You’ll Love These 25 Amazing Things to Do in Costa Rica

Last Updated on September 3, 2025 by Lindsey

Planning a trip and wondering about the best things to do in Costa Rica? Whether you’re heading there with kids, your partner, or on your own, this country is packed with adventure. You’ll find volcanoes, beaches, waterfalls, and wildlife—all in one trip.

Costa Rica is a dream destination for families, couples, and thrill-seekers. But with so much to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve rounded up 25 of the top things to do in Costa Rica. Some are perfect for little kids. Others are better for teens or adults. All are worth adding to your list.

I have visited Costa Rica with and without kids. In this guide, I’ve included personal favorites to help you make the most of your time. Look out for ⭐ Adventurous Tastes Pick highlighting my favorite things to do.

Ready to plan a trip everyone will love? Let’s dive in.

Disclosure: Adventurous Tastes is reader-supported. I’ve included affiliate links in this post. If you make a purchase, we may receive commissions. All opinions are my own.

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Arenal/La Fortuna (Northern Highlands)

Explore Arenal Volcano & Its Famous Hot Springs

Arenal Volcano is a must-do and a highlight on any list of things to do in Costa Rica. You can hike lava trails, spot wildlife, and then relax in natural thermal springs.

At a Glance

Age Suitability: All ages
Highly-Rated Tour: Arenal Hanging Bridges, Guided Walk, Hot Springs Optional

⭐ Adventurous Tastes Pick

Best Things to Do in Arenal:

• Mistico Hanging Bridges — A guided walk through the rainforest canopy where you’ll spot monkeys, birds, and maybe even a snake (don’t worry, you’re safely up high). Go early in the morning for fewer crowds and the best chance of spotting animals.
• Nothing says “family relaxation” like a soak in natural thermal waters, and Costa Rica’s hot springs resorts offer both fun and indulgence. The mineral-rich waters heated by Arenal Volcano are perfect for soothing tired muscles after a day of adventure. Book a day pass to Tabacon or Los Lagos for the full experience without an overnight stay.
• Arenal 1968 Trails – A great kid-friendly hike with views of old lava flows. To maximize your fun, consider a hiking tour that includes a visit to the hot springs.

Where to Stay Near Arenal

• Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa — A luxury option with the most famous hot springs, lush surroundings, and cascading waterfalls.
• The Springs Resort & Spa — A luxury option offering family-friendly pools with waterslides and even a small animal rescue center.
• Nayara Gardens — A top-tier choice for a truly indulgent experience in La Fortuna. This boutique resort is known for its lush tropical surroundings, world-class service, and private casitas with outdoor showers and hot tubs. Families will love the spacious accommodations, the on-site sloth sanctuary, and the luxurious thermal pools.

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Chase Waterfalls at La Fortuna & Rio Celeste

Waterfall viewing is among the best things to do in Costa Rica. Splashing under a cascade is perfect for families, and the views are incredible..

Age Suitability: All ages (older kids better for Rio Celeste)
Highly-Rated Tour: Full Day Tour with Safari Float, Waterfall and Volcano Hike

Best Waterfalls for Families:

• La Fortuna Waterfall — This iconic 230-foot waterfall is located near Arenal Volcano and is easily accessible via a well-maintained staircase. Kids will love splashing in the emerald pool at the base, while parents can soak in the jungle views. Arrive early to avoid the crowds. If you go later, consider a skip-the-line ticket or a tour.
• Rio Celeste — One of Costa Rica’s most magical sights, this waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park is famous for its surreal, sky-blue water. While the hike is more challenging (about 1.5 hours each way), older kids will be enchanted by the fairytale-like scenery.

Best Waterfall Tours in Costa Rica

• Hit all the highlights of La Fortuna in one day — Arenal Highlights: Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall, Volcano
• Feeling adventurous? Try rappelling down a waterfall with the Ultimate Waterfall Rappel in La Fortuna.
• Combine hiking, waterfalls, and animal spotting with this tour Rio Celeste Full Day Tour From La Fortuna

Pro Tip: Pack water shoes for the rocky riverbeds and bring a dry bag for your phone so you can capture the magic!

