Things to See and Do in Costa Rica

By the Encyclopedia Britannica Blog

Costa Rica is one of the most visited countries in Central America. American tourists have been flooding the company for years and it has become a hot spot for retirees and expats due to its cheap living, great weather, and friendly locals. And why wouldn’t it be? It has many amazing things to offer:
Puerto Viejo – Located on the Caribbean coast, this city is popular with young people and backpackers because its great beaches, surf, and party atmosphere. The town is very lively, and you’ll find something going on every night. For those looking for a quieter place, there are many quiet beach hotels around. If you are looking for some great surfing, come here.

Cahuita

Cahuita – Cahuita, a tiny town situated right next to a stunning national park with the same name, is about an hour north of Puerto Viejo. This, like Tortuguero, is a place to relax. There’s one bar that gets lively on some nights but for the most part, after a day of hiking, swimming, or surfing, most people just sit and read.

Tortuguero

Tortuguero – Tortuguero, the Costa Rican version of the Amazon Rainforest, dominates the northern coast. This massive area is a series of rivers and canals that criss-cross the jungle. The biggest draw to this area are the large numbers of turtles (hence the name Tortuguero) that come to nest along the shoreline. The best time to see them nesting visit is in April and May, but even if you come in off-season, Tortuguero still offers few places to go hiking, lots of canal cruises, and lots of wildlife to see.

Corcovado

Corcovado – Corcovado National Park is on the remote Osa Peninsula in southwestern Costa Rica. It’s more popular than it used to be but still offers a very rugged, quiet, and off the beaten path destination. Here you’ll find pristine jungles, dolphins, and diving away from the much more developed northern western coast of Costa Rica. The peninsula is still not easy to get too (which helps keep tourists away) but your efforts will be greatly rewarded.

Arenal

Arenal – In the middle of the country is one of Costa Rica’s many volcanoes. This one still erupts though, and visitors get to witness a night show sometimes. If the clouds aren’t around the volcano, you’ll be able to see the lava flowing down the volcano. (It just oozes and it’s safe!) The are has a great waterfall (La Fortuna), a national park with great hiking and sunset views over the lake, outdoor activities, and famous hot springs. With so much to do, it is no wonder it is one of the most visited places in the country.

Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio – A popular beach destination on the pacific coast, you’ll find yourself on people filled beaches most of the time. The wide, white sand beaches and warmer blue water attract people for a reason. There is a nearby national park with great hiking, a few secluded beaches, and three different types of monkeys. It remains one of my favorite parks in the country for that reason.

Monteverde

Monteverde – The nationals premier cloud forest offers your chance to see the elusive Quetzal bird. Sitting right on the continental divide also means you’ll get crazy winds and weather here as the clouds just sit around. The area is very green and wet. Around you’ll also be able to zip line through the canopy or do a sky bridge. The fertile land also means there is a lot of good coffee grown.

Poas Volcanoe

Poás Volcano – A great day trip from San José, Poas volcano is a dormant volcano with twin calderas filled with sulfur lakes. The lakes are so still that you’ll look at your picture and think you painted the color on. There are some small trails around the area too. Arrive early in the morning or risks the clouds coming in and hiding the view.

Montezuma

Montezuma – At the bottom of the Nicoya coast is Monetzuma. This used to be a quite surf side town and in some ways it still is, especially when compared to cities higher up in the peninsula. You’ll find lots of expats and hippies here as well as a high number of yoga retreats and spas. This is still a good place to relax.

Tamarindo

Tamarindo – High up on the Nicoya coast is the uber popular destination of Tamarindo. If you are looking for resorts, spas, and luxury, look no further than here. It used to be a quiet beach town is now the Cancun of Costa Rica. But if that is the vacation you want, you found the perfect spot.

Everything in Costa Rica is a bit tourist but despite the crowds, Costa Rica is a land filled with diverse wildlife and great natural beautiful. I’ve been here twice and when I came back the second time, I fell in love with it all over again. For Americans, it’s lush tropical paradise that’s only a short and cheap flight away. If you are going, use this Costa Rica travel guide as you source on places to see.

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