The variety of adventures in Costa Rica makes it a great place to visit. There are a plethora of things to explore in Costa Rica, and this article will give you elaborate details regarding the same.
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1. Location, Culture, and Language of Costa Rica
Costa Rica has rugged rainforests and tropical coastlines between the Caribbean and Pacific oceans. The Caribbean coast is known for its beaches, volcanoes, biodiversity, and cultural institutions, such as the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum in San Jose.
The protected jungle of Costa Rica covers about a quarter of its land area and is home to many wildlife species, such as spider monkeys and quetzals.
A fantastic entryway to Latin American culture is Costa Rica. There are numerous tour operators, hostels, motels, and accessible public transit alternatives, and the area is highly touristy.
The primary tongue of Costa Rica is Spanish. If you wish to learn Spanish while traveling, you can enroll in classes there or volunteer with a local family to sharpen your language abilities.
In either case, if you don’t speak Spanish well, the locals are fairly helpful and pleasant.
English is frequently spoken in touristy places. But try your best to speak Spanish when you can because it will demonstrate to the locals that you value their culture. Locals in Costa Rica call themselves “Ticos.”
2. Best Time to Visit Costa Rica
The climate of Costa Rica is tropical. This indicates that although there is a rainy and dry season, the weather is often warm all year long. The temperatures in the mountains only start to cool off at greater elevations.
May to November typically corresponds to the rainy season. It usually always rains during this period. Sometimes, it rains for a very brief period, while other times, it pours all day. Just remember to take proper waterproof clothing throughout the wet season. Also, establish backup plans in case bad weather cancels your beach days.
The absence of crowds and lower rates at tourist destinations are benefits of traveling to Costa Rica during the rainy season. You can also get a better deal on airline tickets to Costa Rica.
Therefore, visiting Costa Rica during this season can undoubtedly help your pocketbook. If you truly want to escape the poor weather, maybe avoid visiting in October, as it’s the wettest month.
December to April is the dry season. This indicates that the rains halted, save for a few sporadic showers. The weather is ideal for trips to the beach and other outdoor activities because the sun is shining and the humidity is slightly lower.
You’ll find Costa Rica more congested and expensive during the dry season, which is also the peak tourist season. Therefore, you can go whenever you like! It is best to schedule your trip for the shoulder season, the time between the wet and dry seasons. This way, you can expect fair weather and fewer tourists.
3. Top 10 Attractions in Costa Rica
One of the best places in the world to experience nature, adventure, and wildlife is Costa Rica! Visitors can engage in ziplining, hiking, white water rafting, birdwatching, surfing, and fishing because more than 25% of the country’s territory is protected.
Despite its size, Costa Rica travel offers visitors various experiences in just a short period, such as active volcanoes, tropical rainforests, beautiful beaches, national parks and cloud forests, hot springs, etc…
A trip to Costa Rica means having variety. It is great, but choosing between them can also be hard, especially when they’re all worthwhile.
Costa Rica is a good place to start if this is your first time traveling. There are many backpackers and foreigners, so you are sure to connect with other travelers.
Despite many tourists, Costa Rica nonetheless upholds the fundamental elements of Latin American culture. Reggaeton blares from nightclub speakers, traditional food is real and affordable if you look in the proper places, and residents may be friendly and hospitable.
3.1. Costa Rica National Parks
Tourists may enjoy several thrilling activities on their visit to Costa Rica, like national parks, including white water rafting, canyoning, cave tubing, and zip-lining.
The lush primary virgin rainforests and intricate network of freshwater and marine resources make up the Costa Rica National Parks & Reserves.
Three of Costa Rica’s 28 national parks have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. To preserve Costa Rica’s lush beauty and abundant animal population, around 28% of the country’s land is designated as a park or reserve.
The national parks in Costa Rica are also great places for wildlife lovers to see macaws, sea turtles, and adorable sloths.
3.1.1. Manuel Antonio National Park
The smallest national park in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio National Park, is known as the country’s “jewel” and is home to some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery.
