Costa Rica is widely recognized as one of the most diverse and experience-rich destinations in Central America. From pristine beaches and dense rainforests to volcanoes and vibrant coastal towns, the country offers an unmatched combination of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. For travellers planning their itinerary, understanding the best things to do in Costa Rica is essential to making the most of their time.
What sets Costa Rica apart is not just its natural beauty but the way it integrates sustainability, biodiversity, and lifestyle into everyday life. Whether you want to explore Costa Rica through its national parks, enjoy world-class beaches, or immerse yourself in local traditions and Costa Rican food, the country delivers a complete experience for both short-term visitors and long-term expats.
In this guide, you will discover Costa Rica through its top destinations, unique activities, and practical travel insights that help you plan efficiently and experience the country at its best.
Adventure and relaxation meet at Arenal Volcano, where lava trails, hot springs, and waterfalls create one of Costa Rica’s most iconic experiences
Costa Rica’s national parks are among the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the world, making them a cornerstone of the best things to do in Costa Rica. These protected areas allow visitors to experience wildlife, landscapes, and natural phenomena that are rarely found elsewhere.
Located along the Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the most visited destinations in the country. Combining rainforest trails with white-sand beaches, it offers one of the most accessible ways to experience Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.
Visitors can expect to see capuchin monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and a wide variety of bird species while hiking scenic trails. The park’s layout makes it ideal for both beginners and experienced travellers looking for a balance between nature and comfort.
For those seeking a more remote and immersive experience, Corcovado National Park is often considered one of the most intense biodiversity hotspots on Earth. Located on the Osa Peninsula, it is a must for travellers who want to truly explore Costa Rica in its rawest form.
Access is limited and typically requires boat tours or small aircraft, which adds to its exclusivity. Wildlife sightings may include jaguars, tapirs, scarlet macaws, and howler monkeys, making it one of the most rewarding nature experiences in the country.
Dominated by the iconic Arenal Volcano National Park, this region offers a combination of adventure and relaxation that ranks among the best things to do in Costa Rica.
Visitors can hike through lava fields, explore tropical forests, and relax in nearby hot springs. Activities such as kayaking on Lake Arenal and visiting La Fortuna Waterfall further enhance the experience, making it a top destination for both thrill-seekers and leisure travellers.
Tamarindo offers sun, surf, and a laid-back social scene, perfect for beach lovers, yogis, and expats chasing the pura vida lifestyle
Costa Rica’s coastlines stretch across both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, offering a wide range of beach experiences that define many of the things to do in Costa Rica.
Playa Conchal stands out for its unique shoreline made of crushed seashells. Its calm waters make it ideal for swimming and snorkelling, offering a more relaxed alternative for those looking to enjoy quieter coastal environments.
Tamarindo is a vibrant hub that combines surfing, nightlife, and international dining. Known for consistent waves, it is a popular destination for beginner and intermediate surfers.
Its mix of beach culture and modern amenities makes it one of the best things to do in Costa Rica, particularly for travellers who want both activity and convenience.
Santa Teresa offers a more laid-back and wellness-focused experience. This coastal town attracts digital nomads and expats looking to discover Costa Rica beyond traditional tourism.
Yoga retreats, organic dining, and uncrowded beaches create a unique atmosphere that blends relaxation with a strong sense of community.
Tortuguero offers a rare, magical glimpse of sea turtles nesting under starlit skies, an unforgettable wildlife experience deep in Costa Rica’s jungle
Costa Rica’s conservation efforts have created exceptional opportunities for wildlife encounters, making nature exploration one of the most important things to do in Costa Rica.
Tortuguero National Park is best known for its turtle nesting season, which takes place between July and October. Guided night tours allow visitors to witness sea turtles laying eggs, a rare and unforgettable experience.
The park’s canal system also makes it ideal for boat tours, where travellers can observe wildlife such as caimans, toucans, and river otters in their natural habitat.
Marino Ballena National Park is famous for its whale tail-shaped sandbar and seasonal whale migrations. It is widely regarded as one of the best places in the world for whale watching.
Visitors can join guided tours to see humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles, making it one of the most unique things to do in Costa Rica.
Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, offers a distinct Caribbean atmosphere combined with strong conservation initiatives. The Jaguar Rescue Center provides educational tours where visitors can learn about wildlife rehabilitation.
In addition to conservation experiences, there are many things to do in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, including beach exploration and visiting nearby nature reserves.
Gallo pinto isn’t just breakfast, it’s a taste of Costa Rica’s heart and culture, best enjoyed fresh and made with local hands
Costa Rica’s vibrant culture shines through its colourful traditions, flavourful cuisine, and the warm hospitality of its people. From the rhythm of traditional music echoing through village streets to the aromas of home-cooked meals passed down through generations, every aspect of daily life invites you to connect more deeply with the country’s soul.
In the sections, you’ll discover how to experience Costa Rican culture firsthand through lively farmers’ markets, authentic cuisine, hands-on cooking classes, and unforgettable local festivals that celebrate the nation's heart and spirit.
