Best Area in Costa Rica to Visit: Top Destinations for a Perfect Vacation

Costa Rica is a paradise for travelers seeking various experiences, from lush rainforests and stunning beaches to vibrant wildlife and thrilling adventure activities. This Central American gem has something for everyone, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind in a beautiful setting. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best areas in Costa Rica to visit, ensuring you have an unforgettable vacation.

Key Takeaways

• Arenal is ideal for adventure seekers with its iconic volcano and hot springs.
• Tortuguero offers unique wildlife experiences, especially for turtle watching.
• Cahuita is perfect for snorkeling and enjoying the Caribbean vibe.
• Puerto Viejo is known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches.
• Monteverde is a must-visit for those interested in cloud forests and biodiversity.

Arenal

Adrenaline is the currency around Arenal, an area that’s risen to become unquestionably the adventure travel capital of Costa Rica. The whole place swirls around the perfect cone of Arenal Volcano, truly one of the best things to see. You can’t climb it, but the rainforests, lakes, and wild rivers cascading down its slopes offer ample woodland hikes, rafting, and ziplining opportunities.

Arenal Volcano

Sitting at an elevation of 1,670 meters (5,480 feet), Arenal is one of Costa Rica’s many volcanoes. It still erupts from time to time, and if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to see lava flowing down the volcano. (Though, it’s less likely to happen as the volcano has been dormant since 2010). Fun fact: I got lost in the jungle around here.

Lake Arenal

Lake Arenal, a large man-made lake created by a hydroelectric project, is an especially great spot for water-based activities like kayaking, windsurfing, or fishing.

Hot Springs

There are great natural hot springs, such as Tabacon or EcoTermales, with mineral-rich waters in a lush tropical setting for a little bit of relaxation and culture. There are also fabulous cooking classes, coffee-making workshops, and other cultural activities at nearby farms, restaurants, and haciendas.

Tortuguero

Tortuguero is one of the eco hubs of the Caribbean coast, a distant land of mist-haloed coast forest and murky riverways. It’s a must-see for anyone traveling to Costa Rica. Tortuguero means “place of the turtles,” and the high summer months of July and August are the peak hatching times. Visit then to see loads of leatherback turtles emerging from nests and scuttling towards the sea.

Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park is a remote and extraordinary destination near Limon, Costa Rica’s northeastern Caribbean coast. Accessible only by boat or plane, the park is characterized by a complex network of canals, mangroves, and lagoons, earning it the nickname “the Amazon of Costa Rica.” After years of being hunted almost to extinction, the park now protects 22 miles of nesting beach.

How to Get to Tortuguero

The town here is small and charming, with just one dirt street, so be prepared for a remote experience. That’s the fun of it. You can get to Tortuguero by public transportation, by driving yourself, or by arranging a transfer. Just getting there is an adventure in itself. As you wind through natural canals, you’ll likely see some of the many animals that call the area home.

Things to Do in Tortuguero

Visit in July, August, or September to see turtles. Visitors can hike or take a river raft, kayak, nature, or other sightseeing tours. A night walk tour is a lovely way to see another side of nature after hours.

Tortuguero is a unique and special part of Costa Rica that not all tourists get the chance to visit. With turtle nesting, jungle tours, hiking, and more, the opportunities for enjoying nature go on and on.

Cahuita

Cahuita National Park

Cahuita, a tiny town next to a stunning national park with the same name, is about an hour north of Puerto Viejo. If you are ambitious, take a full day for a guided tour of Cahuita National Park. You’ll explore the area and learn a lot about the wildlife here. Top attractions in Cahuita include Cahuita National Park, Tarantulas Way, and the Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica.

Afro-Caribbean Influences

The region is known for its Afro-Caribbean influences, which you might notice in the food and local culture as you chill out with some dessert crepes or grilled chicken. MY FAVORITE HOSTEL IN CAHUITA: Estilo Hostel Hakuna Matata – This laid-back hostel has plenty of outdoor common space, a pool, and hammocks. It’s just a short walk from the beach as well.

Relaxation and Activities

Cahuita is a place to relax. There’s one bar in town that gets lively (sometimes it’s half full!), but for the most part, after a day of hiking, animal spotting, swimming, or surfing, most people sit around and read. For a nearby trip (about 25 minutes away by car), Cahuita National Park has coral reefs just offshore that offer excellent snorkeling during the dry season, with opportunities to see a neat array of fish.

Away from the beach, there’s not so much in the way of nature and wildlife, and visitors to Puerto Viejo should kick back, get into the beach mood, and while away the hours. One of my favorite things to do with some downtime is to rent a bike and explore the town and surrounding area. The roads are calm and quiet, so the cycling is great.

Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a laid-back beach town on the Caribbean coast known for its gorgeous beaches, Afro-Caribbean culture, and good food. The city has a relaxed and alternative atmosphere, making it a popular spot for those seeking a tropical getaway with a bit of a twist.

Laid-Back Vibe

They say time moves slower in Puerto Viejo. Something about the Caribbean breeze and laid-back vibe makes even the most stressed traveler slow down and chill out. Puerto Viejo is also home to some of the best surfing in Costa Rica and some great restaurants.

What to Do in Puerto Viejo

Rent a bike to explore the colorful town. Stop at a local produce market for fresh fruit and head to the beaches at Playa Cocles or Punta Uva. Drive south toward Manzanillo for the day.

Visit Cahuita National Park for up-close and personal wildlife encounters, and the Jaguar Rescue Centre outside of Puerto Viejo is a must-see if you love monkeys as much as we do!

Surfing and Beaches

Puerto Viejo’s beaches, such as Playa Cocles and Punta Uva, are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Surfers can count on reliable waves and should head straight for Salsa Brava, a beach near the town renowned for its powerful swell and attracting experienced surfers worldwide.

Monteverde

A Guide to Visiting Monteverde, Costa Rica

Are you looking for a Monteverde travel guide? Look no further! Here are the best things to do, see, and eat in this Costa Rican paradise!

Mystical Cloud Forest

Monteverde is a mystical-feeling place. Located in the cloud forest, the home of eco-tourism in Costa Rica will leave you with wonder. Nature lovers will be in paradise in Monteverde as the region has the highest number of orchids worldwide and is a stop for many migratory birds.

Family Fun

Families will love visiting the Frog Pond and Butterfly Garden. Guided hikes through the cloud forests will amaze you, and there are also hanging bridges, zip line tours, and horseback riding to enjoy.

Adventure Awaits

Monteverde, which rests on the continental divide, experiences high winds and unusual weather patterns. The entire area is very green and wet; like La Fortuna, there are a lot of adventure activities here. Witness it all on a zip-line adventure through the tree canopy, explore some of the sky bridges in the area, or go on a guided night walk through the cloud forest to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Biodiversity Bonanza

If there’s anywhere that can capture the booming biodiversity of Costa Rica in one hit, it’s Monteverde. Known for the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, the town is surrounded by uber-rare highland habitats.

Hanging Bridges

Monteverde is famous for its systems of hanging bridges. Like Manuel Antonio and Arenal, Monteverde is a significant tourist destination in CR, so it’s exceptionally well-prepared for visitors. On arrival to the park, you’ll immediately find a visitor center, educational exhibits, and information desks.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bring a raincoat! The weather can be as unpredictable as a cat on catnip.

Corcovado

Overview

Corcovado National Park is a remote haven for biodiversity located on the Osa Peninsula in southwestern Costa Rica. Encompassing a variety of habitats, including lowland rainforest, cloud forest, mangroves, rivers, and a fantastic coastline, it is one of Costa Rica’s most exciting parks. Corcovado is a real wilderness!

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Corcovado is from December to April. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Activities

• Hiking: The web of trails at the Corcovado National Park is probably the highlight.
• Whale Watching: Head to Drake’s Bay and Carate for spectacular marine life.
• Surfing: Catch some waves in the pristine waters.

Accommodation

For a unique stay, consider the Corcovado Foundation BioHostel. This off-the-beaten-path eco-hostel is a great place to unwind and disconnect. A bar on-site, a yoga deck, vegan and vegetarian food, and gorgeous lush landscape views.

Welcome to Corcovado Info Center! We are a tour operator specializing in Corcovado tours, Corcovado overnight, mangrove tours, Caño Island, and more. Come prepared with proper gear and supplies, and be knowledgeable about park regulations, as this is not a “Disneyland” natural area.

Fun Fact

Once hailed as the most “biologically intense place on Earth,” this reserve contains the most giant continuous patch of old-growth coast jungle in the Americas. It also extends into the sea, where there are whales, dolphins, sharks – you name it!

Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio is a popular beach destination on the Pacific coast, known for its wide, white-sand beaches and warm blue waters. But wait, there’s more! The nearby Manuel Antonio National Park opened in 1972 and sees over 150,000 visitors annually. It’s home to hiking trails and secluded beaches and offers the chance to view three different kinds of native monkeys. There are still more monkeys than people, they say!

Manuel Antonio Beach

It is a stunning scythe of powdery sand within the national park and well worth visiting. Whether you’re sunbathing or taking a dip in the warm waters, this beach is a must-see.

