21 Breathtaking Places To Explore In Costa Rica

Costa Rica may be small, but it’s packed with natural beauty, from stunning beaches to lush national parks. With so much to see, it can be hard to choose, but from my many trips, here are my top favorite spots I’d love to share with you…

1. Playa Uvita

This was a stunning and very unique beach! Part of Marino Ballena National Park, I thought it was stunning with its pristine, golden sands curving into a natural “Whale Tail” formation, set against a backdrop of lush tropical forest and shimmering waters of the Pacific Ocean. I also loved its laid-back, serene vibe, which felt far away from the hustle and bustle of more crowded tourist destinations.

It’s located on the southwestern coast of the country within the Marino Ballena National Park in the Puntarenas Province around 17 kilometers south of Dominical, which was a popular surf town. The park was established in 1989 to protect marine life, including humpback whales.

I flew into San José International Airport, then drove 3.5 hours along the Coastal Highway (Route 34) and stayed there for a dreamy week. I strolled along the unique Whale Tail sandbar at low tide, snorkeled and scuba dived the colorful coral reefs, went on an incredible whale-watching tour and spotted a humpback whales (the migration season was December to April), enjoyed kayaking through the serene waters, hiked the lush trails of Marino Ballena National Park, relaxed on the pristine beaches and checked out the cool cocktail bars and organic restaurants! 

• Location: Southern Pacific coast of the country.
• Best time to visit: Winter (to enjoy the dry season and whale-watching opportunities).
• Who would enjoy it: Beach lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and whale watchers.
• Activities on offer: Swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, whale watching, kayaking, and beach walks.
• Accommodation: Vista Ballena Hotel, Kura Design Villas, and nearby lodges like La Cusinga Lodge.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Visiting the stunning Nauyaca Waterfall, the most beautiful in the country, I couldn’t resist taking a dip in the cool, crystal-clear natural pools at the base – it was the perfect way to refresh after the hike!
• Watching the sun dip below the horizon at Uvita Beach, the sky exploding into breathtaking shades of orange and pink, it was a hypnotic and zen-like experience!
• Taking a beginner’s surfing lesson at Bodhi Surf School was an exhilarating experience – I never thought I’d catch a wave, but with a bit of patient guidance, I finally managed it!

2. Arenal Volcano 

This popular active stratovolcano really wowed me! It’s an active stratovolcano known for its near-perfect conical shape and regular volcanic activity and I also thought it was a real beauty spot! I thought it was strikingly beautiful with its symmetrical cone shape, lush surrounding rainforest, natural hot springs and the quaint, rustic buildings of the nearby La Fortuna town. It had and adventurous and rejuvenating vibe with a strong focus on eco-friendliness and sustainability which I loved!

• Location: Northern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Spring and early Summer (for clear views of the volcano and fewer crowds).
• Who would enjoy it: Adventure seekers, hikers, and hot spring enthusiasts.
• Activities on offer: Hiking, zip-lining, soaking in hot springs, birdwatching, kayaking, and exploring hanging bridges.
• Accommodation: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, Arenal Observatory Lodge, and La Fortuna hotels such as Volcano Lodge.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the surrounding area filled with lush greenery and unique old lava flow.
• Discovering the largest lake in the country, Lake Arenal and going paddle-boarding.
• Walking to get the best views of the volcano by taking the trail along the hanging bridges.

3. Territorio De Zaguates (aka doggy paradise)

As a huge dog lover I adored this place! I thought this unique animal shelter was like heaven, it was not just beautiful only for its scenic, lush landscapes where hundreds of dogs roam freely but also for its embodiment of compassion and innovative animal welfare. The result had created a harmonious sanctuary that had transformed the lives of abandoned dogs in the country and inspired visitors who came to visit from all over the world! 

It felt heartwarming and uplifting, with a joyful energy of free-roaming dogs and the passionate commitment of volunteers and staff! I honestly thought every country should have a place like this!

I drove just an hour from San José, which takes about an hour and joined the dogs for a guided ‘dog walk’ across the huge property, cuddled and fussed over the more affectionate dogs, learnt about some of the dog’s sad back stories, learnt about how volunteers from all over the world to help feed and groom them, and also some happy tales of adoption too! Overall the whole experience was very uplifting! 

