What Are the Best Things to Do in Costa Rica?

Ah, Costa Rica! This incredible country is a treasure chest of experiences waiting to be discovered. It’s a place where adrenaline junkies, nature enthusiasts, culture seekers, and relaxation lovers—all find their place. Just imagine waking up in the morning to zipline through lush canopies, then spending afternoons strolling pristine beaches, exploring vibrant local markets, or winding down at night in natural hot springs. Costa Rica is so diverse in its magic, from misty cloud forests and tropical rainforests to two coastlines offering different vibes. 

This article is your ultimate travel companion, designed to help you find the best activities Costa Rica offers. Whether you are an adventure-seeking soul, a family traveler, or just looking to soak up nature’s serenity, we’ve got you covered. 

Throw those care wires off, put your flip-flop on, and let’s plan a lit vacation! 

Adventures Activities in Costa Rica 

Time to unleash your daredevil spirit! Costa Rica is the thrill capital, and this is a haven of adventure from nature’s incredible outdoor experiences, so diverse like the country’s landscape. You could look for these heart-pounding adventures. 

Ziplining 

Experience the rush of zipping through the treetops in Monteverde or Arenal. Picture flying high over the rainforest canopy, with the wind blowing in your face and the jungle buzzing below. Ziplining in Costa Rica is not an activity here but rather a rite of passage for adventure seekers visiting. 

Whitewater Rafting 

Ready to paddle your way down roaring rapids? The Pacuare and Savegre rivers are calling your name. Whitewater rafting in Costa Rica is just as much about adrenaline as it is about soaking up stunning tropical scenery—if you can keep your eyes open long enough.  

Canyoning 

For the intrepid explorer, canyoning in La Fortuna is a ‘must.’ Enjoy the rapids of raging waterfalls and feel the brute force of nature with the splashing water as your adrenaline pumps high. Who needs a gym when nature has such an obstacle course? 

ATV Tours 

Want to get a little dirty? Hop on an ATV and roam some rugged trails, secret beaches, and rolling hills of Guanacaste. An ATV tour in Costa Rica is not just a ride; it’s an adventure that’ll leave you covered in dust—and grinning from ear to ear. 

Water-Based Activities in Costa Rica 

Costa Rica is really a place to take advantage of playing water games, ranging from surfing to whale watching, just in case one feels splashing up or out for such experiences. 

Surfing 

Surf’s up! Surfing in Costa Rica: whether riding your first wave or chasing that perfect break, you can find surfing in Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, and Nosara. 

Bonus points if you’re leaving with a sunset view from the board.  

Snorkeling and Diving 

Get your fins and dive into some of the colorful underwater landscapes that Costa Rica has to offer. Caño Island and the Gulf of Papagayo are snorkeling and diving hotspots teeming with colorful marine life. 

Pro tip: bring a waterproof camera because you’ll want to remember every second.  

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) 

More zen? Try stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Arenal or Playa Herradura. Walking on water – cool, yeah? You’re getting a workout as you view some epic views. 

Whale and Dolphin Watching 

Grab your binoculars and head onto the high seas for Marino Ballena National Park or the Osa Peninsula. Catching a whale breach and dolphins playing in the waves is like nature’s own theatre. 

Wildlife Encounters in Costa Rica 

Costa Rica will certainly leave those who love nature in wonder. Biodiversity explodes in this country, giving countless opportunities to view the incredible tropical wildlife of Costa Rica. 

Rainforest Safaris 

Tortuguero and Corcovado National Parks are surely the ultimate place for any wildlife enthusiast. From the most cunning monkeys to silent jaguars, every step taken on a rainforest safari appears in a National Geographic documentary. 

Night Walks 

The rainforest is alive at night. Take a flashlight and go on a night hike in Monteverde or Sarapiquí. Look for glowing frogs, curious tarantulas, and wide-eyed owls. 

