Costa Rica, the “Rich Coast,” delivers an unbeatable mix of pristine beaches, misty rainforests, active volcanoes, and incredible biodiversity. Known for its Pura Vida lifestyle—pure life—this Central American gem stands out as a premier ecotourism destination.
Best Things To Do in Costa Rica
Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or wildlife encounters, Costa Rica offers unforgettable experiences.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need for planning your trip, optimized for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.
Best Time to Visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica features two main seasons: the dry season (December–April) and the green/wet season (May–November).
- Dry Season (High Season): Mid-December to April brings sunny skies, ideal beach weather, and reliable conditions for hiking and outdoor activities. Expect higher prices, more crowds, and peak popularity in January–February. This is the best time for guaranteed sunshine and family trips.
- Green Season (Shoulder/Low Season): May–November offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices (up to 30-40% savings in September–October). Afternoon rains are common but often brief, enhancing waterfalls and wildlife viewing. July–August and November provide a great balance.
Pro Tip: Visit in May, June, or November for excellent value with decent weather. Check specific regions—Pacific coast is drier than the Caribbean.
How to Get There and Entry Requirements
Most visitors fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near San José or Daniel Oduber Quirós (LIR) in Guanacaste for Pacific beaches.
- Visa: Citizens of the US, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, and many others enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90–180 days (determined at immigration).
- Requirements: Valid passport (valid for your stay), proof of onward/return travel, and sometimes proof of sufficient funds (around $100 USD per month of stay).
- Vaccinations: Routine shots recommended; yellow fever if coming from affected areas.
- Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC), but US dollars are widely accepted. ATMs are common—bring crisp bills.
Domestic flights, shuttles, rental cars, or private transfers make getting around easy. Renting a 4×4 is recommended for flexibility, especially in rainy season.
Top Places to Visit in Costa Rica
Costa Rica packs diverse ecosystems into a compact country—plan to visit multiple regions.
- Arenal / La Fortuna (Northern Plains): Iconic Arenal Volcano, hot springs, La Fortuna Waterfall, hanging bridges, and rainforest adventures. Perfect for hiking, zip-lining, and relaxation.
- Manuel Antonio (Central Pacific): Stunning white-sand beaches, national park with sloths, monkeys, and iguanas. Great for families and first-timers.
- Monteverde Cloud Forest: Misty reserves, incredible birdwatching (quetzals!), canopy tours, and coffee tours. Cooler climate at higher elevation.
- Guanacaste (North Pacific): Sunny beaches like Playa Hermosa, Tamarindo (surfing), and national parks. Ideal for sun-seekers.
- Osa Peninsula / Corcovado National Park (South Pacific): Remote, biodiverse wilderness—jaguars, tapirs, scarlet macaws. One of the most pristine rainforests on Earth.
- Tortuguero (Caribbean): Canal network, turtle nesting (especially green turtles), and lush jungle. Accessible mainly by boat or plane.
- Uvita / Marino Ballena (South Pacific): Whale watching (humpbacks July–October), whale-tail-shaped beach, and relaxed vibe.
Other Highlights: Poás or Irazú Volcanoes, Cahuita for Caribbean beaches and culture, and San José for urban energy and museums.
Best Things to Do in Costa Rica
- Wildlife Watching: Over 500,000 species—spot sloths, monkeys, toucans, sea turtles, and more in national parks.
- Adventure Activities: Zip-lining, whitewater rafting, canyoning, surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
- Hiking & Nature: Volcano trails, cloud forest walks, and waterfall swims.
- Relaxation: Hot springs, yoga retreats, and pristine beaches.
- Cultural Experiences: Coffee tours, chocolate farms, indigenous communities, and Pura Vida farm-to-table dining.
Costa Rican Food and Culture
Costa Rican cuisine emphasizes fresh, simple ingredients: rice, beans, plantains, tropical fruits, and seafood. Must-tries include:
- Gallo Pinto: Breakfast staple of rice and beans.
- Casado: Lunch plate with rice, beans, protein, salad, and plantains.
- Ceviche, fresh fish, and tropical smoothies.
Coffee is world-class. Embrace Pura Vida—a laid-back, friendly philosophy that permeates daily life. Ecotourism and sustainability are core values, with over 25% of the country protected.
Practical Tips for Your Costa Rica Trip
- Safety: Generally safe for tourists, but use common sense—avoid isolated areas at night, secure valuables, and watch for rip currents at beaches. Petty theft occurs in tourist spots.20
- Health: Drink bottled water, use insect repellent (especially in rainforests), and pack sunscreen.
- Packing Essentials: Lightweight clothes, rain jacket, sturdy hiking shoes, binoculars, reusable water bottle, and eco-friendly sunscreen.
- Getting Around: Roads vary; drive cautiously. Consider guided tours for remote areas.
- Budget: Mid-range: $100–200 per person/day. Luxury eco-lodges and all-inclusive options available.
- Sustainability: Support eco-certified lodges, avoid single-use plastics, and follow “leave no trace” principles.
Suggested Itineraries
Classic 10–14 Day Trip: San José → Arenal/La Fortuna (3–4 days) → Monteverde (2–3 days) → Manuel Antonio (3–4 days). Balances volcanoes, cloud forest, and beaches.
Adventure Focus: Add Tortuguero or Osa Peninsula for deeper nature immersion.
Beach & Relax: Base in Guanacaste or South Pacific.
Why Visit Costa Rica Now?
With its commitment to conservation, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming people, Costa Rica continues to top “best places to visit” lists. Whether chasing adventure or serenity, you’ll leave rejuvenated with Pura Vida in your heart.
Ready to plan your escape? Book flights, secure eco-lodges early for peak season, and embrace the adventure. Costa Rica is calling—what are you waiting for?
Safe travels and Pura Vida!
More Guides From Play+Food+Travel:
Leave a Reply