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Take a Chocolate and Coffee Tour in La Fortuna

Costa Rica is known for its world-class coffee and chocolate. La Fortuna’s family-friendly tours let kids see the entire process—from cacao beans to delicious chocolate bars!

Costa Rica Chocolate & Coffee Tours

• Choose a hands-on tour where kids can make their own chocolate or combine both coffee and chocolate into one tour. If you’re feeling adventurous, combine a chocolate-making experience with a night wildlife tour.
• Book in advance during high season, as small group tours fill quickly.

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Hike to Volcano Viewpoints & Craters

Hiking is one of the most popular things to do in Costa Rica. The country offers plenty of family-friendly volcano hikes that deliver big views with minimal effort.

At a Glance

Age Suitability: All ages (Poás and Irazú are best for little kids)
Highly-Rated Tour Provider: Poás Volcano, Coffee Farm & La Paz Waterfall Day Trip from San José

Luxury Upgrade:

Stay near Poás Volcano at Peace Lodge or opt for a multi-day volcano-and-rainforest itinerary based at Arenal Springs Resort & Spa.

Best Volcano Hikes:

• Arenal Volcano National Park: Multiple trails through lava fields and rainforest, many of which are stroller- or young-kid-friendly.
• Poás Volcano (near San José): Short walk to the rim of an active crater with steaming vents. Kids will love the alien-like landscape.
• Irazú Volcano: The highest volcano in Costa Rica, where you can sometimes see both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans on a clear day.

Planning Tips:

• Bring layers, especially at higher elevations.
• Most parks require online reservations, even for self-guided hikes.

These trails are a scenic way to explore Costa Rica’s dramatic terrain and geological history.

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The best of the rest: La Fortuna

Go canyoning in La Fortuna: Rappel down waterfalls for a big adrenaline rush (best for teens/adults).

Go paddleboarding in Lake Arenal – Calm waters with stunning volcano views.

Relax in natural hot springs – Tabacon and Ecotermales offer the most luxurious experiences.

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Manuel Antonio

Spot Wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica for wildlife lovers. This national park is home to capuchin monkeys, sloths, and toucans, plus some of the country’s most beautiful beaches.

At a Glance

Age Suitability: All ages
Highly-Rated Tour Provider: Manuel Antonio Guided National Park & Wildlife Tour

Top Things to Do in Manuel Antonio

• Hiring a naturalist guide is a must – They’ll ensure you have tickets, which often sell out, and they can spot things you will never find on your own. They all seem to know exactly where to look and have high-powered scopes and cameras to make it easier for you to see what everyone is pointing at. Trust me, don’t skimp on this. We all enjoyed our tour of this fascinating park. However, many of the animals are quite far away, so set your expectations accordingly. Here’s a highly rated Manuel Antonio tour option.
• Bring swimsuits. The park’s beaches are among Costa Rica’s best. Note that there are facilities where you can change clothes or shower, but they are bare bones, and there’s no seating available. The visit to the beach at the end of the tour was a highlight for my kids. Even better, we got to see monkeys up close playing nearby.
• Go early – Wildlife is most active in the morning.

Where to Stay Near Manuel Antonio

• Arenas del Mar — an eco-luxury resort right by the beach with sloths and monkeys on-site! We visited on our recent trip to Costa Rica and were blown away by the facilities and beautiful setting.
• Tulemar Resort — a top 4-star destination in Manuel Antonio, boasting award-winning private villas immersed in a vibrant rainforest. It offers direct access to a secluded beach, where guests can enjoy stunning views and wildlife sightings, including sloths, monkeys, and toucans, right from their balconies.

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Head Out on a Night Jungle Tour

Looking for unique things to do in Costa Rica? Head out after dark for a nighttime rainforest tour, where you’ll see a whole new side of the jungle. Costa Rica is home to hundreds of nocturnal species—from frogs and snakes to bats and glowing fungi.

