Finest Locations To Go to In Costa Rica |

In search of the most effective locations to go to in Costa Rica? You’ve come to the suitable place.

I spent over two months discovering this Central American gem and was floored by the range of Costa Rica actions you may take pleasure in. 

From the mountain climbing and scorching springs round Arenal and La Fortuna, the thunderous electrical blue Rio Celeste Waterfall, to the expansive seashores in Santa Teresa and Nosara, each area of Costa Rica had one thing totally different and thrilling to supply. 

The favored Costa Rica locations I’ve included on this information deserve a spot in your once-in-a-lifetime Costa Rica street journey or vacation. 

I’ll present particular particulars and journey ideas that will help you plan your journey. Whether or not it’s a ‘seaside bum’ trip or a whirlwind adrenaline-packed journey, you’ll discover a Costa Rica attraction that fits your particular pursuits.

1. La Fortuna and Arenal

Mendacity on the base of the dormant Arenal Volcano lies the journey capital of Costa Rica, La Fortuna. As a consequence of its advantageous locale, effervescent geothermal waters meander by means of the dense jungle leading to one of many space’s principal sights – scorching springs. I like to recommend reserving a day move to the luxurious Tabacon Scorching Springs to expertise this at its greatest.

The neighbouring Arenal Volcano Nationwide Park affords a wide range of scenic hikes and alternatives for canyon rafting and ATV excursions. Take an organized day tour with a educated native information to maximise your time and revel in all of the greatest issues to do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica’s hottest journey vacation spot.

Located in Tenorio Volcano Nationwide Park, Rio Celeste Waterfall is a hidden gem that boasts a surreal, electric-blue cascade. A day journey right here provides you a scenic hike by means of the luxurious rainforest, the place the river’s coloration is a results of volcanic minerals mixing with the water. 

Enrich your journey with a guided tour, you’ll uncover the native natural world as you trek the paths. Purpose for a weekday go to to sidestep the weekend crowds. Good-quality mountain climbing boots are a should on this hike, the place the trail can get slippery after rain.

Monteverde, a mountainous area located above the clouds, serves as a dreamland for nature fanatics. This misty highland affords the well-known Cloud Forest Reserve, the place strolling amidst the tree cover on hanging bridges offers an nearly ethereal expertise. For birdwatchers, the Resplendent Quetzal will be noticed right here when you’re fortunate. 

Monteverde can also be dwelling to a variety of espresso plantations the place guided excursions supply an interesting perception into espresso manufacturing proper from the bean to your cup. Gentle jackets and waterproof gear are advisable, because the climate can shift shortly on this hillside locale. 

Santa Teresa, on the Nicoya Peninsula, is the place surf tradition meets laid-back luxurious, making it a high vacation spot for each adrenaline junkies and rest seekers. 

The lengthy, sandy seashores like Playa Carmen are excellent for each browsing and sundown watching. Santa Teresa’s gastronomic scene additionally stands out, the city is peppered with stylish cafes serving natural, locally-sourced fare. 

Pack a surfboard or hire one regionally, and don’t miss out on the yoga retreats, one other well-liked Costa Rica attraction on this vibrant seaside city.

Montezuma affords a bohemian vibe and a slower tempo, making it the most effective locations to go to in Costa Rica when you’re trying to unwind. Meandering streams and waterfalls, just like the Montezuma Falls, are the spotlight of this small coastal city. 

With much less industrial exercise than different well-liked Costa Rica locations, Montezuma is good for eco-tourists and finances vacationers, honing a bohemian vibe. Put on comfy sandals for exploring, because the city has a laid-back, shoe-optional tradition.

The most effective locations to go to in Costa Rica for aquatic adventures is Tortuga Island. Situated off the Gulf of Nicoya, the island is understood for its crystal-clear waters excellent for snorkeling and scuba diving.

You’ll be able to catch a catamaran tour from Puntarenas or Jaco to succeed in the island. As soon as there, calm down on its pristine seashores or discover underwater caves. If you happen to love quick hike to a scenic viewpoint, choose to climb the Tortugas Eco Tour path.

Nosara units itself aside with its sturdy emphasis on wellness and eco-conscious dwelling. Yoga retreats and natural eateries are plentiful right here, making it a high decide for these trying to nourish physique and soul. However it’s not all tranquility, the surf breaks at Playa Guiones are among the many most constant in Costa Rica. 