Located in a lush environment and surrounded by wildlife, you can go on hiking trails or relax at paradisiacal beaches in Manuel Antonio National Park.
A natural paradise is created when the beach and the forest meet in one place. Manuel Antonio National Park receives considerable domestic and international tourism as a Protected Wilderness Area.
In 2011, Forbes magazine listed it as one of the nation’s most stunning parks. The variation adds to the appeal. There are several cultural attractions and waterfalls to see, and this park is great for trekking and wildlife trips.
Imagine vast mountains rising out of the dense tropical forest, white sand beaches tucked into coves, and a beautiful tropical forest surrounding you. A snorkeler’s paradise, the coral reefs are interesting and stunning.
Besides beaches, the Park also offers you a humid tropical forest where endangered species live together, a mangrove swamp, marine environments, islands, and a 14-hectare lagoon.
3.1.1.1. Top Activities in Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio
Take a trip to Manuel Antonio National Park. When visiting Costa Rica, seeing wildlife is a must, and Manuel Antonio is the location to do it. Numerous birds, sloths, and monkeys live in the park.
Enjoy Manuel Antonio Beach or Espadilla Sur’s pristine sand beaches.
Visit the jungle on a fascinating Jungle Night Tour to witness its animal life come to life at night. Join the knowledgeable guide to tour the Rainmaker Conservation Park’s vegetation and wildlife. Make sure to pack a jacket and some bug spray.
During the tour, you’ll learn a lot about the area’s birds, lizards, snakes, and amphibians, which lasts for less than three hours.
Sleep in an Airplane Hotel, sometimes referred to as Hotel Costa Verde.
Additionally, Manuel Antonio serves as a jumping-off point for some of Costa Rica’s lesser-known top tourist destinations. One of the nicest things to explore in Costa Rica and a great way to learn about the local way of life is to take a day trip to Dominical or Quepos.
You can drive through a primary forest in a short amount of time by using several trails. Moreover, you can appreciate a beautiful view of the sea and enjoy the wildlife you can find any time.
3.1.2. Arenal Volcano National Park
The Arenal Volcano is in the fertile northern lowlands of Costa Rica, and its presence cannot be avoided when traveling to this region.
One of the best places to visit in Costa Rica is the Arenal Volcano National Park and the nearby hot springs.
There is no denying its height and imposing appearance. It’s one of the most engaging stops to visit in Costa Rica.
With its perfect symmetry, views of the volcano, and abundance of outdoor activities, Arenal is a sightseer’s dream and an essential stop to visit while you are in Costa Rica.
The conservation area spans 290 square miles and includes eight of Costa Rica’s twelve living zones. It is a well-liked vacation spot for tourists of all stripes. Several resorts and motels nearby provide everything from natural hot spring joys to adventure excursions.
Most of the 850 species of birds identified in Costa Rica may be found here, so birdwatchers should pay a visit.
Numerous hiking trails through lava fields and forests, both long and short, may be found in Arenal Volcano National Park. A bath in one of the town’s many hot springs is the ideal way to round off the day.
The most well-known and abundant option is Tabacon Hot Springs, although there are a variety of others available for every price range. The peaceful village of La Fortuna serves as Arenal’s entry point.
To reach La Fortuna Waterfall, hike. La Fortuna Waterfall is almost 70 meters tall and is situated at the foot of Cerro Chato Volcano. Although there is an entrance fee, it is well worth it to be able to dive into the water after a strenuous climb.
Take a relaxing dip at Tabacon Hot Springs’ geothermal pools.
3.1.2.1. Arenal Volcano
Until 2010, it was the most active volcano in Costa Rica. Arenal regularly emitted enormous amounts of lava, gas, and ash, much to the delight of all who visited.
As you walk over the hanging bridges, your guide will share lots of interesting information about the Arenal Volcano and the rainforest creatures.
There is an active vent on the west side of the Arenal volcano. La Fortuna lies within its eastern shadow, so if you want to see the lava, you must head to the other side. Also, clouds may obscure the top of the mountain on certain days.
