with lots of people. We don’t recommend swimming and leaving your things at a beach where there is nobody because it only takes a minute for the thieves to take your stuff and unfortunately, beach theft is something to be concerned about if you are going to an empty beach.

Jeffrey says

April 24, 2018

November 28, 2017

Great Blog! How many days did you this over? We’re planning to visit in December and can’t decide if we should do 7 or 10 days

This was over several years haha but if you can, visit for 10 days. 7 days is a good amount of time to visit 2 destinations without wearing yourself out but with 10, you can either stay longer in each place to experience it more or visit another close destination.

Robert says

October 20, 2018

I am going to costa rica for one week in November. It seems this may be the end of the rainy season, or not?

October 21, 2018

Hi Robert, yes it will be the transition time from rainy to dry. You can read more about it in this post: Costa Rica weather

June 7, 2017

We are looking into visiting Costa Rica in December of 2017. We have two children that will be 16 and 14. We love beach time, hiking, and would like to try deep sea fishing. Any specific recommendations? Just starting to look so we have a lot to learn.

Hi Amy, I suggest Guanacaste as it has great sport fishing and beautiful beaches. You can drive to a national park for hiking one hour away. Here are some things to do in Guanacaste for more information: Things to do in Guanacaste

Kho lạnh says

April 18, 2017

Costa Rica is a beautiful land. I went this place last year with my boyfriend.I love cold coconut water and is oh so delicious on a hot day! I will back soon

Michelle says

February 27, 2017

Hello! I’m planning a trip to Costa Rica this July, I really wanted to visit Territorio de Zaguates but when I looked them up on google it says they are permanently closed. I was just wondering if you knew if this were true or not? Thank you!

Hi Michelle, they stopped doing open visits and they only do I think 1 public visit a month. You need to reserve the spot, the best way to contact them is through their Facebook.

March 4, 2017

We have visited and it was a wonderful experience. Their Facebook account will give the dates of their walks,but probably not until May or June. We are also going again in June and appreciate this site for ideas. Costa Rica is amazing! Thank you!

Katie - Round The World Magazine says

January 31, 2017

Oh my god, Rincon De La Vieja, one of our favourite places in the whole world. Thanks for the overview of this wonderful country and for binging back the memories of our lone jungle hike.

Rincon is one of our favorite places too, glad you guys love it and that we could help stir up some good memories 🙂

Ionela says

Did mostly everything mentioned in here, pura vida! A thing that I figured is important, no matter how much repellent you use, you’lo still get some horrible mosquito bites. I find something that works just great with that, it’2 micellar water. I use it mostly to clean my face, but now I find that works better then anything else on my legs! Try it, really works

January 27, 2017

Hi Mickey, I recommend reading this post: Best places in Costa Rica for first timers to help decide which destinations to go to (I list how long it takes to get there from both airports, things to do and convenience). Costa Rica is very family friendly and there’s a lot to do everywhere but for your specific requests, I’d look into Gulf of Papagayo (families love Playas del Coco and Playa Panama) as you’re close to beaches, volcanoes and hiking and there’s great seafood of course.

Mickey says

Wow what an awesome post! Thank you for all this information! I am heading down for 8 nights in mid May with my husband and 3 littles – almost 2, 3 & 5 – so we’ll be limited by their activity level, yet still so much we can do and see. I have a lot of parsing through to figure that all out so we don’t drive 3 hours and end up not being able to do something. Hiking, beaches, bridges, volcanoes, jungle, and some boating are on the list, as well as lots of fresh seafood! Any suggestions on areas we should avoid because of their ages? I am hoping we can find a boating excursion that doesn’t have an age minimum, as well as maybe horseback riding. Oh and dolphins! That’s my oldests’ request 🙂

Libbie says

January 24, 2017

We are here in Coco Beach. A lovely town with over 65 restaurants! At least 3 grocery stores, and most palces have free wifi. We are here for 8 weeks, and have been here one. Coconutz is a favorite Gringo hangout with NFL games and specials every night. The best is Wednesday nights- 9.00 pp gets you all you can eat salad, spaghetti and pizza plus a new current movie. Last week was The Accountant and this week is Masterminds. We love Thursdays with a live band. Other good restaurants are the Z lounge and on the beach Bamboo. They also have live music on Sundays. It is only 40 minutes from Liberia airport and a lovely town. We were able to find sim cards at a local shop and are set for Pure Vida!

January 25, 2017

Great to hear you’re enjoying yourself, have a lovely time!

January 15, 2017

Hi Debby, public transportation from San Jose is pretty great actually since they have the main bus stations in the city and you can get to pretty much anywhere in Costa Rica from San Jose. You can read our tips for taking the bus here: Public transportation in Costa Rica . As for where to stay, a hostel is great for solo travelers and you can find a bunch in both San Jose and Manuel Antonio. I heard the pura vida hostel in Manuel Antonio is pretty awesome as well as Vista Serena.

Love your story! I will be in CR end of Jan for 10 days and looking into spending time a few days in Manuel Antonio and wondering about using public transportation from San Jose and recommendations on where to stay? Solo female traveler.

December 20, 2016

Hi SOnu, February is a great time to visit! It’s middle of dry season so it’s very nice and sunny. You can read more about best times to visit Costa RIca in this post: Best time to visit Costa Rica All of these activities are spread our throughout the country, so depending on where you’re visiting you can plan activities around that.

Sonu reddy says

Hey! So, is February good time to visit Costa Rica? And yes, are all these places you mentioned in the article in a same place or different places in and around? If yes, how far are they?

December 15, 2016

We are coming to Costa Rica in January and flying into Liberia and staying at the Riu Guantecaste. Is there a tour agent right at the hotel I can contact to set up excursions with . Also are there shuttles from airport to hotels or do have to arrange them in advance? Can’t wait to get there,

Hi Karen, you can book everything through the Riu: tours, shuttles, transportation, etc. 🙂

October 24, 2016

Hi Stuart, the path from the entrance to the volcano is really easy, it’s a nice concrete trail actually and not very steep. The entrance fee is $10 for foreigners. You can read more about the national park in this post: Poas Volcano National Park

Thanks for reading!

Stuart says

Hi Yeison and Sammi,

Thanks for your blog and the periodic emails. They help us round-out our trip which is coming up at the end of February next year. I hope you can answer my questions.

1. I’d love to see the volcano at Poaz National Park but I cannot do any steep climbing. What is the path like from the visitor’s center/cafeteria to the observation platform? 2. Is there a fee to enter the Park? Do you know how much it is?

Gracias, Stuart

May 3, 2016

Love this! It’s definitely helping me plan my CR trip and getting me so excited! How long did you stay there and which airport did you fly into?

I haven’t looked into things in great detail but some of the things I’m thinking of doing are: Arenal, Tamarindo, Rincon de la Viejo, Monteverde cloud forest, Guanacasta, Rio Pacuare, Manuel Antonio national park. How many days do you think would be suffice?

Thanks in advance!!!

Hi Aeri, I’d give it at least two weeks if you want to spend more than 2 days in each place.

karina says

March 1, 2016

“Pura Vida” me trajo muchos recuerdos de haber estado en algunos de esos lugares!!!!! Realmente las fotos son bellìsimas!!!!!

Raquel Arias Moya says

February 6, 2016

Also Las Eolicas de Santa Ana in Escazú has one of the most beutiful views I would recomend you that place for a picnic and watch the windmills there

January 31, 2016

Hi Janine, it depends on what you want for your vacation. June is the shoulder month (transition period) from dry to rainy season, so depending on where you are in the country, it could rain a lot for your trip. However, if you go to areas like Guanacaste, the rainy season is shorter and usually arrives later, so there’s a good chance you won’t run into rain in June in that area. We personally love the shoulder months like June (I don’t know why they told you it’s not a great month to go!) because there are way less tourists, prices start going down for hotels and everything starts turning green again. You can read our post 6 reasons why we love rainy season here: Why visit Costa Rica in rainy season and to prepare yourself for rainy season we have a packing list here: Rainy season packing list Costa Rica

However, if you don’t want any chance of running into rain and want a completely sunny vacation, then you might consider going a couple months earlier like March or April, where it is still the peak of dry season. It is pretty hot but you won’t have to worry about rain.

Also remember that the Caribbean side gets rain almost all year long, except October which is their drier month.

So it all depends on what kind of vacation you want. Hope this helps.

Janine says

January 30, 2016

Hi guys! I want to go here on honeymoon in june but been advised it’s not a great month to go. Anyone been in June and disagree? Xx thanks xx

January 11, 2016

Hi Veronica, you can read our post about tips for renting a car in Costa Rica here: h Costa Rica car rental tips We also have an exclusive 10% and more discount for car rentals you can check out here: h Costa Rica car rental discount

It depends on where you are going for what kind of car you need since there are some places in CR that you need a 4X4. We have recommendations in the tips for renting a car post.

Veronica says

January 10, 2016

Hi, I’m so glad I found your site! We will be heading to C.R. in a couple weeks. I’m wondering about car rentals? Do you have any recommendations for best places to rent them and what type of car for getting around?

January 5, 2016

Nice list for my next visit to Costa Rica. I have never been there yet and this would be a great list to try and try to get done at least 1/3 if it.

January 6, 2016

Thanks Marc! Definitely try to do as much of the list, Costa Rica has a ton of fun stuff to do!

Priscilla says

December 15, 2015

Hello! Awesome list! I’m interested in the Guachipelin combo tour. What website can I purchase/make reservations. Thank you!

Hi Priscilla! If you are in the Papagayo/Tamarindo area and need transportation, feel free to email Randall from Shaman Tours, a tour company operating in that area. His email is [email protected] and he can set you up for the Guachipelin tour!

December 9, 2015

What a great site! I have lived in Costa Rica since June 2013 (Cobano, Puntarenas, and Heredia) and I have done many of the things you have done, but how well documented so many of these are! How did you film the arial views, with a kite or hover drone?! SUCH A COOL VIDEO AND PICS!

Thanks Joe! We have a Phantom 3 DJI drone with 4k camera we use for aerial shots. Our first drone used a GoPro which was good for video but pictures weren’t so great so we upgraded to the 3 which has a way better camera quality.

Dwayne says

September 18, 2015

I will be going for 3 to 4 days, whats you’re recommendations.

September 19, 2015

Hello Dwayne!

Well depends of where you are going and what you like to do but if you go the north pacific area I highly recommend you to do the Guachipelin combo tour and visit some beaches

September 8, 2015

I am planning a trip to CR for December. Planing on staying in San Jose for a couple days then heading to Jaco. I read something about a Rastafarian Beach…. are you familiar with this place?

