10 of the Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica in 2025

Have you ever imagined waking up within the Costa Rican cloud forest? Maybe exploring the luxurious rainforest or witnessing the varied wildlife that this place has to supply? Known for its eco-tourism and adrenaline-rushing adventures, Costa Rica is an excellent place for all. There is a large record of actions and points of interest that you could take pleasure in and go to throughout your journey to the vacation spot.

If you might be planning a go to or already iterating your journey to Costa Rica, this weblog will make issues simpler. Let’s take a fast take a look at one of the best locations to go to in Costa Rica, some that you shouldn’t miss out on.

List of 10 finest locations to go to whereas heading to Costa Rica

1. San José

San José is the capital of Costa Rica and one of the vital common locations individuals go to throughout their journey to the nation. Located within the coronary heart of the nation, this place is understood for a lot of superb points of interest and actions. San José provides a vibrant metropolis life with a spread of eating places, cafés, nightlife, and leisure. Despite being a significant city centre, the town maintains a relaxed and laid-back vibe typical of Costa Rican tradition.

Places to go to in San José	National Theatre of Costa Rica Pre-Columbian Gold Museum Central Market La Sabana Metropolitan Park Costa Rican Art Museum Plaza de la Cultura Jade Museum National Museum of Costa Rica Barrio Amón Spirits of the Forest Museum
Things to do in San José	Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica Enjoy a coffee tour Walk round Plaza de la Cultura Visit the Jade Museum Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design Go to an area restaurant or café Attend a efficiency on the National Theatre Visit the Central Cathedral Explore the close by Poás Volcano National Park Relax at La Sabana Park Take a strolling tour of Barrio Amón Explore the Costa Rican Art Museum
Best eating places in San José	Restaurante Grano de Oro Park Café La Esquina de Buenos Aires Tin Jo Sierra El Novillo Alegre Café Mundo Nais Cuisine La Terracita Le Chandelier
Best locations to remain in San José	Hotel Grano de Oro Park Inn by Radisson San José Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belén InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall Hotel Presidente Radisson Hotel San José Costa Rica The Real InterContinental Hotel & Club Tower Hilton Garden Inn San José La Sabana Wyndham San José Herradura Hotel & Convention Centre Hotel Alta Las Palomas

2. Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park is one other superb attraction of the nation. It is situated on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast and is famend for its gorgeous biodiversity and pure magnificence. It options lush rainforests, pristine seashores, and vibrant coral reefs. If you might be visiting right here you’ll be able to hike by way of scenic trails. This nationwide park has wildlife range so you’ll be able to spot wildlife resembling monkeys, sloths, and vibrant birds. The park provides a wealthy mix of tropical ecosystems, making it considered one of Costa Rica’s hottest locations for nature lovers and journey seekers.

Places to go to in Manuel Antonio National Park	Playa Espadilla Playa Manuel Antonio Catedral Point (Punto Catedral) Mirador El Centinela Playa Gemelas Laguna de los Tulemar Biesanz Beach (Playa Biesanz) Nature Trails Rangers’ Station The Sloth Trail
Things to do in Manuel Antonio National Park	Hiking the park’s trails Wildlife watching (monkeys, sloths, birds) Swimming at Playa Manuel Antonio Snorkeling at Biesanz Beach Relaxing on the seashores Birdwatching Guided excursions (nature and wildlife) Photography of scenic views and wildlife Enjoying the park’s viewpoints Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding
Best eating places close to Manuel Antonio National Park	El Avión Cafe Milagro La Luna Restaurant Restaurante Barba Roja Manuel Antonio Restaurant Emilio’s Café The Ice Cream Shop Raphael’s Terrazas Kapi Kapi Tiquicia Restaurant
Best locations to remain in Manuel Antonio National Park	Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort Si Como No Resort Hotel Costa Verde The Preserve at Los Altos La Mariposa Hotel Tulemar Resort Hotel Parador Resort & Spa Makanda by the Sea Villa Buena Onda Shana by the Beach

3. La Fortuna

Nestled on the base of the majestic Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna is a vibrant city in Costa Rica’s Northern Zone. It is understood for its pure magnificence and it provides all of the guests an opportunity to benefit from the sizzling springs. While visiting right here you can even discover the luxurious rainforests and considerable wildlife. If you might be visiting right here as an journey seekers can take pleasure in actions like mountain climbing, zip-lining, and canyoning. On the opposite hand, nature lovers can discover Arenal Volcano National Park. Its picturesque landscapes and wealthy biodiversity make it a must-visit vacation spot for these looking for each leisure and journey.

