Things to do in Costa Rica.

Creators consistently flag the Las Coladas trail (2 km, ~1 hour) as an easy hike through lava fields with stunning volcano and Lake Arenal views — a must-do even for non-hikers in the area.

One of Costa Rica's most iconic hot springs, set in lush rainforest along a natural thermal river. Rooms run $500–$1,000/night but day passes are available for around $100–$150 — creators debate whether overnight or day-pass is the better value.

Creators call this the most curated, limited-capacity hot springs in La Fortuna — around $65 USD for a full day or night pass, with a bar, restaurant, change rooms, towels included, and the iconic black-sand waterfall pool.

Zero-cost natural thermal pools in the jungle of La Fortuna where locals and tourists both soak. Bring your own towel — no facilities — but the off-the-beaten-path vibe is part of the appeal.

A full adventure park in La Fortuna offering aerial tram rides, ziplining, and hanging bridges hikes through gorgeous rainforest — described as having incredible views and being safe for families.

Waterfall canyoning operator in La Fortuna where you rappel down 200-foot waterfalls and cliff-jump into jungle pools — Emma Terra calls it one of the most adrenaline-packed experiences available in all of Costa Rica.

One of the most visited natural landmarks near La Fortuna — you descend (and re-climb) 500 steps to reach the base and swim in the pool below, which multiple family-travel creators say is absolutely worth the effort.

A network of hanging bridges through primary rainforest near La Fortuna that creators specifically recommend for families, including those traveling with very young children or babies.

A local hot springs water park near La Fortuna with kids' climbing structures, water slides, and thermal pools — a lower-cost family-friendly alternative to the bigger resort hot springs.

A 2–3 hour ATV ride through rainforest dirt trails, with stops to visit the indigenous Maleku people, view Arenal Volcano, and cool off in the Arenal River — described as family-friendly and very safe.

One of Costa Rica's most celebrated reserves, perched high in the mountains and ideal for a full day of hiking among cloud forest trees and spotting rare birds. Entrance is $20 USD and accessible by shuttle from Santa Elena.

Home to what creators call some of the most extreme adventure activities in Costa Rica: a Superman zipline, a subterranean tunnel zipline, a Tarzan swing, and the highest bungee jump in Central America — all with cloud forest views.

A hiking trail through cloud and transition forests that passes a series of waterfalls via hanging bridges over rivers and through canyons — Mytanfeet calls it a must-do adventure in Monteverde for anyone who wants something beyond standard ziplining.

A 1.5-hour farm tour in Monteverde covering coffee, sugar cane, and cacao — three of Costa Rica's most important crops. Ideal for food- and culture-curious travelers looking for a break from adrenaline activities.

The scenic shared transfer linking Monteverde and the Arenal area — a bus, then a boat across Lake Arenal, then another bus — that takes 4–5 hours for $20–$25. Aaron's Travel Network calls it what pretty much everyone in either town is doing.

Widely cited as one of Costa Rica's top national parks — the place where jungle meets beach. Creators describe it as the spot where you don't have to choose between rainforest and coastline, with abundant wildlife including monkeys, sloths, and toucans.

An adventure and eco park near Rincón de la Vieja Volcano offering ziplining (8 platforms with volcano views), horseback riding, hot springs, mud baths, and a cultural sugar cane presentation — Explorer Pass covers everything in one day.

A massive hacienda near Liberia with a private wildlife reserve, sugar cane plantation, rum distillery, brewery, traditional house, and National Heritage site — all available on wildlife, culture, and food tours. About 1 hour from Guanacaste Airport.

A white-sand beach about 20 minutes from Tamarindo with great surf, a laid-back atmosphere, and a famous beachfront spot — Emma in Costa Rica calls it the best hidden beach near Tamarindo for a more relaxed alternative to the busy main town.

Costa Rica's most popular beach destination, with surf, restaurants, nightlife, and a range of accommodations. Emma in Costa Rica spent 3 days exploring beaches, restaurants, and after-dark options from this base.

A quieter beach town in the Nicoya district of Guanacaste, with nearby Playa Carrillo described as one of Costa Rica's best hidden beaches — Emma in Costa Rica calls the combination a true hidden gem escape.

A hidden gem waterfall in the Costa Rican rainforest that Emma in Costa Rica calls one of the country's best-kept secrets — lush trails, crystal-clear swimming, and very few crowds.

A relaxed beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula with world-class surf and a laid-back lifestyle. Emma in Costa Rica spent 24 hours here and calls it her new favorite place in Costa Rica.

A laid-back Caribbean coast town with Afro-Caribbean roots, Jamaican and Rasta influences, jungle-lined beaches, amazing food, and a party scene if you want it. Multiple creators call it deeply distinct from the Pacific side of Costa Rica.

San José's oldest and largest market — Mytanfeet tours favorite food stalls for gallo pinto, casado, ceviche, and traditional snacks, making it the city's best introduction to Costa Rican food culture and local life.