• Location: Central part of the country, near Alajuela.
• Best time to visit: Winter (for comfortable walking conditions on the trails).
• Who would enjoy it: Animal lovers and families interested in dog welfare.
• Activities on offer: Guided dog hikes, wildlife viewing, volunteering, and exploring mountain trails.
• Accommodation: Local guesthouses in Carrizal, hotels in Alajuela like Xandari Resort & Spa.
• Find out more about how to visit the Land of the Thousand Strays
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Enjoying a fun hike with the dogs along the beautiful terrain and capturing film footage that my Instagram followers loved!
• Learning about the sanctuary from the friendly owners.

4. Manuel Antonio National Park

This is an untouched tropical paradise! I was completely taken with the breathtaking scenery here which included immaculate white-sand beaches, clear blue-green water, secluded coves, and lush tropical rainforest which reached right down to the shoreline, the charming eco-lodges and the incredible wildlife from the monkeys to the iguanas. It also had a wonderful tranquil and uncommerialzed vibe where I felt immersed in untouched nature!

It was located on the central Pacific coast of the country, near the town of Quepos, in the province of Puntarenas 132 kilometers (82 miles) south of San José, the capital city. It was established in 1972 to protect its rich biodiversity and scenic coastline, and covers just 16 square kilometers but is one of Costa Rica’s most visited parks.

The amount of wildlife here was truly incredible and included white-faced capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, and endangered squirrel monkeys, three-toed sloths, black spiny-tailed iguanas, scarlet macaws, toucans, while the offshore waters were frequented by humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles during migration seasons.

I drove three hours and stayed for an incredible three days. I hike scenic rainforest trail Sendero Punta Catedral and saw breathtaking ocean views, relaxed on the pristine white sands of Playa Manuel Antonio, spotted sloths, monkeys and lizards along the wildlife-rich Sendero Perezoso, snorkeled in the clear waters of Playa Espadilla Sur, took a guided mangrove tour through the nearby Damas Island Estuary, and enjoy local accompanied by gorgeous ocean views at the beachfront restaurants in Quepos! 

• Location: Central Pacific part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Winter (to experience good weather for wildlife viewing and hiking).
• Who would enjoy it: Nature lovers, families, and beachgoers.
• Activities on offer: Wildlife viewing, hiking, swimming, snorkeling, parasailing, and beach relaxation.
• Accommodation: Arenas del Mar Resort, Hotel Costa Verde, and Tulemar Bungalows.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a guided tour around the stunning park.
• Going kayaking through the mangrove forest and enjoying the tranquil sounds of the jungle.

5. Playa Samara

I thought this was a cool little beach town! I discovered with golden sand, swaying palm trees, calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming, and a lush tropical jungle backdrop filled with wildlife like howler monkeys and colorful tropical birds. I loved it’s vibe most of all though – it had a relaxed boho and eco-friendly focus and feel with a surf-life vibe thrown in for good measure! 

It was tucked on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province, along the country’s Pacific coast in the northwestern part of the country. It was historically a quiet fishing village before becoming a laid-back tourist destination and has around 3,000 permanent residents. 

I drove four hours from San José and spent a blissful four days here swimming and kayaking in the calm waters of Sámara Beach, snorkeled and went scuba diving near Isla Chora, took a fun beginner’s surf lesson with locals, spotted wildlife at Werner Sauter Biological Reserve, dined at the laid-back beachfront restaurants, and took  a boat tour to see dolphins and turtles! 

• Location: Western part of the Nicoya Peninsula, along the Pacific coast of the country.
• Best time to visit: Winter and Spring (to enjoy sunny beach days and calm waters).
• Who would enjoy it: Families, beginner surfers, and beachgoers.
• Activities on offer: Swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddle-boarding, surfing.
• Accommodation: Hotel Giada, Villas Kalimba, and the Samara Tree House Inn.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Sipping on a signature cocktail at the beach club and watching the sunset.
• Going snorkelling and seeing beautiful colored fish.
• Joining a morning yoga session on the beach! 

6. Santa Teresa

This is one of the most famous surfer meccas in the world! I also discovered this popular surf and wellness destination was seriously stunning with a mix of golden mix of sandy and rocky beaches flanked by a lush tropical jungle, a rustic charm, and tasteful low-rise buildings. It was the vibe thought that I was taken there was a captivating laid-back bohemian and surf-centric vibe with a lively, artistic community.

