From the Caribbean coast to jungles and waterfalls: these are the highlights of Costa Rica
From surf beaches and laid-back villages to volcanoes, jungles, and stunning waterfalls: Costa Rica is a paradise for all types of travelers. The country is small enough to see a lot in a short time, yet large enough to keep you entertained for weeks. Whether you’re visiting Costa Rica for the first time or have already fallen in love with this corner of Central America, these eight places are an absolute must-see.
1. Puerto Viejo: laid-back Caribbean vibes
2. Tortuguero: jungle and wildlife by boat
3. Sarchí & Bajos del Toro: colorful and undiscovered
4. Uvita: whales and waterfalls
5. La Fortuna: adventure by the Arenal Volcano
6. Tamarindo: surfing and sunsets
7. Santa Teresa: surfer’s paradise
8. Jacó: beach and nightlife
1. Puerto Viejo: laid-back Caribbean vibes
On the Caribbean coast lies Puerto Viejo, a village where time seems to stand still. Reggae music drifts from the bars, locals walk around barefoot, and everyone seems to live just a little more relaxed here. During the day, you can hang out at Playa Cocles or Playa Negra, where surfers ride the waves and you can unwind with a coconut in hand. In the evening, enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants along the main street.
The surroundings are just as beautiful. About a half-hour drive away is Cahuita National Park, where you can walk along white beaches and jungle trails while spotting plenty of wildlife—think sloths, monkeys, snakes, and raccoons. A little further on, you’ll find Manzanillo National Park, with stunning, secluded beaches and viewpoints. If you’re lucky, you might spot even more wildlife here.
Tip: Rent a scooter or bike—this is the easiest way to explore the hidden beaches and nature parks in the area.
Do you want to make the most of your visit to Cahuita National Park? Then visit the park with a guide to spot as many animals as possible.
2. Tortuguero: jungle and wildlife by boat
The journey to Tortuguero is an adventure in itself. From the harbor, you board a boat and spend over an hour traveling through narrow channels that cut through the jungle. With a bit of luck, you might spot crocodiles in the water, iguanas on the branches, herons along the shoreline, and brightly colored birds flying overhead. Cars don’t go here—everything is done by boat.
Once you arrive, Tortuguero feels like a world of its own. The village is small and surrounded by untouched nature. During the day, you can paddle through the national park in a canoe or take a jungle tour, where you might see sloths, monkeys, and perhaps even a jaguar. In the evening, you can join a guided night tour through the jungle, offering a great chance to spot snakes and other reptiles that become active after dark.
Fact: If you visit Tortuguero between July and October, you’re even luckier: this is the prime time when sea turtles lay their eggs on the beach.
Tip: Stay at least two nights so you have enough time for both a boat safari and a jungle hike.
3. Sarchí & Bajos del Toro: colorful and undiscovered
Sarchí is a colorful village known for its painted wooden carts and handicrafts. Tourists are few and far between here, giving you a true taste of local Costa Rica. In the narrow streets, you’ll find workshops, shops, and cozy restaurants where mostly locals gather.
The surroundings are stunning. In Bajos del Toro , you’ll find one of the country’s most beautiful waterfalls: the Blue Falls. Also located here is the impressive Catarata del Toro, set in a volcanic crater landscape teeming with brightly colored hummingbirds. A little further on is the Poás Volcano, where from the crater’s edge you can see a bright blue crater lake—bluer in reality than you could ever imagine.
TipThe easiest way to get around in Costa Rica is by rental car, especially if you’re short on time. You can also get (almost) everywhere by public transport, but it takes much longer and is far less comfortable.
4. Uvita: whales and waterfalls
On the Pacific coast lies Uvita, a village with a relaxed vibe and stunning nature. Its most famous spot is Marino Ballena National Park, where a sandbank in the shape of a whale’s tail appears at low tide. It’s no coincidence that this is also the place to see humpback whales—especially between July and November, and from December to April you have a great chance of spotting these magnificent creatures.
Besides the beach, Uvita boasts spectacular waterfalls. At Uvita Waterfall, you can literally slide down the rocks, and there’s a 3-meter-high jumping platform. In the nearby village of Dominical, a little further along, you’ll find the impressive Nauyaca Falls. This double waterfall lies deep in the jungle and is perfect for a refreshing dip after the hike to reach it.
Tip: Take water shoes with you to the waterfalls, as the rocks can be slippery.
Don’t have a hotel for your stay in Uvita yet? Book the best hotel in Uvita directly.
5. La Fortuna: adventure by the Arenal Volcano
Those seeking adventure head to La Fortuna. This village lies at the foot of the impressive Arenal Volcano, visible from almost every point in the area. The nature here is spectacular, and the options for tours are endless.
You can walk across hanging bridges high above the rainforest, soak in natural hot springs, or spot wildlife on the Bogarin Trail, where sloths hang leisurely in the trees. For a refreshing dip, head to El Salto, a river with natural rocks you can jump from.
Tip: Set aside at least three days for La Fortuna—there’s simply too much to do in just one day.
6. Tamarindo: surfing and sunsets
Tamarindo is one of Costa Rica’s most famous coastal towns, and you’ll notice it immediately. It’s lively, touristy, and full of cozy restaurants and bars. But don’t let that put you off—the atmosphere is fantastic, and the sunsets are perhaps the most beautiful in the entire country.
The long sandy beach is perfect for learning to surf, and surf shops and schools are found all over town. In the evening, you can enjoy street food from the food trucks at a great price or sip a delicious cocktail on the beach as the sun sets.
Tip: Even as a beginner, you can easily book a surf lesson here—the waves are perfect for newcomers.
7. Santa Teresa: surfer’s paradise
On the west coast lies Santa Teresa, a laid-back village that mainly attracts surfers and yoga enthusiasts. It’s not the easiest place to reach, and certainly not the cheapest for your wallet. But the reward is great, especially if you’re a true surfer: vast beaches, beautiful waves, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Tip: The buses to Santa Teresa can get quite crowded. Because of this, we had to stand or sit on the floor for the first part of the journey to the ferry. Book a shuttle to Santa Teresa here in advance.
8. Jacó: beach and nightlife
Want to combine beach time with nightlife? Then Jacó is the place to be. This village is popular with backpackers and Americans, and is full of bars, pubs, and clubs where the fun lasts late into the night.
The beach isn’t the most beautiful in Costa Rica, but it’s perfect for relaxing or taking a surf lesson. And, like almost everywhere in the country, you’re treated to a spectacular sunset at the end of the day.
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About us
Hi, we are Marlo and Tessa and have developed an enormous passion for traveling through our world trip in 2022. We like to share this with you through our adventures and tips, so that you too can make such an incredible trip.
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Currently in The Netherlands info@graduatedtravelers.com
Hi! Ben jij blij met onze gratis tips over de mooiste plekken op de wereld? En heeft het jou geholpen met jouw volgende reis? Trakteer ons dan op een kopje koffie door op de onderstaande knop te klikken. Wij waarderen dat enorm en zo kunnen wij nog veel meer handige tips en tricks schrijven in het bijzijn van een heerlijk bakje koffie ;) Bedankt!
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