I am planning a trip to CR for December. Plaaning on staying in San Jose for a couple days then heading to Jaco. I read something about a Rastafarian Beach…. are you familiar with this place?

September 11, 2015

Hi Carl, no I haven’t. I actually have never heard of a Rastafarian beach here…you could ask around to the locals, they will probably know

Betty & Jim S says

June 28, 2015

Dear Sammi @ Jeison, we have been following your blog for about 3 months, & have been absorbing as much as we can.We are spending February/16 in Coco & love all your helpful information. Will you be in CR at that time?Would love to meet you! Thanks so much for a wonderful read every week!

Hi guys!! Hmm honestly we don’t know where we’ll be at that time but we’re leaving Coco for good in a couple of months. Hope you guys have a great time here though and glad to hear you enjoy the blog 🙂

May 8, 2015

Isn’t it fun? Those birds are so pretty! You can read about the whale watching season in Costa Rica here: Humpback whales Costa Rica

Tricia @ The Adventure List says

May 7, 2015

Photographing hummingbirds was an addiction of mine while I was on Roatan island in Honduras last month. So many. So beautiful. When is whale watching season in Costa Rica?

Alessia says

April 23, 2015

Hi there! Visiting Costa Rica in about 2 weeks and I’m looking into the Selvetura Adventure Park for the ziplining tour! I was just wondering if one was able to do a self tour of the hanging bridges or if it was necessary to go through one of the parks in order to experience them? Your website has been so helpful in planning our trip! And also looking forward to using Adobe rentals for our car!

Hi Alessia! Selvatura Park is super fun, you don’t have to have a guide with you for the hanging bridges, you can walk the ones in Selvatura on your own. If you want to do just do the hanging bridges, you have to pay for the entrance so for example if you go to Sky Adventures and you just want to do their hanging bridges, you’ll have to pay the entrance fee to that. At Selvatura you can pick which activities you want to do is you can do zipline + hanging bridges if you like.

Maryanne says

January 27, 2015

Leaving for CR in 4 days. Staying in Manzanillo on the Carribean for first half and LaFortuna, Arenal second half of our trip. So many choices of things to do and see. Can’t wait to experience the wildlife and jungles. Thanks for the list.

Your trip sounds amazing! Hope you have a wonderful trip Maryanne! I am sure you will get plenty of wildlife and nature 🙂

Cristina says

November 12, 2014

What an awesome list! My favourite was rafting the Pacuare and eating gallo pinto everyday. I’ve always wanted to volunteer on a coffee plantation. I saw your list in perfect timing…I’m trying to make up my mind on where to move abroad in January!

November 13, 2014

Rafting the Pacuare was an amazing experience right? One of the best activities we’ve done so far in Costa Rica. So where are your top choices? We’re going to be back in January too!

It’s a tough choice. Between DE Asia and CR of course. I want to take up yoga and volunteer. I also want some beach time to relax 🙂

Cristina ✈ (@travelingjourno) says

November 14, 2014

opps! *SE* as in South East 🙂

November 15, 2014

Ohhh yea CR is definitely great for that but I know there are some really spectacular beach areas in SE Asia as well!

October 18, 2014

Great List! About the only thing I would add is “Take a flight on Nature Air.” Little planes, big windows, beautiful scenery.

October 19, 2014

Good one! Yeison has but I haven’t yet. Looks fun !

Megan Claire says

September 18, 2014

Seriously love Costa Rica – there is just so much to do!!

Yes there is!

Marysia @ My Travel Affairs says

This is a great list! But slight overwhelming, now wonder how much time I would need to do all this! Crazy! 🙂

If you were really really adventurous probably a few months! haha

Tracey says

August 26, 2014

Sammi! You convinced me, next stop Costa Rica:) What a great list and you have so much valuable info about Costa Rica on your site. I am book marking this one.

Thanks Tracey! Costa Rica is pretty awesome 🙂 Hope you get to experience it soon!!

Sarah Fazendin says

August 19, 2014

Wow! Great list, will be sharing with my Costa Rica-bound friends for sure!

Thanks Sarah!!

Jen Seligmann says

August 18, 2014

This post is AWESOME! You guys really are the experts on Costa Rica and I wouldn’t even think of going anywhere else for advice on what to see and do there. Can’t wait to check it out myself someday.

Aw thanks Jen! Yeah Costa Rica is an amazing country with something for everyone, literally. Definitely ask us if you have any questions when you go!

Muriel says

One of my favorite things to do in Costa Rica is eat haha. But aside from that, I love going zip lining and snorkeling. Going through the jungle on the lines is always so fun! Last time I did it in Quepos.

Snorkeling is so much fun there! Ziplining too. We’ve done a good handful of ziplines in Costa Rica but each one is different!

Wow what a list! All those outdoor adventures look so great, I should definitely try more of them!

You should 🙂 let us know if you need any information have a great day !

Deborah says

Looks AMAZING! My niece went and said it was gorgeous. I loved all your pics and info.

Thanks deborah I am glad you like it !

Number 48 would be amazing to do in this region of the world! I’ve always wanted to do number 34 as well as an avid coffee consumer. Fabulous post. Clearly a plethroa of seemingly never ending activities to do in this amazing country!

I’m not a huge yoga fan but I know some people who are obsessed and they love doing it in Costa Rica. There are some great retreats for it.

August 17, 2014

HI Regina, Costa Rica is beautiful there are some many things to do, whenever you know let us know and we will help you to set up the perfect trip.

Thanks for commenting

August 13, 2014

Love this list! I’m heading to Costa Rica tomorrow and I certainly hope to tick more than a few of these off! 🙂

Hope you’re having fun Beth!!

Brianna says

August 12, 2014

I looooved my short time in Costa Rica and can’t wait to go back. I would like to try canyoning and rafting the Pacuare next time I’m there.

Canyoning was soo much fun! So was rafting. Both super exciting!

Julie (The Red Headed Traveler) says

I studied in Costa Rica (I lived in San Jose) for a semester in college and boy, I didn’t even come close to doing all the wonderful things on your list. The highlights for me were probably visiting the Arenal/La Fortuna area, la catarata there, and really just enjoying everything that makes la vida de pura vida so wonderful. I’ll leave out the cockroaches that were often visitors at my first host family’s house 🙂

Arenal is gorgeous! Love it. Haha, yeah I definitely left out “killing cockroaches every morning when I go to the bathroom” Didn’t think people would like that one lol

Chris Boothman says

I am about to start a series on our site that shows our “Top 10 Reasons for visiting xyz” but it looks like you guys have gone above and beyond with the Top 50!! This is really cool and definitely makes me want to explore Costa Rica.

This is just a teeny tiny sampling of the things you can do here, we’ll have a 50 things part 2 in the future!

Anne Lisenko says

August 25, 2015

Thank you so much for creating the amazing list of 50 things to do in Costa Rica. I can’t wait to be there already. I know that I will love the white water rafting trip as well as the zip lining. Since I’m an animal lover, I look forward to seeing the dogs on the beach and playing with them. Awesome pictures, well done! All the best, Anne

August 26, 2015

Hi Anne, thank you for the kind words! You will definitely have a blast in Costa Rica, and this list is just the beginning of soo many more fun things to do. I hope you have a great time there!!

Richelle says

Wow this is such an extensive list. I can’t believe you can waterslide in the jungle! I love tropical beach destinations but I prefer to be active rather than lay on the beach. Costa Rica sounds like a perfect fit!

Watersliding in the jungle was so much fun! So different. I’m the same way, I get bored just laying on the beach, I need to be active!

Suzanne - Travelbunny says

Wow – there’s so much to do! I went through the list and ended up with around 30 that I’d love to do/experience! Page is now bookmarked 🙂

Awesome!! Glad to give you some ideas 🙂

This is such a great list! I loved Costa Rica and there is soooo much there. Have you ever been to Rio Celeste? That was one of my favorite stops when we were in the Arenal area. It’s such a beautiful country!!

I haven’t yet! It’s been on my bucket list but after we sold our car, it’s hard to get there from Coco just by bus and they had closed one of the entrances to re-do the road. When we move back, we’re definitely going there though!

Dave Cole says

How did you guys every narrow it down to 50? From your list, the sunset cruise, hanging bridges everything food-related call out to me the most. I’m now dying for a giant taco! A perfect reward after a day of exploring for sure.

It’s 50 of our favorite things we’ve done so far. There’s still tons more to do which we hope to do in the future!

Angela Travels says

August 11, 2014

Great post. I would really like to do the white water rafting. Good list to save for when I get to Costa Rica 🙂

White water rafting was amazing. You’d love it! I loved the one in Leavenworth (if you’ve done that one) but the water was too cold to jump in. The water is crazy warm in CR!

Lauren says

This is such a fantastic list that would be a must-read for anyone visiting Costa Rica!! I would love to see all of the natural sites, do yoga, learn about how coffee is made, eat rice and beans, and so many more!

Thanks Lauren!

Ryan Biddulph says

Love this list! CR is one of my fave places in the world. We did San Jose, Playa Potrero, Quepos, Monteverde, Nueva Arenal and Atenas over a 2 month stretch. We loved it.

The beautiful are so nice and the country is so clean. Cleanliness-wise, the only place I’ve seen that’s cleaner is here in Fiji…and we’re in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with no land influences around, so they’re pretty much cheating 😉

I snapped a picture with the same monkey – or group of – in Manuel Antonio, right by the little bay, I betcha. Quepos was amazing. We fed the Capuchins and adorable Titi/squirrel monkeys from the porch of our apartment as we were in the jungle, on the fringe of Quepos, right by where you head up the hill.

We also saw Jesus Christ lizards there, 4 times, and a beautiful Ibis, and howler monkeys, and iguanas, and sloths. So much wildlife in such a small area. Amazing.

Thanks guys. This brings back awesome memories.

Tweeting through Triberr.

Manuel Antonio is so beautiful – kind of sad that it’s insanely touristic now though. One of my friends who visited 10 years ago was absolutely shocked at how touristy it’s become. Still gorgeous but it was crazy crowded when we were there.

There’s so many more places in CR that are equally as beautiful with only 10% of the people. So many amazing hidden spots! When we come back I’ll make a 50 things to do part 2 🙂

August 10, 2014

Discovered your site after visiting CR in February and have been following ever since. You guys are truly inspirational. Keep up the great work.

Hi Chris! Thanks so much for the kind words and we’re so happy you like the blog! We’ll do our best 🙂

Sammi Wanderlustin' says

Beautiful photo’s and what a great list!