It’s located on the Nicoya Peninsula on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica and it was once a sleepy fishing village, but has now been transformed into a popular travel destination with a population of around 3,000 residents. It’s home to awesome wildlife including howler monkeys, iguanas, colorful birds, and occasionally very cute sea turtles nesting on the beaches.

• Location: Southern part of the Nicoya Peninsula, along the Pacific coast of the country.
• Best time to visit: Winter (for excellent surfing conditions and sunny weather).
• Who would enjoy it: Surfers, beach lovers, and yoga enthusiasts.
• Activities on offer: Surfing, yoga, beach volleyball, snorkeling, and sunset viewing.
• Accommodation: Selina Santa Teresa North, Pranamar Villas, and the Florblanca Resort.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Wandering through the bohemian village filled with cute cafes, shopping boutiques and fantastic restaurants.
• Dancing the night away at a beach party, this is when the surfers and travelers all come out to play!
• Trying surfing again, the rough waves made this a fantastic surfing spot! 

7. Monteverde Cloud Forest

This biodiverse sanctuary was filled with extraordinary scenery! I discovered a place filled with gorgeous mist-shrouded, verdant landscapes, epic views and a huge array of interesting wildlife and birdlife and minimalistic eco-friendly structures that blended seamlessly with the surrounding nature. I really loved its mystical vibe and an eco-friendly focus where I felt really connected to nature! 

It’s home to very varied wildlife, including jaguars, ocelots, and Baird’s tapirs, as well as many species of reptiles, amphibians like the colourful poison dart frogs, and huge varieties of insects and butterflies.

I drove three hours from San José and I spent an incredible three days here and explored the hanging bridges at Selvatura Park, hiked through the reserve trying to spot as much wildlife as I could (and managed to spot the quetzal which was strikingly beautiful bird), walked across the vertigo-inducing bridge, experienced thrill of zip-lining at Sky Adventures, learnt about the region’s biodiversity at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, visited the Butterfly Gardens to see lots of different Costa Rican butterflies in a natural setting and then relaxed in the restaurants and bars in the quaint town of Santa Elena (the main town near the forest) each evening.

• Location: North-central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Spring (to see the forest at its greenest with fewer tourists).
• Who would enjoy it: Birdwatchers, nature lovers, and hikers.
• Activities on offer: Hiking, canopy tours, birdwatching, zip-lining, visiting butterfly gardens, and night wildlife tours.
• Accommodation: Monteverde Lodge & Gardens, Hotel Belmar, and El Establo Mountain Hotel.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the forest with an interesting guided nighttime tour.
• Going on a canopy tours along the tree tops.
• Enjoying local Costa Rican cuisine, craft beers, and live music in the Santa Elena town.

8. Isla del Coco

This unique area is a mecca for experienced divers! I also thought this remote, uninhabited island was a gorgeous gem with rugged volcanic beaches framed by sparkling turquoise waters, lush, dense rainforests and historic ranger stations. I was completely taken by the wild, isolated and adventurous vibe it had – it felt wild and untamed with an air of mystery! 

It’s teeming with marine and wildlife, including hammerhead sharks, white-tipped sharks  manta rays, dolphins, and marlins, sea turtles, several species of birds like the Cocos Cuckoo and Cocos Flycatcher, unique reptiles, and a variety of endemic insects. The untouched forests provide a vital sanctuary for these species, many of which are rare or endangered.

This was a destination for the most determined travelers and I went on a diving cruise which where I spent 10 days visiting all the dive sites and the natural beauty of the island, it actually took 36 to sail across the Pacific Ocean to get there.

When here I dived renowned sites such as Bajo Alcyone, Dirty Rock, Big Dos Amigos, Shark Fin Rock and had the incredible experience of seeing hammerhead and tiger sharks, explored the dense jungles and stumbled across caves and the hidden waterfalls, Cascada Genio, and followed trails that reveal the island’s pirate history! 

