21 Breathtaking Places To Explore In Costa Rica

Costa Rica may be small, but I found it was overflowing with natural beauty, from palm-fringed beaches to Insta-worthy national parks. With so much to see, it was a very tough choice but from my three months spent traveling around, these are the gems I fell in love with…

1. Playa Uvita 

Created in 1989 to protect marine life, I thought this was honestly one of the most extraordinary beaches I’d ever laid eyes on — a golden, paradise-like stretch curving into its famous natural “Whale Tail” formation! Backed by stunning tropical forest and opening to the shimmering Pacific, the views were jaw-dropping and the whole place had a serene, hidden-away vibe that felt worlds apart from Costa Rica’s busier beaches.

I flew into San José International Airport, drove 3.5 hours down the scenic Coastal Highway (Route 34), and spent a dreamy week at the nearby Insta-worthy 4-star Suitree Experience Hotel. I strolled the famous Whale Tail sandbar at low tide, downed cocktails at organic eateries, snorkeled and scuba-dived the dazzling reefs, kayaked the calm waters, and hiked misty jungle trails filled with tropical bird calls — my highlight though, was the incredible moment I spotted a humpback whale on a boat tour!

• Location: southwestern coast near Dominical 
• Wildlife: Humpback whales (seasonal), dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical birds in the surrounding jungle.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Watching the sun dip below the horizon at Uvita Beach with a potent Purple Smash cocktail made from blackberry, basil, and vodka at the fun Whale Tail Brewery where barefoot travelers hung out under string lights while the sound of reggae filled the air!

2. Arenal Volcano

Towering above the rainforest, this active volcano was a seriously stunning sight – its perfect cone, steamy hot springs, and emerald jungle backdrop left me in awe! I loved how the little town of La Fortuna nestled at its base added charm and a sustainable, adventure-filled vibe.

It took me three hours to drive from San José (there was also a direct bus), and I spent three unforgettable days here. I hiked through Arenal Volcano National Park past crunchy old lava flows, kayaked across the glassy waters of Lake Arenal, zip-lined at Mundo Aventura, soaked in the mineral-rich Tabacón Hot Springs, spotted wildlife at Mistico Hanging Bridges, and ended my evenings checking out craft beer and handmade souvenirs in La Fortuna’s lively shops and restaurants.

• Location: northern Costa Rica’s Alajuela Province, near the town of La Fortuna and about 90 km northwest of San José, 
• Wildlife: Howler monkeys, toucans, motmots, and colorful hummingbirds.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the Insta-worthy 4-star Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis – I loved the trendy design, the designer outdoor swimming pool, the green garden which attracted all kinds of exotic birds (I saw hummingbirds and motmots!) and the sociable outdoor fire pit area where we gathered in the evenings swapping travel stories!

3. Santa Teresa 

This former fishing village turned iconic surf town completely lived up to the hype — golden beaches framed by lush jungle, barefoot boho vibes, and a laid-back, surf-loving energy that I couldn’t get enough of. It buzzed with yoga studios, surf shacks, and wildlife and the creative, artsy crowd gave it a soulful edge!

Just an hour’s drive from San José, I stayed for a blissful week, watching surfers ride Playa Carmen’s perfect waves, joining sunrise yoga at Horizon and Nautilus, hiking Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, and ending my days with cocktails and fresh ceviche at Habanero and Brisas del Mar.

• Location: Southern part of the Nicoya Peninsula, along the Pacific coast of the country.
• Map Location and Directions
• Wildlife: Howler monkeys, iguanas, bright tropical birds, and occasional nesting sea turtles.

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the wow-inducing 4-star ARjAU Boutique Hotel – I loved the Instagrammble boutique design and how my guest room featured reclaimed wood, natural stone, and cool artisanal touches like the macramé wall hangings!
• Exploring the bohemian village filled with organic cafés, indie boutiques, and great restaurants – I especially loved starting my mornings with a turmeric soy golden milk at the artsy Zwart Art Café!

