22 Best Things To Do in Costa Rica with Kids (2024)
Costa Rica is known for its incredible biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and adventure activities. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or simply looking for some fun and excitement on your family vacation, there are plenty of adventure activities in Costa Rica to choose from. Below I’ve captured the most popular activities and where you can do them, but first the top 22 things that our family enjoyed doing in Costa Rica!
22 of the Best Things To Do on your Family Vacation in Costa Rica:
There is so much to see and do around the Arenal Volcano. The little town of La Fortuna has many hotels and activities for visitors, and this might be the most picturesque volcano I’ve ever seen! I snapped this picture as we were driving by on our way to the hotel, and I don’t think it knows how to take a bad picture. It looks like the model of a volcano that you might build in elementary school. The kids were in awe that we could actually see gas vapors coming out of the volcano!
2. Stay at Baldi Resort & Hot Springs (they have waterslides!)
This resort is ideal for a family with young kids since it has a splash park for the younger children, as well as some big thrill slides for the older kids and the adventurous adults. The big waterslides are pretty high speed so be prepared!! We looked at quite a few resorts in La Fortuna, and I don't think you can go too wrong with any of them, but Baldi Resort seemed like the best option for family travel. They have a nice restaurant, swim up bars, as well as the quick and easy buffet option. We saw lots of couples on romantic vacations, and it was an ideal setting for that too. The thermal pools which are heated by the volcano are just incredible. As you get higher up the mountain (within the resort) the water temperature gets hotter. It's awesome! They have cold plunge pools to cool down as well. With the warmer water you do need to be careful that the kids don't overheat, but since they spent most of their time going up and down the waterslides, it was perfect. We visited during the rainy season, and being in the hot pools during the rain was fantastic.
3. Take a tour with Don Tobias Horseback Riding Tours in La Fortuna
This guided tour takes you through the jungle at the base of the Arenal Volcano. The cowboys are very relaxed and the horses are well behaved and easy going. My 6 year old daughter and I did a 3 hour ride with another family of four with young kids (ages 6 & 8). The kids were well taken care of by guides, and the adults had so much fun. We were fortunate to see a few sloths in the trees, lots of birds, and the guide even showed us a picture of a jaguar he had seen on the trail a few weeks earlier. It was cloudy the day that we rode, so we didn't get a view of the Arenal Volcano during the ride, but it was an epic adventure nonetheless. We stopped for a snack and a break half way through, and were treated to fresh fruit at the end of the ride. You can just tell that Don Tobias is one of the responsible tour operators that isn't just looking for quantity of visitors. They care for their animals, and make sure everyone has the best possible experience.
4. Visit the Sloth Trail in La Fortuna
This is a lovely walking trail with very knowledgeable guides. We were able to see some sloths, lizards, and lots of exotic birds in their natural habitat! We really enjoyed the coffee tour as well. This spot will please kids of all ages.
5. Hike Rio de Celeste Waterfall (Tenorio Volcano National Park)
This is the most photographed waterfalls in Costa Rica. It’s beautiful blue color is stunning, and according to my 6 year old daughter, it is the most likely place for mermaids to live. This place definitely makes it on the must-do outdoor activities in Costa Rica. We had a great time! Be aware that there are a lot of stairs, so it’s not accessible to reach the viewing platform if you have mobility challenges.
7. Visit Rincon de Vieja Volcano National Parc (hike Las Pailas Trail)
This hiking trail is jam packed full of awesome sights! You will see boiling volcanic mud, volcanic vapors, a stream of boiling water, huge lava rocks, and the wildlife that lives in the forest that surrounds the volcano. There is an entrance fee to the National Park, but it is not necessary to have a guided tour. If you have your own vehicle, it's easy to get to, and if you are staying at Hacienda Guachipalin, there is a free shuttle to the park a few times per day.
8. Stay at Hacienda Guachipalin and visit the many waterfalls!
This hotel is an ideal place to stay for a few nights to enjoy everything they have to offer. The restaurants are good, the rooms and nice, and there are so many activities it would take a week to do them all! We only stayed two nights, and did a horse back riding tour to see two waterfalls (and swim in them!), we visited Rio Nego Hot Springs and Rio Negro Waterfalls (all 5 of them), and hikes the Las Pailas Trail in the National Park. With younger kids, all of the walking takes a bit longer, and each waterfall requires at least a 15-30 minute hike to get to it. Hacienda Guachipalin is popular for day passes for adventure activities like white water rafting, waterfall and canyon rapelling, ziplining, and horseback riding. The minimum age for most of the activities is 8-10 years old, so we were limited on what we could do in terms of organized tours, but there is still so much to explore, it was an ideal spot for us.
9. Go to Rio Negro Hot Springs for a volcanic mud experience
These natural hot springs is one of the most unique things we experienced. Costa Rica is full of natural wonders, and this one of the best ways to experience it. You take a short 5-10minute walk from the drop off/parking area, across a suspension bridge and over to the thermal pools. There is a natural river running through the area, as well as man made areas with naturally heated pools. There is a tour guide there, who will tell you to spend 5 minutes in the warm pool to open your pores, and then set you up with the volcanic mud. You get to spread it all over and then let it dry in the sun. You then rinse it off in the cold showers or river, before heading back to the thermal pools. The kids really loved this and it was a great experience for all of us!