Short trails in the national park pass through secondary forests and lava fields from previous eruptions.
During the volcanic activity, the rangers keep an eye on the area, and if they feel that it might be unsafe, they will close trails and portions of the park.
3.1.2.2. Hiking in Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica
Lake Arenal largely produces the country’s electrical energy. Wind farms are found on the other side of the lake. The Arenal Volcano National Park is known for its wildlife.
What can you expect to encounter? Birds such as parrots, orioles, brown magpies, howler monkeys, white-faced monkeys, and snakes may also be seen.
The Arenal Volcano National Park has several types of palms and bromeliads, bait, ceiba, cirri, laurel, and ferns.
Many tours are available for visitors at this Caribbean coast National Park, whether you are short on time or want to cram as many activities into one day as possible.
3.1.3. Tortuguero National Park Costa Rica
Canals, rivers, beaches, and lagoons within the Tortuguero National Park make it the most popular ecological destination in Costa Rica.
This is one of Costa Rica’s rainiest regions, which adds to the country’s diverse biodiversity. A great tranquil and calming way to see nature is by boat, kayak, or canoe as you explore beautiful canals and take in the fauna.
A boat or a small plane is necessary to reach the park and the small town of Tortuguero. People instantly think of Tortuguero when they think of the rainforest in this area.
If you are in Costa Rica, you must visit Tortuguero National Park. Located in dense tropical rainforests, the canal system traverses a jungle, lagoons, and dense tropical forest.
There is no land between the canal and the Caribbean Coast in the east and countless small ponds in the west.
Your local, knowledgeable guides will help you locate wildlife. The area’s two biggest attractions, Tortuguero National Park and the Barra de Colorado Wildlife Refuge, are located within this maze of jungle waterways.
These parks preserve a wide variety of unique plants and animals, including several endangered species of sea turtles, jaguars, and green macaws.
3.1.3.1. Tortuguero Turtle Tour
On a narrow headland between the lagoon and the Caribbean coast, you can watch sea turtles lay their eggs with a local guide during sea turtle nesting season. A collection of hotels and lodges sits north of the village.
Every year, Tortuguero hosts the “arribada,” or mass sea turtle nesting, which attracts four different kinds of sea turtles. See the Green, Leatherback, Hawksbill, and Loggerhead sea turtles at Tortuguero as they return to their nests to deposit the next generation of eggs.
You’ll be in awe of these animals since the Leatherback, the largest species of live turtle, can grow to 6 to 7 feet and weigh up to 1,500 pounds.
Depending on the species, turtle nesting occurs most frequently between early March and mid-October. The Green Turtle, the most prevalent of the four turtle species, is renowned for its enormous annual nesting from June to the middle of October.
You may schedule turtle nesting walks with a certified guide from your lodge. The trips last around two hours and are conducted at night. Visitors should wear dark attire to the beach and avoid using cameras and lights to prevent disturbing the turtles.
3.1.3.2. Sport-Fishing
Tortuguero is a renowned fishing destination since it offers saltwater and freshwater fishing. From Tortuguero, the fabled “Silver King” or tarpon may also be found from January to June.
From September to December, the bass is plentiful. Fishing guides are urged to use the “catch and release” technique to protect fish populations.
3.1.4. La Vieja National Park
De La Vieja National Park offers a wide range of unique experiences, such as the waterfall La Cangreja, the Blue Lagoon, and its breathtaking ocean views.
At 6,286 feet above sea level, Rincon de la Vieja is the tallest and most active volcano in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste area.
Although the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano last erupted in 2011, the geothermal activity below the earth’s surface is still present, evidenced by the region’s numerous vents, geysers, fumaroles, hot springs, and mud pits.
On a brief adventure, you will pass through dry woodland and a cloud forest in a volcanic atmosphere.
Emanations of steam, boiling water, and boiling dirt reverberate throughout the atmosphere. In just two hours, you may see all of this volcanic activity in addition to visiting a dry forest, a wet forest, a humid forest, and a cloud forest.