At a Glance

Age Suitability: Ages 5+
Highly-Rated Tour: Night Adventures in Monteverde

Top Spots for Night Tours:

• Monteverde Cloud Forest: Join a small-group night walk at Reserva Biológica Bosque Nuboso for a chance to spot tarantulas, sleeping toucans, and leaf-cutter ants.
• La Fortuna Area: Many ecolodges near Arenal, such as The Springs offer on-property night walks, ideal for younger kids who may not want to venture too far.

Pro Tips:

• Bring closed-toe shoes, bug spray, and a flashlight (or use the one provided).
• Easily frightened children might want to skip this tour. My skittish 9-year-old did not enjoy it.

This is a great, low cost, low impact adventure that adds a little mystery to your

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Monteverde

Zipline Over the Rainforest in Monteverde

Monteverde is home to some of the longest and highest ziplines in the world, making it one of the most thrilling things to do in Costa Rica. This was the highlight of our recent family trip to Costa Rica! This area has a cooler climate and misty weather, so don’t forget to pack a light raincoat.

At a Glance

Age Suitability: Ages 7+ (some courses require 10+)

⭐ Adventurous Tastes Pick

Best Zipline Parks for Families in Monteverde:

• The Original Canopy Tour — includes a brief rappelling component and a Tarzan swing if you’re feeling extra adventurous!
• Selvatura Park Canopy Tour — this is where we went on our visit. Enjoy 13 different ziplines, and add in a Tarzan (included) or Spiderman (extra) experience to round out the day. For those who are less adventurous, the park also has hanging bridges to explore. Make a day of it, and do both with this combo tour. This was the single best thing we did in Costa Rica. The ziplining is incredible, and the Tarzan experience was particularly exciting!

Where to Stay Near Monteverde

• Koora Hotel — Eco-chic suites surrounded by nature, plus a killer view of the Nicoya Gulf. This is where we stayed, and we adored it. The two-level villas are spacious and luxurious, and the on-premise restaurant has top-notch food and an excellent view.
• Senda Monteverde — A great eco-lodge with modern rooms, delicious food, and walking trails.

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Visit a Coffee & Chocolate Farm Near Arenal or Monteverde

At a Glance

Age Suitability: All ages
Highly-Rated Tour Provider: North Fields Coffee & Chocolate Tour – La Fortuna

Luxury Upgrade:

Stay at Nayara Gardens or Chachagua Rainforest Hotel to enjoy nearby farm tours and rainforest views. Or, go all in and, stay at a coffee lodge like Finca Rosa Blanca. Here you can sip fresh-roasted beans on your terrace and tour the plantation steps from your room.

Where to Go:

• North Fields Coffee Tour (La Fortuna): A fun, interactive option with great reviews—kids can taste sugarcane juice and grind beans by hand.
• La Fortuna Eden Chocolate Tour: Tour a cocoa plantation, roast and grind the cocoa beans, and make your own chocolate bonbons.

It’s one of the more relaxed yet still enriching Costa Rica activities, and a great break from high-adrenaline adventures.

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Caribbean Coast

Why Visit Tortuguero?

Tortuguero, often called the “Amazon of Costa Rica,” is one of the country’s most unique destinations.

• Spot caimans, sloths, monkeys, and over 300 species of birds on a guided boat tour.
• Visit Tortuguero National Park, home to lush rainforests and diverse ecosystems.
• If visiting between July and October, witness the magical sight of sea turtles nesting on the beach at night.

Where to Stay in Tortuguero

Stay at Tortuga Lodge & Gardens, which offers luxurious family-friendly suites in a tranquil location, a riverfront pool, and guided nature experiences.

Travel Tip: Since Tortuguero is only accessible by boat or small plane, arrange private transfers for a seamless journey.

Take a Jungle River Safari in Tortuguero

Glide along Tortuguero’s winding canals by boat, where monkeys swing through the trees overhead, caimans lurk along the banks, and colorful birds dart through the sky. It’s one of the best places in Costa Rica to see wildlife in its natural habitat, and the quiet pace makes it especially family-friendly.