Every town has a local market where vendors sell fresh tropical produce, handmade cheeses, spices, and artisanal goods. Visiting a feria is a great way to support local farmers and experience the rhythms of daily life. Popular items include mangoes, avocados, passionfruit, and even cacao nibs.
Costa Rica’s food is amazing! Don’t leave Costa Rica without trying gallo pinto, a classic breakfast of rice and beans with eggs and tortillas, or a hearty casado, a plate of meat or fish served with rice, beans, salad, and plantains. For a deeper culinary experience, take a cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare these traditional dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
Costa Ricans love to celebrate, and their festivals are full of music, dancing, and community spirit. Independence Day on September 15 is marked by parades, children in traditional dress, and fireworks. Fiesta Palmares, held every January, features rodeos, concerts, food fairs, and carnival rides—perfect for expats who want to immerse themselves in local culture.
Urban and coastal destinations add another dimension to the best things to do in Costa Rica, offering cultural, historical, and lifestyle experiences. Beyond the postcard-perfect beaches and lush rainforests, Costa Rica’s towns and cities pulse with local character, offering travellers a deeper understanding of the country’s identity through its history, architecture, cuisine, and creative spirit.
From the bustling capital of San José to the historic streets of Cartago and the laid-back rhythms of Puerto Viejo, each destination has its own unique flavour. Below, we explore three standout towns that showcase the diverse cultural landscape waiting to be discovered
San José is the country’s capital and main transportation hub, connecting major Costa Rica airports with the rest of the country.
For travellers wondering what to do in San José, Costa Rica, options include museums, cultural districts, and gastronomy. The capital is often overlooked but has much to offer, especially for art and history lovers.
Visit the National Museum and Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, or explore Barrio Escalante for trendy cafés and art galleries. The city also serves as a convenient hub for travel throughout the country.
Cartago, Costa Rica, offers historical and cultural significance as the former capital. Its elevation provides a cooler climate compared to coastal regions, making the weather in Cartago, Costa Rica, more temperate.
As the former capital, Cartago is steeped in history. Visit the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, Costa Rica’s most important religious site, or explore the nearby Irazú Volcano, which offers panoramic views on clear days. Cartago also boasts charming colonial architecture and a cooler climate, thanks to its elevation.
The Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, weather is typically warm and humid, reflecting its Caribbean location. This region offers a slower pace of life and a unique cultural identity.
This Caribbean town blends Afro-Caribbean roots with a relaxed beach-town vibe. Expect reggae music drifting from beach bars, colourful murals, and a culinary scene featuring coconut rice and spicy stews. It’s also an excellent base for exploring nearby nature reserves and waterfalls.
From bean to bar, Costa Rica’s rich cacao tradition comes alive in every bite of fresh, locally crafted chocolate
Thanks to its rich volcanic soil, high-altitude regions, and tropical climate, Costa Rica is a paradise for cultivating two of the world’s most cherished indulgences: coffee and chocolate. But beyond just sipping and tasting, these experiences offer a sensory journey into the country’s agricultural heritage, artisanal traditions, and deep cultural roots.
Whether you’re wandering through lush coffee plantations or crafting your own chocolate bar from freshly harvested cacao, here’s how to savour Costa Rica’s most iconic flavours at the source.
Touring a coffee farm is a must-do for any visitor. In regions like the Central Valley, Tarrazú, and Monteverde, you can learn about the entire coffee-making process—from bean to cup. Many tours end with a tasting session where you’ll savour single-origin coffees and learn to distinguish flavour notes like chocolate, citrus, or floral tones.
Discover Costa Rica’s pre-Columbian connection to cacao through hands-on tours in areas like Puerto Viejo and La Fortuna. You’ll learn about how cacao is grown, harvested, and produced—and, of course, sample freshly made chocolate straight from the source. Some workshops even let you make your own chocolate bar.
Understanding the best time to visit Costa Rica is essential for planning your trip. The dry season, from December to April, is ideal for beach activities, while the green season offers fewer crowds and lush landscapes.
Major Costa Rica airports, including San José and Liberia, provide easy access to different regions, making travel logistics efficient.
“Costa Rica Pura Vida” isn’t just a sign, it’s a way of life rooted in nature, community, and the joy of living fully, wherever the journey takes you
From its misty cloud forests and volcanic landscapes to its sun-drenched beaches and vibrant cultural traditions, Costa Rica is a truly diverse and adventure-packed destination. Whether you're chasing adrenaline through zipline canopies or finding peace in a hammock by the ocean, this country offers a unique blend of excitement and relaxation that’s hard to find anywhere else.
For expats, Costa Rica offers more than just beautiful scenery; it delivers a lifestyle rooted in nature, community, and well-being. Every experience, whether hiking in a national park, tasting fresh mango at a local feria, or learning to surf on the Pacific coast, contributes to a fulfilling and enriching life abroad. It’s no wonder so many have chosen to make this paradise their permanent home.
Costa Rica has something to offer everyone, whether you’re planning a short visit or considering a long-term relocation. If you're serious about protecting your future and building a true Plan-B, don’t wait until it's too late; secure your free special report at Plan-B Residencies & Instant Citizenships.
Written by Mikkel Thorup
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