You can also take treks through various locations with breathtaking ocean views and the chance to see some of the emerging elements of Costa Rican land’s “front row.”
The two main attractions of Rincon de la Vieja are Las Pailas and Santa Maria, whose volcanic attractions stand out. Aside from Las Pailas, visitors can also explore La Cangreja Falls, the hidden waterfalls, the crater, and Cerro Von Seebach.
3.1.4.1. History of Rincon de la Vieja
Its name, “Corner of the Old Woman,” comes from a folktale about a princess who is native whose father threw her lover into the crater in rage. With the ability to heal, she spends the rest of her life wandering the volcanic slope. People seeking medical treatments visit “the nook of the old woman” to recover from ailments.
3.1.4.2. Hiking in La Vieja National Park
Within a short journey, you will pass through a dry forest and a cloudy one. The sounds of boiling water, boiling mud, and steam resonate through the air. You can witness all of this volcanism in two hours and visit a dry, wet, humid, and cloudy forest.
Hummingbird Trail, Pailas of Cold Water, Enchanted Forest Waterfalls, Hot Springs, and sightseeing places can be found in Santa Maria.
- Circular Trail of Las Pailas (Boiling Mud Pots Trail): This 2-mile loop will take you past bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, a volcanic (little volcano), and gorgeous views of the volcano, as well as several overlooks. You might even come across a little seasonal waterfall during certain seasons (green season). This short trial may be completed in an hour.
- The trail to La Cangreja Waterfall: La Cangreja Waterfall, commonly known as Blue Lagoon, has a total in-and-out length of 6.2 miles (10 km) (a couple of hours in each direction). This walk has small brook and river crossings and is occasionally steep. It is not allowed to swim in the waterfall.
- The trail to Escondida Waterfall: Both the Escondida Waterfall Trail and the La Cangreja Waterfall Trail begin on the same path before diverging into two separate paths. We advise picking one of these if you’re searching for a lengthier hike. The Escondida Waterfall Trail has a total length of 5.3 miles (8.6 km) (a couple of hours in each direction).
The park offers guided treks that allow visitors to take in the scenery, wildlife, and waterfalls.
3.1.5. Corcovado National Park
There is no region on earth of comparable size to the Osa Peninsula for diversity. A backpacking trip to Corcovado National Park is one you won’t forget.
The biggest park in Costa Rica is Corcovado National Park, which National Geographic has dubbed “the most biologically intensive region on earth.” It encompasses about half of the stunning, undeveloped Osa Peninsula. It is hardly surprising that it is well-liked by both scientists and ecologists.
This region is home to Central America’s last old-growth wet forests and thirteen major biophysical zones, including lowland and highland rain forests, bolillo palm forests, mangrove swamps, and coastal marine environments.
Among the shyest and most endangered animals of Costa Rica are the Baird’s Tapir, the Jaguar, the Scarlet Macaw, the Harpy Eagle, the Red-backed squirrel monkey, and the White-lipped Peccary.
The fact that the park is essentially unspoiled is just one of several factors, though. Corcovado’s animals are not fed and hardly ever interact with people. As a result, we may see animals in healthy natural habitats where they were intended to flourish.
Despite the wet, unpredictable weather, the trails are generally good, and the camping area near the ranger stations is grassy and well-drained.
Nearly all of the ecolodges in Drake Bay and Puerto Jimenez can offer day trips with a knowledgeable naturalist guide. The four primary ranger stations or park entrances are Sirena, La Leona, San Pedrillo, and Los Patos.
They are reachable by boat, charter flight, or dirt road (Sirena Ranger Station only). After a 1.75-mile hike from La Leona Ranger Station, you can also fly into Carate. You’ll have to hike because there are no roads inside the park.
3.2. San Jose – Costa Rica
San Jose boasts a pleasant and mild climate that attracts many tourists to the area. It’s one of the most attractive destinations to visit in Costa Rica.
San Jose is a vibrant city with a rich culture and history, exquisite architecture, vibrant nightlife, and friendly locals. San José offers various activities and attractions, making it a cosmopolitan and traditional Central American city.