At a Glance

• Age Suitability: All ages
• Highly-Rated Tour: Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park

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Witness a Sea Turtle Nesting Tour

Between July and October, the beaches of Tortuguero transform into one of the world’s most important turtle nesting grounds. Guided night tours let you (quietly and respectfully) watch massive green sea turtles dig their nests and lay eggs — an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

At a Glance

• Age Suitability: All ages
• Highly-Rated Tour: Sea Turtle tour

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More Caribbean Experiences

If you’re staying on the Caribbean coast, you won’t miss out on the classic Costa Rica activities. You’ll find excellent chances for:

• Chocolate-making workshops and tours in cacao-rich Puerto Viejo – Bribri Magic Chocolate and Waterfall Experience
• Sloth spotting (especially around Tortuguero and Puerto Viejo) – Sloth and Kayaking Tour at Punta Uva
• Night jungle tours to see frogs, snakes, and nocturnal wildlife – Manzanillo Refuge Night Tour

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Guanacaste & Nicoya Peninsula (North Pacific Coast)

Take Surf Lessons in Tamarindo or Santa Teresa

Surfing is practically a rite of passage in Costa Rica. With warm waters and gentle waves, it’s the perfect place for kids and beginners to learn. For families looking for fun things to do in Costa Rica, hitting the waves together is an unforgettable experience.

At a Glance

Age Suitability: Ages 6+
Highly-Rated Tour Provider: Surf Lesson in Tamarindo – with a Stand Up Guarantee

Best Family-Friendly Surf Spots:

• Tamarindo — With soft, rolling waves and plenty of surf schools, Tamarindo is one of the best places for kids to learn. The town also has fantastic restaurants, making it great for a surf-and-relax family getaway.
• Santa Teresa — A more off-the-beaten-path option, this bohemian beach town offers pristine beaches, gentle waves, and a laid-back vibe ideal for families seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility.

Where to Take Costa Rica Surf Lessons

• Tamarindo Beach Surfing Lessons
• Manuel Antonio surfing
• Surfing in Jaco
• Playa Hermosa in Santa Teresa

Where to Stay for Surfing in Costa Rica

• For oceanfront luxury with kid-friendly amenities, stay at The Westin Reserva Conchal (Tamarindo) or Nantipa—A Tico Beach Experience (Santa Teresa).
• Additional Tamarindo options: Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas – A luxury boutique hotel with a focus on sustainability. Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel – A beachfront oasis with a welcoming atmosphere for families.

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Sail on a Sunset Catamaran Cruise in Tamarindo

Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast offers some of the most breathtaking sunsets in the world. There’s no better way to enjoy them than on a luxury catamaran cruise. Kids can snorkel, spot dolphins, and even see humpback whales during the right season.

At a Glance

Age Suitability: All ages
Highly-Rated Tour: Tamarindo Catamaran Sailing & Snorkeling Tour

⭐ Adventurous Tastes Pick

Traveler Tip:

• For a more relaxed experience, opt for a private or small-group cruise. Consider this highly rated Tamarindo cruise or this tour that includes snorkeling, too.
• Pack motion sickness bands if anyone in your family is prone to seasickness.

Luxury Upgrade:

Charter a private sailing, and stay at Andaz Costa Rica or Four Seasons for a true VIP experience.

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Relax on Costa Rica’s Most Beautiful Beaches

Costa Rica is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, offering everything from crystal-clear waters to wild, rugged coastlines. Whether your family loves snorkeling, swimming, or just soaking up the sun, relaxing on the beach is one of the most essential things to do in Costa Rica.

Top Costa Rica Beaches for Families & Luxury Travelers:

Playa Conchal (Guanacaste) — Famous for its crushed-shell sand and turquoise waters, this beach is perfect for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming. Stay at the W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal for beachfront luxury.

Playa Flamingo (Guanacaste) — A pristine white-sand beach with calm waters, ideal for families. Book a private beach picnic or luxury yacht charter for an exclusive experience. The nearby Margaritaville Beach Resort offers a fun, kid-friendly atmosphere.

Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste) — Not to be confused with the surf-heavy Playa Hermosa in Jaco, this tranquil beach has gentle waves and crystal-clear water. It’s great for young kids. El Mangroove, Autograph Collection provides a boutique luxury stay with beachfront access.