Manuel Antonio National Park

This park is a nature lover’s paradise. With a stunning combination of dense rainforests, good beaches, and diverse wildlife packed into a reasonably small area, Manuel Antonio is a concentrated dose of Costa Rica in miniature. Taking a tour with a local is the best way to be sure you’ll find spots of wildlife while exploring the park.

Santa Juana Lodge

Venture to this lodge in nearby highlands to experience more off-the-beaten-path corners of the Manuel Antonio region. It sits amid forests filled with marked trails, each punctuated by waterfalls and gurgling rivers, perfect for a trip to see the beauty of Costa Rica.

Poas Volcano

Overview

Poas Volcano National Park, situated in Costa Rica’s Central Valley, offers a unique opportunity to experience the majesty of an active volcano. The main crater of the Poas Volcano is one of the largest in the world, and its acidic lake has frequent steam eruptions, which are a treat to witness. It’s just a short and easy hike to the crater’s edge, where you can enjoy panoramic views of your surroundings.

Best Time to Visit

If you can choose when to visit, try to come during the dry season (December to April), when the weather is generally clear, and you have a higher chance of getting a good view of the volcano’s crater.

Activities

• Hike through the park
• Spot exotic wildlife
• Go birdwatching
• Camp in the wilderness

Nearby Restaurants

• La Palapa Restaurant offers local dishes
• Gringo Curt’s serves delicious seafood
• Soda Corcovado serves traditional Costa Rican cuisine

Pro Tip: Always be sure to check for any safety restrictions or closures before visiting. Unlike Arenal, this is an active volcano.

Fun Fact

The volcano’s last erupted in 2019 and has erupted 40 times since 1828! So, you might want to keep your marshmallows handy just in case.

Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is the ultimate destination for those looking to relax and meet people. This bohemian beach town, located at the bottom of the Nicoya coast, is a haven for surfers, yoga enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a laid-back vibe. The city is essentially a beach with a road lined with eateries, yoga centers, surf shops, and hostels. Everyone gets up early to hit the waves, so the atmosphere is pretty relaxed. You won’t find a lot of crazy parties here, but you will find plenty of opportunities to chill and enjoy the natural beauty.

Where to Stay

Lost Boyz is a chill and social eco-friendly hostel with an on-site bar, a wood-fired pizza restaurant, and a pool. It’s a fun hostel for travelers looking to relax and meet people. Plus, it’s near the beach!

How to Get There

Flying into the nearby city of Tambor and then continuing to Santa Teresa by shuttle or taxi is often the easiest way to get here. Driving can feel tempting, but it’s often more of a hassle than it seems.

Things to Do

• Surfing: The waves here are perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers.
• Yoga: Numerous yoga centers offer classes for all levels.
• Beach Time: Sometimes, the best activity is to do nothing at all and enjoy the beach.

Looking for a Santa Teresa travel guide? Look no further, here are the best things to do, see, and eat in this Costa Rican paradise!

Guanacaste

Welcome to Guanacaste, the best area in Costa Rica to visit if you enjoy sun, surf, and sand! This province is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure, stretching from the cloud-shattering volcanoes of the Cordillera de Tilaran to the Nicaragua border. It’s among the most-visited parts of the nation, and for good reason.

Top Attractions

• Rio Celeste: A stunning river with a magical blue hue that looks like it was plucked straight out of a fairy tale.
• Samara-Carrillo Info Center: Your go-to spot for all things Guanacaste. Whether you need a surfboard rental or a dinner recommendation, they’ve got you covered.
• Playa Conchal: A beach made entirely of crushed shells. Yes, you read that suitable—crushed shells!

Surfing Spots

Guanacaste is a doozy for wave chasers. From Tamarindo to Playa Caletas, the region offers surfing spots for all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie, you’ll find a wave with your name.

Nature and Wildlife

For nature lovers, the southern part of the Nicoya Peninsula is perfect for experiencing the wildlife and natural world. Think waterfall-splashing forests and boho beach escapes like Samara.

Guanacaste is not just one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica; it’s a paradise for surfers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Accommodations

Guanacaste offers many accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. It’s one of the country’s places perfect for multigenerational travel in Costa Rica.

So pack your bags and get ready to explore one of Costa Rica’s best destinations. Guanacaste is waiting for you!

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! Costa Rica isn’t just a dot on the map; it’s a treasure trove of adventures waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re zip-lining through the cloud forests of Monteverde, lounging on the sun-kissed beaches of Manuel Antonio, or pretending to be a volcano whisperer at Arenal, there’s something for everyone. Don’t just take our word for it—pack your bags, slap on some sunscreen, and prepare for the ‘pura vida’ experience of a lifetime. And remember, in Costa Rica, the only thing you should be afraid of is missing out on the best area in Costa Rica to visit!

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