Places to go to in La Fortuna	Arenal Volcano National Park La Fortuna Waterfall Hot Springs (Tabacón, EcoTermales, Baldi) Arenal Lake Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park Catarata Río Fortuna Arenal Natura Ecological Park Chato Volcano Ecoglide Park Proyecto Asis Wildlife Rescue Centre
Things to do in La Fortuna	Hiking Arenal Volcano Swimming at La Fortuna Waterfall Soaking in sizzling springs Zip-lining at Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Canoeing on Arenal Lake Wildlife watching at Arenal Natura Ecological Park Horseback using to La Fortuna Waterfall Canyoning and rappelling Visit Proyecto Asis Wildlife Rescue Centre Night stroll within the rainforest
Best eating places in La Fortuna	Don Rufino La Parada Café Mediterráneo Soda Viquez Chifa La Familia Feliz Lava Lounge El Novillo del Arenal Restaurante La Fortuna Bocadillos Tapas Kitchen & Bar The Lava Lounge
Best locations to remain in La Fortuna	Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa Arenal Springs Resort & Spa The Springs Resort & Spa Hotel Los Lagos Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa Hotel El Silencio del Campo Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails Nayara Springs Selina La Fortuna Volcano Lodge & Springs

4. Tortuguero National Park

The Tortuguero National Park is a hidden gem on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. This nationwide park is known for its lush rainforests, winding canals, and vibrant wildlife. It is solely a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife lovers. This place provides each customer, an opportunity to identify sea turtles nesting on the seashores. That’s not it, with them you can even spot monkeys, sloths, and several other species of birds.

If you might be questioning concerning the commuting half, don’t fear, this park is kind of accessible by boat or small airplane. Tortuguero appears like a distant sanctuary the place you’ll be able to disconnect and immerse your self in the great thing about tropical nature. It’s a must-visit for journey seekers!

Places to go to in Tortuguero National Park	Tortuguero Beach Tortuguero Canals Tortuguero Village Caratasca Lagoon Jaguar Trail Sea Turtle Nesting Sites Tortuguero National Park Visitor Centre Punta De Marones Canoe and Kayak Tours Caño Palo
Things to do in Tortuguero National Park	Boat excursions by way of the canals Wildlife watching (monkeys, sloths, birds) Visit the ocean turtle nesting websites Hiking the park’s trails Kayaking or canoeing Birdwatching Explore Tortuguero Village Visit the Tortuguero National Park Visitor Centre Fishing within the canals Night excursions to see turtles nesting (seasonal)
Best eating places in Tortuguero National Park	Miss Junie’s Budda Cafe The Fresh Fish Market Café Tortuguero Soda El Muelle La Cueva Restaurant Café de la Suerte Jolly Roger Restaurant El Patio de Café Reggae Bar
Best locations to remain in Tortuguero National Park	Tortuga Lodge & Gardens Mawamba Lodge Evergreen Lodge Aninga Lodge La Baula Lodge Selina Tortuguero Aria Lodge Pachira Lodge Tortuguero Village Hotel The Rainforest Lodge

5. Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a energetic seaside city on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, recognized for its lovely seashores, nice surf, and laid-back vibe. It’s a well-liked vacation spot for each journey seekers and leisure lovers, providing actions like browsing, snorkelling, and wildlife watching. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, with quite a few bars, eating places, and outlets. With its gorgeous sunsets, heat waters, and welcoming ambiance, Tamarindo is an ideal spot for having fun with the pure magnificence and tradition of Costa Rica.

