Costa Rica is one of the most stunning countries in the world, and not just because of its stunning beaches. Costa Rica is also home to some amazing places to visit, from bustling capital cities to scenic coffee plantations. In this article, we will list 10 of the best places to visit in Costa Rica, based on our own personal experiences and opinions. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled trip, be sure to check out these amazing places in Costa Rica!
Arenal Volcano National Park
The Arenal Volcano National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Central Valley of Costa Rica. The park was created in 1951 and covers an area of 1,950 hectares. It is one of the most visited national parks in Costa Rica with over 350,000 visitors annually. The park features a variety of habitats including cloud forest, dry forest, and rainforest. The Arenal Volcano is the main attraction of the park and towers to an altitude of 3,749 meters above sea level. The volcano is considered inactive but still poses a threat to nearby towns and villages. Tours of the volcano are available through the park's official website.
How to reach
To reach Arenal Volcano National Park in Costa Rica, travelers can fly into Liberia or San Jose, both located within an hour's drive from the park. Visitors can also take bus or taxi trips from either city. From Liberia, visitors can take a bus to La Fortuna and then catch a shuttle to the park. From San Jose, visitors can take a bus to Turrialba and then catch a shuttle to the park. There are several companies that offer flights into the park.
Find your perfect stay
There are a few places to stay near Arenal Volcano National Park in Costa Rica. You can choose from camping and cabin rentals, or find hotels near the park. If you're looking for a more rustic camping experience, you can try camping grounds in the nearby towns of La Fortuna or San Jacinto. Both have restaurants and shopping close by. A popular option for staying near Arenal is the Santa Elena Eco Lodge. This lodge has a variety of rooms to choose from, including ones with views of the volcano. You can also take guided hikes and safaris around the park.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica and for good reason. With its lush rainforest, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic mountains, this park has something for everyone.
The park is divided into two sections: the lower section (below sea level) contains more beaches and forests while the upper section is drier with more open areas perfect for hiking or cycling. There are also several small waterfalls and creeks to explore.
Some of the best attractions in Manuel Antonio National Park are La Fortuna waterfall, Refugio La Mariposa butterfly sanctuary, Playa Hermosa beach, and El Silencio cave. Each offers a unique experience that's hard to find anywhere else in Costa Rica.
How to reach
There are a few ways to reach Manuel Antonio National Park. The most popular way is by car from San Jose or Liberia. You can also fly into Jorge Newbery Airport and take a taxi or rent a car. If you're traveling on a budget, bus routes 11 and 12 offer inexpensive transportation options that will take you directly to the park entrance.
Find your perfect stay
When planning your visit to Manuel Antonio National Park, be sure to consider staying close by. Below are some of the best places to stay near the park.
1. The Manuel Antonio Resort is located just outside the park and offers beautiful views of the ocean.
2. The Manuel Antonio Lodge is also located just outside the park and features a variety of accommodations, including cabins and villas.
3. The Best Western El Presidente is a popular choice for those looking for affordable accommodation close to the park.
4. La Vida Hotel is another great option for those looking for a more luxurious stay. This hotel features a pool and spa, as well as on-site dining options.
Tortuga Bay National Park
Tortuga Bay National Park is one of Costa Rica's most-visited parks and for good reason. The bay itself is a beautiful turquoise color and the surrounding area is lush and green. There are many hiking trails throughout the park, as well as a few beaches where you can relax. The best time to visit Tortuga Bay National Park is during the dry season, from May to November. During the wet season (December to April), the water is too muddy to hike through
How to reach
To reach Tortuga Bay National Park, Costa Rica, travelers can fly into San José or Liberia airports. From either airport, visitors can take a taxi or bus to the park entrance. Alternatively, visitors can rent a car and drive to the park. The drive is approximately five hours from San José or Liberia.
Find your perfect stay
There are a number of places to stay near Tortuga Bay National Park in Costa Rica. One option is to stay at the Tortuga Bay Lodge, which is located just outside of the park. This lodge offers a variety of amenities, including a pool and spa, as well as free WiFi and breakfast. Another option is to stay at the Pirate's Cove Resort, which is also located near the park. This resort offers a variety of amenities, including a pool, spa, and kayaks for exploring the bay.\
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is located in the Talamanca Mountains of southwestern Costa Rica. The reserve protects an area of more than 5,000 acres and contains more than 2,000 species of trees and plants. The reserve is also home to over 200 species of mammals, including ocelots, tapirs, monkeys, and jaguars. Visitors to the reserve can hike through the forest or take aguided tour. There are also several lodgings within the reserve that offer views of the forest and its animals.
How to reach
To reach Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica, visitors can take a variety of transportation options. The most common way to get to the park is by car. However, there are also many alternatives for traveling to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. There are buses that run from San Jose, Palenque and other nearby cities. Visitors can also fly into Liberia Airport and take a taxi or bus to the park. For those who want to stay closer to the reserve, accommodations can be found in nearby towns such as Arenal, La Fortuna or Santa Elena de Heredia.
Find you perfect stay
There are a few places to stay near the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve that offer beautiful views of the rainforest. La Casa de Moneda is located in the town of Monteverde and offers rooms with views of the reserve or even access to the forest itself. The lodge also has a restaurant and bar, as well as a pool and a spa. Another option is the Hotel Playa Negra, which is also in Monteverde. It has rooms with views of either the ocean or the rainforest, as well as a pool and a Spa. If you're looking for something more budget-friendly, there are plenty of options available as well. The best option for backpackers would be to stay at one of the hostels in town. These range from inexpensive options like the Backpackers Hostel Monteverde to more expensive options like the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel Monteverde Resort and Spa.
