Best Things To Do in Costa Rica 2026 4K
This curated list highlights the diverse natural beauty and adventure Costa Rica offers, from the Pacific coast's wildlife-rich national parks and surfing beaches to the volcanic highlands and tranquil hot springs. Explore cloud forests, witness incredible natural phenomena like Rio Celeste, and relax on pristine islands. Whether you seek thrilling activities like zip-lining and whitewater rafting or serene encounters with nature and wildlife, this selection provides a comprehensive glimpse into the best of Costa Rica's landscapes and experiences.
Manuel Antonio National Park
This park on the Pacific coast is a popular destination for its abundant wildlife and beautiful beaches.
El Avion Restaurant
A unique restaurant housed in a former cargo plane, popular for its novelty and Instagram-worthy setting.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
A high-elevation rainforest characterized by cool temperatures, frequent rain, hanging bridges, and abundant activities like wildlife tours.
Salvatera Adventure Park
An adventure park offering activities such as canopy walks, hanging bridges, a butterfly garden, and sloth exhibits.
Arenal Volcano
A majestic volcano offering hiking trails and dramatic views, surrounded by hot springs and waterfalls.
Ecotermales Fortuna Hot Spring
A day-use hot spring park with clear waters heated by the volcano, ideal for a relaxing soak.
Kalambu Hot Springs
A family-friendly hot spring destination featuring water slides and various pools for a fun and relaxing experience.
Poas Volcano
A volcano known for its stunning crater lake, requiring advance reservations for visitors.
Planet Hollywood
An example of an all-inclusive resort, offering a great value with access to pools, amenities, food, and beverages.
Weston
A popular chain offering all-inclusive resorts, providing a comfortable and convenient lodging option, often located on the coast.
Irazu Volcano
Costa Rica's highest active volcano, offering spectacular views and a unique volcanic landscape.
Hermosa Beach
A beautiful beach on the Nicoya Peninsula, known for its healthy environment and being a Blue Zone.
Turtle Sanctuary
A sanctuary where visitors can learn about and participate in releasing baby turtles into the ocean.
Tortuga Island
A stunning island with white sand beaches, ideal for snorkeling, relaxing, and spotting dolphins.
Tenorio National Park
A national park renowned for the breathtakingly blue Rio Celeste river and surrounding hiking trails.
Rio Celeste
A famous river within Tenorio National Park, known for its stunningly vibrant blue water.
Corcovado
Considered the best place for wildlife viewing in Costa Rica, offering an untouched natural experience with abundant fauna.
Osa Peninsula
A remote and biodiverse peninsula in southwestern Costa Rica, encompassing Corcovado National Park and rich wildlife habitats.
Drake Bay
A stunning bay on the Osa Peninsula, serving as a primary access point to Corcovado National Park and rich marine life.
Marino Ballena
A national park famous for its 'Whale's Tail' sand formation and excellent whale watching opportunities.
Tortuguero Park
A unique park on the Caribbean coast accessible by boat or small plane, known for its canals and turtle nesting sites.
Guanacaste Beaches
A popular region on the Pacific coast known for its resort-style accommodations and numerous beautiful beaches.
Las Catalinas
A charming, car-free beach town in Guanacaste offering condos and hotels with stunning ocean views.
Playa Flamingo
A famous beach area in Guanacaste known for its resort-style living and popularity among international visitors.
Tamarindo
A very popular and laid-back beach town on the Pacific coast, renowned for surfing, sunsets, and island hopping.