4. Manuel Antonio National Park 

From the powdery white beaches to the rainforest brushing the coast, this 1972-established 16 sq km park felt like a true escape! I loved its peaceful, uncommercialized vibe, the playful monkeys, and the cozy eco-lodges tucked right into the jungle.

After a three-hour drive, I spent three incredible days at the Insta-worthy El Faro Containers Beach Hotel. I hiked the lush Sendero Punta Catedral with its stunning ocean views, lounged on the soft sands of Playa Manuel Antonio, and spotted sloths along the wildlife-rich Sendero Perezoso.

I also snorkeled the clear shallows of Playa Espadilla Sur, glided through the Damas Island mangroves, and ended each day with fresh seafood and sunset views in nearby Quepos — pure paradise!

• Location: central Pacific coast near Quepos in Puntarenas Province, around 132 km (82 miles) south of San José.
• Wildlife: Sloths, capuchin and howler monkeys, toucans, scarlet macaws, iguanas, sea turtles, dolphins, and whales (in season).
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Going on a Natural Mangrove Guided Boat Tour and with the help of the friendly and very knowledgeable guide spotted super-cute sloths, a mantled howler monkey, white-faced capuchinas green iguana and a scary looking Black Spiny-tailed Iguana! 

5. Playa Samara 

I thought this was such a cool little beach town! Golden sands, swaying palms, and calm turquoise waters made it perfect for swimming, while the surrounding jungle echoed with howler monkeys and bursts of tropical bird song. What really won me over was the vibe — relaxed, boho, eco-conscious, and full of easy-going surf energy.

After a four-hour drive from San José, I spent four blissful days here swimming and kayaking in Sámara’s calm bay, snorkeling and scuba diving around Isla Chora, taking a fun beginner’s surf lesson with locals, spotting wildlife at Werner Sauter Biological Reserve, and finishing my days with fresh seafood at barefoot beachfront restaurants. A boat tour where I saw playful dolphins and sea turtles was the perfect finale!

• Location: Tucked away on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province, along the country’s Pacific coast
• Wildlife: Playful dolphins, sea turtles, howler monkeys, and tropical birds.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Staying at the LA DOLCE VITA – I really enjoyed the cool sociable vibe, its gorgeous private beach location (and the incredible sunsets!), the daily onsite Hatha yoga classes and the coffee shop where I bought a rich Monteverde Organic Coffee each morning! 

6. Monteverde Cloud Forest 

Founded by Quaker settlers in 1972, this biodiverse sanctuary felt magical — misty green hills, sweeping views, and wildlife everywhere! I loved how the eco-lodges blended into the landscape, creating a peaceful, almost mystical vibe. 

After a three-hour drive from San José, I spent four incredible days in the wow-worthy 4-star Way To Heaven Glamping Pods and explored Selvatura Park’s hanging bridges. I hiked incredible trails, crossed a dizzying suspension bridge, zipped through the canopy with Sky Adventures, and learned about the reserve’s biodiversity at Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. I also visited the Butterfly Gardens to watch colorful species fluttering all around me and ended each evening in Santa Elena, relaxing with coffee and local food in its cozy restaurants and bars.

• Location: High in the northwestern mountains across Puntarenas and Alajuela, North-central part of the country.
• Wildlife: Quetzals, jaguars, ocelots, tapirs, and poison dart frogs.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Dining at the rustic-chic Tree House Restaurante in nearby Santa Elena – I loved the giant fig tree growing through the center lit up in purple, the live Costa Rican music, the herbal-infused Cloud Forest Martinis, and my hearty dish of Vegetarian Casado which came with rice, black beans, and plantain.

7. Territorio De Zaguates – A Very Unique Doggy Paradise! 

Here, I was in absolute dog-lover heaven! Set in rolling green hills where hundreds of dogs ran free, this incredible sanctuary felt built on pure compassion — a place where abandoned pups get a second chance and visitors leave completely inspired.