10. Stay at Riu Guanacaste for the awesome waterslides
This is one of the only all inclusive resorts in Costa Rica. If you want simple, this is it! The hotel and location is idea to do lots of day trips within a few hours drive, and the beach and pool makes it perfect for a family trip.
11. Visit Diamante Eco Adventure Park to see the animals and do the cultural sugar/coffee/chocolate tour
This is a popular destination for costa rica family holidays! It is located right next to the Riu Guanacaste so if you are staying there it's very convenient. You can see some amazing wildlife up close, and have the opportunity to learn about Costa Rican culture. Young children will also love the ropes course that they have in the wildlife sanctuary. Make sure to give yourself extra time to enjoy that! It's one of the unique things you'll find here, that isn't listed on any of the tickets. They also have one of the longest superman ziplines in the country! My kids weren't heavy enough to do the zip lines at Diamante yet, but we loved hearing the thrill screams of those zipping overhead! The natural beauty of this area is incredible, and the views are worth the price of admission!
12. Visit the Congo Trail for the best family zipline experience
13. Visit Tamarindo
14. Stay at the Tamarindo Diria
15. Take a surf lesson in Tamarindo
16. Hike La Leona Waterfall (dry season)
This guided hike was one of the absolute highlights of our trip. The hike itself is not that long or strenuous (about 3 miles return trip), but it is interesting! You get to climb up rocks, and swim through canyons! The tour guide was excellent and so helpful with our kids. The kids wore lifejackets for the swimming sections as a safety precaution (even though they know how to swim), and those were provided for us and carried by the guide. The waterfall itself was beautiful and completely hidden in a rock cave. We got to swim in the waterfall pool and enjoy the moment as a family. This hike isn't going to work with very small children, even if you carry them the swimming parts might be tricky. The water is also a bit cold! The tour says that the minimum age is 4. My son was 4 and has done lots of hiking and he had the time of his life. We did this hike during the dry season (March 2023), so I think the current and water levels would make it more dangerous during the rainy season (May-November).
21. Have lunch at a Costa Rican soda!
22. Spend a day at the beach, the options are endless. Playa Blanca if you like to snorkel and want something out of the way. Playa Conchal or Playa Flamingo if you want more amenities!
I hope that list helps you to plan an epic family adventure in Costa Rica! I didn’t even touch on San Jose or the Caribbean side of this small country, so there is still more to explore. If you haven’t decided where you want to go in Costa Rica yet, but you want to know what there is to do… keep reading. You can find the activities below all over Costa Rica!
Zip Lining
Even your littlest family members can enjoy this classic Costa Rican adventure!
Zip lining is one of the most popular adventure activities in Costa Rica, and for good reason. It's a thrilling way to experience the rainforest canopy and take in breathtaking views. It’s fun for the whole family, and a great way to see wildlife while you are up in the trees!
There are many zip lining companies throughout Costa Rica, but some of the most popular include:
Arenal Volcano: Sky Trek, Arenal Mundo Aventura, and Ecoglide.
Monteverde: Selvatura Park, Extremo Canopy Tour, and Sky Adventures.
Manuel Antonio: MidWorld, Canopy Safari, and Titi Canopy Tour.
Guanacaste: Diamante Eco Park, Congo Trail, Monkey Jungle
White Water Rafting
Costa Rica is home to many fast-flowing rivers, making it a prime location for whitewater rafting. This adventure activity is perfect for thrill-seekers who want to experience the rush of adrenaline as they navigate rapids and cascades. This isn’t an activity for the little ones, but an epic adventure for a family with older kids!
Some of the best whitewater rafting destinations in Costa Rica include:
Pacuare River: This is the most popular river for rafting in Costa Rica, with Class III to V rapids. You can go with tour companies such as Rios Tropicales, Exploradores Outdoors, and Costa Rica Rios.
Sarapiquí River: This river is a great option for those seeking a less intense rafting experience. You can go with tour companies such as Aventuras del Sarapiquí and Wave Expeditions.
Tenorio River: This river has some of the best scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities, with Class III to IV rapids. You can go with tour companies such as Tenorio Adventures and Vida Aventura.
Surfing
Costa Rica is a world-renowned surfing destination, with warm water, consistent waves, and a variety of breaks to suit all skill levels. There are great instructors to be found, and it is truly an ideal location whether it is your very first time, or you are advanced. Some of the best surfing destinations in Costa Rica include:
Tamarindo: This is one of the most popular surf spots in Costa Rica, with a variety of breaks to suit all skill levels. You can go with tour companies such as Iguana Surf, Tamarindo Surf Academy, and Witch's Rock Surf Camp.
Nosara: This is a great option for beginners, with long, gentle waves. You can go with tour companies such as Nosara Surf Academy and Surf Simply.