Turtle Nesting 

Few experiences are as magical as a sea turtle’s nesting or her young making their way to the beach. For Tortuguero and Ostional, this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will be both humbling and inspiring. 

Wellness and Relaxation in Costa Rica  

Adventures are cool, but sometimes, you need to hit the pause button and soak up the serenity. Costa Rica offers these experiences that really leave you recharged and refreshed. 

Hot Springs 

And then there’s nothing quite like soaking in Tabacón or Baldi’s natural hot springs near Arenal Volcano after a day of exploring. Let warm, mineral-rich waters melt stress away as you sip on your favorite tropical drink (or two). 

Yoga Retreats 

Namaste yourself for relaxation at Nosara or Santa Teresa. With pristine beaches and lush jungles as a backdrop, the yoga retreat here takes self-care to another level. 

Spas and Eco-Lodges 

Reward yourself with luxury at an eco-lodge in Guanacaste or the Central Valley. These places are the epitome of unwinding without a hint of guilt, all surrounded by nature. 

Cultural Experiences in Costa Rica  

No trip to Costa Rica is complete without experiencing its rich culture. From coffee tours to festivals, these experiences will give you a taste of the country’s heart and soul. 

Coffee Plantation Tours 

Wake up and smell the coffee—literally. Costa Rica’s coffee plantations, especially in the Central Valley and Monteverde, are a treat for the senses. Learn the journey from bean to brew and enjoy a cup so fresh you’ll never look at instant coffee the same way again. 

Cooking Classes 

You get to roll up your sleeves and learn how to cook gallo pinto and empanadas. When you are done, you will leave with full stomachs and recipes to impress friends back home.  

Festivals in Costa Rica 

Visit during one of Costa Rica’s vibrant festivals, such as Día de los Boyeros or Fiestas de Palmares. Expect colorful parades, lively traditional music, and tasty tropical food that will make you want to come back for more. 

Family Fun in Costa Rica 

Planning a family trip? Costa Rica offers fun and learning together, so you can enjoy creating memories the family will never forget. 

Walking through Hanging Bridges  

Experience the rainforest from above on the hanging bridges of Arenal or Monteverde. It’s a safe, fun adventure perfect for curious little explorers. 

Chocolate-Making Tours 

Sweeten your trip with a chocolate-making workshop in Sarapiquí or Puerto Viejo. Learn the history of cacao and make your own tasty treats—a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. 

Beach Days 

Playa Conchal and Playa Flamingo are favorites with families who can spend time building sandcastles or playing in the soft waves. Stock up on sunscreen, snacks, and toys for the ultimate beach day. 

Unique Costa Rican Adventures 

If you are looking for something a little different, there is an experience waiting for you in Costa Rica that you can’t find elsewhere. 

Mangrove Kayaking 

Row across serene mangrove forests in Sierpe or the Nicoya Peninsula. This tranquil activity takes you through unique ecosystems where you’ll discover fauna such as crocodiles and rare bird species. 

Horseback Riding 

Hitch up your saddles and ride over vast Costa Rican beaches and countryside areas. Horseback riding in Costa Rica is a tradition for getting to know the gorgeous land of Costa Rica. 

Fishing Charters 

Try your hand at deep-sea fishing along the Pacific coast. It doesn’t matter what it catches—a marlin, a tuna, or a sailfish—this is definitely one of the highlights of your trip. 

Conclusion  

Costa Rica is more than a place to go to; it’s a journey customized for every type of traveler. However, don’t forget that an unforgettable holiday is not only about which place you visit but also where you stay.   

Having a secure, safe, and private home to stay in during your trip might elevate your journey experience to a whole new level.   

This is where Villa Firenze comes in. Situated on the glorious Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, this private villa combines elegance and comfort in perfect scenery for an unforgettable family vacation.   

With world-class amenities and a prime location, Villa Firenze guarantees your well-deserved Costa Rican holiday is as laid-back as it is exciting.