San Jose has many museums, art galleries, parks, and dining options since it is the country’s cultural center.
Even though most buildings in the city are less than 100 years old, the city still contains plenty of World War II-era buildings.
3.2.1. Jade Museum
There are many exciting places to visit including the Jade Museum, Central Park, Spanish Park, Democracy Plaza, and Morazan Park.
The Jade Museum is one of the country’s finest and includes one of the world’s largest collections of American jade. Gold and stone objects, as well as ceramics, are displayed by cultural regions.
The gorgeous San Gerardo de Dota in San Jose boasts stunning views of rolling hills and the Cordillera de Talamanca in the background, making it one of the most beautiful places to go bird-watching in the area.
3.2.2. La Sabana Park in San Jose
This area is home to about 200 aviaries; nature lovers should not miss it. There are still a few tourists visiting San Gerardo de Dota, so travelers may find a true gem here, one that is peaceful and truly unique.
In San Jose, La Sabana Park is located near the old airport.
Travelers to the capital should not miss San Jose La Sabana Park, a popular hangout for locals. The park is one of the nation’s largest and most important urban green spaces, comparable to Central Park in New York.
A 40,000-seat stadium hosting international musical performances and sporting events is also located in this San Jose park. The stadium’s architecture is a sight to behold, even if you are not attending an event there.
3.3. La Fortuna
One of the top enchanting destinations in Costa Rica is La Fortuna or La Fortuna de San Carlos. With its colorful gardens and large church, the town is centered on a beautiful park.
Nearly every viewpoint in La Fortuna provides a view of Arenal Volcano, the main star of the scene. Restaurants, hotels, tour companies, and shops are on central park streets and lodges near the volcano and Lake Arenal.
La Fortuna has many activities to choose from, which accounts for its popularity. La Fortuna is the perfect place to enjoy virtually all Costa Rican adventure tours.
3.3.1. Hanging Bridge
A hanging bridge spans the rainforest canopy, a zip line flies through the sky, a waterfall rappel, and a whitewater raft plunges churning water. There is so much to choose from that knowing where to begin can be difficult.
3.3.2. La Fortuna Waterfall
La Fortuna Waterfall, which can be done in an hour or two, is a must-see. There can be many crowds during this popular attraction’s high season.
3.4. Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca sits alongside the Caribbean Sea in southeast Costa Rica and has a distinctive Caribbean feel.
You can visit Costa Rica to learn more about its wide-ranging cultural diversity. On the other hand, Puerto Viejo has people of Afro-Caribbean descent and people of indigenous origin.
Rice from coconuts and Reggaeton beats fill the air here, and traditional houses are colorful and welcoming. Puerto Viejo has some of the country’s largest and most beautiful beaches and jungles, fabulous restaurants, and nightlife.
3.5. Costa Rica’s Stunning Waterfalls
A striking natural formation dotted throughout this visually astounding country, Costa Rica’s waterfalls astonish experienced and novice travelers alike.
When rushed water envelops a pool below a cliff, it creates a sense of awe and wonder. A cool dip beneath these powerful forces of nature will refresh you after hiking through the rainforest in the tropical heat.
3.5.1. La Fortuna Waterfall
The La Fortuna Waterfall can be described as breathtaking. The waterfall, which is named “Fortune” in Spanish, is the focus of numerous trips close to the Arenal Volcano and is nourished by the Tenorio River.
Awe-inspiring scenery can be seen as the waterfall spills out of a rock at the base of the extinct Chato volcano and falls 70 meters (230 feet) before reaching a tropical pond that is encircled by the lush, green rainforest along the Arenal Mountain range.
La Fortuna may be seen from two distinct vantage points, and you can even step right out onto the large rocks and stones that line the basin’s sides.
Don’t forget your swimwear; on a hot summer day, you can cool yourself in the pool at the waterfall’s base. It takes about 15 minutes to walk down a staircase carved into the hillside to reach the waterfall from the starting point on the cliff.