Playa Manuel Antonio (Manuel Antonio National Park) — One of Costa Rica’s most scenic beaches, surrounded by rainforest. Expect monkeys swinging in the trees, soft white sand, and calm waves. Stay at Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort, offering direct beach access and eco-luxury.

Santa Teresa Beach (Nicoya Peninsula) — A bohemian paradise known for surfing, tide pools, and golden sunsets. Families looking for an exclusive beachfront villa should check out Nantipa – A Tico Beach Experience.

Beach Experiences:

• Small Group Catamaran Tour — Sail along the coast, stopping for snorkeling and dolphin watching with tours like this 5-hour sailing tour from Tamarindo, this Catamaran Snorkeling & Sunset Sailing Tour that departs from Coco near Playa Hermosa, or this sunset cruise from Playa Flamingo.
• Guided Bioluminescent Night Kayak Tour — Visit Playa Paquera to see glowing waters under the stars.

Best Costa Rica Beach Resorts

• The Westin Reserva Conchal – All Inclusive (★★★★★) – A beachfront resort with a spa and golf course.
• Andaz Papagayo by Hyatt (★★★★★) – A luxury eco-resort with kid-friendly nature activities.
• W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal (★★★★★) – A modern retreat with stylish amenities and easy beach access.
• Arenas del Mar (★★★★★) — an eco-luxury resort right by the beach in Manuel Antonio with sloths and monkeys on-site!

Pro Tip: Many of Costa Rica’s beaches are untouched by large developments. So, if you visit a more remote location, bring snacks, water, and shade!

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Multi-Region/Anywhere in Costa Rica

Spot Sloths in the Wild

Seeing a sloth in the wild is one of the most magical things to do in Costa Rica. These slow-moving creatures are surprisingly easy to find—if you know where to look!

The best way to see sloths is with a local naturalist guide. They’ll bring spotting scopes and help you find sloths resting in the treetops or munching on leaves. While sloths are found throughout the country, certain areas are more reliable for sightings. We enjoyed our tour and were very glad we had a tour guide there to show us where to look. They look so much like coconuts that I’d never have spotted them without their scope!

At a Glance

Age Suitability: All ages
Highly-Rated Tour Provider: Sloth Tour in La Fortuna

⭐ Adventurous Tastes Pick

Best Places to See Sloths:

• La Fortuna area: The Bogarin Trail is a flat, family-friendly walk with high chances of spotting both two- and three-toed sloths.
• Tortuguero National Park: Explore by boat and keep your eyes on the trees lining the canals.
• Manuel Antonio: Combine a beach day with a guided park tour to spot sloths, monkeys, and iguanas.

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Take a Cooking Class

Foodie families, this one’s for you! One of the tastiest things to do in Costa Rica is taking a hands-on cooking class. You’ll learn how to make traditional dishes like gallo pinto, empanadas, and patacones. Of course, the best part is getting to sample your creations. We visited Finca El Paraiso Farm on Christmas Day. It was. a last minute booking for us, but it turned out to be my kids’ favorite activity in Costa Rica. They loved meeting the cows and using their milk to make cheese.

At a Glance

Age Suitability: Ages 6+
Highly Rated Tour: Farm to Table Cooking Class—La Fortuna or this Finca El Paraiso Farm Cheese Tour in Monteverde, which my family raved about.

⭐ Adventurous Tastes Pick

Where to Find the Best Classes:

• La Fortuna: Join a class with a local chef where kids help press tortillas and cook over a wood stove.
• Tamarindo or Nosara: Many beach towns offer classes that incorporate seafood or Caribbean flavors.

Food is central to Costa Rican culture, and cooking together can be a fun way to learn and connect as a family.

Costa Rica is known for its coffee and chocolate. A hands-on tour is fun for kids and fascinating for adults—and full of delicious samples!

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Ride ATVs or Horses to a Volcano

For families seeking an adrenaline rush, an ATV or horseback riding tour is one of the most thrilling things to do in Costa Rica. This activity combines adventure, nature, and jaw-dropping scenery.

