Must Visit Destinations in Costa Rica: Top Things to Do

Best places to visit in Costa Rica – Regions to Explore in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is divided into several regions, each offering unique experiences. Whether you’re looking to explore rainforests, volcanoes, or pristine beaches, here’s a breakdown of the main areas you should consider visiting:

1. Pacific Coast:  Known for its beaches, surf spots, and vibrant wildlife, the Pacific Coast is perfect for water activities and relaxation.
2. Central Valley: This region is home to the capital, San Jose, and is surrounded by volcanoes and lush valleys, offering cultural experiences and stunning nature.
3. Northern Highlands: Explore the Arenal Volcano and the surrounding cloud forests, where you’ll find hot springs, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
4. Caribbean Coast: Known for its laid-back vibe, rainforests, and diverse wildlife, the Caribbean side of Costa Rica offers a mix of adventure and culture.
5. Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula: Famous for its beaches, resorts, and adventure tours, this is the place for relaxation and outdoor activities like ATV rides and water sports.

Important Things to Do in Costa Rica

1. Ziplining

Experience the thrill of flying above the rainforest! Costa Rica’s ziplining tours, especially in Monteverde, La Fortuna, and Guanacaste, offer spectacular views and an adrenaline rush. From beginner to advanced courses, there’s something for everyone!

2. Sunset Sailing Cruise

Set sail on the beautiful Pacific Ocean as the sun sets. A sunset cruise lets you relax, enjoy the ocean breeze, and even snorkel in the clear waters. Great for families, couples, or a group of friends looking for a peaceful evening.

3. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Dive into Costa Rica’s two oceans! Whether you’re snorkeling in the warm Pacific or diving in the Caribbean, you’ll encounter colorful fish, turtles, and coral reefs. Great dive sites include Bat Islands, Cocos Island, and Cahuita National Park.

4. Private Boating Tour in the Gulf of Papagayo

Explore the stunning Gulf of Papagayo on a private boat tour. Discover hidden beaches, go snorkeling, and enjoy the beautiful coastline. This is the perfect way to experience Costa Rica’s unspoiled northern Pacific coast.

5. ATV Tour

Get your adrenaline pumping with an ATV tour through jungles and forests! Whether it’s climbing mountains or exploring trails, ATV rides give you a chance to see stunning landscapes and viewpoints, including waterfalls.

6. Surfing

Costa Rica is famous for its world-class surfing. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced surfer, you can find the perfect waves at beaches like Jaco, Playa Hermosa, and Santa Teresa. Take surf lessons or rent a board to start your adventure.

7. Canyoning (Waterfall Rappelling)

Rappel down some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfalls in the rainforest. This thrilling adventure lets you slide, swing, and rappel through lush jungles while you cool off in the waterfalls below.

8. Try a Copo or a Churchill

Cool off with a traditional Costa Rican treat! Copo is shaved ice with syrup, milk, and sweet toppings, while churchill adds even more deliciousness with ice cream and fruit. A must-try for those in beach towns!

9. Local Parties (Fiestas Civicas)

Join the lively local parties, known as fiestas civicas, with music, dancing, and even bull riding. These events are held year-round across the country, offering a fun, cultural experience. Don’t forget to try the delicious local food!

10. Cruise to Tortuga Island

Take a scenic boat ride to Isla Tortuga, known for its white sandy beaches. Spend the day snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing in paradise, and enjoy the stunning ocean views during your boat ride.

11. Take a Cooking Class

Dive into Costa Rican cuisine by joining a cooking class! Learn how to prepare local dishes like gallo pinto and casado while discovering the flavors of the country. You’ll enjoy the hands-on experience and delicious food!

12. Walk Through Zarcero Topiary Gardens

Explore the enchanting topiary gardens in Zarcero, a small town known for its beautiful, creative hedge art. It’s a peaceful stop where you can wander around, admire the unique shapes, and try local treats.

13. Rincon de la Vieja Adventure Tour

Experience a full day of outdoor fun with an adventure tour in Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Activities include ziplining, horseback riding, hot springs, and river tubing in this volcanic area surrounded by lush nature.

14. Stand Up Paddleboarding

Try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in Costa Rica’s calm lakes or rivers. It’s a relaxing way to explore beautiful spots like Playa Mantas or Lake Arenal. You’ll get great exercise while enjoying stunning views of Costa Rica’s landscapes.

15. Llanos de Cortes Waterfall

Visit the Llanos de Cortes waterfall in Guanacaste, where you can take a short walk down to swim in the cool, refreshing waters. It’s a lovely, easily accessible waterfall perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

16. Del Toro Waterfall

See one of Costa Rica’s tallest waterfalls, Del Toro, in Bajos del Toro. This breathtaking waterfall falls from a 270-foot drop in an extinct volcano crater. It’s a hidden gem in Costa Rica’s rugged landscape.

17. See Sea Turtles at Ostional Wildlife Refuge

If you visit Costa Rica from May to December, you can watch sea turtles nesting at Ostional Wildlife Refuge. It’s an unforgettable experience to witness this natural wonder, and you can join a guided tour to learn more.

18. Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center

Learn about Costa Rican wildlife and conservation efforts at the Jaguar Rescue Center. Located in Puerto Viejo, the center rescues and rehabilitates animals like jaguars, sloths, and monkeys before returning them to the wild.

19. Fishing

Costa Rica is known for its excellent fishing, both inshore and deep-sea. Head to places like Playa Flamingo or Quepos to fish for marlin, sailfish, and roosterfish. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, fishing here is a must.

20. Take a San Jose City Tour

Explore Costa Rica’s capital, San Jose, with a guided city tour. Visit museums, markets, and local shops to get a taste of the city’s culture and vibrant life. Alternatively, take a walk down Central Avenue to explore on your own.

21. San Jose Dinner Show

End your day in San Jose with a traditional dinner show. Enjoy a buffet of Costa Rican food while watching a performance of folk music and dance. It’s a fun way to experience local culture in a relaxed atmosphere.

22. Kayak in Tortuguero National Park

Paddle through the lush canals of Tortuguero National Park, known as the “Amazon of Costa Rica.” Kayaking allows you to get close to wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds in a peaceful, natural setting.

23. See a Volcano

Costa Rica is home to several active and dormant volcanoes. Visit Arenal, Poas, or Turrialba to see craters, hot springs, and stunning landscapes. These volcanoes are some of the most popular natural attractions in the country.

24. Hike Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most famous volcanoes. Hike through the Arenal Volcano National Park to see views of the volcano, lava fields, and nearby Lake Arenal. This is a must-see for nature lovers and first-time visitors.

25. Ride a Tram Through the Rainforest

Take a tram ride through the rainforest and enjoy breathtaking views of the trees and wildlife below. It’s a relaxing way to experience the lush Costa Rican jungle, with the chance to spot birds and monkeys along the way.

26. White Water Rafting on the Pacuare River

For a thrilling adventure, go white-water rafting on the Pacuare River. Paddle through exciting rapids surrounded by deep canyons and tropical forests. It’s an unforgettable experience for adrenaline junkies.

27. Explore Mangroves

Costa Rica’s mangroves are full of wildlife and provide a unique eco-tourism experience. Take a boat or kayak tour through places like the Damas Island Mangrove and Rio Baru to spot birds, crocodiles, and other animals.

28. Take a Guided Walk at Manuel Antonio National Park

Discover the beauty of Manuel Antonio National Park with a guided walk. A guide will help you spot wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds as you walk through the park’s trails, ending at beautiful beaches.

29. See Rio Celeste Waterfall and River

Visit Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park, where the river’s bright blue color will amaze you. Hike to the stunning waterfall, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of this magical, turquoise-colored water.

30. Wildlife Watching Safari

Go on a wildlife safari float in Costa Rica’s rivers to see animals up close. Whether it’s floating down the Penas Blancas or Rio Frio rivers, this is a peaceful way to spot wildlife like howler monkeys, crocodiles, and colorful birds.

31. Learn About Costa Rican Coffee

Costa Rica is known for its rich, high-quality coffee. Take a coffee tour to see how it’s grown, harvested, and roasted, and taste fresh coffee. Doka Coffee Estate and Café Britt are popular spots for coffee lovers.

32. Take a Chocolate Tour

Costa Rica is also famous for its chocolate. Go on a chocolate tour to learn about the cacao tree and how chocolate is made, while enjoying some delicious samples along the way. Puerto Viejo and La Fortuna are great places to visit.

33. See the Crocodiles at the Crocodile Bridge

Stop by the Crocodile Bridge in Tarcoles to see giant crocodiles lounging below the bridge. It’s a fun and unique experience for anyone visiting the central Pacific coast.

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

During low tide, the beaches of Marino Ballena National Park form a shape that looks like a whale’s tail. It’s a great place to visit for a peaceful walk, whale watching, and incredible sunsets.

35. Try Gallo Pinto and Salsa Lizano

Taste Costa Rica’s most traditional breakfast dish, gallo pinto (rice and beans), often served with eggs, plantains, and tortillas. Don’t forget to add Salsa Lizano, the beloved Costa Rican sauce!

Where to Stay in Costa Rica

Mawamba Lodge – Tortuguero

Nestled near Tortuguero National Park, Mawamba Lodge offers a serene retreat with direct access to the beach and lush surroundings. It’s an ideal base for exploring the park’s canals and observing wildlife.

Shana by the Beach – Manuel Antonio

Located close to Manuel Antonio National Park, Shana hotel provides luxurious accommodations with ocean views, an infinity pool, and easy access to the park’s beaches and trails.​

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails – Arenal Volcano

Areanl Observatory Lodge located near Arenal Volcano, this lodge offers panoramic views, hiking trails, and the opportunity to observe diverse wildlife in a tranquil setting.​

Hotel Belmar – Monteverde

Perched in the cloud forest, Hotel Belmar combines luxury with sustainability, offering spa services, gourmet dining, and easy access to Monteverde’s natural attractions.​