The walk is one of the most picturesque hikes in Costa Rica because of the tranquil waters of the pool, and it can be combined with a tour of the hanging bridge’s canopy.
The waterfall and surrounding hot springs attract visitors from around the world.
3.5.2. Rio Celeste Waterfall
Do you have any experience with water that is bluer than blue? There is a waterfall called Rio Celeste. Rio Celeste means light blue river.
The local legend states that after God had painted the sky, he washed his paintbrushes in the river to change the color into that brilliant blue that fascinates us today.
Your time in the forest will be much more enjoyable if you have a guide with you, and you won’t get lost.
3.5.3. Tenorio Volcano National Park
With its 98-foot drop and lush tropical forest surrounding it, Rio Celest Waterfall plunges into a bright blue pool of water. Tenorio Volcano National Park has a hiking trail takes you past many wonders to Rio Celeste.
There’s nothing like seeing waterfalls plunge into an incredibly clear blue pool below. You have to walk down steep stairs to get the best view of the waterfall. Several hiking trails can be found in Rio Celeste.
During your hike, you will cross two bridges, and after crossing the second bridge, you will reach a place called Tenders.
Here, two rivers meet and form a fantastical color called Rio Celeste, which, when translated, is a river of light blue color.
3.5.4. La Paz Waterfall Gardens
This private ecological attraction in Costa Rica’s Cloud Forest is the most visited eco-attraction outside San Jose. Over 100 species of animals can be seen at the rescued wildlife preserve, five waterfalls, and a nature walk.
Located in the Rio La Paz National Forest, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica is available to the public all year round. Visitors can explore the grounds at leisure, tailoring their experience to their interests.
The preserve also has a Hummingbird Garden, Serpentarium, Frog Exhibit, and butterfly observatory. More than 40 different bird species, including toucans and 26 different hummingbird species, marmosets, white-headed capuchin monkeys, black-handed spider monkeys, two-toed sloths, jaguars, pumas, and ocelots, as well as a healthy frog exhibit, may all be found in the gardens.
You can easily spend a full day touring La Paz Waterfall gardens and waterfalls once you take in the wildlife and tropical sights of Costa Rica.
3.5.5. Nauyaca Waterfalls
A beautiful waterfall called Nauyaca Waterfalls is located in Costa Ballena’s South Pacific region, mere minutes away from Dominical.
Nauyaca boasts less impressive drop-offs than the towering La Fortuna or Bajos del Toro waterfalls. Still, its arrangement is unique — water pours over the cliffside before continuing over 140 feet before another 60-foot drop.
The location of this waterfall is one of its most amazing features. It might take some effort to get there, but the view is worth it! Tucked back into the dense rainforest, the trip there isn’t as easy as it looks.
It is divided into the upper and lower cascades: Impressive upper falls that fall a larger distance. After the climb, the waterfall’s sporadic mist feels soothing, and several slick river rocks are ideal for your picnic lunch! At the upper falls, the scenery is exquisite and the atmosphere is generally calmer.
But the real excitement is in the lower falls! There are facilities where visitors can change into swimsuits just before the stairs leading down to the falls. The cascade collects a sizable body of crystal-clear blue water in the swimming hole. The greatest way to cool off after a trek is to go swimming.
There are several ways for visitors to get to the falls, including horseback riding, hiking, and 44. The same well-maintained trail is used by horseback riders and hikers, who look for the region’s plentiful wildlife, including monkeys and birds. A variety of hummingbird species love to live here. A short, easy climb of about 2.5 miles will take you to the waterfall.
3.6. Costa Rica’s Hot Springs
Costa Rica’s natural hot springs are the perfect introduction to relaxing and reviving in this lush tropical paradise. For over 200 years, mineral-rich waters have been used medicinally in Costa Rica to treat various body aches and pains.
A visit to these natural hot springs on the Caribbean coast is always fun, no matter if you’re there for mystical healing or not!
Visitors enjoy the true sensation of refreshment that comes from a trip to Costa Rica’s hot springs while neck-deep in a natural Jacuzzi and surrounded by the splendor of the tropical surroundings.
