Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to explore unique cultural experiences. With stunning beaches, lush rainforests, towering volcanoes, and abundant wildlife, Costa Rica offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in relaxing by the ocean, hiking through misty cloud forests, or discovering local traditions, this guide covers the best things to do across Costa Rica’s diverse regions.
Explore Costa Rica’s Beaches
Costa Rica is known for its beautiful coastlines, with both Pacific and Caribbean beaches that each offer unique experiences.
- Pacific Coast: The Pacific side boasts some of the country’s most popular beaches like Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, and Playa Hermosa, perfect for surfing, sunbathing, and beachside dining.
- Caribbean Coast: Head to the Caribbean coast for a more relaxed vibe. Beaches like Puerto Viejo and Cahuita offer crystal-clear waters, a laid-back atmosphere, and Afro-Caribbean influences.
Insider Tip: For a more secluded beach experience, visit Playa Conchal on the Pacific coast, known for its sparkling shells instead of sand.
Discover the Rainforests and Cloud Forests
Costa Rica’s rainforests and cloud forests are teeming with biodiversity, making them a top destination for nature enthusiasts. With about 25% of the country protected as national parks or reserves, there are plenty of places to explore.
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: Experience the misty beauty of Monteverde, where suspension bridges allow you to walk through the forest canopy and spot rare bird species.
- Corcovado National Park: Located on the remote Osa Peninsula, Corcovado is a pristine rainforest with diverse wildlife like jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws.
- Tortuguero National Park: Known as the “Amazon of Costa Rica,” Tortuguero’s canals and dense jungle offer a one-of-a-kind experience. This is also a nesting site for sea turtles.
Insider Tip: Visit Monteverde early in the morning for a quieter experience, and bring a jacket as temperatures can be cool in the cloud forest.
Hike Costa Rica’s Volcanoes
Costa Rica’s volcanic landscape is one of its most defining features, offering unique hiking experiences and incredible views.
- Arenal Volcano: One of Costa Rica’s most famous volcanoes, Arenal offers hiking, hot springs, and zip-lining. The nearby town of La Fortuna has plenty of options for accommodations and tours.
- Poas Volcano: This active volcano near San José has a stunning crater lake and easy access, making it a great option for a day trip.
- Rincon de la Vieja: Located in Guanacaste, this volcano offers trails that lead to waterfalls, hot springs, and mud baths, ideal for an adventurous day out.
Insider Tip: If you’re visiting Arenal, book a soak in one of the nearby hot springs after your hike—it’s the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.
Experience Costa Rica’s Wildlife
Costa Rica is home to over 500,000 species, making it one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. From sloths and monkeys to exotic birds and marine life, there are endless opportunities to see wildlife up close.
- Manuel Antonio National Park: This popular park on the Pacific coast combines beautiful beaches with accessible trails, making it a great spot to see monkeys, sloths, and birds.
- Osa Peninsula: For serious wildlife enthusiasts, the Osa Peninsula is a must-visit. Corcovado National Park here has been called “the most biologically intense place on Earth.”
- Golfo Dulce: Head to Golfo Dulce on the southern Pacific coast for dolphin watching, with chances to see humpback whales and dolphins in this sheltered bay.
Insider Tip: For birdwatchers, Sarapiqui in the northern region is an excellent destination to spot colorful toucans, parrots, and rare species like the great green macaw.
Enjoy Costa Rican Adventure Activities
Costa Rica is a playground for thrill-seekers. From zip-lining and white-water rafting to surfing and canyoning, there’s no shortage of ways to get your adrenaline pumping.
- Zip-Lining in Monteverde: Zip-lining is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic activities, and Monteverde offers some of the best zip-line tours with breathtaking views.
- White-Water Rafting on the Pacuare River: Known for its lush scenery and challenging rapids, the Pacuare River is one of the top spots for white-water rafting.
- Surfing in Nosara and Jaco: Costa Rica is a renowned surfing destination, with waves for all skill levels. Nosara and Jaco are two popular spots, each with a unique vibe and community.
Insider Tip: Nosara is perfect for beginners with its consistent, manageable waves, while advanced surfers should check out the bigger breaks in Playa Hermosa near Jaco.
Immerse Yourself in Costa Rican Culture
Beyond nature, Costa Rica has a rich culture shaped by its indigenous heritage, Spanish influence, and Afro-Caribbean roots.
- San José: The capital offers a taste of Costa Rican culture with its museums, theaters, and vibrant markets. Be sure to visit the National Theatre and the Central Market for local food and crafts.
- Guanacaste Festivals: In Guanacaste, you can experience traditional Costa Rican festivals, especially during the Liberation Day celebrations in July.
- Afro-Caribbean Culture in Puerto Viejo: The Caribbean town of Puerto Viejo has a unique Afro-Caribbean influence. Enjoy reggae music, local cuisine, and a more relaxed lifestyle.
Insider Tip: Try a casado, a traditional Costa Rican dish that includes rice, beans, salad, plantains, and your choice of meat or fish—it’s a filling and delicious way to experience local flavors.
Relax in Costa Rica’s Hot Springs
Costa Rica’s volcanic landscape has created many natural hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
- Tabacon Hot Springs: Located near Arenal Volcano, Tabacon is a luxurious hot springs resort with beautifully landscaped pools and waterfalls.
- EcoTermales Hot Springs: A smaller, family-owned option near Arenal, EcoTermales offers a more intimate experience with fewer crowds.
- Rincon de la Vieja: This volcano in Guanacaste has several natural hot springs where visitors can enjoy mud baths and thermal pools surrounded by jungle.
Insider Tip: Many of the hot springs in the Arenal area offer day passes, so you can relax in the natural pools even if you’re not staying overnight.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Costa Rica
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Costa Rica?
A: The dry season from December to April is ideal for beach and outdoor activities. The green season (May to November) offers lush scenery and fewer tourists, though rain can be frequent.
Q: Are there any activities for families in Costa Rica?
A: Yes, Costa Rica is a family-friendly destination with activities like zip-lining, wildlife tours, and beach days that kids will love.
Q: Can you visit Costa Rica on a budget?
A: Absolutely. Staying in local lodges, dining at “sodas” (small eateries), and visiting national parks rather than guided tours can help you save money.
Q: Do you need a guide to visit national parks in Costa Rica?
A: While not required, guides enhance the experience by spotting wildlife and providing valuable insights, especially in places like Manuel Antonio and Monteverde.
Q: What’s the best way to get around Costa Rica?
A: Renting a car offers the most flexibility, but shuttles and buses are also reliable options for popular routes.