• Location: Off the southwestern coast of the country in the Pacific Ocean.
• Best time to visit: Summer (for the best diving conditions and marine life encounters).
• Who would enjoy it: Scuba divers, marine life enthusiasts, and adventure travelers.
• Activities on offer: Scuba diving, snorkeling, wildlife photography, hiking, and marine life exploration.
• Accommodation: No accommodations on the island, liveaboard boats like Okeanos Aggressor for divers.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Going on a scuba diving excursion, the marine life was so colorful! 
• Exploring the interesting caves and forests. 
• Hiking to the waterfall and dipping in the waters at the base of it.

9. Playa Conchal

This is consistently rated as one of the most beautiful beaches in the country! I discovered it was very beautiful with sparkling turquoise waters and unique, soft sand made of crushed seashells which gives the sand a striking, shimmering appearance in shades of white and occasionally pinkish tones under the sunlight. It was framed by lush greenery and dotted by luxurious resort amenities. I also loved its relaxed, upscale vibe! 

I drove an hour from Liberia International Airport and stayed for a dreamy three days and enjoyed swimming, snorkeling and kayaking in its clear waters, relaxed on the unique shell-covered beach, indulged in spa treatments and gourmet dining at the all-inclusive Westin Golf Resort & Spa.

• Location: Northwestern part of the country, along the Pacific coast.
• Best time to visit: Winter (for dry, sunny beach days and crystal-clear water).
• Who would enjoy it: Couples, snorkelers, and sunbathers.
• Activities on offer: Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, kayaking, jet skiing, and beachcombing.
• Accommodation: The Westin Reserva Conchal, W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal, and Conchal Hotel.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Relaxing to the sound of the waves whilst having a massage on the white shell shores.

10. Tortuguero

This was a remote and secluded national park! I found a place filled with unspoilt rainforests, a network of freshwater canals, black sand beaches, expansive marshlands, dense mangrove forests, a unique and biodiverse habitat that supported a huge array of wildlife and rustic eco-lodges. I was also in awe of its serene, untouched vibe where I could just hear the sounds of the resident wildlife, the gentle flow of its canals and not much else! 

Located on the northern Caribbean coast, it’s only accessible by boat or a small aircraft due to its secluded nature. Established as a national park in 1975 to protect its unique ecosystems and endangered species, is a sparsely populated area mainly inhabited by small communities engaged in eco-tourism and conservation efforts.

Resident wildlife included jaguars, several species of monkeys, sloths, toucans, herons, caimans, and various sea turtles including the endangered green turtles.

I took a 30 minute domestic flight from San José to Tortuguero Airport, drove three hours to La Pavona and then taking a boat ride through the canals to the village. It was worth the trip though and I spent three days here. When here I took interesting guided canal tours to spot wildlife and saw monkeys, super-cute sloths, and exotic birds, visited the Sea Turtle Conservancy and learnt about sea turtle conservation, hiked through the rainforest trails and witness the magical sight of sea turtles nesting on the beach during the night. 

• Location: Northeastern Caribbean coast of the country.
• Best time to visit: Late Summer and Fall (to witness the turtle nesting season).
• Who would enjoy it: Wildlife enthusiasts and turtle watchers.
• Activities on offer: Boat tours, kayaking, wildlife viewing, turtle watching, hiking, and birdwatching.
• Accommodation: Mawamba Lodge, Tortuga Lodge & Gardens, and Evergreen Lodge.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the canals, rivers and lagoons on a guided boat tour.
• Having a unique fine dining experience at the Katonga Floating Restaurant.
• Taking a walk along the beach’s soft sand, which was a perfect spot to watch the sunset. 

11. Montezuma

I totally fell for this small, boho beach town! It was also very easy-on-the-eye with a rugged coastline dotted with pristine, sandy beaches and rocky coves, surrounded by lush tropical forests. The town itself was charming with low-rise buildings mix of local art galleries, cozy cafes, and colorful street art. I was taken with the vibe the most though – it had a very relaxed, artistic and bohemian vibe, attracting free-spirited travelers, surfers and even hippies.

It was tucked away on the southeastern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula in the northwestern part of the country facing the Pacific Ocean. It was once a quiet fishing village, but now has been transformed into a popular destination for tourists seeking a laid-back lifestyle, with a population of around 500 permanent residents that swells during the tourist season.

