Best Things to do in Costa Rica

Explore National Parks

Visit Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio may be the poster child for Costa Rican national parks. Compact yet bursting with biodiversity, these idyllic landscapes where rainforest meets ocean are a nature lover’s dream. Don’t be surprised if a capuchin monkey photobombs your beach selfie – they’ve got personality and aren’t camera shy.

Discover Corcovado National Park

Arguably the crown jewel of Costa Rica’s park system, Corcovado is an untouched paradise teeming with wildlife. Here, jaguars roam, and scarlet macaws fly overhead. This park isn’t for the faint of heart or flimsy of footwear; come prepared for a trek you’ll brag about for years.

Hike in Arenal Volcano National Park

Looming in the backdrop of many a travel brochure, Arenal Volcano is a must-see. Its symmetrical cone is a sight to behold, but the surrounding rainforest and waterfalls steal the show. It’s a regular ‘walk on the wild side’ – minus Lou Reed and with added howler monkeys.

Adventure Sports

Zip-Lining in Monteverde

Monteverde is the granddaddy of zip-lining. Soar above the cloud forest where the birds are eye-level and the views are out of this world. For an extra dose of adrenaline, try the Tarzan Swing – it’s like your childhood swing set got bitten by a radioactive spider.

White Water Rafting on the Pacuare River

The Pacuare River isn’t just a river; it’s a rollercoaster without tracks. Tackle Class III and IV rapids as you navigate through canyons and lush forests. It’s the kind of fun where screaming is part of the experience, and paddles are not just for decoration.

Surfing in Tamarindo

Tamarindo isn’t just a pretty face with its stunning sunsets and lively nightlife. It’s also got some of the best surf breaks for beginners and pros alike. Cowabunga or wipe out, you’ll be riding waves like a local in no time – just remember to mind the iguanas sunbathing on the beach.

Wildlife Experiences

Turtle Watching in Tortuguero

Tortuguero is where sea turtles party – and by party, I mean lay eggs. It’s a little “Night at the Museum” but with turtles and on a beach. The only thing missing is Ben Stiller, and let’s be honest, nobody’s here for him.

Bird Watching in Cloud Forests

If your idea of excitement is spotting a Quetzal before anyone else, then the cloud forests of Costa Rica are your playground. With binoculars in hand and a bird list in pocket, you can live out your ornithological dreams in full Technicolor.

Sloth Sanctuary Visit

Slow and steady wins the race, and nobody knows this better than the sloths at the Sloth Sanctuary. Take a tour and learn about the slow-moving charmers. There’s a chance you’ll relate to their lifestyle more than you’d expect.

Beach Escapes

Relax on Guanacaste Beaches

Guanacaste’s beaches are where the sun is hot, the water is cool, and the sand gets everywhere (but you don’t mind). It’s like your own personal Corona commercial minus the beer and plus actual bliss.

Snorkel in Cahuita National Park

Cahuita National Park offers underwater adventures where the fish are colorful, and the coral is lively. It’s a bit like visiting an aquatic art gallery, if the art swam around and occasionally nibbled at you.

Sunset at Dominical Beach

Dominical Beach is where the sun sets with a passion. It’s a nightly firework display without the noise. Bring a camera, or just store it in the hard drive of your soul – either way, it’s a good deal.

Cultural Experiences

Learn at the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

The Pre-Columbian Gold Museum doesn’t just dazzle with bling; it educates with artifacts that tell a story. It’s like a history lesson, but with more gold and less falling asleep at your desk.

Experience the Local Farmer’s Market

Costa Rican farmer’s markets are a sensory smorgasbord. It’s like your grocery store went on vacation, got a tan, and came back full of stories and exotic fruits.

Visit the Indigenous Boruca Village

The Boruca Village is not your typical tourist trap. Instead, it’s a cultural treasure trove where the Boruca people share their heritage through art and storytelling. It’s authentic, and your souvenirs will have more stories than an old sailor.

Wellness and Relaxation

Hot Springs Soaking near Arenal

The hot springs near Arenal are nature’s hot tubs, complete with mineral-rich waters and picturesque settings. It’s the kind of relaxation that might make you forget about your smartphone, at least until it’s time to snap a photo.

Yoga Retreats in the Jungle

Imagine your yoga studio had a baby with a rainforest, and you’ve got jungle yoga retreats. Birds chirping is the new Spotify playlist, and the air is as fresh as your downward dog feels.

Culinary Journey

Taste Costa Rican Coffee

Costa Rican coffee is the liquid gold that fuels adventures. It’s a cup of Joe that might just make you see sounds or at least get you ready for an action-packed day.

Sample Traditional Dishes

Try traditional dishes like gallo pinto or casado, and you’ll understand why locals are so chipper. It’s comfort food that hugs you from the inside and whispers, “You can climb that volcano.”

Chocolate Tour in Puerto Viejo

The chocolate tours in Puerto Viejo are a chocoholic’s dream. Learn how cacao goes from bean to bar – it’s educational, but with more tasting and less note-taking.

Off the Beaten Path

Hike to Rio Celeste Waterfall

Rio Celeste Waterfall is the photogenic spot that Instagram dreams are made of. The hike there is nature’s obstacle course, but the prize is a waterfall that’s bluer than a Smurf convention.

Explore the Caves at Barra Honda

Barra Honda has caves that would make Batman jealous. Don a helmet, flick on your headlamp, and explore the underground like a true spelunker – or at least pretend to be one until you reach daylight again.