Thanks Sammi!

August 9, 2014

Love this list! I have done 40 of the 50. The fishing and more adventurous items are the ones I have yet to experience… little kids are my excuse. Enjoyed discovering your blog!

One day when your kids are big you can do the adventurous ones with them! They’ll love it 🙂 Thanks for stopping by Lisa!

Beautiful pics and great things to do.

What I also really enjoyed was a gyrocopter ride starting near Samara, Guanacaste. Flying over the beaches, jungle and rivers in an open gyrocopter was really amazing.

You can find them on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ultralight-Tours-Gyrocopter-Rides-Costa-Rica/493136747370929

August 16, 2014

Thanks for sharing your Costa Rica experiences.

Pura vida !

Claudia says

August 8, 2014

Enjoying the pura vida lifestyle… drinking pipa… But you know, I really agree with you when you say San Jose isn’t that bad. Funny thing is i was not even planning to go. Then I had to, for some reason. And spent a whole week there just because it was so chilled 🙂

True! It’s actually nice to go and wander around San Jose, it’s fun to see all the city Ticos just doing their thing, much different than the beach.

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Essential costa rica attractions map.

This interactive Costa Rica attractions map is downloadable for offline use! You’ll need it when you visit Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is an adventure paradise. Many of the famous attractions in Costa Rica are natural wonders like volcanos, animal sanctuaries, and national parks . The best tourist attractions in Costa Rica are included in this map. 

Costa Rica Attractions Map

Table of Contents

Manuel Antonio National Park

Marino ballena national park aka ‘whale’s tail’, corcovado national park, nauyaca waterfalls, las catalinas islands, ostional beach, tortuguero national park , cahuita national park, pacuare river, tabacon hot springs , arenal volcano, celeste river waterfall, arenal rainforest, irazu volcano , poas volcano , monteverde cloud forest .

costa rica tourist activities

Costa Rica is a famous eco-tourism destination in Central America . The easiest way to get to Costa Rica is to fly into one of the country’s international airports. There’s one in San Jose and one in Liberia. Both airports offer daily flights to many US and Canadian destinations. 

The best time to visit Costa Rica is December through April . This is the dry season. If you are looking to avoid crowds, consider visiting June through August. Rain can be an important factor when planning your trip, as you won’t be able to fully appreciate the top sights in Costa Rica when the skies are completely overcast.  Find out  what to wear in Costa Rica.

sloth

This map of Costa Rica will help you plan the perfect itinerary . Discover the Costa Rica main attractions everyone is raving about! Also, find out more about the memorable things to do in Costa Rica! 

Some of the best places to visit in Costa Rica include the coastlines, La Fortuna and Monteverde. La Fortuna is known for the Hanging Bridges Park, Tabacon Hot Springs, and the Arenal volcano . Monteverde is home to the famous Cloud Forest! 

costa rica tourist activities

How to Use This Map: If you click the tab at the top left corner, you’ll be able to select specific layers. Click the checkmark to select or hide specific categories.

Save This Map: Click the brackets in the top right corner to expand the map in full view. It will open in a new tab. Under the map title, right of the map description, there is a star. Click this star and the map will be saved to your Google account  in Google Maps. You can access it later from your computer or device. On desktop, go to Google Maps and click ‘Your Places,’ and ‘Maps.’ On app view, select ‘Saved, scroll down and click ‘Maps.’

Costa Rica is a relatively small country convenient for road-tripping . Although, the roads are quite primitive and sometimes poorly lit. It’s best to plan driving during daylight hours

This is the best of Costa Rica as experienced by travel bloggers! You’ll find out more about the top attractions in Costa Rica. Also, learn more about the exciting outdoor activities in Costa Rica like whitewater rafting, canyoning, snorkeling , and much more. 

Pacific Coast

You’ll find a few important attractions along the Pacific coastline on this Costa Rica tourist map. The most iconic spots along the Pacific coast are Manuel Antonio, Marino Ballena, and Corcovado National Parks . Visiting the Catalinas Islands off of the Pacific coast is one of the unique things to do in Costa Rica. 

By Lena from Salut from Paris

One of the best activities in Costa Rica is visiting one of the many National Parks. Manuel Antonio is one of the Costa Rica top attractions. It’s the most accessible and easy to visit park , and it’s located in the Puntarenas region. You can get there by 4-hour bus ride from San Jose. 

manuel-antonio National Park, beach

Manuel Antonio is the smallest National Park in Costa Rica, but don’t get fooled by its size. The biodiversity is unbelievably high. More than 300 species are living in this little paradise . You’ll have the chance to see sloths, monkeys, coatis, toucans, snakes, and all kinds of iguanas. 

The park has a wonderful lush tropical vibe but also several coves with white sand beaches . It’s one of the fun places in Costa Rica to snorkel! So, you get to enjoy the maritime wildlife as well. If you are lucky, you might even spot a migrating whale . 

Iguana in Manuel Antonio

Book a guided tour through Manuel Antonio National Park. 

Given its beauty, it is not surprising that the Manuel Antonio National Park was even listed by Forbes as being one of the world’s 12 most beautiful national parks . That’s why it’s one of the important spots on this Costa Rica points of interest map. Due to the very well-maintained loop trail, it is easy to visit the park, no matter your fitness level .

By Sarah from Costa Rica Vibes

The Marino Ballena National Park is located in the South Pacific town of Uvita . This park is home to a unique geographical phenomenon. That’s why it’s considered to have some of the best beaches in Costa Rica.

During low tide, it is possible to walk on a wide jutted-out piece of land with the ocean on either side . From above, this piece of land resembles a whale’s tail. 

Marino Ballena National Park

To visit this spot, access Playa Uvita in Marino Ballena National Park during low tide . There is a small entry fee for adults, but the beach is a beautiful place to spend a day. 

Just make sure to wear shoes or sandals because the walk to the tip of the whale’s tail is rocky. Also, put on plenty of high SPF sunscreen, and don’t forget to head back before the tide comes in! 

Playa Uvita in Costa Rica

Book a whale watching tour from Uvita. 

Whale’s Tail is one of the most popular Costa Rica attractions. The best way to view the whale’s tail in all its glory is from one of the many resorts located in the mountains above Uvita . These are some of the best places to go in Costa Rica for panoramic Pacific coast views. 

Oh, and if you visit during August through October, definitely go on a whale watching tour! Besides resembling a whale’s tail this is also one of the best spots in the country to experience whale migration. 

By Margarita from The Wildlife Diaries 

It’s referred to by National Geographic as “the most biologically intense place on earth in terms of biodiversity.” Corcovado National Park is epic in every sense of the word. It is the largest National Park in Costa Rica and one of its wildest. 

Central American Squirrel Monkey

Visit the Corcovado wilderness from Sierpe. 

There are no roads, no settlements within Corcovado wilderness , only a few ranger stations. The best of these is Sirena Ranger Station that you can visit for a few days on an organized tour with a certified nature guide. It’s one of the best places to see in Costa Rica for expert trekkers. 

Getting to Sirena is part of the adventure – it can be reached either by a 2-hr bumpy boat ride from the sleepy coastal town of Drake Bake or by a 26-kilometer hike from Puerto Jiménez. This isn’t your average Costa Rica sightseeing! 

Eyelash pit viper

Facilities at Sirena beg for an upgrade. Although, the jungle can be explored via an extensive network of trails . It is superb! Because Corcovado has been protected since 1975, animals in the park have no memory of being hunted and have a lot of tolerance for people. So if you enjoy close encounters with wild animals, Corcovado is your kind of place . 

It is the only place in Costa Rica where you can see all four species of Costa Rica’s monkeys, as well as the endangered Baird’s tapirs, Northern tamanduas, peccaries, and coatis. 

Coati

Experiencing wildlife firsthand at Corcovado is one of the cool things to do in Costa Rica. If you are lucky, you may even spot a puma! Not to mention, there are over 360 species of birds and a plethora of reptiles . This includes Latin America’s most infamous venomous snake the Fer de Lance. 

By Samantha from Seeing Sam

If you are a nature lover and adventure seeker, you must visit the Nauyaca Waterfalls in the Puntarenas Province! They’re an important spot on this tourist map of Costa Rica attractions.

The Nauyaca waterfall system is located on private property. It is beloved by tourists and locals alike . Many of the top activities in Costa Rica can be enjoyed here. Nauyaca Falls offers more than just beautiful views and refreshing pools. You can e njoy horseback riding, birdwatching, hiking, and daring cliff jumping.  

Nauyaca waterfall system

The falls are snuggled in a canyon over 260 ft wide surrounded by tropical rainforest . The waterfall plunges down over slick rocks in two sections that combine and reach over 200 ft. It’s one of the most impressive sites to see in Costa Rica!

The lower section flows into a pool just under 20 feet deep . This spot is perfect for swimming. If you are feeling ambitious, you can consider jumping off one of the various rock formations. 

This spot is conveniently located near popular beach towns . It’s accessible from Dominical in 20 mins or 6 miles. You can get there from Manuel Antonio in 50 mins or 34 miles. Alternatively, from Uvita, it will take 30 mins or 18 miles. 

Nauyaca waterfall system

Tour the Nauyaca waterfalls from Manuel Antonio. 

This is one of the interesting places to visit in Costa Rica and getting here is an adventure . You can choose to hike 2.5 miles to the waterfalls if you have a 4×4. In this case, you can park at the trailhead parking lot. Otherwise, you can park on the street and either hitch a ride or walk another 1.5 miles to the trailhead down a rough and rugged dirt road. 

Depending on the time of year, you can also visit the waterfalls via horseback or 4×4 tours. There is a small entrance fee, but it is well worth the memories you will make while visiting this exciting and unique destination in Costa Rica!

By Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

One of the best-hidden gems on this Costa Rica map is the Catalina Islands. You’ll find them in the Guanacaste region. Nestled comfortably a few miles off the Pacific Coast, these islands are a beautiful natural landmark and one of the cool places to visit in Costa Rica!

The islands are archipelago ranging from 2-15 miles off the coast. It’s easy to visit from the beach town, Tamarindo. Above water, the islands are not much to look at, but underneath the waves, Mother Nature is showing off. Scuba diving or snorkeling in the Catalina Islands is one of the best things to do in Tamarindo . The islands are home to the Pacific Giant Mantas , white-tip reef sharks , and literally hundreds of species of fish – so be sure to bring an underwater camera with you.

Las Catalinas Islands

Dive at the Las Catalinas Islands. 