It was quite a trek to get to, I drove two hours from San José to Puntarenas, took the ferry to Paquera, and then drove 1.5 hours to Montezuma but once here I kicked back for a week. I relaxed on Playa Grande’s golden sands and watched the surfers, hiked to Montezuma Waterfalls and dipped in the natural pool there, explored the wildlife-rich Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, visited the Isla Tortuga for snorkeling and diving, and enjoyed the town’s bohemian vibe with its local art scene, cool beachside cafes, and lively night markets.

• Location: Southeastern part of the Nicoya Peninsula, along the Pacific coast of the country.
• Best time to visit: Spring and early Summer (for pleasant weather and lush green surroundings).
• Who would enjoy it: Backpackers, nature lovers, and beachgoers.
• Activities on offer: Hiking to waterfalls, beach walks, swimming, yoga, snorkeling, and ATV tours.
• Accommodation: Ylang Ylang Beach Resort, El Sano Banano Village Hotel, and Hotel Amor de Mar.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

12. Corcovado National Park

This was a remote and incredibly biodiverse rainforest! I thought it was stunning for its vast, untouched rainforests which teemed with wildlife, remote golden-sand beaches lined with palm trees, and rustic ranger stations. The vibe here was very unique with a raw, adventurous vibe which really felt like an immersive, off-the-grid experience! 

It’s located on the Osa Peninsula in the southwestern region of Costa Rica, along the Pacific coast. Established in 1975 to protect one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems, spans 424 square kilometers and is uninhabited except for park rangers and researchers. National Geographic has referred to Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula as the most biologically intense place on Earth

It’s home to an incredible array of wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, tapirs, scarlet macaws, squirrel monkeys, howler monkeys, sloths, anteaters, crocodiles, and no less than four species of sea turtles. It’s also filled with old-growth trees, including massive ceibas and strangler figs, along with gorgeous tropical flowers like heliconias and orchids

I flew into Drake Bay then took a guided boat to a park ranger stations and I stayed for an extraordinary three days. I hiked through the dense rainforests of Sirena Station and saw tapirs and scarlet macaws, trekked along the very scenic La Leona Trail and saw breathtaking coastal views, explored San Pedrillo Station which was home to waterfalls and wildlife, and walked the remote beaches where sea turtles nested! 

• Location: Southwestern part of the Osa Peninsula, along the Pacific coast of the country.
• Best time to visit: Winter (for drier conditions and easier access to trails).
• Who would enjoy it: Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and hikers.
• Activities on offer: Hiking, wildlife viewing, birdwatching, camping, guided nature tours, and swimming in waterfalls.
• Accommodation: Drake Bay Wilderness Resort, La Leona Eco Lodge, and Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge.
• Map Location and Directions
• Corcovado National Park Website

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking the designated trails to explore through the beautiful trees and flowers.

13. Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge

This protected coastal rainforest really wowed me! I thought it was jaw-dropping with a mix of dense tropical rainforests, golden-sand beaches lined with palm trees, and rustic beachfront lodges, all set against the backdrop of pretty coral reefs and the shimmering turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. To me it felt peaceful, with an off-the-beaten-path vibe, a laid-back Caribbean charm, and a strong eco-conscious focus! 

• Location: Southeastern Caribbean coast of the country.
• Best time to visit: Winter (for the best beach weather and wildlife spotting).
• Who would enjoy it: Families, nature lovers, and wildlife photographers.
• Activities on offer: Birdwatching, hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and swimming.
• Accommodation: Almonds and Corals Lodge, Congo Bongo Ecolodges, and Hotel Shawandha.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Going snorkelling, the water was so clear! 
• Taking a stroll along the golden sand shores which were lined with dreamy coconut palms and almond trees! 
• Seeing the super cute sloths! 

14. Isla Tortuga

I thought this uninhabited tropical island was idyllic! I thought the scenery was just jaw dropping with soft white-sand beaches, stunning turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and rustic beachfront amenities. It had a relaxed, tropical paradise vibe and a laid-back island atmosphere! 

It was located off the southeastern coast of the Nicoya Peninsula in the Gulf of Nicoya in the central Pacific region of the country. It has a history of pirate legends and shipwrecks, but today it is a protected tourist destination known for its pristine beaches and rich marine biodiversity.

It was home to marine life such as angelfish, manta rays, moray eels, reef sharks, and sea turtles, while its lush surroundings host tropical birds, iguanas, and occasional white-faced capuchin monkeys from nearby islands.