La Fortuna Waterfalls
Located in the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica, La Fortuna Waterfalls are a must-see attraction for any traveler to the country. The falls flow over a series of limestone cliffs, dropping more than 50 feet into a small basin below. The trails leading to the falls are well-maintained and easy to follow, making it a great destination for all levels of hikers. Visitors can enjoy both the views from the top of the falls as well as the refreshingly cool water below.
How to reach
To reach La Fortuna Waterfalls, Costa Rica, travelers can take a bus from San José or Liberia. From either city, take the San José-Liberia bus line and ask to be taken to La Fortuna. The trip takes around three hours and costs $6 USD. From La Fortuna, visitors can hike to the falls or take a shuttle back to town.
Find your perfect stay
If you're looking for a place to stay near La Fortuna Waterfalls, Costa Rica, you'll want to consider staying in the town of San José. There are a number of options available, from budget hotels to more upscale options. If you're looking for something a bit more luxurious, you can check out some of the resorts in the area. Alternatively, if you're happy with a more basic accommodation, there are plenty of cabins and hostels available in San José as well.
Jaco Beach
Jaco Beach is located in the middle of the Nicoya Peninsula and has been known for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush vegetation. The beach is also known for its tranquility and its many relaxations options such as yoga, snorkeling, fishing, and reading. There are several hotels located on the beachfront so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Jaco Beach is a great place to relax and recharge your batteries.
How to reach
Jaco Beach is a beautiful, secluded beach located about two hours from San José. The best way to get there is by car or bus. You can find detailed information on getting to Jaco Beach on the Costa Rica Tourism Board website. Once you're at the beach, be sure to check out the stunning views of La Fortuna and Arenal volcanoes.
Find your perfect stay
If you are looking for a place to stay close to Jaco Beach, Costa Rica, there are many options available. Some of the best places to stay include the La Casa de Piedra hotel and the La Casa del Mar resort. Both of these resorts offer beautiful views of the ocean and are within walking distance of the beach. If you are looking for a more affordable option, consider staying at one of the many guesthouses in Jaco Beach.
Tamarindo Playa
Tamarindo Playa is a beautiful, serene beach located in the Riviera Nayarit region of Costa Rica. The stunning coastline stretches for over 10 kilometers and offers crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Windsurfing, parasailing, and jet skiing are also popular activities here. Tamarindo Playa also features several restaurants and bars, as well as a variety of shops.
How to reach
If you're looking for a beach escape in Costa Rica, look no further than Tamarindo Playa. This secluded spot is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. To get to Tamarindo Playa, take the bus from San Jose or Liberia. The ride will take around two hours and the cost is around $5-$7 USD. Once you arrive in Tamarindo, it's easy to find the beach. Just follow the signs down the street. There's also a taxi stand near the beach if you need to get back to town quickly.
Find your perfect stay
If you're looking for a place to stay near Tamarindo Playa, Costa Rica, there are a few options available. One option is to stay in a villa or condo with views of the ocean. Another option is to stay in town and enjoy all that the coastal town has to offer. There are also a number of hotels and resorts located close by, all with their own unique amenities and prices. Whatever your choice, make sure to check out the Tamarindo Playa website for more information on what's available and how to get there.
San Jose del Carmen
If you're looking for a romantic getaway, look no further than San Jose del Carmen in Costa Rica. This small town is home to stunning beaches and lush rainforest, and is perfect for couples looking for a relaxing getaway. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking. Thescenesincostarica.com recommends checking out the Botanical Gardens, which offer a variety of natural exhibits. If you're in the mood for some serious relaxation, consider staying at one of the luxurious resorts in the area.
How to reach
To reach San Jose del Carmen, Costa Rica, travelers can fly into the Juan Santamaria International Airport. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or bus to the city. Alternatively, visitors can take the Metro or a shuttle service to get to the city. There are also many hotels and tourist destinations in San Jose del Carmen that travelers can visit.
Find your perfect stay
If you're looking for a place to stay in San Jose del Carmen, Costa Rica, there are a few places to consider. The first is the Casa de Campo Hotel. This hotel is located just a few minutes from the center of town and has a variety of rooms and suites to choose from. Another option is the Hotel Matapalo. This hotel is newer and cleaner than many of the other options in town, and it also offers a pool and gardens to enjoy. Finally, if price is a concern, consider staying at one of the hostels in town. These hostels can be cheaper than some of the hotels, but they may not offer as much amenities.
The Sacred Valley of Orosi
The Sacred Valley of Orosi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Costa Rica. The valley is home to the Orosi Temple, one of the most important religious sites in Central America. The temple was built by the Kuna people in the 15th century and is dedicated to the god Oros. The valley is also home to many other archeological treasures, including an ancient city and a temple dedicated to the goddess Golomé.
How to reach
To reach the Sacred Valley of Orosi, Costa Rica, travelers will need to take a flight to San Jose and then head east on Highway 1. From there, it is only a few hours drive to the valley. Visitors can stay in local hostels or pensions or campgrounds. The Sacred Valley is home to many attractions, such as the impressive Pico de Orión and the ancient villages of Orosi and San José de La Laguna.
Find your perfect stay
If you're looking for a place to stay in the Sacred Valley of Orosi, Costa Rica, consider staying in one of the following nearby towns: San Jose de la Frontera, La Fortuna de Talamanca, or Monteverde. All three towns are located within easy driving distance of the valley and offer a variety of accommodation options, from budget motels to luxurious resorts.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a place to getaway and relax, Costa Rica is definitely the perfect destination. Not only is it filled with stunning natural beauty, but the people are warm and welcoming too. From hiking in Volcan Arenal to enjoying fresh seafood in Manuel Antonio, there are plenty of activities and attractions to choose from when visiting Costa Rica. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today!