Scuba and snorkeling tours leave Tamarindo daily. On your way out to the archipelago, keep an eye out for devil rays playing in the waves. They can be seen launching and flipping several feet out of the water. It’s one of the unforgettable things to see in Costa Rica!

Whether you see the islands from under the water, or on top, you won’t be disappointed! 

By Pubali and Indranil from Paradise Catchers

If you are looking for memorable entertainment in Costa Rica, consider a trip to Ostional beach. Located on the Pacific coast, this little town in Guanacaste province draws visitors from around the world for a magical natural phenomenon .

Ostional Beach is one of the must-see places in Costa Rica. Thousands of olive ridley sea turtles come to Ostional beach for nesting . This event of the arrival of the turtles is called “arribada” (Spanish for “arrival”). Mostly following the moon cycle, arribadas occur all year round but peak between June and December.

turtles on Ostional Beach

Part of the Ostional Wildlife Refuge, Ostional beach is a great spot for turtle nesting tours . It is a spectacular sight to observe an outstanding number of turtles crawling on the beach while learning about the process of turtle nesting from the guide.

 If your tour of arribada coincides with the hatching of eggs from one of the previous arribadas, you may be lucky to see some baby turtles make their first walk to the ocean . Learning about turtles is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica. 

turtles on Ostional Beach

Asociacion de Guias Locales de Ostional (AGLO) runs guided turtle nesting tours in Ostional. You can follow their Facebook page for announcements on when arribadas begin and the timings of their tours so that you can time your trip accordingly.

Caribbean Coast

You’ll notice a bunch of pins along the Caribbean Coast on this Costa Rica sightseeing map. One of the things to do in Costa Rica for ecologically-minded tourists is visit Tortuguero and Cahuita National Parks

By Greta from Greta’s Travels

Tortuguero National Park is one of the best attractions on this Costa Rica destinations map. It’s located on the Caribbean coast of the country, in Limon Province. It’s a rainforest-covered sandbar , and it’s one of the most unique places to visit in Costa Rica. 

Tortuguero is a lush green rainforest, dotted with canals and wetlands, which are home to jaguars, crocodiles, and manatees . The beaches of Tortuguero are also a major nesting site for green turtles. 

Tortugo National Park

The abundance of wildlife makes it one of the top-rated Costa Rica tourist attractions. If you want to make the most of this rainforest, you should join one of the many great tours in Tortuguero .  

You can go on a night walking tour to see all the curious animals that don’t come out during the day. Or if you’re a bit of a thrill-seeker, you can join a canopy and zipline tour, which will allow you to explore the rainforest peaks in an adventurous way. There are also many rainforest kayak or canoe tours , which will allow you to see this natural beauty from a different perspective. 

Tortugo National Park

Tortuguero National Park is a place of stunning natural beauty and incredibly rich wildlife. No Costa Rica trip would be complete without a visit to this unique rainforest.

By Veronika from Travel Geekery

Cahuita National Park

Experience the undeniable beauty of Cahuita National Park. 

If you follow the main trail, you can walk as long as 8.3 km (5 miles) and then the same distance back. The trail leads through the tropical rainforest following the beach. Choose between beach and forest paths. The empty beaches are lovely and invite for a swim. Swimming at an undiscovered beach is one of the top things to do in Costa Rica.

capuchin monkey

 You’re sure to come across the cheekiest inhabitants of Cahuita National Park – the raccoon and the capuchin monke ys . Both will try to steal your food. Other than that, you’ll come across iguanas, pelicans and other birds, and possibly even sloths . The marshes in the forest come equipped with crocodile signs, but you’re unlikely to meet one.

Apart from the national park itself, Cahuita is also a pleasant little town with pretty beaches – especially the Black Beach (Playa Negra) which is one of the recommended places to go in Costa Rica. 

By Kerry Hanson from VeggTravel

One of the must-visit attractions on this Costa Rica interactive map is the River Pacuare. It is a vast river 125km east of San Jose . This river is beautifully picturesque and framed with tall jungle trees, green mountainsides, and natural waterfalls. Also, it has some of the best white water rafting in Costa Rica . 

whitewater rafting in Costa Rica

Whitewater rafting is one of the best activities in Costa Rica for thrill-seekers. However, this location isn’t all about adrenaline activities. It is also the perfect environment to observe wildlife. The dense rainforest and natural water source mean that you will see tropical birds and potentially even sloths, howler monkeys, and capuchin monkeys . 

whitewater rafting

Sign up for whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River. 

The best time to visit is during the rainy season as the water levels will be higher which makes for a much more thrilling ride . Tackle the class II to IV rapids as you race down the fast-flowing river. The White-water rafting experience will take approximately 4 hours in total so it’s certainly a workout, but there are plenty of more relaxing moments to enjoy. Rafting the river Pacuare is one of the top adventurous things to do in Costa Rica . The Pacuare River is one of the fun places to visit in Costa Rica. 

Near La Fortuna

La Fortuna is one of the best cities to visit in Costa Rica. You’ll find many of the blue pins concentrated here on the map of Costa Rica tourist attractions. This is where you’ll find the Arenal Volcano, Tabacon Hot Springs, and the Hanging Bridges Park

In Arenal, hanging bridges park

By Paige from For the Love of Wanderlust 

Tabacon Hot Springs Resort and Spa is one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica. It’s located in the Northern Region of Costa Rica, near the base of Arenal Volcano. Tabacon is a luxury experience , and one of the most romantic activities in Arenal . 

Tabacon Hot Springs

Tabacon boasts the only spa experience in the area that isn’t pumped in or reheated. A geothermal river simply runs across this property . The spa area has been landscaped and built up around it to create a safe, lush backdrop for your soaks .

Tabacon

There are different series of cascades that vary in temperature the further downstream you get. In addition to these beautiful, natural hot spring experiences, there is a large pool with a slide and a swim-up bar that has been filled with geothermal waters. 

Tabacon

Visit the Arenal Volcano and Tabacon Hot Springs from San José. 

Their restaurant is also very tasty and don’t forget the spa! Day passes are available, but if it’s in your budget, consider staying here . It’s wonderful to soak your muscles after a grueling day exploring the Costa Rica points of interest. Tabacon is a paradise that you’ll not regret splurging on. It’ll be a high point of luxury on any trip to Costa Rica .

By Kristine from Wanderlust Designers

Going down 200ft waterfalls and tall cliffs … why not? That’s canyoning and waterfall rappelling – one of the most adventurous activities to do in Costa Rica!

Although there are many places on this Costa Rica activities map where you can go canyoning, the La Fortuna area is quite a special one since you can go through the canyons near the Arenal Volcano .

canyoning

Book a top-rated canyoning tour. 

Of course, you’ll get wet doing it (because of the waterfalls) and most probably dirty as well. It’s part of this unique way to experience the jungle. While rappelling down waterfalls and climbing up huge rocks, keep your eyes wide open. You may find toucans, sloths, monkeys, and other exotic wildlife!

Most of the tours last for half a day, that is, 4 hours, and include transfers and lunch afterward. It’s one of the fun things to do in Costa Rica. The experience includes a safety briefing. You’ll be taught rappelling techniques and how to properly use the equipment. Although you do need to pack water-friendly clothes and shoes. Jeans are not a good choice, as those take too long to dry.

Arenal Volcano

There are tours where different levels of experience and physical strength are needed, starting from tours fit for beginners and ending with extreme canyoning . Depending on the company that you choose, even children as young as 5 years old can go.

By Ella from Many More Maps 

On the Costa Rica travel map, near La Fortuna, you’ll find the Arenal Volcano. It’s one of the top places to go in Costa Rica. It’s over 1633 meters above sea level, and last erupted in 2010. 

Thousands of visitors to Costa Rica make the journey to hike up the Arenal Volcano and around the Arenal Volcano National Park. There are hikes for all abilities – simply pick up a trail map at the ranger station!

hiking around the Arenal Volcano

Visit the Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Waterfall. 

Visiting the Arenal Volcano is one of the best things to do in La Fortuna. You can get there in just a 12-minute drive from town . You’ll have to pay a small entry fee to the national park if you’re visiting independently, or you can join a guided hike in La Fortuna which will include the entry fee.

Arenal Volcano

If you don’t fancy hiking, there’s a far more relaxing way to enjoy the Arenal Volcano – from one of the many hot springs in the area! These pools, streams, and waterfalls are naturally warmed by volcanic activity. Visiting them is one of the most popular things to do in La Fortuna and Arenal .

By Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast 

The Rio Celeste Waterfall is found in the Tenorio National Park, about 1.5 hours outside of La Fortuna . It’s one of the Costa Rica top attractions.  

This waterfall is an absoluetly stunning spot . One of the popular activities in Costa Rica is hiking. You will hike an easy-moderate 30-minute trail through the rainforest to reach the top of a staircase . After descending 500 stairs, you will reach the base of the waterfall and be rewarded with one of the most picturesque falls! 

Rio Celeste Waterfall

Visit the Rio Celeste waterfall and nearby sloth sanctuary. 

The water is a stunning milky blue color , and it’s surrounded by lush, green foliage. You can access it via a cute, winding staircase. The whole effect is stunning.

Rio Celeste Waterfall

After getting your fill of the waterfall, you can continue hiking along the same trail to a few more points of interest – including a blue lagoon, a bubbling hot pot, a really cute bridge, and up to the spot where two sources of water meet and mix, creating the chemical reaction that makes the milky blue water. It’s super cool to see the water mix and change color! It’s one of the most memorable things you can do in Costa Rica. 

While you can’t swim in the water inside the national park, outside the park there is an access point down to the river where you can take a dip! If you have flexibility, avoid visiting right after large rainstorms for the best water color .

Submitted by Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

The Arenal Rainforest is an immense ecosystem that is home to some of the world’s most incredible floral and fauna . The 504-thousand acre rainforest and national park in north-central Costa Rica near the town of La Fortuna.

It’s home to some of the best attractions in Costa Rica. From waterfall hikes to hanging bridge tours and some of the best zip lining in Costa Rica , the Arenal Rainforest is one of the top places to visit in Costa Rica. 

costa rica tourist activities

With at least half of the animals native to Costa Rica living in the canopies of the country’s rainforests, a zip-lining or hanging bridge tour gives you a close-up look at the fascinating wildlife that inhabit the rainforest. Taking an evening nature tour is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica at night. 

man explores Arenal Hanging Bridges Park

From a zip line or hanging bridge, you can spot native birds like toucans . There are also howler monkeys and sloths . Spotting wildlife is one of the things to do in Costa Rica with family. Whether you choose to soar through the air attached to a steel cable or stroll across a series of suspension bridges, the Arenal Rainforest offers a unique Costa Rican experience that you can’t find anywhere else in the world.