I visited on a boat tour day trip from Puntarenas (which took two hours) and snorkeled at El Aquario and La Cueva and saw incredible marine life, relaxed on the soft white-sand beaches, kayaked in the clear waters, hiked scenic trails on a guided tour and spotted wildlife and took a boat tour through the stunning Gulf of Nicoya.

• Location: Off the southeastern coast of the Nicoya Peninsula.
• Best time to visit: Winter and Spring (for clear skies and calm sea conditions).
• Who would enjoy it: Snorkelers, day-trippers, and beach lovers.
• Activities on offer: Snorkeling, swimming, banana boat rides, kayaking, beach games, and hiking trails.
• Accommodation: Accessible via boat tours, nearby stays include Tambor Tropical Resort, and Tango Mar Beach Hotel.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Dining out on a BBQ on the beach, the combination of great food and views was divine!

15. Poas Volcano

This was a really fascinating natural tourist attraction! I loved how the huge active stratovolcano had a unique otherworld beauty – there was a massive, mist-covered crater with a striking turquoise acid lake which frequently bubbled and emited steam and gas due to the volcanic activity. There was also lush cloud forest surroundings, and well-maintained visitor center. 

It was located in the central part of the country within Poás Volcano National Park in the Alajuela Province, around 37 kilometers northwest of San José. It’s actually one of the most active volcanoes in the country, has a 1.5-kilometer-wide crater and has erupted multiple times throughout history (most recently in 2019).

I drove 1.5-hours from San José along well-paved roads and spent a day here. I hiked to the massive Main Crater to see the steaming turquoise acid lake, explored the Laguna Botos Trail which lead to a serene crater lake, visited the interactive visitor center and learnt about volcanic activity, and walked through the misty cloud forest which was filled with unique flora and wildlife.

• Location: Central part of the country, in Alajuela province.
• Best time to visit: Spring (for fewer crowds and clear views of the crater lake).
• Who would enjoy it: Geology enthusiasts, families, and nature explorers.
• Activities on offer: Hiking, exploring volcanic craters, birdwatching, and visiting nearby botanical gardens.
• Accommodation: Poás Lodge, Peace Lodge at La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and Altura Hotel.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring out the nearby lush rainforests on a guided tour. 

16. Bajos del Toro

Bajos del Toro is not in the center of town. It is an area that is perfectly off the beaten path. This hidden gem is approximately 90 minutes from San Jose, but you must walk awhile. Bajos del Toro, however, is truly worth the walk.

It is a private reserve full of stunning waterfalls and unique pools. If you want to enjoy the water in a tropical setting and take epic pictures of your journey, Bajos del Toro delivers perfectly.

• Location: Central highlands of the country.
• Best time to visit: Spring (for lush green landscapes and waterfall exploration).
• Who would enjoy it: Waterfall lovers, hikers, and photographers.
• Activities on offer: Hiking to waterfalls, birdwatching, canyoning, nature photography, and wildlife observation.
• Accommodation: El Silencio Lodge & Spa, Bosque de Paz Lodge, and Catarata del Toro Cabins.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Visiting one of the coldest waterfalls in the country, Blue Falls! 
• Hiking along the Parque Nacional del Agua Juan Castro Blanco which was filled with color and stunning scenery! 
• Having a go at canyoning. 

17. Tamarindo Beach

This beach is known for surfing, but many choose to kick back and stay for a while. Located in the Guanacaste province, it started as a small village and has now grown into one of the most popular places to visit in the Central American country.

It’s a long and pretty sandy beach with fantastic waves. However, there can be a strong current, so caution is advised if you’re a newbie surfer. If you fancy a try, hotels in the area can set you up with a nearby water sports rental.

• Location: Northwestern Pacific coast of the country.
• Best time to visit: Winter (for consistent sunshine and great surfing conditions).
• Who would enjoy it: Surfers, party-goers, and beach lovers.
• Activities on offer: Surfing, swimming, beach walks, kayaking, snorkeling, and horseback riding.
• Accommodation: Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort, Cala Luna Boutique Hotel, and Hotel Capitan Suizo.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Watching the surfers, this area is known to have some of the best breaks in the world.
• Exploring on a private ATV tour, the scenic forests, rivers and countryside were really photogenic! 
• Soaring through the air on a zipline at Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks.

