Costa Rica is ideal for nature, fun, and culture. Biodiversity, adventure, and leisure await in this Central American paradise on 25% protected ground. Among the top things to do in Costa Rica are ziplining, volcano hiking, and beach sunsets, which create lasting memories for every kind of traveler.
Incredible things to do in costa ica with family
Adventure Activities
Ziplining
Ziplining in Costa Rica is world-renowned for its longest and most beautiful cables. Superman wires and Tarzan swings at Monteverde, La Fortuna, and Guanacaste are popular with beginners and those seeking thrills. It’s one of the most exciting things to do in Costa Rica for adventure lovers.
Surfing
Warm seas, consistent waves, and laid-back attitudes make Costa Rica excellent for surfers. Tamarindo and Nosara are good for beginners, whereas Santa Teresa and Pavones have heavier waves. Pacific and Caribbean coastlines have different surfing conditions (May–October and November–May). Surfing easily ranks among the best things to do in Costa Rica’s coastal towns.
Sunset Sailing Cruise
Set sail along the Pacific coast for a beautiful sunset. These cruises provide swimming, snorkeling, and refreshments for families, couples, and lone visitors to relax. It’s one of those relaxing things to do in Costa Rica that combines scenery and serenity.
La Leona Waterfall Adventure
This hike/canyoning experience takes you through caverns, cliffs, and secret waterfalls near Rincón de la Vieja. A wild, water-filled adventure for the daring adventurer — and definitely one of the top things to do in Costa Rica’s hidden natural spots.
Boating in Gulf of Papagayo
Private boat cruises in the Gulf of Papagayo provide white-sand beaches and active diving. Experience Costa Rica’s Pacific coast differently and enjoy one of the more exclusive things to do in Costa Rica for ocean lovers.
ATV Tours
Explore off-road ATV trails in mud. La Fortuna, Tamarindo, and Manuel Antonio provide thrilling rides for all ages at views of the mountains and river crossings. This is a must-try among the more adrenaline-packed things to do in Costa Rica.For a different kind of outdoor adventure, check out things to do in Scottsdale.
Volcano Exploration
Arenal, Poás, and Rincón de la Vieja are active volcanoes. See sizzling craters, bubbling mud pots, and natural hot springs to feel Costa Rica’s geological energy.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Enjoy stunning views on Playa Mantas or Lake Arenal while SUPing. A pleasant, low-impact way to visit distant beaches and keep active.
Fishing
Costa Rica is a top fishing spot. Inshore fishing lets you prepare your catch in local eateries, while catch-and-release sportfishing targets marlin and sailfish. For more coastal charm with a colder twist, explore things to do in Portland, Maine.
Wildlife & Nature
Sea Turtle Nesting
See sea turtle nesting or hatchlings running to the sea—a amazing, once-in-a-lifetime event. Visit Tortuguero, Playa Grande, or Ostional for greatest sightings.
Corcovado National Park
Corcovado, the “Amazon of Costa Rica,” is home to tapirs, squirrel monkeys, and scarlet macaws. Guides are recommended and overnight stays are common.
Río Celeste
Tenorio Volcano National Park’s stunning blue river seems unreal. See the amazing natural response at the meeting of two rivers that gives the color. It’s a breathtaking experience and one of the more unique things to do in Costa Rica’s inland regions.
Safari Floats
A raft or boat river safari offers a peaceful immersive wildlife experience. Monkeys, sloths, and unusual birds may be seen without disrupting their environment on the Rio Frio and Corobici Rivers.
Whale Watching
World’s longest whale viewing season is in Costa Rica. Uvita, Drake Bay, and the Gulf of Papagayo are good places to watch humpbacks between July–November and January–March. Whale watching is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in Costa Rica with family or nature lovers.
Beaches & Water Fun
Beach Hopping
Like its animals, Costa Rica’s beaches are white sand, black volcanic, and hidden gems.Visit public beaches and private paradises. Beach hopping is one of Costa Rica’s most soothing activities,particularly for diversions.Enjoy these Destin, Florida top attractions if you like aquatic activities.If you love marine activities, you’ll enjoy these best things to do in Destin, Florida too. Also, check out beach fun in Pensacola.
Cultural & Food Experiences
Try a Copo or Churchill
Cool down with this beloved local shaved ice treat. Available in beach towns, copos are sweet and refreshing, while Churchills (especially in Puntarenas) come topped with fruit and ice cream.
Cooking Class
Explore Costa Rica’s farm-to-table culture. Attend a La Fortuna cooking class to study local cuisine and enjoy the country’s rich food history.
Chocolate Tour
Explore the history and craft of chocolate making with a hands-on tour in Puerto Viejo or La Fortuna. Some tours are even led by indigenous BriBri communities, giving insight into cacao’s cultural roots.
Zarcero Topiary Gardens
Step into a living art gallery in the charming town of Zarcero. These sculpted gardens, combined with a beautiful church and traditional food, make for a peaceful cultural day trip.
Unique Stays
Sleep in a Tree House
Eco-lodges like Maquenque provide rainforest canopy stays. A stay among howler monkeys and birds would be memorable for nature enthusiasts and ranks as one of the more magical things to do in Costa Rica for couples and families alike.
Conclusion
Variation makes Costa Rica appealing. Adventures include paddling through mangroves, ziplining over rainforest trees, sunning on clean beaches, and learning to cook local dishes. Take a break and experience pura vida with Costa Rica’s friendly people, stunning wildlife, and strong conservation ethic. Among all the things to do in Costa Rica, the best moments often come from slowing down and simply soaking in its natural beauty. With careful planning and flexibility, you’ll make lasting experiences.