Top 15 Must-Visit Destinations in Costa Rica

Table of Contents

Discover the top 20 Costa Rica adventures for a trip of a lifetime.

1 – Arenal Volcano National Park

Located in the northwest region of Costa Rica, Arenal Volcano National Park is home to the Arenal Volcano, one of the country’s most active volcanoes. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and hot springs.

2 – Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Located in the northwest region of the country, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including more than 100 species of mammals and 400 species of birds. The reserve is popular for its hiking trails and zip lining opportunities.

3 – Manuel Antonio National Park

Located on the Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio National Park is home to beautiful beaches and a diverse array of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and iguanas. The park is popular for its hiking trails and snorkeling opportunities.

4 – Puerto Viejo

Located on the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo is known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches. The town is a popular spot for surfing and snorkeling.

5 – Tortuguero National Park

Located on the Caribbean coast, Tortuguero National Park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including rainforests, swamps, and beaches. The park is known for its turtle nesting sites and is a popular spot for birdwatching.

6 – San José

Nestled as the capital city of Costa Rica, San José is a captivating destination that beckons travelers from around the globe. Positioned conveniently with its international airport, it’s the perfect gateway to kickstart or conclude any adventure in this stunning country.

7-Tamarindo Beach

Tamarindo Beach stands as a non-negotiable destination to any traveler who is intrigued by surfing. From novices to seasoned experts, this costal gem caters to all skill levels. By day, it has contagious surfer energy, inviting you to that perfect wave while basking in its laid-back ambiance. As the sun sets, Tamarindo transforms into a vibrant nightlife scene that will give you a night you’ll never forget. Oh, one more surprise, beyond the surf friendly waters, Tamarindo also boasts excellent opportunities for scuba diving in crystal clear waters!

8-Santa Teresa

It would be unfair to just mention Tamarindo Beach when we are talking about surfing. Santa Teresa, located on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, epitomizes paradise with its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and consistent surf breaks drawing enthusiasts of all levels. This serene haven, once a hidden gem, now beckons travelers seeking an offbeat escape. Surf culture permeates the town, complemented by a burgeoning yoga and wellness scene. The laid-back atmosphere invites relaxation while beachfront eateries serve up delectable seafood and international cuisine. It’s a destination where nature’s beauty meets a bohemian vibe, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility for those seeking an unforgettable escape.

9-Uvita

Uvita, situated along Costa Rica’s Pacific coastline, is a hidden paradise revered for its stunning natural wonders and commitment to conservation. Home to the captivating Marino Ballena National Park, this gem boasts a breathtaking sandbar resembling a whale tail during low tide, offering a unique spectacle and exceptional opportunities for marine exploration. Embracing ecotourism, Uvita invites visitors to immerse themselves in lush rainforests, discover cascading waterfalls like the Nauyaca, and explore nature reserves teeming with diverse wildlife. Its serene beaches, perfect for both relaxation and surfing, harmoniously blend with accommodations that range from eco-lodges to luxurious resorts, all seamlessly integrated into the surrounding breathtaking landscape. Uvita remains a haven for eco-conscious travelers seeking an authentic Costa Rican experience amidst unparalleled natural beauty and a commitment to preserving its rich biodiversity.

10-Osa Peninsula

Nestled in Costa Rica’s southwest, the Osa Peninsula is a pristine wilderness awaiting discovery. Its lush rainforests and hidden shores captivate nature enthusiasts. Corcovado National Park, a biodiversity hotspot, showcases elusive creatures like jaguars and vibrant macaws amidst dense foliage. Traverse enchanting trails, uncover cascading waterfalls such as Rio Claro, and lose yourself in the melodic calls of tropical birds. Drake Bay serves as a gateway to exquisite beaches and the underwater marvels of Cano Island Biological Reserve. With minimal infrastructure, eco-friendly accommodations seamlessly blend with nature, offering an authentic, immersive experience. The Osa Peninsula invites adventurers seeking an unspoiled sanctuary bursting with life and natural marvels, promising an unforgettable expedition into the heart of Costa Rica’s biodiversity.

11-Corcovado National Park

A journey to Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica is an immersion into one of the planet’s most biodiverse and untouched ecosystems. This pristine wilderness offers a rare glimpse into nature at its most raw and captivating, showcasing an astonishing array of wildlife, including elusive jaguars, playful monkeys, vibrant macaws, and more, all thriving amidst lush rainforests and unspoiled landscapes. Trekking through its network of trails leads to encounters with cascading waterfalls like Rio Claro and an orchestra of tropical birdcalls echoing through the canopy. Corcovado’s untouched beauty, coupled with its staggering biodiversity, creates an unparalleled experience, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an authentic and awe-inspiring connection with nature.

12-Parque Francisco Alvarado

Parque Francisco Alvarado in Costa Rica is a captivating haven that seamlessly blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it an ideal retreat for travelers seeking both tranquility and adventure. This park boasts serene walking trails flanked by lush greenery, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the surrounding nature. Its centerpiece, the enchanting Lake Coter, offers serene boat rides amidst scenic landscapes and abundant birdlife. Whether strolling through botanical gardens, indulging in picnics by the lake, or engaging in water sports, this park caters to varied interests, promising a harmonious escape where one can rejuvenate in the midst of Costa Rica’s captivating landscapes.

13-Tabacón Hot Springs

Tabacón Hot Springs is an irresistible sanctuary nestled in Costa Rica’s lush rainforest, drawing travelers with its natural thermal springs and rejuvenating spa experiences. The springs, heated by the nearby Arenal Volcano, offer a blissful retreat amidst tropical surroundings, providing relaxation and therapeutic benefits. The mineral-rich waters and cascading waterfalls create a serene oasis, perfect for unwinding and soothing both body and mind. Whether indulging in the soothing pools, enjoying luxurious spa treatments, or wandering through beautifully landscaped gardens, Tabacón Hot Springs offers a serene and indulgent escape, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation in the lap of nature.

14-Genius River Bridge

The Genius River Bridge, known locally as “Puente de la Amistad” (Friendship Bridge), stands as a remarkable engineering marvel in Costa Rica that’s worth experiencing. This suspension bridge spans the Tempisque River in Guanacaste and showcases ingenious design and construction techniques. Not only is it a functional transportation route connecting the Nicoya Peninsula to the mainland, but it’s also an architectural wonder set against the backdrop of stunning natural scenery. Visitors are drawn to witness the bridge’s innovative design, which allows it to swing open, enabling boats to pass through beneath its suspended structure. Beyond its functionality, the Genius River Bridge offers a captivating blend of structural beauty and functional brilliance, providing an opportunity to admire human ingenuity amidst Costa Rica’s breathtaking landscapes.

15-Rincon de la Vieja


Rincon de la Vieja National Park in Costa Rica is a diverse paradise showcasing volcanic wonders like bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles alongside lush forests and stunning waterfalls. It’s a haven for adventure enthusiasts offering thrilling activities like canopy tours and horseback riding, as well as rejuvenating natural hot springs. Beyond its natural beauty, encounters with indigenous communities provide a rich cultural experience. For travelers seeking a blend of nature, adventure, and cultural immersion, Rincon de la Vieja is an unmissable destination.