In contrast to different well-liked Costa Rica locations, Nosara lacks massive resorts, favoring intimate boutique lodges as a substitute, and a largely American expat group.

8. Playa Ostional

A go to to Playa Ostional affords a chance to witness sea turtles nesting or hatching, relying on the season. This seaside is among the world’s most vital nesting websites for the Olive Ridley turtle. 

If you happen to’re planning to go to throughout nesting season, sometimes between July and December, make certain to schedule a guided evening tour to see this awe-inspiring occasion responsibly. 

The seaside itself is rugged and fewer crowded than different well-liked Costa Rica locations, making it excellent for vacationers who like to discover off the overwhelmed path. A neighborhood tip: convey a red-filtered flashlight for turtle watching, because it’s much less disturbing to the animals.

9. Samara

Samara is a lesser-known seaside city that strikes a great steadiness between native tradition and vacationer facilities. The lengthy, palm-lined seaside is protected by a coral reef, making the waters calm and best for swimming or kayaking. 

Not removed from the seaside, you can too discover mountain climbing trails resulting in scenic overlooks. Native eateries supply a style of Costa Rican delicacies, and it’s an ideal spot to strive gallo pinto, the nation’s signature dish. You’ll discover a wide range of lodging choices right here, from hostels to boutique lodges, catering to numerous journey types and budgets.

10. Tamarindo

Famend as a surfer’s paradise, Tamarindo is a bustling seaside city that provides extra than simply epic waves. Whereas the surf tradition is undoubtedly an enormous draw, the world can also be dwelling to Las Baulas Nationwide Marine Park, the place you may witness leatherback turtles nesting from October to March. 

For a unique tempo, head inland for a horseback experience or ATV journey. Given its recognition, Tamarindo is well-equipped with numerous eating choices, from connoisseur eating places to informal beachside bars. 

And when you’re into buying, the city’s boutique shops supply native souvenirs and crafts.

11. Jaco

Jaco is a perfect spot for these trying to mix seaside life with nightlife. By day, catch some waves or strive paddleboarding and by night, benefit from the bustling bars and golf equipment that make Jaco one of many livelier Costa Rica locations to go to. 

Past the seaside, you’ll discover actions like ATV excursions and zip-lining. For a quieter escape, close by Playa Hermosa affords a extra relaxed seaside environment and wonderful surf situations. 

Jaco is definitely accessible from San Jose or Liberia, making it a handy vacation spot for brief stays or lengthy weekend getaways.

12. Manuel Antonio

This gem on the Central Pacific coast is dwelling to Manuel Antonio Nationwide Park, one in all Costa Rica’s smallest but most biodiverse parks. Monkeys, sloths, and a myriad of chook species will be noticed alongside the park’s well-maintained trails. 

Whereas it’s tempting to beach-hop all day, think about mountain climbing to Cathedral Level for panoramic ocean views. If you happen to’re planning to go to the park, arrive early, it closes as soon as it reaches capability. 

In addition to the park, the encircling space affords jet snowboarding and parasailing for adrenaline junkies.

13. Uvita

Recognized for its iconic “Whale Tail” sandbar, Uvita is a part of the Marino Ballena Nationwide Park, a marine conservation space devoted to defending humpback whales and different sea creatures. You’re prone to spot whales when you go to between December and April or between July and September. 

Past marine life, Uvita affords gorgeous waterfalls like Uvita Falls, the place you may take a refreshing dip. The realm’s eco-lodges and ocean-view villas make it the most effective locations to go to in Costa Rica for vacationers looking for each journey and luxury.

14. Dominical

Dominical is a small city that packs an enormous punch by way of pure magnificence and out of doors actions. It’s successful amongst surfers for its constant waves, nevertheless it’s additionally a haven for wildlife fanatics.

Go to the Hacienda Baru Nationwide Wildlife Refuge for an opportunity to identify toucans, sloths, and monkeys. The city itself is relaxed with a touch of bohemian aptitude. It affords a variety of lodging choices, however the native tip is to ebook a treehouse-style lodging for a bucket checklist expertise. 

If you happen to’re a fan of native crafts, don’t miss the Dominical Artisan Market.