18. Rio de Celeste

With glowing milky blue waters, I personally think it’s easy to understand why the Rio de Celeste is so loved! 

Inside Tenorio Volcano National Park, the Rio de Celeste gets its opalescent hue from the volcano’s sulfur and calcium carbonate mix. Enjoy the river by playing in the waterfall or soaking in the hot springs.

• Location: Northern part of the country, in Tenorio Volcano National Park.
• Best time to visit: Late Winter and early Spring (for better trail conditions and vibrant blue river views).
• Who would enjoy it: Hikers, nature lovers, and photographers.
• Activities on offer: Hiking, waterfall exploration, wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and river walks.
• Accommodation: Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel, Tenorio Lodge, and Posada Río Celeste Hotel & Spa.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Chilling out in the gorgeous hot springs
• Taking a refreshing dip in the base of the waterfall. 
• Taking Instaworthy photos!

19. Rincon de la Vieja National Park

Have you ever wanted to see an active volcano up close? Many people find this notion exciting, and you can get your volcanic fix in Rincon de la Vieja National Park.

The park is known for high levels of geothermic activity, and hiking up Rincon de la Vieja, an active volcano, is a remarkable experience.

Geothermic studies are common in the area, and if you have ever wanted to learn about volcanic activity, Rincon de la Vieja National Park is an excellent resource. It is not all about education but offers some insanely beautiful photo ops, as waterfalls are a fantastic attraction in this area.

• Location: Northwestern part of the country, in Guanacaste province.
• Best time to visit: Winter (for easier hiking and to see active volcanic activity).
• Who would enjoy it: Hikers, adventure seekers, and hot spring enthusiasts.
• Activities on offer: Hiking, volcanic mud baths, hot springs soaking, birdwatching, horseback riding, and ziplining.
• Accommodation: Hacienda Guachipelin, Blue River Resort & Hot Springs, and Borinquen Mountain Resort.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Hiking up to the active volcano, the panormanic views were incredible! 
• Swimming and relaxing in the stunning blue hot springs, a natural outdoor spa. 
• Going river tubing! 

20. Playa Ostional

Located in one of the best beach towns in the country, this is one of the most incredible sights! It is the arribada of hundreds of thousands of leatherback turtles on the beaches of the Ostional Wildlife Refuge.

The week before the new moon, hundreds to hundreds of thousands of female turtles come onto the shore at night to lay their eggs.

When the eggs hatch several weeks later, participants come to the beach to protect them from dogs and vultures as they return to the sea.

• Location: Northwestern part of the Nicoya Peninsula, along the Pacific coast of the country.
• Best time to visit: Fall (to witness the mass nesting of Olive Ridley turtles).
• Who would enjoy it: Wildlife enthusiasts interested in turtle nesting.
• Activities on offer: Turtle watching, swimming, sunbathing, beach walks, and wildlife observation.
• Accommodation: Nosara Beach Hotel, Lagarta Lodge, and eco-cabins at Ostional Turtle Lodge.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a walk before breakfast and listening to the sounds of nature in the forest.
• Booking a sunset catamaran tour which included swimming and snorkelling before watching the sunset.
• Dining al fresco at El Manglar Restaurant. 

21. San José

San José is the capital and largest city, with a population of over 350,000. Although it’s known for its majestic volcanoes and green hills, San José also offers various attractions.

San José is split into neighborhoods that are called barrios. One of the most iconic is Barrio Amón, where you can explore a crucial part of the city’s history. It’s also a place where you can visit one of the most magnificent architectural sites in the country.

The downtown part, El Centro, also has a blend of businesses and cultural centers. You will find anything from retail shops to world-class museums.

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Spring and Summer (for pleasant temperatures and fewer rainy days).
• Who would enjoy it: History buffs, culture seekers, and urban explorers.
• Activities on offer: Museum visits, city tours, cultural performances, food tasting, historical sightseeing, and shopping.
• Accommodation: Hotel Grano de Oro, Hilton Garden Inn La Sabana, and Radisson San José.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights

• Visiting the historic tourist site of Winchester Mystery House which was filled with stories.
• Strolling through the 6-acres of the beautifully prepared Japanese Friendship Garden.
• Being inspired by the fascinating exhibits at the Tech Museum of Innovation.

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