Costa Rica is the perfect destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and beautiful nature. The exceedingly lush rainforests, strikingly pristine beaches, and impressively abundant wildlife are part of this Central American gem. This destination provides something for absolutely everyone. Costa Rica has something for all people, no matter if they enjoy excitement, wildlife, or unwinding in a warm setting.
You won’t want to miss each of these top things to do in Costa Rica, from viewing all of the volcanoes to relaxing on every one of the white-sand beaches.
1. Explore Arenal Volcano and Hot Springs
Arenal Volcano towers at 5,357 feet over the lush jungle. It is a very well-known landmark of Costa Rica in addition. The surrounding territory of the volcano, while it has zero activity at the moment, is full of adventure and intrigue. Hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park lets you spot special wildlife like toucans, howler monkeys, and sloths.
Natural hot springs throughout every part of the area offer everyone a place to unwind following any long day of hiking. A few resorts, including Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa and Baldi Hot Springs, have multiple luxury pools using every bit of the volcano’s geothermal waters, which lets anyone relax perfectly in nature.
2. Visit Monteverde Cloud Forest
One of Earth’s most stunning cloud forests, Monteverde, is a mesmerizing destination where the mist-laden treetops are alive with an incredible array of exotic birds, vibrant orchids, and lush vegetation. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, renowned for its breathtaking views and rich biodiversity, provides visitors with unique opportunities to explore the vibrant ecosystem from an elevated perspective. Suspended high among the trees, a network of well-constructed hanging bridges allows adventurers to stroll through the treetops, offering a panoramic view of the forest floor bustling with life. For thrill-seekers, ziplining through this enchanting cloud forest is an unforgettable experience. Monteverde boasts some of the longest and highest ziplines in the world, reaching heights of up to 400 feet above the jungle canopy. As you sail through the treetops, the sheer exhilaration is coupled with breathtaking views of the surrounding flora and fauna, making it a heart-pounding adventure that leaves visitors in awe of nature’s beauty.
3. Relax on the Beautiful Beaches
Costa Rica is famous for its stunning coastlines along both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Each beach has its unique charm:
Manuel Antonio Beach – Located within Manuel Antonio National Park, this beach offers turquoise waters, soft white sand, and a backdrop of lush jungle filled with monkeys and iguanas.
Tamarindo Beach – Known for its vibrant nightlife and fantastic surfing, Tamarindo is a great spot for both adventure and relaxation.
Playa Conchal – This secluded beach is famous for its sparkling turquoise waters and sand made of tiny crushed shells, making it one of the most picturesque spots in the country.
Puerto Viejo – Located on the Caribbean side, Puerto Viejo offers a laid-back vibe, crystal-clear waters, and Afro-Caribbean culture.
Whether you’re looking to surf, snorkel, or simply relax under a palm tree, Costa Rica’s beaches offer something for everyone.
4. Go Wildlife Spotting in Manuel Antonio National Park
If you want to see Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife up close, Manuel Antonio National Park is the place to go. Despite being one of the smallest national parks in the country, it is packed with biodiversity. Here, you can spot sloths, howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, iguanas, and colorful tropical birds while hiking through scenic trails.
The park also has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, making it the perfect place to combine wildlife spotting with a relaxing swim in the ocean.
5. Take a Boat Tour in Tortuguero National Park
Known as “Costa Rica’s Amazon,” Tortuguero National Park is a vast network of canals, rivers, and lagoons teeming with wildlife. The best way to explore the area is by canoe or boat, where you can see manatees, caimans, river otters, monkeys, and over 300 species of birds.
From July to October, Tortuguero becomes one of the best places in the world to witness sea turtles nesting. Seeing these magnificent creatures lay their eggs on the beach under the moonlight is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
6. Experience Adventure Sports in La Fortuna
For adrenaline seekers, La Fortuna is the ultimate playground. Located near Arenal Volcano, this region offers countless adventure activities such as White-water rafting on the thrilling Pacuare River or Balsa River. Canyoning and waterfall rappelling down hidden jungle waterfalls, horseback riding to breathtaking viewpoints. Stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking on Lake Arenal, with stunning views of the volcano
If you’re looking for an action-packed experience in Costa Rica, La Fortuna is the place to be.
7. Discover Corcovado National Park
Corcovado National Park, located on the Osa Peninsula, is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. Often called “the most biologically intense place on Earth,” Corcovado is home to jaguars, tapirs, scarlet macaws, and four species of monkeys.
Since the park is remote and rugged, you’ll need a certified guide to explore it. But for nature lovers, the effort is well worth it—this is Costa Rica at its wildest and most untouched.
8. Enjoy Local Costa Rican Cuisine
A trip to Costa Rica isn’t complete without indulging in its delicious local cuisine. Be sure to try:
- Gallo Pinto – A traditional breakfast dish made with rice and black beans, often served with eggs and plantains.
- Casado – A hearty meal featuring rice, beans, meat, salad, and fried plantains.
- Ceviche – Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, often mixed with onions and peppers.
- Chifrijo – A popular bar snack made of crispy pork, rice, and beans, topped with pico de gallo.
Pair your meal with fresh coconut water or Costa Rican coffee, both of which are among the best in the world.
9. Visit Poás Volcano
If you want to see an active volcano up close, Poás Volcano is a must-visit. Located in Poás Volcano National Park, this powerful volcano has one of the largest craters in the world, filled with a striking blue-green acidic lake.
Since volcanic activity can cause the park to close periodically, it’s best to check in advance before making the trip.
10. Explore the Nicoya Peninsula and Blue Zone
The Nicoya Peninsula is not only known for its beautiful beaches and charming surf towns like Santa Teresa and Montezuma, but it’s also one of the world’s Blue Zones—regions where people live significantly longer than average.
Here, you can immerse yourself in the relaxed Costa Rican lifestyle, known as “Pura Vida”, while enjoying fresh food, yoga retreats, and serene sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica is a land of endless adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re hiking through the rainforest, surfing on world-class waves, or simply relaxing in a hammock with a fresh coconut, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do in Costa Rica.
No matter what kind of traveler you are, this tropical paradise offers unforgettable experiences that will leave you wanting to return again and again. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the Pura Vida lifestyle firsthand!