15. San Jose

San Jose, the capital metropolis, typically serves as a gateway to different Costa Rica sights however the metropolis’s vibrant road artwork and bustling markets like Mercado Central supply a unique style of Costa Rican tradition. 

For museum lovers, the Jade Museum and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum are must-visits. And when you’re searching for a gastronomic journey, no different place in Costa Rica affords such a various vary of eating choices, from native sodas (diners) to high-end worldwide delicacies.

16. La Paz Waterfall

Set within the Central Highlands, La Paz Waterfall is much less a singular attraction and extra a full-blown nature park. 

The waterfall itself is a stunner, however you’ll additionally discover a butterfly observatory, a hummingbird backyard, and even a jungle cat exhibit on-site. The mountain climbing paths listed below are user-friendly and well-signed, making them accessible for all ages. 

If you happen to’re quick on time however need a slice of Costa Rica’s biodiversity, La Paz affords all of it in a compact space. For an added expertise, some excursions mix La Paz with a espresso plantation go to.

17. Bajos del Toro Waterfall

Tucked away in a less-visited a part of Costa Rica, Bajos del Toro affords one of many nation’s most spectacular waterfalls—Catarata del Toro. 

Plunging into an extinct volcanic crater, this waterfall is a feast for the eyes. The journey to get right here entails a rugged hike, so good footwear is a should. 

Think about visiting the close by Bosque de Paz Organic Reserve to take advantage of your journey to this secluded area. The realm isn’t swarming with vacationers, making it a first-rate location for these trying to escape the crowds.

18. Tortuguero Nationwide Park

This Costa Rica attraction is greatest recognized for its sea turtle nesting websites. To essentially expertise the magic, you’ll want to go to between July and October when the turtles come ashore to put their eggs. The park can also be a labyrinth of waterways, so exploring by boat or kayak is a should. 

Guided excursions may help you notice monkeys, iguanas, and even crocodiles lurking within the waters. Tortuguero is distant and requires a ship or aircraft journey to succeed in, however the additional effort pays off with unparalleled wildlife encounters.

19. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

Located on the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo affords a unique vibe with its Afro-Caribbean influences. Recognized for its coral reefs and plush jungle, snorkeling and scuba diving are well-liked actions right here. 

The close by Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is ideal for birdwatching and recognizing sloths. 

For foodies, the native delicacies showcases coconut flavors and seafood. Bike leases are available and are a handy solution to discover neighboring seashores like Cocles and Punta Uva.

20. Corcovado Nationwide Park

Corcovado is a biodiverse powerhouse, typically hailed as one of the intense organic locations on Earth. The park is a treasure trove for nature lovers, providing an opportunity to see tapirs, anteaters, and the elusive jaguar when you’re extremely fortunate. 

Multi-day guided treks are the way in which to go right here as they’ll take you thru totally different zones of the park, every with its personal numerous ecosystem. Be ready for an journey because the hikes are strenuous and the humidity will be intense.

21. Pavones

Final however not least, Pavones is a surfer’s dream and the most effective locations to go to in Costa Rica when you’re eager to experience world-class waves. This sleepy city comes alive through the browsing season, attracting a world crowd. 

However it’s not all concerning the surf, the world can also be wealthy in wildlife, significantly birds. You would possibly even catch sight of a migrating whale when you go to between August and October. As a consequence of its distant location, it’s much less crowded, making it a wonderful alternative for these looking for a extra secluded expertise.

Locations to Go to in Costa Rica Conclusion

Costa Rica is a treasure chest of numerous landscapes and adventures, providing a number of the greatest locations to go to in Central America. Whether or not you’re drawn to the volcanic scorching springs of La Fortuna, the colourful road life in San Jose, or the surf breaks in Nosara, every vacation spot brings a unique expertise primarily based in your preferences.

Use this information to well-liked Costa Rica locations as your blueprint for an unforgettable journey. Now that you just’re armed with particular particulars and journey ideas, all that’s left is to discover these superb Costa Rica sights for your self.

Creator Bio

Haley is the founding father of the worldwide journey weblog, Haley Blackall Journey. She has travelled to 40+ nations throughout 5 continents over the past 15 years. She likes to share in-depth journey guides and suggestions to assist travellers get essentially the most out of their trip time, together with her favorite boutique lodges, issues to do and journey itineraries.