Costa Rica is a place where adventure meets peace. You can hike volcanoes in the morning and relax on a quiet beach by afternoon. This small country is full of surprises. Rainforests, waterfalls, wildlife, and friendly locals make it one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
If you’re planning a trip or just dreaming of one, here are 21 breathtaking places you should explore in Costa Rica.
Arenal Volcano
This volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most famous spots. Even though it’s currently dormant, it still looks powerful. The cone-shaped volcano stands tall over the lush green forests. You can hike around the base or soak in nearby hot springs. The views are unreal, especially during sunrise.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Monteverde feels like a dream. The forest is high up in the mountains, and the clouds roll in between the trees. It’s cool, misty, and full of rare animals. You might see hummingbirds, sloths, or even a jaguar if you’re lucky. Don’t miss the hanging bridges. Walking through the treetops is pure magic.
Tamarindo
Tamarindo is a beach town on the Pacific coast. It’s popular but still laid-back. The beach is long, wide, and great for surfing. There are lots of cool cafes, yoga spots, and sunset bars. It’s a nice mix of nature and fun. Good place for beginner surfers too.
Manuel Antonio National Park
This park is small but packed with beauty. It has white-sand beaches, jungle trails, and tons of wildlife. Monkeys, toucans, and iguanas are everywhere. You can walk from one beach to another through the forest. It’s one of the best places to see Costa Rica’s nature up close.
La Fortuna Waterfall
Close to Arenal, this waterfall drops over 200 feet into a bright blue pool. It’s a steep hike down, but the view is worth it. The water is cool and refreshing. Some people swim, others just sit and admire. It’s a peaceful place surrounded by jungle.
Rio Celeste
This river looks like something out of a fantasy movie. The water is bright blue, almost glowing. It gets its color from natural minerals. You can hike through Tenorio Volcano National Park to reach the waterfall and the river. The trail can be muddy, but the reward is stunning.
Corcovado National Park
If you want wild nature, this is the place. Corcovado is remote and raw. It’s on the Osa Peninsula and home to rare animals like tapirs and scarlet macaws. The trails are wild and exciting. It’s best for serious nature lovers. Not crowded and full of surprises.
Santa Teresa
This beach town has a quiet charm. It’s known for surf, sunsets, and chill vibes. Dirt roads, palm trees, and small shops line the coast. People come here to disconnect and relax. Many fall in love and stay longer than planned. It’s that kind of place.
Poás Volcano
This volcano has one of the biggest craters in the world. You can drive almost to the top. The crater holds a bright green lake that sometimes steams. It’s easy to visit from San José. On clear days, the view is unforgettable. It feels like you’re on another planet.
Tortuguero
Tortuguero is like the Amazon of Costa Rica. There are no roads here. You reach the village by boat or plane. The canals wind through dense jungle. It’s famous for sea turtles that lay eggs on the beach. You can take a boat tour at sunrise to see birds, monkeys, and more.
Uvita
Uvita is calm and lovely. It’s home to Marino Ballena National Park. At low tide, a sandbar forms in the shape of a whale’s tail. It’s perfect for walking, swimming, or just watching the waves. The area is quiet, with waterfalls and jungle all around.
Orosi Valley
This valley is green, peaceful, and full of charm. Coffee farms cover the hills. Rivers flow through small towns. Orosi is a good place to learn about local life. There’s also a beautiful old church here. It’s great for slow travel and quiet mornings.
Puerto Viejo
On the Caribbean side, Puerto Viejo has a different vibe. It’s colorful, lively, and full of reggae beats. The beaches are beautiful and less crowded. You can explore black sand beaches, eat spicy food, and ride a bike around town. It’s a mix of cultures and very welcoming.
Rincón de la Vieja
This national park has everything. Waterfalls, mud pools, hot springs, and volcanic vents. You can hike through dry forest and see bubbling earth. There are easy and hard trails. It’s less touristy, so you often feel like you have the place to yourself.
San Gerardo de Dota
This mountain town is cool and quiet. It’s one of the best places to see the resplendent quetzal, a colorful bird that’s hard to find. The air is fresh, and the forest is peaceful. Bird watchers and nature lovers come here for the quiet beauty.
Cahuita National Park
Cahuita sits on the Caribbean coast. The park protects coral reefs, rainforests, and beaches. You can snorkel right off the shore and see bright fish and sea turtles. The trail through the jungle is flat and full of wildlife. It’s perfect for a slow, sunny day.
Punta Uva
This beach is close to Puerto Viejo but much quieter. The sand is golden, and the sea is calm. Palm trees lean over the beach. It’s a good place to swim or paddleboard. Not many people around. Just you, the sea, and some howler monkeys in the trees.
Isla del Caño
This small island is off the Pacific coast near Drake Bay. It’s a top spot for diving and snorkeling. The water is clear and full of sea life. You might see dolphins, rays, or even sharks. The coral reefs are healthy and colorful. A good place for ocean lovers.
Bajos del Toro
Hidden between mountains, this small village is home to some amazing waterfalls. The most famous is Catarata del Toro. It’s huge and dramatic. There are also blue rivers, hanging bridges, and nature trails. It’s quiet and green, far from the tourist crowds.
Turrialba
This region is known for its volcano and cheese. Yes, cheese. Turrialba cheese is famous in Costa Rica. You can hike to see the smoking volcano or explore canyons and rivers. The area is also good for white-water rafting. It’s full of nature and local life.
Playa Conchal
This beach is different. The sand is made of tiny shells. The water is bright blue and calm. It’s one of the prettiest beaches in Costa Rica. You can snorkel, relax, or walk along the shore. It’s near other beaches but feels more peaceful and special.
Every part of Costa Rica has its own magic. You don’t need to rush. Take your time. Let the rain forest soak in. Let the ocean slow you down. The real beauty of Costa Rica is how it makes you feel while you’re there.
