Costa Rica, a country known for its unmatched biodiversity, vibrant culture, and adventure-filled landscapes, remains one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. If you’re planning a trip in 2025, this definitive guide will help you discover the top 10 things to do in Costa Rica, whether you’re seeking wild adventures, tranquil escapes, or unforgettable family moments.
From Costa Rica bucket list essentials like volcano hikes and wildlife safaris to unique things to do in Costa Rica off the beaten path, we’ve got you covered.
No Costa Rica trip is complete without exploring the majestic Arenal Volcano near La Fortuna. Standing at over 5,000 feet, this iconic volcano is surrounded by lush rainforest and dotted with hiking trails. It’s a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
After the hike, reward yourself by soaking in natural hot springs such as Tabacón, EcoTermales, or Baldi Hot Springs, which are mineral-rich and therapeutic.
Best for: Adults, couples, adventure travelers
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve offers one of the most immersive Costa Rica nature tours. Walk through hanging bridges, spot rare orchids and hummingbirds, and take a thrilling zipline through the misty canopy.
Best for: Families, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers
Tip: Book a night tour for a chance to see sloths, frogs, and nocturnal birds.
Ranked among the 10 best places to visit in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio is a stunning combination of jungle and beach. The national park is small but teeming with wildlife: monkeys, iguanas, toucans, and more.
Things to do in Costa Rica with kids? This is it. Easy trails, beautiful beaches, and picnic spots make it ideal for families.
Best for: Families, beach lovers, first-time visitors
A mecca for surfers, Tamarindo on the Pacific Coast offers consistent waves for beginners and pros alike.
Take a surf lesson, rent a board, or just relax on the beach and enjoy a vibrant sunset. Tamarindo also has a buzzing nightlife and dining scene.
Best for: Adults, surfers, solo travelers
Home to Corcovado National Park, the Osa Peninsula is often referred to as the most biodiverse place on earth. Join a guided safari to spot tapirs, jaguars, scarlet macaws, and howler monkeys.
It’s the ultimate Costa Rica bucket list adventure for nature lovers.
Best for: Eco-tourists, photographers, researchers
Tip: Stay in an eco-lodge to support sustainable tourism.
Things to do in Costa Rica, San José?
While most tourists pass through, the capital city has its charm. Visit the National Theater, explore the Gold Museum, or take a walking tour of the historic downtown.
Foodies should try a Costa Rican coffee tour or explore the Central Market for local bites.
Best for: Culture enthusiasts, history lovers, foodies
Consistently ranked among the best rafting rivers in the world, the Pacuare River offers thrilling Class III-IV rapids. The surrounding rainforest makes it even more breathtaking.
Best for: Thrill-seekers, groups, bachelor parties
Tip: Combine with an overnight jungle lodge stay.
For a slow-paced getaway, the Nicoya Peninsula is ideal. Places like Santa Teresa, Nosara, and Montezuma offer yoga retreats, beachfront bungalows, and quiet surf spots.
Things to do in Costa Rica for adults include romantic beach dinners and spa treatments by the sea.
Best for: Couples, solo travelers, honeymooners
Each year, thousands of sea turtles come to Tortuguero National Park to nest. Between July and October, you can join a guided night tour to witness this miraculous event.
Best for: Kids, families, nature lovers
Tip: Take a boat ride through the park’s winding canals.
For underwater explorers, Caño Island Biological Reserve is a gem. Located off the Pacific coast, it’s a hotspot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Expect to see reef sharks, manta rays, and schools of tropical fish.
Best for: Divers, marine biologists, adventure travelers
| Season | Months | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season (High) | Dec – Apr | Best for hiking, beach trips, family travel |
| Green Season (Low) | May – Nov | Fewer crowds, lusher landscapes, better deals |
Best months for wildlife: March and September (migration and nesting periods)
| Region | Top Activities | Best Time to Visit |
| La Fortuna | Volcano hikes, hot springs, ziplining | Dec–Apr |
| Monteverde | Cloud forests, birdwatching, ziplines | Dec–Apr |
| Manuel Antonio | Beaches, wildlife, hiking | Dec–Apr |
| San José | Museums, coffee tours, markets | Year-round |
| Tamarindo | Surfing, sunsets, dining | Dec–Apr |
Budget Travelers:
Luxury Travelers:
General Tips:
Hike volcanoes, soak in hot springs, explore cloud forests, go surfing, visit national parks, raft rivers, spot wildlife, explore San José, snorkel, and relax on beaches.
It depends. In rural areas, $20 can cover a full meal for two. In touristy areas, it might only buy a cocktail and an appetizer.
As a retiree or remote worker living modestly, $100,000 could last 4-5 years depending on location and lifestyle.
Start with La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio for a perfect mix of adventure, nature, and beach.
Ecoterra Costa Rica offers exceptional nature-based and custom private tours with expert local guides and eco-conscious itineraries.
Dry season (Dec-Apr) is optimal, but certain events like turtle nesting or whale migrations happen in the green season.
Arenal Volcano is arguably the most iconic and visited site.
December to April for dry weather, July and September for fewer tourists and lush greenery.
Ready to check off your Costa Rica bucket list? Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, Ecoterra Costa Rica has the right tour for you. Let us help you plan unforgettable Costa Rica activities for families, romantic getaways, or wild jungle expeditions.
Contact Us
Ecoterra Costa Rica
📍 1.5km west from La Fortuna Waterfall street. La Fortuna, San Carlos, Alajuela. CostaRica.
📞 Phone: +506 4000 1462
✉️ Email: info@ecoterracostarica.com
🌐 Website: www.ecoterracostarica.com
Adventure is just one decision away. Explore Costa Rica with experts who know it best.
Born and raised in Costa Rica, Claudio Granados is a local travel expert dedicated to sharing the true essence of ‘Pura Vida’ with EcoTerra readers. With years of first-hand experience exploring the Arenal region—from the volcanic trails to the Peñas Blancas River—Claudio provides authentic, boots-on-the-ground advice. His goal is to help travelers skip the tourist traps and discover the rich culture, hidden wildlife spots, and unforgettable adventures that La Fortuna has to offer
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