Near San Jose

There are many blue pins on this map of tourist attractions in Costa Rica near San Jose. This is the capital of Costa Rica, and it’s home to one of the country’s international airports. Some of the things to do in San Jose Costa Rica include the Irazu Volcano and Poas Volcano. 

By Daria from The Discovery Nut

The Irazu Volcano is located about one hour away from the capital San Jose. This National Park is one of the best places to visit on this Costa Rica tourist attractions map.

The most convenient way to visit is by driving by car. Public transportation options are somewhat limited but you can still catch a bus to Cartago, a former capital of Costa Rica located near the park.

Irazu Volcano

Irazu is the highest and the largest active volcano in Costa Rica at 11,260 feet tall and 500 square kilometers at its base. Visiting here is one of the unique things to do in Costa Rica. 

One of the most popular activities in this national park is hiking to the Diego de la Haya crater – a challenging but exciting hike that culminates with incredible views of a bright green lake inside the volcano.

Irazu Volcano

If you make your way here, don’t forget to put on some layers , as temperatures here are lower than in San Jose due to the high elevation. The last time Irazu erupted was in 1994, and the volcano has been dormant ever since. However, it could become active again at any time.

Irazu makes for a perfect day trip from San Jose. Especially if you want to see one of the less touristy places in Costa Rica . You can combine a trip to Irazu with a visit to Cartago to learn about Costa Rica’s history.

By Elena from Passion for Hospitality 

The Poas Volcano is the heart of the Poas Volcano National Park at the height of 2,697 meters. It is one of the most visited national parks on this map of Costa Rica attractions. 

Located in the province of Alajuela, it makes for a wonderful day trip from the capital, San Jose . The Póas Volcano National Park was first established in 1955 and is home to one of the world’s largest craters in the world. Poas is an active volcano, its last major activity was recorded in 1910 . However, in April of 2017, there was an eruption of gas, ash, and rocks. This caused damage to some buildings and trails in the park. 

Poas Volcano

The park partially opened to the public in August 2018. Today, visitors are allocated a 20-minute time slot to admire the volcano from a dedicated viewing platform . It’s one of the most thrilling and adventurous things to do in Costa Rica. 

Poas Volcnao

The visit first starts with a short video presentation about the Poas Volcano National Park. Then, visitors are allowed to proceed towards the viewpoint. Due to the mist and clouds, it is not always guaranteed that you will get a clear view of the main crater. If you do get to see it, you’ll be able to appreciate the hot and acidic water lagoon with turquoise waters. 

Monteverde 

Monteverde attractions include the famous Cloud Forest and coffee tours. Learning about cacao and sugarcane harvesting is one of the fun activities in Costa Rica . During these tours, you’ll also get to sample chocolate and coffee.

cocoa berries

Book a coffee and chocolate tour in Monteverde. 

By Sinead from Map Made Memories

One of the best things to do in Monteverde is to visit the Cloud forests which are located in the northern Puntarenas province. You can get here in approximately a 3-hour drive from San Jose . The Monteverde Cloud Forest is one of the top attractions in Costa Rica.

Monteverde Cloud Forest

Cloud forests are classed as dense, tropical forests that have frequent cloud cover at their canopy level . To achieve this, the forests need to be located in elevated, tropical regions near the sea. Only 1% of the worlds’ forests are cloud forests which makes the Monteverde cloud forests a rare and precious gem. The cloud forests are protected within a 35,000-acre reserve offering 8 miles of basic hiking trails. 

Monteverde Cloud Forest

The reserve has a ranger’s station and facilities at the entrance but there are no facilities within the pristine forest itself. Walking so close to the clouds is an unforgettable experience . Due to the high moisture level, there is a wide variety of plant and animal biodiversity including over 400 species of birds . Birdwatching is one of the best things to do in Monteverde.

Monteverde Cloud Forest

Hikers can also enjoy cloud forests in the Children’s Eternal Rainforest (Bosque Eterno de Los Niños) and the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. Both of these are in the neighboring town of Santa Elena.  

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Costa Rica Bucket List

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Costa Rica Experts

Our vacation packages include accommodations, in-country travel, and excursions to make your vacation hassle-free. We can customize any of our packages to create the unique vacation experience you’re looking for.

Costa Rica offers a host of options for the curious traveler. Our list of the Best Costa Rica Tours and Activities will help personalize your vacation so you can see exactly what you want to see. From the stunning natural attractions to the thrilling rainforest adventure tours, there’s something for everyone!

Our private vacation packages include accommodations, in-country transportation, and day tours to make your vacation hassle-free. Due to high demand, we are not offering individual day tours at this time. All vacation packages require a 7-day minimum.

Best Costa Rica Tours & Activities:

Choose from an array of ready-made vacation packages or create a custom plan with the help of our Experts. Choose your preferred activities — like guided excursions in the rainforest, getting up close to brightly-colored fish on a SCUBA outing, or just relaxing in Costa Rica’s famous hot springs — and our experts will craft an unforgettable vacation.

Benefits of Guided Tours

The best way to get the most out of your Costa Rica, Panama, or Nicaragua adventure is with a guided tour! An experienced naturalist is a must for any bird or wildlife watching trip – natural camouflage in addition to the dense rainforest undergrowth makes animal spotting tough. With the help of a bilingual guide, travelers might be lucky enough to spot some of Costa Rica’s shyer wildlife – like the near-mythical Resplendent Quetzal, the surprisingly sneaky tapir, or the ever-elusive jaguar.

When you plan a trip with Costa Rica Experts, there’s no worry over tours! We’ve introduced thousands of people to the wonder and beauty of Costa Rica. With 24/7 travel assistance provided by our in-country office in San Jose, we’re here for you from the moment you start planning to when you get home from your tropical getaway.

Costa Rica Wildlife Tours

Costa Rica’s fauna are one of the many reasons people visit from all over the world. Sitting where the South and North American continents seem to overlap, Costa Rica experiences the best of both worlds, with a variety of animal and bird species that can be found nowhere else. Descriptions don’t do it justice! Head into one of Costa Rica’s cloud forests to check a hundred or so species off your bird-watching list. Visit the Tarcoles River and watch (from a safe distance!) the massive crocodiles that lurk under the surface. Plan a trip to Tortuguero during turtle-nesting, and view one of nature’s most amazing events – hundreds of sea turtles coming ashore on the same beach in a single night to lay their eggs. A single trip is never enough to see all the wonders Costa Rica has to offer.

Nature and Costa Rica tend to go hand in hand.  25% of the country is protected land, and the variety of wildlife is as astounding as the beauty of nature.  Imagine a birdwatching excursion into the rainforest, when suddenly you come upon the unrealistically blue waters of Rio Celeste. There are stunning landscapes no matter where you visit, from the looming Arenal Volcano to the tranquility of the Monteverde Cloud Forest.  When it comes to pure natural beauty, Costa Rica is in a class of its own!

Related Article:

The Big Five Animals of Costa Rica

Cultural Tours

Costa Rica is a melting pot of cultures. Spanish immigrants left their mark and Jamaican influences make themselves known on the country’s Caribbean Coast , but it wouldn’t do to forget the peoples who inhabited the lands long before it was colonized. In Arenal, visit the Maleku community, meet a local family, and learn how their lifestyle has been impacted by modern development – and how they work to preserve their traditions. Head towards San Ramon and take a cultural tour, where you’ll learn all about the city of poets with guides who grew up in this charming community.

One of the most popular destinations for those interested in Costa Rica’s unique cultural ambiance is the craft city of Sarchi. Set within Costa Rica’s Central Valley, this easily-accessible town is one of the best-known in the country.  Traditionally, the elaborate and brightly painted oxcarts that make Sarchi famous were the only means of transportation for the coffee that makes up so much of the areas agriculture. Now, visitors delight in the abundance of small family-owned woodworking or craft shops. Sarchi also features one of the country’s most beautiful churches, an expansive 17-acre botanical garden, and the world’s largest oxcart – crafted in 2006 in a (successful) attempt to get the town’s name in The Guinness Book of World Records!

Adventure Tours

Adventure vacations are one of the best reasons to go to Costa Rica!  If you’re going to visit somewhere new, why not get as many fun experiences out of it as possible?  If you haven’t tried surfing, head on over to Tamarindo and take a few lessons.  Any adrenaline-junkie will love the rush of canopy zip lines – what could be better than a bird’s eye view as you glide over the rainforest?  The Pacuare River has some of the best whitewater rafting in the world, and rafting adventures can be planned for just the day or for the next three.  When it comes to getting your heart racing, you can’t beat Costa Rica!

Related Articles:

Costa Rica Adventure Tours Arenal Volcano: Adventure Capital of Costa Rica

Costa Rica Culinary Tours

Costa Rica’s hearty home-style dishes are well-known for being simple, delicious, and healthy!  Fresh fruit, seafood, and vegetables are a backbone of Costa Rican cooking. At El Silencio Lodge , there’s an entire tour devoted to learning to make the Costa Rican classics you’ll learn to love on your vacation.  Thinking more decadent?  Even better: there’s a hands-on chocolate making session where you can add your own little extras, for a savory sweet you made yourself.

If you’ve heard about the world’s Blue Zones, where the population lives healthier & longer than anywhere else, you’ll know that Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula is the place to stop! Along with beautiful natural scenery and an emphasis on yoga and healthy activities, Nicoya is also home to a number of culinary favorites – including the delectable deliciousness of Harmony Hotel’s juice bar.

A Costa Rica Blue Zone Retreat Gastro Tours for Foodies

Coastal Tours

One of the many benefits of this small country is its location – with miles of Pacific and Caribbean shoreline there are plenty of options if you want to spend your vacation in the water.  Kayak, stand up paddle board, swim, scuba, snorkel, raft, dive, fish – and that’s just to name a few!

More than the wide variety of coastal tours in Costa Rica, however, is the draw of the quality of these adventures! Costa Rica is dedicated to providing a pristine environment for thrill-seekers of any kind, and the beaches are of noticeable importance. The Blue Flag Ecological Program tracks beach cleanliness, safety, and community outreach annually – a beach that has been awarded the Ecological Blue Flag is a good bet!