I found it in the remote mountain region of Santa Bárbara in Heredia Province. Known as The Land of a Thousand Strays, it was founded by Lya Battle and Alvaro Saumet with just a handful of rescues, and today it’s a no-kill, nonprofit home for over 1,300 dogs, leading the way in mixed-breed adoptions and creative education.

Just an hour’s drive from San José, I joined a joyful guided dog walk across the vast property — cuddling affectionate pups, hearing heartbreaking rescue stories, chatting with passionate volunteers, and cheering for the many happy adoptions. It was such an uplifting, unforgettable experience that I wished every country had a place like this!

My personal highlights

• Meeting the beloved resident dog Chispa (meaning “Spark”) – I’d seen him on their socials and loved hearing how he went from a timid, matted stray to a playful, people-loving pup with one striking blue eye and one brown! 

8. Playa Conchal

Consistently rated one of the most beautiful beaches in the country, this place made my jaw drop — sparkling turquoise water and soft sand made of crushed seashells gave it a unique, shimmering glow that sometimes even looked pink in the sun. Framed by lush greenery and dotted with luxury resorts, it had a relaxed yet elegant, upscale vibe which I loved.

After an easy one-hour drive from Liberia International Airport, I stayed three dreamy days — swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking in the clear waters, lounging on the shell-covered beach, and unwinding with spa treatments right by the ocean.

• Location: Northwestern part of the country, along the Pacific coast (in Guanacaste Province), near to the town of Brasilito.
• Wildlife: Scarlet macaws, iguanas, and tropical fish just offshore.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Staying at the trendy W Costa Rica Resort – I loved the fun vibe, the cool design touches (such as my private plunge pool and freestanding tub!), the onsite meditation classes each morning, and waking up to jungle sounds and screeching scarlet macaws each morning! 

9. Rincon de la Vieja National Park 

I thought this was one of the most unique places I came across on my trip — fiery volcanic terrain, bubbling hot springs, misty jungle, and dramatic waterfalls made it feel raw, thrilling, and completely off the beaten path.

This 14,084-hectare park, founded in 1973, centers around the active Rincón de la Vieja Volcano. After a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Liberia, I spent three adventure-packed days at the beautiful 4-star Borinquen Thermal Resort. I trekked past bubbling fumaroles and steaming mud pots, chased hidden waterfalls, floated down the warm Río Negro, spotted sloths in the trees, and even went canyoning through the wild volcanic backcountry. It was one of those rare places that stayed with me long after I left!

• Location: Northwestern part of the country, in Guanacaste province (near the city of Liberia)
• Wildlife: Howler and capuchin monkeys, sloths, coatis, toucans, and butterflies.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Going for a natural mud bath at Hacienda Guachipelín – I slathered on the hot, mineral-rich volcanic mud like a body mask, let it dry under the sun, rinsed off in the cool river, then soaked in the warm thermal pools tucked into the hotel’s beautiful grounds!

10. Montezuma 

I instantly fell for this boho beach town! Its rugged coastline of sandy beaches, rocky coves, and lush forest backdrops was gorgeous, and I loved the town’s mix of colorful street art, cozy cafés, and little art galleries. Best of all was the laid-back, artsy vibe that drew surfers, free spirits, and a handful of hippies.

Getting here was part of the fun — I drove two hours from San José to Puntarenas, took the ferry to Paquera, then drove 1.5 hours to Montezuma. I stayed a blissful week at the trendy 4-star Hotel Nya, lounging on Playa Grande, hiking to Montezuma Waterfalls for a jungle swim, snorkeling around Isla Tortuga, spotting wildlife in Cabo Blanco, and ending each day in beach cafés and lively night markets.

• Location: Southeastern part of the Nicoya Peninsula, along the Pacific coast of the country.
• Wildlife: Howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, and sea birds along the coast.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Checking out the organic Saturday market – I especially loved the handmade jewelry, natural skincare products and sampling slices of guanábana (soursop), passion fruit and juicy ripe starfruit! 

11. Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge

Established in 1985, this 50-square-kilometer rainforest coastline refuge completely wowed me — thick jungle tumbled onto dreamy beaches, rustic lodges blended into the greenery and incredible biodiversity, and glowing coral reefs shimmered beneath the turquoise Caribbean. It felt peaceful, laid-back, and like a secret slice of paradise with a strong eco-conscious heart.

After a 4.5-hour road trip from San José to Puerto Viejo and on to Manzanillo, I spent four unforgettable days at the Insta-worthy Faith Glamping Domes. I hiked jungle trails, dove the coral gardens at Punta Manzanillo, kayaked quiet lagoons, and explored pristine mangroves and wetlands — an adventure-packed escape! 

• Location: near the town of Manzanillo in Limón Province, close to the Panama border in Southeastern Caribbean coast of the country.
• Wildlife: Sloths, howler monkeys, toucans, manatees, dolphins, reef sharks, and tropical fish.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Going snorkelling at Punta Manzanillo were the water visibility was very clear and seeing colorful brain, fire and fan coral, pretty butterflyfish and even a nurse shark lying eerily still on the ocean floor! 

12. Tamarindo Beach

I thought this surf town was seriously dreamy — long golden sands lined with palms, a charming main street of beachfront cafés and eclectic shops, and plenty of modern resorts. By day it was blissfully laid-back, but after sunset it came alive with a fun nightlife scene.

Once a sleepy fishing village, I discovered its now a beloved surf and eco-tourism hotspot with a strong surf culture (the currents can be intense though!) and a reputation for sea turtle conservation.

After a four-hour drive from San José, I spent five unforgettable days here — learning to surf, snorkeling, watching pros ride huge waves, spotting nesting sea turtles at Las Baulas National Marine Park (a magical moment!), and ending each day with fresh beachfront meals and my toes in the sand.

• Location: Guanacaste Province, Northwestern Pacific coast of the country.
• Wildlife: Nesting sea turtles at Las Baulas National Marine Park, plus iguanas and coastal birds.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the trendy new design hotel L’Avventura Boutique Hotel – I adored the floor-to-ceiling windows, cloud-like king bed, and a locally crafted ceramic lamp in my guest room, the outdoor swimming pool and the super-attentive owners Dino and Maria! 

13. San José

As Costa Rica’s capital and largest city, San José (founded in 1737) had its gritty corners like any big city — but I found it surprisingly elegant, with colonial landmarks, historic architecture, lively markets, leafy parks, and gorgeous mountain views. I loved its cosmopolitan, eclectic vibe, where historic charm mixed with colorful street art, buzzing markets, and a thriving café culture.

I flew into Juan Santamaría International Airport from London, drove just 20 minutes to downtown, and spent three days at the fabulous Alameda Cariari Boutique Hotel before exploring the rest of the country. I admired the grandeur of the National Theater, browsed the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, got lost in Mercado Central, strolled historic Barrio Amón, relaxed in leafy La Sabana Park, and savored San José’s food and coffee culture in Escazú and Barrio Escalante.

• Location: heart of the Central Valley
• Wildlife: Parakeets, motmots, and other urban-adapted tropical birds in its leafy parks.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights

• Srolling through the historic Barrio Amón, with its colonial mansions, vibrant street art, and laid-back boho vibe – I enjoyed a bottle of La Segua Red Ale, a popular Costa Rican craft beer, at Stiefel Pub and delicious peach-filled empanadas at the cozy Café Miel.

14. Isla Tortuga 

Once filled with pirate tales and shipwrecks this protected uninhabited island blew me away with its soft white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, palm-lined shores, and rustic beachfront charm. It oozed barefoot luxury and had the ultimate chilled-out island feel! 

After a two-hour boat tour ride from Puntarenas, I spent the day snorkeling at El Aquario and La Cueva (the marine life was just incredible!), relaxing on dreamy white-sand beaches, kayaking in clear turquoise waters, hiking lush trails with a guide, spotting wildlife, and gliding across the picture-perfect Gulf of Nicoya.