There is something for every traveler with a variety of places to see, each with its distinct atmosphere and specialization.
6.1 Arenal Hot Springs
Visiting the Arenal Hot Springs is one of the best things in Costa Rica. Visitors wanting to soak in a natural hot spring on the Arenal Volcano are in for a treat!
The volcano is in resting phases and still has magma that rises close enough to interact with groundwater, keeping natural thermal pools warm. There are several places to enjoy the heat around Arenal.
6.2 EcoTermales Hot Springs
What could be a better way to relax than to soak in one of Costa Rica’s revitalizing mineral hot springs? EcoTermales is a private hideaway, a therapeutic natural spa, and a memorable experience.
The only hot springs location on our list that is not part of a larger hotel or resort is this family-run facility, but don’t let that stop you from visiting!
EcoTermales does everything possible to make sure that each tourist gets the ideal position within the rainforest to enjoy thermal rejuvenation due to the limited daily access.
There are more than simply thermal mineral pools to explore at this La Fortuna hidden gem. Along with the soothing warm waters, visitors may stroll through hundreds of yards of rainforest trails, watching local species and taking advantage of photo opportunities.
Visit the chic lounge instead, where you can relax while sipping a cocktail and admiring the natural pond that is home to frogs, caimans, and a stunning array of aquatic plants. Delicious meals are offered in their original home-style Costa Rican restaurant, or guests can relax by the poolside bar with fresh-squeezed juices and exotic mixed cocktails.
3.7. Costa Rica’s White Sand Beaches
Who doesn’t adore a lovely beach with white sand? There is something heartwarming about a beach with glistening white sand and crystal-clear blue water, and Costa Rica is home to several breathtaking white sand beaches.
With an enviable location, Costa Rica straddles the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Costa Rica is one of the places that offers a diverse range of white sand beaches, all with unique characteristics.
The beachgoers of this island have access to everything they could desire, from a gorgeous white sand paradise lined with palm trees to volcanic black sand and naturally rugged coves. Whether you’re interested in pristine beaches or mega beach resorts, there is a perfect beach setting for everyone.
3.7.1. Santa Teresa Beach
A string of beaches surrounds Malpais and Santa Teresa, including Carmen Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Manzanillo Beach. Beaches like these are relatively unknown, although they stand out from the rest.
Those seeking a secluded beach escape and great surfing will enjoy the soft sand of Santa Teresa Beach.
Malpais Beach, a well-known surf spot that features white sand and rocky tide pools, is located on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula and renders unforgettable beach activities in Costa Rica.
3.7.2. Gulf of Papagayo, Guanacaste
Since the Gulf of Papagayo has numerous little bays, it has the most white sand beaches in Costa Rica. Among the white sand beaches in the Papagayo Gulf, Playa Bonita, Playa Jicaro, and Playa Penca are our favorites.
Additionally, the snorkeling is fantastic, and the water is incredibly calm—like a pool.
The Four Seasons Resort is located near the gorgeous white sand beaches of Playa Blanca and Viridor. Anyone can travel by land to any of Costa Rica’s public beaches.
The Four Seasons offers a free shuttle service that runs from their front door to the beach access.
Playa Cabuyal is another beach with light-colored sand in the Gulf of Papagayo. On the approach to the Four Seasons, there is a cute little picnic area with tables that you may access by car.
The waves were calm, and while we were there, a large family of rays was visible. Since it’s a long drive and not particularly well known, not many people visit.
3.7.3. Playa San Juanillo
Due to the merging of two beaches into one, it is quite distinctive. Playa San Juanillo is a favorite among locals, and since getting there needs a 4×4, not many tourists visit this beach.
The vista is amazing and you can go to the point where the two beaches converge. If you want to view the white shore, go when the tide is high; otherwise, if it’s low, all you’ll see are rocks.
You will need to rent a car to go to this beach because it is on the road to Ostional.
