The ten best places to go in Costa Rica in no particular order.
This is a subjective list of our opinions
1. Jaco & Playa Hermosa
Situated along the Central Pacific Coast, Jaco and Playa Hermosa are top notch surf zones with consistent breaks all year round. Ideal for experts as well as beginners to surf here. Playa Hermosa is for the expert surfer, and holds an international surfing competition here every year.
2. Rincon de la Vieja Volcano
An eco-adventure haven, the Rincon de la Vieja is an active volcano that is more than a million years old. Sitting inside a national park sharing the same name, this area boasts dramatic sceneries, roaring waterfalls, relaxing hot springs, bubbling mud pits and wonderful picnic areas to enjoy.
3. Cahuita National Park
Protecting Costa Rica’s largest and only coral reef, the Parque Nacional Cahuita combines beautiful beaches with lush coastal rain forests to provide a truly wonderful atmosphere to relax in.
4. Tortuguero National Park
A key turtle breeding ground in the Caribbean, the Tortuguero National Park is the habitat and nesting ground of four of the eight species of marine turtles in the world. Known for its meandering rivers and lovely lagoons, this area is also home to the endangered West Indian manatee.
5. Grecia & Sarchi
Located in the gorgeous highlands of San Jose, the picturesque towns of Grecia, Sarchi and San Ramon provide a wonderful escape from city life. Great communities to get an up close view of Tico culture, places like Sarchi are known for its intricate and artistic wooden handicrafts.
6. Manuel Antonio National Park
What this park lacks in size, it makes up for in the incredible wealth of attractions found here. Stunning tropical beaches, an amazing array of birds and wildlife, rich dense forestation, easy accessibility and a plethora of things to do, all make this park one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country.
7. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Shrouded in clouds, the stunning Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve has a unique air of mystery to it. A distinctive mountain rainforest where the humidity is usually 100%, Monteverde is home to more than 3000 species of animals and plants.
8. Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs
The most active volcano in Costa Rica, Arenal is indeed a sight to behold. Visit La Fortuna, a tiny town near the base of the volcano to catch a glimpse of the fireworks on display. While you are there check out the marvelous Hot Springs, a tropical paradise where you can relax both your mind and body.
9. Tamarindo & Playa Langosta
Found along Costa Rica’s ‘Gold Coast’ both Tamarindo and Playa Langosta are superb surfing destinations for the serious surfer. Laidback towns with beautiful beaches and plenty of water sports to enjoy, this area makes for a great getaway for some fun in the sun.
10. Drake Bay & Corcovado National Park
Located on the gorgeous Osa Peninsula, the Corcovado National Park has been called as one of the most biodiverse places on earth. Together with Drake Bay, this region has become an ecotourism hot spot for those who want to be one with nature.