Places to go to in Tamarindo	Tamarindo Beach Playa Langosta Playa Grande Tamarindo Estuary Las Baulas National Marine Park Ranchos Itauna Playa Avellanas Vasco Núñez de Balboa Park Casa Tortuga Diria National Park
Things to do in Tamarindo	Surfing Sunset watching Turtle watching at Las Baulas National Marine Park Snorkelling at Playa Conchal Boat excursions and kayaking Horseback using on the seaside ATV excursions Zip-lining Fishing journeys Shopping and eating in Tamarindo Town
Best eating places in Tamarindo	Langosta Beach Club Green Papaya Taco Bar La Bodega The Shark Bite Pangas Beach Club Cafe Tico El Be! Tamarindo Soda La Semilla Lola’s Nogui’s
Best locations to remain in Tamarindo	The W Hotel Tamarindo Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort Jardin del Eden Boutique Hotel Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel Hotel Cala Luna Hotel Tamarindo Village La Ramona Charming Hotel Selina Tamarindo Casa Moon Ocho Artisan Bungalows

6. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

Another superb place the place you’ll be able to go to is the Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. It is a vibrant coastal city on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast which is understood for its laid-back ambiance and gorgeous pure magnificence. This place is surrounded by lush rainforests and pristine seashores and it’s a haven for surfers, nature lovers, and people looking for leisure.

The city is wealthy in Afro-Caribbean tradition and you might be positive to identify numerous vibrant native outlets, energetic music spots, and scrumptious delicacies. Visitors can discover close by nationwide parks, take pleasure in wildlife watching, and indulge within the area’s heat, welcoming spirit.

Places to go to in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca	Cahuita National Park Punta Uva Beach Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge Puerto Viejo Beach Jaguar Rescue Centre Coco Loco Bar Playa Chiquita Costa Rica Chocolate Tour Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge Tree of Life Wildlife Rescue Centre
Things to do in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca	Surfing at Salsa Brava Visit Cahuita National Park Snorkeling at Punta Uva Wildlife watching at Jaguar Rescue Centre Take a chocolate tour Relax on Playa Chiquita Hike in Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge Visit the Tree of Life Wildlife Rescue Centre Kayaking within the Gandoca-Manzanillo Refuge Explore native markets and outlets
Best eating places in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca	KOKi Beach Restaurant & Bar La Pecora Nera Soda Al Chile Chez Phiphi The Bread & Chocolate Salsa Brava Lidia’s Place Café Rico El Refugio Grill Bamboocha
Best locations to remain in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca	Hotel Banana Azul Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel The Manderley Pachamama Jungle River Lodge Hotel Villas del Caribe Selina Puerto Viejo Hotel Peace & Love Casa Moabi La Costa de Papito La Kukula Lodge

7. Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano is situated in Costa Rica’s northern area and it is among the nation’s most iconic and energetic volcanoes. Standing at 1,670 metres (5,470 ft), it’s surrounded by lush rainforests and the Arenal Lake, providing breathtaking views. It is now a vacationer spot however Arenal has been an energetic volcano till 2010, with occasional eruptions and lava flows. The space surrounding the volcano is a hotspot for journey, with actions like mountain climbing, sizzling springs, zip-lining, and wildlife watching. All of this makes it a well-liked vacation spot for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.

8. The Caribbean Coast

Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is a vibrant and various area that’s recognized for its gorgeous seashores. That’s not it, the place is understood for lush rainforests and wealthy Afro-Caribbean tradition. It provides a extra laid-back ambiance in comparison with the Pacific aspect, with pure magnificence and considerable wildlife. If you might be planning to go to right here, you’ll be able to discover nationwide parks like Cahuita and Tortuguero.

People additionally discover it fascinating to expertise distinctive cultures in cities like Puerto Viejo and luxuriate in actions resembling browsing, snorkelling, and wildlife watching. The coast’s heat, tropical local weather and welcoming vibe make it an ideal vacation spot for nature lovers and adventurers.

