Choose from 58 Fun Things to Do in Costa Rica
Tenorio Volcano National Park
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Palo Verde National Park
- Palo Verde National Park is a must-see for nature lovers.
- Mosquitoes are plentiful, especially during the wet season. Be sure to pack bug repellent.
- The park’s ranger station is open from 8am until dusk and has restrooms available for visitors.
- Palo Verde National Park is a haven for many species. As such, be careful not to disturb wildlife as you explore.
Yellow House
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Children's Eternal Rain Forest (Bosque Eterno de los Niños)
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Venado Caves
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Tortuga Island (Isla Tortuga)
- Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent.
- Bars, restaurants, and local vendors offer food and drinks.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection from the sun.
- Tortuga Island is kid-friendly, and the day cruises to the island are popular among families.
Santa Rosa National Park
- Santa Rosa National Park is a must-see for nature and history lovers.
- The park’s Nancite Beach (Playa Nancite) is a protected nesting spot for olive ridley sea turtles. As such, all visitors to the beach must arrange a permit in advance from the National Park office.
- Santa Rosa is a haven for many protected species; be careful not to disturb wildlife as you explore.
Metallic Building
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Tamarindo Beach
- Surfers take note: Waves are said to be best close to the estuary.
- There are many facilities and lodging options in the town of Tamarindo, or you can head across the river to Playa Grande for a more quiet atmosphere.
- Parking can be difficult to find and parking guards will sometimes charge a fee.
Selvatura Park
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Sarapiqui River
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Tabacon Hot Springs
- Entrance includes a towel and sunscreen.
- The number of guests is limited for a more enjoyable experience; book ahead.
- Tabacon Grand Spa services can be booked as part of an entrance package or separately.
- Pack or wear your swimsuit; changing areas are available on-site.
- Though out of range for most budget travelers, Tabacon Hot Springs is a worthwhile splurge.
Tortuguero National Park
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Morazan Park
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Sarapiqui Canopy
You’ve heard all about Costa Rica’s famous biodiversity – and the tropical rainforest Sarapiqui Canopy is the place to experience it first-hand.
Home of the endangered green macaw, and a number of famous reserves including the Braulio Carrillo National Park, Sarapiqui’s river-filled fertile landscape is best discovered by boat cruise.
From the waterways you’ll spot monkeys, sloths, otters, turtles and all kinds of birds, including the quetzal.
The base for boat excursions into the Sarapiqui Canopy is Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, at the junction of the Sarapiqui and Puerto Viejo rivers.
Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui is 80 km (50 miles) north of San Jose in Heredia province, a drive of around 2 hours. The only access is by road, and the most convenient way to visit is by organized tour.
Llano de Cortes Waterfall
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Vida Aventura Nature Park
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San Jose Central Market (Mercado Central)
- Vendors are typically open to bargaining.
- Ask permission before taking photos.
- Avoid overwhelm by taking your time or visiting with a tour.
- The Central Market is suitable for visitors of all ages.
- The market is close to other attractions such as Mercado Borbón.