Romantic Tours

What could be more romantic than a holiday in the rainforest?  Experience the forest sundown romantic dinner at El Silencio Lodge, where a chef will dazzle and delight you with amazing courses, all surrounded by the lush tropical forest.  If you’re looking more for 5-star hospitality consider a resort, where a relaxing night can be spent in your own personal over-sized Jacuzzi, a glass of wine in hand.

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The 8 Best Beaches To Visit in Costa Rica

Check out the best beaches in Costa Rica, from remote locations with serene sands to sunny hot spots with all the top beach attractions.

Sarah Rand • Mar 8, 2024

costa rica tourist activities

Costa Rica is a Central American country with stunning coastlines. Nearly a quarter of the land is protected jungle, so travelers commonly note that the natural beauty of the country is unmatched. The biodiversity of Costa Rica is a big appeal for tourism . The capital of Costa Rica is San Jose, which attracts plenty of travelers looking for a bustling city center. It is a quite welcoming country , so travelers flock to the area. But the destination is most known for its national parks and beaches. And there are plenty of beaches for tourists to choose from. Many travelers travel to the beaches of Costa Rica to elope or even to take a family trip. To simplify the planning process, we have assembled a list of the best beaches in Costa Rica. 

When To Visit Costa Rica

costa rica tourist activities

The most ideal time to visit Costa Rica mainly has to do with the weather, crowds and travel costs. For the most ideal weather, travelers should consider a trip in between the months of December and April. This period of time is the most sunny and least rainy, which makes for a great beach experience. Temperatures generally range from 70 to 90 degrees during these months, so travelers are pretty much guaranteed  great sunbathing. 

Costa Rica is not a very expensive place to travel to, but some travelers may want to decrease their spendings as much as possible. The low season is the most ideal time to save on flights and accommodations. This season, where traveling in Costa Rica is most affordable, is between May and September. 

For the most serene experience, travelers should not visit Costa Rica during the dry season. This season is the most popular time to visit, between December and April. The rest of the year is the best time to plan a trip to Costa Rica. 

The Best Beaches in Costa Rica

costa rica tourist activities

Playa Santa Teresa 

This beach is located in the beach town of Santa Teresa, which is known for its laid back atmosphere. There are plenty of restaurants, accommodations and things to do in the area. The beach is popular with surfers, foodies and wellness enthusiasts. In fact, there are plenty of popular places to eat near the beach. Playa Santa Teresa is a great place for vacationers that are looking for a getaway with warm waters, colorful forest, soft sand and an array of beach activities. Some of the top things to do around the beach include surfing, yoga, deep sea fishing, day spas, shopping at local boutiques and eco tours. 

Playa Conchal

Playa Conchal is a great place to swim and is considered one of the finest beaches on the Pacific Northwest coast. Sunrise is priceless there, so many travelers take leisurely strolls on the beach. Conchal translates to shell so this beach is commonly called shell beach. The iconic white shells that are along the coastline can be seen all year long. Travelers visiting Playa Conchal enjoy swimming, sun tanning, fishing, tubing, zip lining, hiking, sunset cruises and horseback riding. The town Tamarindo is 10 miles away, so travelers have access to accommodations and other vacation amenities. 

Manzanillo 

Manzanillo is a village in Costa Rica that is very tranquil. It has a beautiful beach which goes by the same name. The Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is nearby and it includes almost six miles of beach. The Manzanillo Beach has shiny pristine sand, turquoise waters and a deep history with fishing. Due to this, it is still to this day a great place for fly fishing. Travelers also enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, hiking and biking at this beach. While it is most popular with locals, plenty of tourists visit to enjoy the coconut palms and sunshine. It is not very central so there are not a lot of accommodation options close to the beach, but the coastline is accessible. 

Manuel Antonio

The Playa Manuel Antonio is a short walk from the national park of the same name. This beach is a very popular tourist attraction since it has clear waters and nearby amenities. Although there are many beaches in the city of Manuel Antonio, Playa Manuel Antonio is the top option for travelers. There are multiple trails there where travelers can explore the natural environment. There are changing rooms and restrooms available leading up to the beach which make it easier for tourists to visit. While travelers are at Playa Manuel Antonio, they should take advantage of the snorkeling opportunities. If travelers want to visit the Manuel Antonio National Park they are welcome to take a tour. There is an entrance fee for the national park on top of the cost of a tour, so travelers should note that. 

Playa Montezuma 

The town of Montezuma is home to some nice beaches that will impress travelers. The main beach is Playa Montezuma, which is a nice central spot for tourists to stop at. The beach is small and is a bit rocky, so this location is not the best option for swimming travelers. To avoid taking a chance on the riptides many tourists book horseback riding tours. This excursion offers a leisurely exploration of the stunning beach. The majority of travelers enjoy simply sunbathing or going on beach strolls. Playas Las Manchas and Playa Grande are among the other popular options nearby. These beaches are rocky, picturesque and have an ambiance of seclusion. 

Playa Tortuguero 

Tortuguero is a remote destination with an abundance of wildlife and natural beauty. It is commonly referred to as the Amazon of Costa Rica, so travelers will have access to exciting rainforest experiences. The beach is quite photogenic since it has crisp white sands and lush greenery. It, as its name suggests, is among some of the top nesting sites for turtles. Some tourists come just to witness the sea turtles. There are even guided night tours that provide tourists with a (safely distanced) look into sea turtle nesting. The season for these immersive tours runs from July until around August. Alternatively, travelers that visit this beach can sit back and relax to enjoy the cooling crystalline waters. 

Playa Tamarindo 

Although Tamarindo is a relatively small beach town, it is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It has lively nightlife and a good surfing scene, so travelers visiting its beach will have plenty to do. Tamarindo is also a prime location for aquatic activities in Costa Rica since it has warm waters as well as many activities to partake in. Among the most popular things to do are diving, sportfishing, horseback riding, surfing, hiking and sunbathing. This beach is a popular nesting site for Leatherback Turtles and travelers can even see Howler Monkeys swinging from tree to tree from the water. 

Playa San Juanillo 

The small coastal village of San Juanillo is not a huge tourism hub, but it is a nice place to stay. In this area travelers will be able to connect with the local culture and appreciate the rustic yet idyllic sights. This small beach in the Guanacaste area is a great place to visit if travelers prefer a little privacy. To get there travelers will have to venture off road, so it is safe to say that this beach will not commonly be super crowded. The seemingly untouched beauty of this Costa Rica beach provides a major appeal for visitors. The beach is revered for its stunning turquoise waters and pristine white sand. Due to its clear waters and thriving marine life, San Juanillo Beach is the perfect place for snorkeling. Other popular activities that travelers can enjoy at this beach are relaxing. Most visitors enjoy lounging on the beach in a hammock, reading in the serene environment, hiking up the beach rocks, having a picnic or simply swimming in the warm waters. 

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  • Beach Vacations

9 Active Beach Vacations With Snorkeling, Hiking, and Endless Water Sports

If you're not the type to lounge on the sand all day, get inspired by these exhilarating itineraries.

costa rica tourist activities

Aleh Varanishcha / Getty Images

One of the best goals you can make for an upcoming trip is to return home feeling healthier than when you left. While beach vacations aren't always conducive to staying active, working in activities like hiking or snorkeling is an easy way to experience everything the destination has to offer. Not only does being more active help you feel healthier on vacation, it gives you more scope to appreciate where you are.

We've scoured the globe for the best active beach vacations, from over-water rock climbing in Thailand to hiking in Acadia National Park. Here are nine exhilarating options for travelers who love outdoor adventure as much as the coastal lifestyle.

Canggu, Bali

From Seminyak to Jimbaran, each of Bali's beach towns has its own personality. In the Canggu area, there's a large community made up of expats and locals who have honed a culture of healthy eating, surfing, and mindful yoga sessions. If you're looking for a yoga retreat in an idyllic setting, look into training at The Practice Bali . The main studio is open-air with a gorgeous thatched roof, making it the perfect place to strengthen, restore, and strike your best savasana pose.

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Michael Fischer / Getty Images

Costa Rica's northwestern coast boasts incredible beaches and an active culture — which isn't surprising considering people come to Guanacaste to do every water sport imaginable. This area is a major windsurfing destination, while Jet Skiing, swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and diving are also quite popular. No resort in the region nails the detox-retox culture quite like the W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal , offering an active lifestyle paired with a happening nightlife scene, Here, you can golf, snorkel, kayak, bike, trail run, and squeeze in a daily gym workout without ever leaving the hotel.

Todos Santos, Mexico

Victor Yee / Getty Images

About an hour's drive north of Los Cabos on the west coast of Baja California Sur is the fast-growing surf town of Todos Santos . While the area has surged in popularity in recent years, it has managed to retain the laid-back charm of a still-undiscovered destination. In terms of staying active, it's the perfect place to indulge in a week of surfing lessons, whether you're a first-timer or a sage surfer honing your technique. While Los Cabos is known for choppy waters that aren't necessarily inviting to swimmers, Todos Santos has several great beaches for swimming and snorkeling (try Playa Los Cerritos and Punta Lobos, for starters). Many accommodations here have a boutique vibe — Hotel San Cristóbal and Paradero Todos Santos are among the town's fan favorites.

Acadia National Park, Maine

If you're looking for a domestic vacation that promises just as much time on the hiking trails as it does on the beach, you can't do better than a trip to Acadia National Park . The dog-friendly park is home to more than 150 miles of trails, with some of the most popular hikes including Cadillac Mountain (easy), the Gorham Mountain Loop (more challenging), and tougher, iron-rung routes like the Beehive Loop . Unwind after a strenuous morning of hiking at Seal Harbor Beach or along the shores of Echo Lake.

Railay Beach, Thailand

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Railay Beach isn't just known for its soft white sand and laid-back Thai atmosphere, it's also famous because of its wide range of rock climbing opportunities. The area, which is just outside the city of Krabi in southern Thailand, is flanked by limestone cliffs that climbers of all skill levels come from all over the world to scale. While novices can take on beginner-level courses, more experienced thrill-seekers might want to try deep water soloing, which lets you free climb on cliffs jutting out over the ocean — the only downside is you'll plunge into the water if you miss a hold. Hop on a boat from Krabi and spend the day at Railay Beach, where you'll find several guided rock climbing excursions to choose from.