At a Glance

Age Suitability: Ages 8+

Best Places for ATV & Horseback Riding:

• Arenal & Rincon de la Vieja — Ride through rugged lava fields, cross rivers, and end your adventure with a soak in natural hot springs. Book a horseback riding tour to La Fortuna Waterfall or an ATV tour with a volcano view.
• Tamarindo & Guanacaste Beaches — Explore the dry tropical forests, gallop along the beach, and enjoy breathtaking sunset views. Book an oceanside horseback tour in Tamarindo or an ATV or Buggy Guided Tour from Tamarindo or Conchal.

Pro Tip: Opt for a sunset ride when the golden light over the volcanoes creates the most spectacular views.

More Epic Things to Do in Costa Rica

• Take a hanging bridges tour – Great for spotting wildlife in Arenal or Monteverde from above.
• Visit a butterfly or frog garden – These are great for young kids, especially on rainy days.
• Ride a river tubing tour – A fun, floaty alternative to whitewater rafting.

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What to Pack for a Costa Rica Vacation

Packing strategically ensures a comfortable and stress-free family vacation in Costa Rica. Here’s what to bring:

• Breathable, quick-dry clothing — Costa Rica’s hot and humid climate calls for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics. Consider options like the Athleta with ease tee for women or the Old Navy CloudMotion (women’s, girls, men’s, boys) for the whole family.
• Sun hats — A women’s wide-brimmed hat, women’s packable fedora, or men’s packable wide-brimmed hat will provide essential sun protection.
• Durable footwear—Sturdy hiking shoes and water shoes are essential for jungle treks, waterfalls, and hot springs. Merrell Moab hiking shoes (women’s, men’s) and quick-dry water shoes (Reefs Kids, Women’s, Quickdry Shoes (women’s, men’s) are great options for both kids and adults.
• Swimwear & quick-dry towels — Pack rash guards for sun protection (Men’s, Women’s Short Sleeve, Long Sleeve, Boys Long Sleeve, Girls Rash Guard Swimsuit and Long Sleeve) and a compact travel towel for beach days.
• Waterproof gear — A dry bag (phone pouch, backpack) protects valuables during beach trips, waterfall hikes, and boat tours.
• Bug spray & reef-safe sunscreen — Insect repellent with picaridin keeps bites at bay, and reef-safe sunscreen protects your skin while preserving Costa Rica’s marine life. Sunscreen is expensive locally, so it’s worth bringing your own.
• Packable rain jackets — Essential for cloud forests and the rainy season, lightweight rain jackets (Women’s, Men’s, Girls, Boys) will help keep you dry during excursions.
• Binoculars — These are must-haves for wildlife spotting in national parks like Manuel Antonio or Tortuguero. With these packable binoculars, you won’t miss a sloth or toucan sighting.
• Reusable water bottles — Stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste with a reusable bottle. Many hotels and eco-lodges offer refill stations.
• Daypacks — A small backpack is ideal for carrying snacks, sunscreen, and other essentials during day trips and hikes.

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With so many incredible things to do in Costa Rica, this country is the ultimate destination for travelers who love adventure, nature, and relaxation. With a little planning (and maybe a little help from me), you’re guaranteed an unforgettable trip filled with “wow” moments.

For all my favorite Costa Rica tours, check out my Viator tour shop.

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FAQ: Things to Do in Costa Rica

The Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

As you can see, Costa Rica offers many exciting activities. From jungle safaris and beach days to volcano hikes and ziplining, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to relax, this list gives you a mix of both. You can swim under waterfalls one day and enjoy a chocolate tour the next. It’s easy to build a trip that works for your whole family—or just for you.

No matter which activities you choose, your Costa Rica trip is sure to be unforgettable.

For more family travel tips and detailed guides, be sure to check out the rest of Adventurous Tastes!

Ready to plan your dream Costa Rica adventure? Book your favorite tours and hotels now to secure the best experiences!

Pin for Later – The Top Things to Do in Costa Rica

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Adventurous Tastes is reader-supported. I’ve included affiliate links in this post. If you make a purchase, we may receive commissions. All opinions are my own.