9. Nosara

Next in your record ought to be Nosara which is a serene coastal city on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula. It is popularly recognized for its pristine seashores, vibrant surf tradition, and give attention to wellness and sustainability. With its laid-back ambiance, Nosara attracts guests looking for tranquillity, outside adventures, and nature immersion. The city is house to Playa Guiones, a world-renowned surf spot, and a thriving yoga neighborhood. Surrounded by lush jungles and wildlife, Nosara provides actions like mountain climbing, zip-lining, and wildlife watching. Its relaxed vibe, eco-friendly resorts, and pure magnificence make it an ideal retreat for travellers.

Places to go to in Nosara	Playa Guiones Nosara Wildlife Rescue Playa Pelada Nosara Beach Ostional Wildlife Refuge Boca Nosara Estuary Playa Garza Sibu Sanctuary The Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort Safari Surf School
Things to do in Nosara	Surfing at Playa Guiones Yoga at The Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort Wildlife watching at Nosara Wildlife Rescue Visit Ostional Wildlife Refuge Horseback using on the seaside Zip-lining by way of the jungle Stand-up paddleboarding at Playa Pelada Hiking within the Nosara Biological Reserve Sunset watching at Playa Garza Explore the native artwork galleries and outlets
Best eating places in Nosara	La Luna Burgers and Beers The Gilded Iguana Rosi’s Soda Tica Eat at Joe’s El Chivo Tica’s Sea Food Sante Cafe de Paris Maria’s
Best locations to remain in Nosara	The Gilded Iguana Nosara Beach Hostel Olas Verdes Hotel The Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort Casa Romantica Lagarta Lodge Selina Nosara Harbor Reef Hotel Villa Mango LAcqua Viva Resort & Spa

10. Nicoya Peninsula

The Nicoya Peninsula is considered one of Costa Rica’s crown jewels and a must-visit vacation spot for travellers. It is good for these looking for a mixture of pristine pure magnificence, cultural richness, and various outside adventures. This peninsula is superbly situated on the nation’s Pacific Coast and is well known for its breathtaking seashores, vibrant marine life, and charming cities.

The peninsula boasts unbelievable biodiversity. For one of the best expertise, you’ll be able to go to Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve which is Costa Rica’s first protected space. It can be a super palace to identify monkeys, unique birds, and different wildlife. The bioluminescent waters round Isla Tortuga are a magical spectacle for evening excursions.

Places to go to within the Nicoya Peninsula	Santa Teresa Mal País Montezuma Nosara Samara Tamarindo Playa Hermosa Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve Isla Tortuga Playa Guiones
Things to do in Nicoya Peninsula	Surfing Yoga and wellness retreats Snorkelling and scuba diving Hiking in Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve Exploring Montezuma waterfalls Wildlife watching in Curu Wildlife Refuge Bioluminescence excursions at Isla Tortuga Horseback using on the seaside Zip-lining and cover excursions Sunset watching at Playa Santa Teresa
Best eating places within the Nicoya Peninsula	Soda La Palmera Cielo Azul Bar & Marisquería Kukis El Manglar Restaurant Restaurante Teosinte Chari’s Bar Y Restaurante Huacas Restaurant Restaurante La Fulana Cosa La cuchara del buen sabor Bar Restaurante Villa Bosque
Best locations to remain within the Nicoya Peninsula	Nantipa Beachfront Villa Silvestre Nosara Hotel & Residences The Gilded Iguana Tierra Magnifica Boutique Hotel FlorBlanca Resort Sendero Nosara Hotel Hotel Punta Islita Olas Verdes Hotel Manala Hotel Tango Mar Resort

Conclusion

Costa Rica provides various locations, from gorgeous seashores to lush rainforests and majestic volcanoes. Nature lovers can discover nationwide parks like Manuel Antonio and Corcovado, whereas journey seekers take pleasure in actions resembling rafting on the Pacuare River or mountain climbing in Arenal. For leisure, the Nicoya Peninsula and its pristine seashores are good. Costa Rica’s wealthy biodiversity, vibrant tradition, and eco-tourism make it an unforgettable journey vacation spot.

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