Lanai, Hawaii

Ron Dahlquist / Getty Images

At the Four Seasons Resort Lanai , create your own Hawaiian-island wellness retreat by blending healthy menu options, yoga sessions, workout classes, and plenty of rest and recreation. Golf enthusiasts can hit the links at the Jack Nicklaus-designed Manele Golf Course , which boasts ocean views and cliff-perched holes, while tennis and pickleball players can take lessons before indulging in a sports massage. Overall, the Four Seasons Resort Lanai encourages holistic wellness — in other words, reveling in relaxation time as much as active time in a luxurious, tropical setting.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Michele Westmorland / Getty Images

You'll find you're never not moving in the Galápagos Islands, whether you're trying to spot native wildlife by land or sea. Several islands in this archipelago about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador are known for their hiking trails. Be sure to do the Frigate Bird Hill hike on San Cristobal, and on Isabela, hit the trails around Sierra Negra, an active shield volcano and one of the world's largest craters. For scuba fans, some of the best dive sites include Wolf Island (where you'll likely spot turtles), Darwin Island, and Punta Carrión.

Crete, Greece

While most Greek islands are all about beach life — from swimming and boating to sunbathing and beach clubbing — Crete offers far more hiking terrain. The landscape here transitions seamlessly from rocky beaches to jungle topography so you can spend your days hiking to far-off beaches and gorges. Head south to Samaria Gorge for a scenic six-hour hike — the longest gorge trek in Europe — or Zakros Gorge on the eastern end of the island, also known as the Gorge of the Dead (it once served as a burial ground for the ancient Minoans).

St. Lucia, Caribbean

Marc Guitard / Getty Images

Aside from its stunning beaches and delicious food , St. Lucia is one of the best hiking destinations in the Caribbean. The Gros Piton and Petit Piton trails are two popular treks for outdoorsy travelers keen on exploring the island's emblematic twin peaks. There are also water activities aplenty, including tennis, beach volleyball, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and snorkeling, available via St. Lucia's many luxury properties, like Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort .

Yardbarker

15 things you must do in Costa Rica

Posted: October 1, 2023 | Last updated: October 1, 2023

<p><span><span>Costa Rica lives up to its reputation, don't worry about that. The country is a ripe mix of beaches, rivers, lakes, and sunsets. The vibes are off the charts, and the people are friendly. All that matters is that you live daily by the country's motto: Pura Vida, the pure and simple life. </span></span></p><p><span><span>What are the best things to do in Costa Rica? We've compiled a list of the best activities below, taking in everything from gorgeous hikes to glowing rivers to everyone's favorite animal, the sloth. The pure and simple life, indeed. </span></span></p>

Costa Rica lives up to its reputation, don't worry about that. The country is a ripe mix of beaches, rivers, lakes, and sunsets. The vibes are off the charts, and the people are friendly. All that matters is that you live daily by the country's motto: Pura Vida, the pure and simple life. 

What are the best things to do in Costa Rica? We've compiled a list of the best activities below, taking in everything from gorgeous hikes to glowing rivers to everyone's favorite animal, the sloth. The pure and simple life, indeed. 

<p>The turquoise river has become a picture-perfect symbol of Costa Rica, and you absolutely must take a river tube to see it. The water looks photoshopped, and the lush foliage rains down on those who ride its rapids. The waterfall draws tourists in (for good reason), but the river itself is one of the coolest things we've seen in Costa Rica. </p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/11_most_scenic_pacific_northwest_road_trips_091023/s1__38393677'>11 most scenic Pacific Northwest road trips</a></p>

Rio Celeste

The turquoise river has become a picture-perfect symbol of Costa Rica, and you absolutely must take a river tube to see it. The water looks photoshopped, and the lush foliage rains down on those who ride its rapids. The waterfall draws tourists in (for good reason), but the river itself is one of the coolest things we've seen in Costa Rica. 

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<p>Do you like sloths, monkeys, tropical beaches, and crystal-clear waters? If you answered "no," then you might want to check with your doctor about a lack of fun. The rest of us will be wowed by this National Park, which gives visitors an up-close look at the country's most verdant wildlife. Start with a walk through the main roads, then venture toward the forest sections, where you can spot sloths and hoards of monkeys without a tour guide. Finish with a dip at one of the park's two main beaches. </p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Manuel Antonio

Do you like sloths, monkeys, tropical beaches, and crystal-clear waters? If you answered "no," then you might want to check with your doctor about a lack of fun. The rest of us will be wowed by this National Park, which gives visitors an up-close look at the country's most verdant wildlife. Start with a walk through the main roads, then venture toward the forest sections, where you can spot sloths and hoards of monkeys without a tour guide. Finish with a dip at one of the park's two main beaches. 

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<p>You can't go to Costa Rica without going in the water--the marine life and coastal landscape are just too stunning to miss. This beach town has all the water activities you could possibly want. Make sure to rent a surfboard while you're here, preferably from a local company like C&C which charges only $5 per hour. </p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/wine_dine_21_recipes_that_feature_wine_as_an_ingredient/s1__38367016'>Wine & Dine: 21 recipes that feature wine as an ingredient</a></p>

You can't go to Costa Rica without going in the water--the marine life and coastal landscape are just too stunning to miss. This beach town has all the water activities you could possibly want. Make sure to rent a surfboard while you're here, preferably from a local company like C&C which charges only $5 per hour. 

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<p>It isn't every day you get to see turtles up close...unless, of course, you live near Ostional Beach, in which case you can see turtles hatch their eggs from sunrise-to-sunset every day between October and January. In the off-months, you can still spot turtles as well, though if you want to get a really cute pic for Instagram, we recommend you show up around November. </p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Ostional Beach

It isn't every day you get to see turtles up close...unless, of course, you live near Ostional Beach, in which case you can see turtles hatch their eggs from sunrise-to-sunset every day between October and January. In the off-months, you can still spot turtles as well, though if you want to get a really cute pic for Instagram, we recommend you show up around November. 

<p>Escape the high prices found at most restaurants and head to a Soda for some authentic Costa Rican cuisine. These spots don't look like much--there are literal holes in the wall at some of these hole-in-the-wall establishments--but they serve the best food in town. From pintos to casadas, this is what the locals eat on a daily basis. </p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/20_ways_to_cut_your_spending_and_meet_your_budget_goals_100123/s1__38367045'>20 ways to cut your spending and meet your budget goals</a></p>

Escape the high prices found at most restaurants and head to a Soda for some authentic Costa Rican cuisine. These spots don't look like much--there are literal holes in the wall at some of these hole-in-the-wall establishments--but they serve the best food in town. From pintos to casadas, this is what the locals eat on a daily basis. 

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<p>You weren't going to visit Costa Rica without doing some surfing, were you? That would be impossible since most beaches offer rentals and lessons and smiling locals who just wrapped up their evening session. There are plenty of beaches to choose from, from Samara to Tamarindo to Montezuma to Nosara. But we recommend you paddle out at whatever beach you are staying at. </p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

You weren't going to visit Costa Rica without doing some surfing, were you? That would be impossible since most beaches offer rentals and lessons and smiling locals who just wrapped up their evening session. There are plenty of beaches to choose from, from Samara to Tamarindo to Montezuma to Nosara. But we recommend you paddle out at whatever beach you are staying at. 

<p>This is the life. The walk to Arenal Volcano is a gorgeous hike and the perfect escape that takes about two hours if you stop to take pictures of the volcano and Arenal lake. There's never been a hike with this many steps that feel like a meditation class. </p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/instead_of_red_20_pasta_sauces_that_arent_marinara_100123/s1__34442471'>Instead of red: 20 pasta sauces that aren’t marinara</a></p>

Arenal Volacano

This is the life. The walk to Arenal Volcano is a gorgeous hike and the perfect escape that takes about two hours if you stop to take pictures of the volcano and Arenal lake. There's never been a hike with this many steps that feel like a meditation class. 

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<p>Costa Rica's most famous building is also the most important. It opened in 1897 as a source of national pride, a theater, and a museum. Walk inside to admire the neo-classical design or catch a concert to admire the music. </p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Teatro Nacional

Costa Rica's most famous building is also the most important. It opened in 1897 as a source of national pride, a theater, and a museum. Walk inside to admire the neo-classical design or catch a concert to admire the music. 

<p>Head to the Caribbean side for a different slice of life. One that comes with slices of pineapple, mango, and silence. There are not as many tourists in this beach town, allowing visitors to lay out on the beach without the noise of drunken tourists. </p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/the_11_best_places_to_hike_in_washington_state_090923/s1__38578428'>The 11 best places to hike in Washington State</a></p>

Puerto Viejo

Head to the Caribbean side for a different slice of life. One that comes with slices of pineapple, mango, and silence. There are not as many tourists in this beach town, allowing visitors to lay out on the beach without the noise of drunken tourists. 

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<p>Costa Rica is serious about its coffee, and there are lots of coffee tours across the country, from Samara to Puerto Viejo. But we recommend you tour San Jose, where most of the coffee is brewed on sight. If that doesn't work, places like Monteverde make a pretty great cup too. </p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Coffee Tour

Costa Rica is serious about its coffee, and there are lots of coffee tours across the country, from Samara to Puerto Viejo. But we recommend you tour San Jose, where most of the coffee is brewed on sight. If that doesn't work, places like Monteverde make a pretty great cup too. 

<p><span><span>Who let the dogs out? Apparently, everyone, since this country has more strays than most countries, have people. Territorio takes thousands of strays and nurses them to health, giving them a place to roam and letting visitors hike alongside them. Dog lovers will not know where to look. </span></span></p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/21_things_you_didnt_know_about_burger_king_093023/s1__38423578'>21 things you didn’t know about Burger King</a></p>

Territorio de Zaguates

Who let the dogs out? Apparently, everyone, since this country has more strays than most countries, have people. Territorio takes thousands of strays and nurses them to health, giving them a place to roam and letting visitors hike alongside them. Dog lovers will not know where to look. 

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<p>Those staying in a beach town will want to rent a bike. In a country without trains or reliable buses, the only way to get to other beaches is to rent a bike. Plus, it doesn't hurt to get those steps in. </p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Rent a Bike

Those staying in a beach town will want to rent a bike. In a country without trains or reliable buses, the only way to get to other beaches is to rent a bike. Plus, it doesn't hurt to get those steps in. 

<p>A Corona ad come to life. Carrillo Beach is packed with palm trees, green grass, and long stretches of white sand that never seem to end. In the summer months, you can see locals cracking open Coronas from their hammocks as the sun sets over their family picnics.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/our_21_favorite_super_bowl_snacks/s1__37010753'>Our 21 favorite Super Bowl snacks</a></p>

Carrillo Beach

A Corona ad come to life. Carrillo Beach is packed with palm trees, green grass, and long stretches of white sand that never seem to end. In the summer months, you can see locals cracking open Coronas from their hammocks as the sun sets over their family picnics.