• Location: in Gulf of Nicoya, just off the southeastern coast of the Nicoya Peninsula
• Wildlife: Angelfish, manta rays, reef sharks, sea turtles, tropical birds, and capuchin monkeys.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

15. Poas Volcano

This was one of the most fascinating natural wonders I saw in Costa Rica! The massive active stratovolcano had an eerie, otherworldly beauty — its mist-shrouded crater cradled a surreal aquamarine acid lake that hissed, bubbled, and steamed. Surrounded by lush cloud forest and anchored by a well-run visitor center, it was absolutely breathtaking up close.

With its jaw-dropping 1.5 km-wide crater and long eruption history (most recently in 2019), it felt alive with volcanic energy.

After a quick 1.5-hour drive from San José, I spent the day trekking to the Main Crater’s turquoise lake, strolling the peaceful Laguna Botos Trail, learning about past eruptions at the visitor center, and wandering through the misty cloud forest alive with rare plants and wildlife.

• Location: Central part of the country, in Alajuela province (just 37 kilometers from San José in Alajuela’s Poás Volcano National Park)
• Wildlife: Hummingbirds, blue morpho butterflies, and bright green tree frogs.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking the Laguna Botos Trail which took me through the dense cloud forest – it was awesome to see hummingbirds, bright green frogs and pretty butterflies (I spotted a Blue Morpho!) as well as atmospheric ferns and mosses which draped the trees along the way!

16. Corcovado National Park 

Created in 1975, this 424 km² national park took my breath away — remote, wildly biodiverse, and thrillingly untamed. Towering rainforest, palm-lined beaches, and rustic ranger posts made it feel like the ultimate off-the-grid adventure.

I flew into Drake Bay, boated to a remote ranger station, and spent three extraordinary days at the beautiful La Leona Eco Lodge. I hiked dense jungle trails, spotted tapirs and scarlet macaws, trekked the spectacular La Leona Trail, chased hidden waterfalls, and wandered empty beaches where sea turtles quietly nested under the stars.

My favorite highlights…

• Going on an extraordinary trek on the La Leona Trail – I especially loved hearing the distinctive jungle sounds, from the calls of exotic birds and the rustling of animals to the occasional screeches of howler monkeys echoing throughout the forest! 

17. Rio de Celeste Waterfall

I thought this spot felt almost otherworldly — milky turquoise water plunging 30 meters into a glowing pool, framed by dense tropical jungle. Formed by volcanic minerals, the color looked unreal, and the whole place radiated a calm, almost magical energy.

Part of the 31,679-acre Tenorio Volcano National Park in Alajuela Province (established 1995), this iconic waterfall sits among steaming hot springs, a dormant-but-active volcano, and rainforest filled with wildlife.

After a three-hour drive from San José to La Fortuna, I joined a guided tour — marveling at the electric-blue lagoon and mystical Los Teñideros, trekking to Rio Celeste Waterfall, standing in awe at the massive Tree of Peace, and finishing with a hearty traditional lunch at Don Alexis Farm just outside the park.

• Location: Northern part of the country, in Tenorio Volcano National Park.
• Wildlife: Sloths, tapirs, and even elusive pumas in the surrounding rainforest.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Checking out the interesting cacao, corn, pineapple plantations on Don Alexis Farm, taking a swim in the Rio Celeste and then relaxing in a hammock before heading back to La Fortuna! 

18. Tortuguero

Hidden deep in Costa Rica’s wild northeast, this off-the-grid national park was a treasure trove of natural beauty — untouched rainforest, black-sand beaches, tangled mangroves, serene canals, sprawling marshes, and rustic eco-lodges alive with wildlife. I loved its peaceful, almost otherworldly vibe, where all I could hear were howler monkeys, bird calls, and the gentle flow of the canals.

Only reachable by boat or small plane, Tortuguero has been protected since 1975 and is home to a handful of eco-focused communities working to preserve its rare ecosystems.

