Costa Rica is visited by approximately 2 million tourists per year and each comes here for various reasons, but all enjoy the country’s natural beauty no matter what area they visit. With so many micro-climates, activities, and sights; this country truly offers something for everyone. The following is a list of must see’s and do’s.
Zip-Line Tour – These tours are in every part of Costa Rica and some are more adventurous than others. However, it is always a thrill zipping through the jungle canopy; so look for a reputable tour close to where you are staying.
Arenal Volcano – This is one of the most famous attractions in Costa Rica and if you are lucky you can see this active volcano spewing lava at night from one of the many area hotels. There is also an amazing hot springs with Jacuzzi temperature waterfalls, cascades, and swimming holes.
La Paz Waterfall Park – This wonderful park has a mini zoo with some of the common and not-so-common wildlife for visitors to see. Plus they have three large waterfalls with walking trails along side that get you up close and personal with these natural wonders.
Manuel Antonio – The most visited National Park in Costa Rica located right next to Quepos. The park has some picture perfect post card white sand beaches, tons of wildlife, and more monkeys than people they say. Also plenty of boutique resorts, fine dining, and shopping.
Sport Fishing – The Pacific coast of Costa Rica has some of the best sport fishing in the World. Feel the rush of catching a Marlin or Sailfish, or catch dinner with a fresh Tuna or Mahi-Mahi. Sport fishing charters are available many places; but Quepos, Los Suenos, and Tamarindo offer the most options.
Horseback Tour – If you enjoy horseback riding, then you can almost always find a tour on the beach or to a waterfall in various areas of the country. In the Dominical area Don Lulu’s Horseback Tour to Nauyaca Falls is the most popular.
Rafting – White water rafting is another adventure activity you can enjoy during your stay. There are many for the whole family up to Class IV and V rapids for experienced rafters.
Surfing – Costa Rica is famous for its World Class waves and many surfers come from all over the globe. Up North there are “Witch’s Rock” and “Ollie’s Point” which are boat access breaks and down in the Southern most point is Pavones, which is one of the longest waves on the planet. The Caribbean side has “Salsa Brava” aka the “Costa Rican Pipeline”. Tons of other more mellow breaks and almost every coastal town has a surf school for beginners to learn.
Bird Watching – Even if you are not an avid birdwatcher you will see all kinds of tropical species daily from Toucans and Parrots to tons of Humming Birds and more. However, if you want to see the elusive Quetzal you will have to go to the high elevation cloud forests and spend some time there.
Sunset – No matter where you go on the Pacific coast you will surely experience the daily sunset ritual where everyone stops what they are doing and enjoys this moment of tranquility. Many beach-side bars and restaurants offer a sunset happy hour special.
Turtle Release – From September to November there are various Turtle conservation programs that you can participate in releasing baby turtles. This is a rewarding and memorable experience for the whole family.
Whale Watching – During months of migration along the coast Whales can be spotted with telescopes or you can take a guided boat tour for a closer encounter.
ATV Tour – Riding four wheelers through the mountain side and to local waterfall or beaches is a fun adventure and available in many tourism destinations throughout the country.
If you cannot do it all in one trip, then you will just have to come back soon! Pura Vida!!!