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<p>Soar above forests and rivers on a series of scenic ziplines, then jump off a 70-foot platform with a bungee cord tied around your waist. It's an adrenaline junkie's dream, best explored in places like Monteverde. </p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Soar above forests and rivers on a series of scenic ziplines, then jump off a 70-foot platform with a bungee cord tied around your waist. It's an adrenaline junkie's dream, best explored in places like Monteverde. 

<p>Visiting Monteverde 1,000 years ago, you might have found a few differences. There would be no bridges, no zip lines and certainly no tourists. Mostly, though, this cloud forest looks exactly like it did when the first Costa Ricans stumbled upon its path. It's a thrill to explore a place that hasn't changed in eons, to wander the misty jungle, and feel like you have stepped back in time and discovered a new world and a new form of travel. </p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Did you enjoy this slideshow? Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Visiting Monteverde 1,000 years ago, you might have found a few differences. There would be no bridges, no zip lines and certainly no tourists. Mostly, though, this cloud forest looks exactly like it did when the first Costa Ricans stumbled upon its path. It's a thrill to explore a place that hasn't changed in eons, to wander the misty jungle, and feel like you have stepped back in time and discovered a new world and a new form of travel. 

Did you enjoy this slideshow? Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.

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IMAGES

  1. 9 Activities in Costa Rica That Prove It's an Adventure Paradise

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  2. 6 Adventure Activities in Costa Rica that Families Will Love

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  3. The Most Exciting Tourist Activities in Costa Rica

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  4. Ecotourism in Costa Rica: the Ultimate Eco Travel Guide (with Map and

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  5. 15+ Things to Do in Costa Rica: Must-Do Activities

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  6. Guide To Costa Rica

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VIDEO

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  2. Introducing Costa Rica

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  4. 12 Essential COSTA RICA TRAVEL Tips

  5. Top 10 Places to Visit in Costa Rica & Things to Do [4K UHD]

  6. 22 Must do activities when visiting Uvita Costa Rica

COMMENTS

  1. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Costa Rica

    2. Hacienda Alsacia Starbucks Coffee Farm. 3,211. Farms. A place where connection - and our mission - come to life. Located on the slopes of Poás Volcano, less than one hour away from Costa Rica's capital of San Jose, Hacienda Alsacia is the company's first and only coffee farm. But it's so much more.

  2. 23 Epic Things to Do in Costa Rica

    Popular activities and attractions include hiking trails, hot springs, horseback riding, zip lining and river rafting. Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica's best-known stratovolcano, stands more than 5,000 ...

  3. 18 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Costa Rica

    Numerous hiking trails are in the area; many lead to waterfalls and old and recent lava flows. 3. Monteverde and the Cloud Forests. Monteverde and the Cloud Forests. The Cloud Forests near Monteverde and Santa Elena are some of the best places to visit in Costa Rica for ecotourism.

  4. Things to do

    In Costa Rica visitors will find everything they are looking for: adventure, sun, beaches, forest, wildlife and wellness, and much more. The best way to begin planning an unforgettable vacation is getting firsthand information about the different certified activities and hotels available in the country. All the activities found in this section ...

  5. 16 best things to do in Costa Rica

    4. Commune with the creatures. For wildlife watchers, there's no better place to meet Costa Rica's fauna than the trails around Sirena station in Parque Nacional Corcovado, the area National Geographic called "the most biologically intense place on the planet.". Here, visitors have a good chance of seeing animals (some endangered) that are rare in other parts of the country, including ...

  6. Welcome to Costa Rica

    Welcome to Costa Rica! This beautiful country is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and incredible wildlife. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Costa Rica has something for everyone. Some of the top attractions include Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, La Paz Waterfalls, Papagayo Peninsula ...

  7. 50 BEST Things to do in Costa Rica: Your 2024 Bucket List

    Tortuguero itself is an area that can only be accessed by boat or plane. It's one of the most remote Costa Rica tourist attractions. The beauty here is because it is preserved and protected, so it's known as one of the wildest national parks in the country. If you're not planning to stay in the area, it's a great day trip from San Jose ...

  8. 24 Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

    Adventure tours aren't your only options when visiting this amazing country! While a common perception of Costa Rica involves untouched jungles and deserted white-sand beaches, there are areas of the country that delight in providing a combination of romantic experiences, adventure tours, and 5-star hospitality. A visit to the Arenal Volcano, for example, might involve a stay at the splendid ...

  9. 8 of the best places to visit in Costa Rica

    Best place for birds, butterflies and cloud forest canopy tours. Away from Costa Rica's sun-soaked beaches and steamy rainforests, ... Activities. The 16 best things to do in Costa Rica. Jan 26, 2024 • 9 min read. Beaches. The 8 best beaches in Costa Rica. Jan 25, 2024 • 4 min read.

  10. Places to Visit in Costa Rica

    Tours & Activities in Costa Rica Outdoor Activities in Costa Rica Boat Tours & Water Sports in Costa Rica Nature & Parks in Costa Rica Transportation in Costa Rica Food & Drink in Costa Rica ... and our mission - come to life. Located on the slopes of Poás Volcano, less than one hour away from Costa Rica's capital of San Jose, Hacienda Alsacia ...

  11. 20 Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

    Arenal Volcano National Park. Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure. One of Costa Rica's most famous attractions, the 30,000-acre Arenal Volcano National Park draws upwards of 100,000 visitors each year ...

  12. 60 Costa Rica Activities

    There are so many waterfalls to choose from in Costa Rica! A few of our favorite "must-visit" spots are; La Fortuna Waterfall, Montezuma Waterfall, Nauyaca Waterfall, Rio Celeste, Llanos de Cortez, and La Paz Waterfall. Check out our guide to waterfalls for all the details.

  13. Things To Do in Costa Rica

    Nature Activities. If you're an eco-tourist looking to become one with nature, Costa Rica is the place for you. Go on a birding tour in San Gerardo de Dota and see the Resplendent Quetzal, scarlet macaws, trogans and more.

  14. 25 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Costa Rica

    Poas Volcano in the Central Highlands of Costa Rica is one of the most active volcanoes in the country. Due to its perfect location near the capital city of Costa Rica, 2708 meters high Poas Volcano is best visited on a day tour from San Jose. Of all volcanoes in the country, Arenal is the most famous one.

  15. Costa Rica Tourist Attractions: Beaches, National Parks, Volcanoes

    Popular spots include Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, Santa Teresa, Puerto Viejo - just to name a few of these Costa Rica attractions! Aside from beaches, Costa Rica is home to one of the most developed National Parks Systems in the world. There is an astonishing amount of the territory protected as either a national park, cloud forest, tropical ...

  16. Adventure

    For adventure tourism lovers, Costa Rica is a destination where emotions and adrenaline abound. Throughout the year and in most of the country, whether by water, land or air, you can choose from a variety of activities for the whole family, which usually take place in natural settings where memorable experiences come to life.

  17. 30 Fun Things to Do in Costa Rica

    If you are looking for activities to make your vacation fun, here is our list of the best things to do in Costa Rica, Central America. From free things to do for budget travelers, adrenaline adventures for thrill-seekers, to family-friendly activities, our travel guide got you covered.

  18. 50 Incredible Things to Do in Costa Rica in 2024

    For more Costa Rica fun, subscribe to our Youtube channel! Also, if you want to do any of these activities, get our exclusive Costa Rica tours discounts in La Fortuna, San Jose, Guanacaste, Manuel Antonio, Tortuguero and more! 1. Ziplining. Ziplining is a MUST DO in Costa Rica. Costa Rica is world famous for its long cables and spectacular views.

  19. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Costa Rica

    By bridgethiggins94. Rappelling, zip-lining, and horseback riding with them was awesome. 77. Arenal Shuttle Pass. 104. Bus Services. Open now. By jeannespencer2017. It is for sute the best option to travel around la fortuna and visit all this incredible places, The free hot springs...

  20. 25 Exciting Things to Do in San Jose, Costa Rica (& city guide!)

    25 Best Things to do in San Jose, Costa Rica. 1. San Jose City Tour. One of the oldest buildings in San Jose. A city tour of San Jose is hands down the best way to get to know the city, find your bearings, and get settled into the city overall.

  21. Essential Costa Rica Attractions Map

    One of the must-visit attractions on this Costa Rica interactive map is the River Pacuare. It is a vast river 125km east of San Jose. This river is beautifully picturesque and framed with tall jungle trees, green mountainsides, and natural waterfalls. Also, it has some of the best white water rafting in Costa Rica.

  22. 50+ Best Costa Rica Tours & Activities by Costa Rica Experts

    Best Costa Rica Tours & Activities: Choose from an array of ready-made vacation packages or create a custom plan with the help of our Experts. Choose your preferred activities — like guided excursions in the rainforest, getting up close to brightly-colored fish on a SCUBA outing, or just relaxing in Costa Rica's famous hot springs — and our experts will craft an unforgettable vacation.

  23. Costa Rica Travel: 15 Must-Visit Attractions & Destinations in Costa

    Welcome to our ultimate guide to Costa Rica travel in 2023! In this video, we will take you on a virtual tour of the 15 must-visit attractions and destinatio...

  24. The 8 Best Beaches To Visit in Costa Rica

    The biodiversity of Costa Rica is a big appeal for tourism. The capital of Costa Rica is San Jose, which attracts plenty of travelers looking for a bustling city center. ... so travelers visiting its beach will have plenty to do. Tamarindo is also a prime location for aquatic activities in Costa Rica since it has warm waters as well as many ...

  25. Best Things to Do in Costa Rica on Vacation

    From San Jose to Manuel Antonio, here are Costa Rica's best beaches, hotels, restaurants, activities, sights, and more. ... or try out one of the zipline tours advertised all over the country ...

  26. Costa Rica Seduces Potential German Tourists with its "Tourist Attractions"

    The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) in the company of 34 tourism services companies develop the strategic task of seducing hundreds of German and European tourists to choose Costa Rica as the ideal destination for their next vacation. The above, through participation develops the strategic task of in the ITB Berlin 2024 Fair, considered the most important tourism marketing and negotiation ...

  27. 9 Active Beach Vacations With Snorkeling and Hiking

    9 Active Beach Vacations With Snorkeling, Hiking, and Endless Water Sports. From yoga retreats in Bali to jet skiing in Costa Rica, these activities will keep you going and help you make the most ...

  28. 15 things you must do in Costa Rica

    Costa Rica lives up to its reputation, don't worry about that. The country is a ripe mix of beaches, rivers, lakes, and sunsets. The vibes are off the charts, and the people are friendly.