I reached it by flying 30 minutes from San José, driving three hours to La Pavona, and then taking a tranquil boat ride into the village — and it was 100% worth it. Over three unforgettable days at the incredible Tortuga Lodge, I hiked jungle trails, cruised the canals spotting monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds, visited the inspiring Sea Turtle Conservancy, and even watched sea turtles nesting under the moonlight — a moment I’ll never forget.

• Location: Northeastern Caribbean coast of the country.
• Wildlife: Jaguars, monkeys, sloths, and endangered green sea turtles nesting on black-sand beaches.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Dining at the romantic Katonga Floating Restaurant was unforgettable – our boat glided through the tranquil Tortuguero Lagoon as we savored a delicious four-course meal, tropical cocktails, and spectacular views of the illuminated town! 

19. Playa Ostional 

This remote, protected beach (located within the Ostional Wildlife Refuge) felt like a true hidden paradise—untouched volcanic sands framed by gorgeous coastal greenery, thousands of nesting sea turtles, and just a few rustic eco-lodges scattered along the shore. It was peaceful, raw, and beautifully wild—a place where I felt completely immersed in unspoilt nature! 

I flew into Nosara, drove 30 minutes south in a hire car, and spent four unforgettable days soaking up this coastal paradise. I witnessed the magical sight of sea turtles nesting at Ostional Wildlife Refuge, lounged on pristine volcanic sands, explored surfer-chic Nosara with its yoga retreats and laid-back vibe, and hiked the incredible jungle trails of the nearby wildlife refuge.

My favorite highlights…

• I timed my visit to Ostional Wildlife Refuge just before the new moon to witness the ‘Arribada’ – a breathtaking event where hundreds of thousands of Olive Ridley turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs. I found out that locals and conservation volunteers also protected the hatchlings from predators like dogs and vultures as they raced to the sea weeks later! 

20. Bajos del Toro 

I really fell for this off-the-radar beauty spot (focused on eco-tourism and conservation- cascading waterfalls), crater-carved pools in vivid shades of blue, and a backdrop of rich jungle made it feel like my own private paradise. It was serene, hidden, and blissfully disconnected! 

I set off from San José for a 1.5-hour drive through winding mountain roads and scenic countryside and spent the day chasing waterfalls and forest trails – Catarata del Toro’s dramatic drop into an ancient volcanic crater was unforgettable, and the hikes at Bosque de Paz and Juan Castro Blanco were peaceful and full of natural beauty.

• Location: in the Alajuela province, I discovered it nestled between the Poas and Irazú Volcanoes in the central part of the country. 
• Wildlife: Colorful hummingbirds, quetzals, and frogs thriving in the misty cloud forest.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Hiking through the trails in Juan Castro Blanco National Park which were covered in cloud forests and montane rainforests – I loved how atmospheric the mist looked as I walked through the densely packed  trees! 

21. Isla del Coco

A true diver’s paradise, this remote island felt wild and wonderful — black volcanic shores, turquoise waters, dense rainforest, and ranger stations tucked in the trees made it feel raw and completely off the map, like a real-life jungle adventure.

Located 550 km off the mainland, this 24 km² island — discovered in 1526 — is home only to park rangers and researchers studying its pristine ecosystem. With pirate legends and treasure tales swirling around it, the place felt straight out of an adventure novel.

Getting here meant a 36-hour Pacific crossing and a 10-day diving cruise, but it was worth every second. I dived world-class sites like Dirty Rock and Big Dos Amigos, spotting hammerhead and tiger sharks, then trekked through jungle, explored ancient caves, and cooled off under Cascada Genio waterfall — it truly felt like discovering a lost world.

• Location: Off the southwestern coast of the country in the Pacific Ocean.
• Wildlife: Hammerhead sharks, manta rays, dolphins, sea turtles, marlins, Cocos Cuckoos, and unique island reptiles.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• I loved hearing the legendary pirate tales from our super-knowledgeable guide—apparently Benito ‘Bloody Sword’ Bonito used Isla del Coco as a secret stash spot for his treasure, though its exact hiding place still remains a mystery!

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