Jacó: This is another popular surf spot with a variety of breaks. You can go with tour companies such as Jacó Surf School and School of the World.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Costa Rica is home to some of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in the world, making it a prime location for snorkeling and scuba diving. Some of the best spots to explore include:
Caño Island: This is one of the best locations for scuba diving in Costa Rica, with clear waters and a variety of marine life. You can go with tour companies such as Bahía Aventuras and Osa Divers.
Tortuga Island: This is a great option for snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters and a variety of colorful fish. You can go with tour companies such as Calypso Cruises and Pura Vida Water Sports.
Catalina Islands: This is another great location for scuba diving, with a varietyof marine life, including sharks, rays, and octopuses. You can go with tour companies such as Rocket Frog Divers and Pacific Coast Dive Center.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a great way to explore the waterways and coastlines of Costa Rica. You can paddle through mangrove forests, explore secluded beaches, and observe wildlife up close. The kids can grab a paddle and get involved, but its great fun for all ages!
Some of the best kayaking destinations in Costa Rica include:
Tortuguero National Park: This park is only accessible by boat or plane, and it's a great place to kayak through the canals and observe wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and birds. You can go with tour companies such as Tortuguero Adventures and Tortuguero Kayaking.
Manuel Antonio National Park: This is a great option for those looking for a combination of kayaking and snorkeling. You can paddle along the coastline and explore secluded beaches, then snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. You can go with tour companies such as Manuel Antonio Kayaking and Iguana Tours.
Lake Arenal: This lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Arenal Volcano. You can kayak along the shore and enjoy views of the volcano and the lush rainforest. You can go with tour companies such as Desafio Adventure Company and Arenal Adventures.
Horse Back Riding
Horseback riding is a popular way to explore the countryside and beaches of Costa Rica. You can ride through lush rainforests, along pristine beaches, through rural villages, and past waterfalls. Some of the best horseback riding destinations in Costa Rica include:
Guanacaste: This is a great option for those looking to explore the beaches of Costa Rica on horseback. You can ride along the coastline and enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean. You can go with tour companies such as Pura Aventura and Sea Horse Ranch.
Arenal Volcano: This is a great option for those looking to explore the rainforest on horseback. You can ride through the forest and enjoy views of the volcano. You can go with tour companies such as Arenal Mundo Aventura and The Riding Adventure.
Monteverde: This is a great option for those looking to explore the cloud forest on horseback. You can ride through the forest and enjoy views of the lush vegetation and abundant wildlife. You can go with tour companies such as Monteverde Horseback Riding and Rancho de Lelo.
Hiking
Costa Rica is home to many national parks and protected areas, making it a prime location for hiking. You can explore dense rainforests, climb volcanoes, and enjoy breathtaking views. This is one of our favorite family past times!
Some of the best hiking destinations in Costa Rica include:
Corcovado National Park: This park is home to some of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world, and hiking here is a great way to observe wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and tapirs. You can go with tour companies such as Corcovado Adventures and Osa Wild.
Arenal Volcano National Park: This park offers a variety of hiking trails with views of the volcano and the surrounding rainforest. You can go with tour companies such as Arenal Mundo Aventura and Sky Adventures.
Manuel Antonio National Park: This park offers a combination of hiking trails and beach access, making it a great option for those looking to combine hiking with relaxation. You can go with tour companies such as Manuel Antonio Expeditions and Tucanes Tours.
Wildlife Tours
Costa Rica is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and jaguars. Wildlife tours are a great way to observe these animals up close and learn about their habitats and behaviors. Some of the best wildlife tour destinations in Costa Rica include:
Corcovado National Park: This park is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, tapirs, and scarlet macaws. You can go with tour companies such as Osa Wild and Corcovado Adventures.
Tortuguero National Park: This park is home to sea turtles, monkeys, sloths, and a variety of birds. You can go with tour companies such as Tortuguero Adventures and Mawamba Tours.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: This reserve is home to many species of birds, including the resplendent quetzal, as well as monkeys, sloths, and other mammals. You can go with tour companies such as Monteverde Ecological Tours and Sky Adventures.
In addition to the activities listed above, there are many other adventure activities to explore in Costa Rica, such as bungee jumping, canyoning, mountain biking, and more. With so many options to choose from, it's important to plan your itinerary ahead of time and choose reputable tour companies to ensure your safety and enjoyment.
Some additional tips for planning your adventure activities in Costa Rica:
Check the weather: Costa Rica has a tropical climate, with a rainy season from May to November. Be sure to check the weather forecast before planning your activities.
Choose the right season: Some activities, such as whale watching and sea turtle nesting, are seasonal. Be sure to research the best time to visit for the activities you're interested in.
Choose reputable tour companies: Make sure to choose tour companies with a good reputation and a focus on safety and environmental responsibility.
Be prepared: Some activities, such as whitewater rafting and hiking, require a certain level of fitness and physical ability. Make sure to bring appropriate gear and be prepared for the activity you choose.
In conclusion, Costa Rica is a paradise for adventure activities, with a wide range of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a thrilling adrenaline rush or a more leisurely exploration of nature, there's something for everyone. With careful planning and the right tour companies, you can have an unforgettable adventure vacation in this beautiful country! Pura Vida!
