Things to Do in Costa Rica: 15 Unforgettable Experiences for Every Traveler

Author : ryan davis | Published On : 18 Aug 2026

If you're planning a tropical getaway, discovering the best things to do in Costa Rica is a great way to build an unforgettable itinerary. From lush rainforests and active volcanoes to pristine beaches and vibrant local communities, Costa Rica offers experiences for adventure seekers, nature lovers, families, and slow travelers alike.

Whether you're visiting for a few days or planning an extended trip, this guide highlights 15 experiences worth adding to your itinerary.

1. Explore Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica's most recognizable natural landmarks. Visit Arenal Volcano National Park to explore rainforest trails, observe wildlife, and enjoy impressive views of the volcano. The nearby town of La Fortuna is also a popular base for travelers looking for outdoor activities.

2. Relax in La Fortuna's Hot Springs

After a day of exploring, unwind in the naturally heated hot springs around La Fortuna. Surrounded by tropical vegetation, these thermal pools provide a relaxing experience and are especially enjoyable in the evening.

3. Visit Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio combines rainforest, wildlife, and beautiful beaches in one destination. Visitors can hike through forest trails while looking for monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and tropical birds before relaxing along the Pacific coastline.

4. Experience the Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde is famous for its misty cloud forests and remarkable biodiversity. Walking through the forest allows you to experience a cooler side of Costa Rica while discovering unique plants, insects, and bird species.

Adventure enthusiasts can also try canopy tours and ziplining for a different perspective of the forest.

5. Go Ziplining Through the Rainforest

Costa Rica is well known for its canopy adventures. Ziplining through the rainforest offers a combination of excitement and spectacular scenery, making it a popular choice for travelers who want an adventurous experience.

6. Visit Tamarindo Beach

Tamarindo is a lively beach destination on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. It is a great place to swim, learn to surf, watch the sunset, or simply enjoy a relaxed beach day.

The town also has restaurants, shops, and accommodation options, making it convenient for travelers.

7. Discover Corcovado National Park

For travelers interested in wildlife and wilderness, Corcovado National Park is an exceptional destination. Located on the Osa Peninsula, the park protects a remarkable variety of ecosystems and wildlife.

Guided tours can help visitors explore the rainforest while learning about the area's unique environment.

8. Go Surfing

Costa Rica has beaches suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. The Pacific coast is particularly popular, with destinations such as Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa, and Dominical offering different surfing conditions.

If you're new to surfing, consider booking a lesson with a local instructor.

9. Take a Wildlife-Watching Tour

Costa Rica's biodiversity makes wildlife watching one of the country's biggest attractions. Depending on where you travel, you may encounter sloths, monkeys, toucans, frogs, sea turtles, and numerous other species.

Early-morning guided tours are often a great way to explore natural habitats while learning from local experts.

10. Explore the Nicoya Peninsula

The Nicoya Peninsula is known for its beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and coastal communities. Destinations such as Nosara, Santa Teresa, and Montezuma offer opportunities for surfing, yoga, hiking, and enjoying the Pacific coast.

It's an excellent region for travelers looking to combine outdoor activities with relaxation.

11. Visit Poás Volcano

Poás Volcano is another impressive volcanic destination. Its crater and surrounding landscapes make it a popular stop for visitors interested in Costa Rica's geological features.

Check current park conditions and access requirements before visiting, as volcanic areas can occasionally have restrictions.

12. Try Costa Rican Cuisine

A trip to Costa Rica isn't complete without trying traditional food. Look for dishes such as gallo pinto, casado, ceviche, plantains, and fresh tropical fruits.

Local sodas—small, casual restaurants serving traditional meals—can be a good way to experience everyday Costa Rican cuisine.

13. Take a Coffee Tour

Costa Rica is internationally recognized for its coffee. Visiting a coffee plantation gives travelers an opportunity to learn how coffee is grown, harvested, processed, and roasted.

Many tours also include tastings, making this an enjoyable experience for coffee lovers.

14. Enjoy a Pacific Coast Sunset

Sometimes the most memorable travel experiences are the simplest. Find a quiet beach along the Pacific coast and watch the sun disappear over the ocean.

Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa, and Manuel Antonio are among the destinations where travelers can enjoy beautiful coastal sunsets.

15. Connect With Local Communities

One of the best ways to make a trip more meaningful is to spend time beyond the major tourist attractions. Visit local markets, eat at family-run restaurants, support independent guides, and explore small businesses.

A Costa Rica business directory can also be useful when researching locally operated restaurants, tour providers, accommodations, and other services before or during your trip.

How to Plan Your Costa Rica Trip

A good itinerary depends on your interests, travel time, and preferred pace. First-time visitors may want to combine a few different environments—for example, a volcano and rainforest destination with several days on the beach.

A Costa Rica travel guide can help you compare destinations, understand transportation options, identify seasonal considerations, and decide how much time to spend in each region.

It's also worth avoiding an overly ambitious schedule. Costa Rica's roads and terrain can make travel between destinations take longer than expected, so leaving some flexibility in your itinerary can make the journey more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

Costa Rica offers an impressive mix of adventure, nature, culture, food, and relaxation. Whether you're hiking around volcanoes, exploring cloud forests, watching wildlife, surfing Pacific waves, or enjoying local cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in Costa Rica for every style of traveler. Choose experiences that match your interests, leave room for unexpected discoveries, and you'll have the ingredients for a memorable Costa Rican adventure