3.7.4. Playa Conchal, Guanacaste
Conchal is a stunning beach, but it also stands out in Costa Rica for having a shoreline formed of white shell fragments rather than sand. Conchal means shell in Spanish, hence the name.
Even though it’s too choppy for swimming, you can snorkel near the northern end, which is where the majority of the shells are. At the northern end, there is a wonderful rocky spot where you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas. This area is also a fantastic place for snorkeling.
Weekends and holidays may be very popular in Conchal, so if it gets too crowded, head to the south end of the private reserve. An estuary that leads to a beach that is a component of the reserve may be seen.
3.8. Monteverde Cloud Forest
When you visit Costa Monteverde, you will be astonished by the beauty, bounty, and biodiversity of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
The wind sculpts the slopes of elfin woodlands into rainforests filled with orchids, bromeliads, ferns, vines, mosses, and other vegetation.
Located in Costa Rica’s Central Highlands, cloud forests provide sweeping views of coffee plantations and active volcanoes. This area is perhaps one of the most scenic attractions in Costa Rica.
Cloud forests are found in this area, high-altitude forests that appear to be surrounded by clouds. These cloud forests provide a cool retreat from the country’s tropical zones and a habitat for wildlife.
3.9. Hanging Bridges in Costa Rica
You are close to the wilderness at the edge of hanging, impenetrable bridges. Walking trails are the starting point for a whole lot of walking trails. But when you leave them behind, you reach another kind of natural kingdom, one that you are unlikely to find anywhere else.
There are often hanging bridges across deep valleys and gorges that require hours of hiking to reach, and even then, you might not be able to reach them.
The jungle is pushed to its utmost depths up in this startling remoteness, where monkeys swing, and toucans rest, where sloths dwell, and where you get to feel its essence on a ten-fold scale.
In addition, here is where the views get truly breathtaking, with horizons that are not blocked by dense foliage. You won’t be able to see many vistas like these without walking across a hanging bridge.
Moreover, modern-day hanging bridges in Costa Rica are among the safest, best, and most famous globally.
3.10. Adventures in Costa Rica
3.10.1. Zip Lining in Costa Rica
There are many ways to take advantage of Costa Rica’s stunning forest canopy views, including zip-lining, hanging bridges, and aerial trams.
Costa Rica zip-lining adventures are suitable for almost every age and physical condition since they are not strenuous. Using a harness and cable connection, you can fly through the rainforest canopy and observe the forest below from a bird’s eye view.
Arenal Volcano is one of the most popular destinations to visit in Costa Rica. Ziplining or taking an aerial tram gives you a great view of the Arenal Volcano as well as bird watching.
A trip to Costa Rica Montervade makes you feel in awe. An aerial tram or zipline tour in Monteverde is most popular because of the region’s plant and animal life and the opportunity to view them from above.
Cloud forests are exceptionally diverse biomes due to the climate, and this exotic cloud forest is home to more than 100 species of mammals, over 400 species of birds, and about 2,500 species of plants. There are also more orchids in Monteverde than anywhere else in the world.
3.10.2. Scuba Diving
A country on an oceanic coast is appropriately named Costa Rica, meaning “Rich Coast.”. Shark and manta ray encounters with underwater pinnacles are available off the Pacific Coast islands.
Aquatic life can also be found along the Pacific coast. It offers divers one of the top levels, the opportunity to scuba dive with humpback whales or manta rays. Biological reserves are protected in the southern region of the country.
Boulders and pinnacles dominate the underwater landscape. This region is great for beginners because of its protected reefs. You must visit this Pacific coast to appreciate this country’s beauty fully.
Cocos Island is one of the most famous scuba diving destinations in Costa Rica.
Final Words
This Caribbean coast offers the best places to go for a perfect vacation. You can find anything and everything on this Pacific coast.
Costa Rica offers many activities for your vacation- Horseback riding, coffee plantation, zip-lining, cloud forests, Costa Rican beaches, white water rafting, scuba diving, hot springs, surf lessons, wildlife, and marine life.
Last Updated on by Pragya Chakrapani
