Are you looking for a wonderful place to take your family for their next holiday? Costa Rica is becoming increasingly popular among families. With its stunning views, friendly locals, and abundance of activities, it’s easy to see why!
Situated between two oceans and surrounded by lush rainforests, Costa Rica is developing into an ideal destination for both eco-tourists and those seeking a relaxing getaway. As the Latin American country continues to grow in popularity with travelers, as evident in the vibrant cultural scene that can be found throughout its cities.
Costa Rica offers something for everyone; from beach-hopping to white water rafting or from exploring ancient ruins to spotting wildlife in its many national parks. There’s plenty of adventure for all the family here; making it one of the most exciting places for parents and children alike this summer holidays!
Enjoy Your Special Bonding Time with the Family in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is an ideal destination for family vacations. With its pristine wilderness and ecotourism system, families can explore cloud forests, tropical jungles, and sunny beaches. To help you plan your next trip, here are the top 12 destinations to visit in Costa Rica for a family vacation.
1. Arenal Volcano National Park
Arenal Volcano National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Located in Costa Rica, the park offers a variety of activities to explore its natural wonders. Families can take advantage of guided tours that provide activities suitable for all ages, such as hiking around the volcano, boating in Lake Arenal, nature walking and wildlife spotting, swimming, and waterfall rappelling, and exploring the Venado Caves. For those looking to relax after a day of exploration, nearby hot springs resorts offer pools equipped with water slides. The Springs Resort and Spa is an excellent choice for families looking for a one-stop shop of hot springs, adventure, fine dining, and relaxation with spectacular views of the Arenal volcano.
The Club Rio Outdoor Center provides more adventurous activities like river tubing and horseback riding. There’s also an animal sanctuary featuring big cats, monkeys, sloths, and more. After a full day of fun in the sun guests can enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.
2. Sarapiquí
Sarapiquí is a popular destination for adventure travel, located at the mouth of the Sarapiquí River in Costa Rica. It offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from rafting and visiting chocolate plantations and farm tours to wildlife tours, hiking, and horseback riding. The area is home to some of Costa Rica’s most stunning natural attractions such as Braulio Carrillo National Park and Tirimbina Biological Reserve.
The national park is known for its lush rainforest trails that lead to breathtaking waterfalls and rivers. Visitors can also explore the diverse wildlife that inhabits the park, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, parrots, frogs, and more. The Tirimbina Biological Reserve is another great spot for nature lovers – it has over 400 species of birds as well as reptiles and amphibians. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of opportunities to take part in local cultural activities such as cooking classes or visiting nearby coffee plantations.
3. Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is a stunning destination located south of San Jose, Costa Rica. It is home to a lush tropical jungle, palm-lined beaches, spectacular coral reefs, and mangroves. The park offers a variety of land and sea adventures for visitors to enjoy, including zip lining, horseback riding, and canoeing. Nearby Quepos is a quaint town with plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy.
The park features trails that lead to beaches and viewpoints where visitors can spot sloths, monkeys, frogs, snakes, deer, and more. Hiking the national park can be done in one day and is an amazing way to explore the area’s diverse wildlife. There are also plenty of opportunities for swimming in the crystal clear waters or sunbathing on the white sand beaches. Manuel Antonio National Park is truly a paradise for nature lovers!
4. Tortuguero
Tortuguero is a great destination for a Costa Rican family vacation, offering excellent ecotourism opportunities and the chance to search for nesting sea turtles. Tortuguero National Park spans 77,000 acres and is often referred to as the Costa Rican version of the Amazon rainforest. A 7-day tour is a great way to discover this unique environment, with activities such as turtle viewing, hiking in Cerro Tortuguero, exploring the Caribbean Conservation Corporation Visitor’s Center and Museum, and fishing, birdwatching, and boating tours in the canals. April and May are the best times to see turtles nesting along the shoreline but there is wildlife to be seen year-round. Get Your Guide offers three-day guided tours of the national park for around $462 USD while Aracari Garden Hostel provides comfortable accommodation nearby.
Tortuguero National Park is an ideal place for nature lovers looking for an unforgettable experience. The park’s lush vegetation and diverse wildlife make it a great destination for families looking to explore the wonders of Costa Rica.
5. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a lush and vibrant ecosystem located in Costa Rica. It is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the canopy of the cloud forest on hanging bridges and zip lines, or take a hike or horseback ride through the area. There are also many attractions to visit such as the Butterfly Garden, Bat Jungle, Orchid Garden, and Frog Pond Ranario.
Suspending yourself in the tree canopy of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is an unforgettable experience. You can take in all of the sights, sounds, and smells of nature while admiring its beauty from above. The hummingbird garden is also a must-see attraction where you can have one of these brightly colored birds pause on your finger. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, Selvatura Adventure Park offers one of the longest and highest zip lines in the world! With so much to do, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a great destination for families looking to explore the wonders of Costa Rica.
6. Cahuita
Cahuita is a small village on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica with a strong Afro-Caribbean heritage. Located near the Cahuita National Park, it is an hour north of Puerto Viejo and offers visitors spectacular coral reefs and pristine rainforests. The 15-day tour takes visitors to all of Costa Rica’s highlights including Cahuita National Park, where they can enjoy activities such as hiking, snorkeling, visiting the Sloth Sanctuary, and swimming and relaxing on the beaches.
The region is known for its Afro-Caribbean influences which can be seen in the food and local culture. Estilo Hostel Hakuna Matata is a great place to stay in Cahuita with plenty of outdoor common space, a pool, and hammocks. It’s also close to the beach so you can easily explore all that this unique destination has to offer. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Cahuita has something for everyone. It’s a great destination for families looking to explore the wonders of Costa Rica.
7. Osa Peninsula
The Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica is a stunningly beautiful and untouched paradise. With its lush rainforests, bays, beaches, and rivers, it is the perfect destination for nature lovers looking to explore and experience something truly unique. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, wildlife tours, snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, boat tours, and rappelling. The area is home to some of Costa Rica’s most spectacular national parks and reserves including Corcovado National Park, Piedras Blancas National Park, Campanario Biological Reserve, Caño Island Biological Reserve, and Drake Bay.
Costa Rica also boasts 800 miles of pristine shoreline on both the Pacific and Caribbean sides with popular beaches like Tamarindo in Guanacaste Province for surfing and spotting sea turtles. The country takes great care to protect its national parklands and beaches so visitors can be sure that their experience will remain unspoiled for years to come. With its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and wide range of activities, the Osa Peninsula is a great destination for families looking to explore the wonders of Costa Rica.
8. San Jose
San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital, is a vibrant city full of culture and attractions. Visitors can explore Irazu Volcano National Park, shop in Mercado Central, and take a gastronomic tour in Barrio Escalante. Tourists can also visit the National Theatre, National Museum, pre-Columbian Gold Museum, National Children’s Museum, Parque Diversiones Amusement Park, INBioparque (National Biodiversity Institute), and The Insect Museum.
For those looking for a more peaceful experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, San Isidro is an ideal destination. This small town is known for its agricultural center and excellent birding opportunities. Tourists can explore Los Quetzales National Park, Chirripó National Park, Cloudbridge Nature Reserve, and Nayaca Waterfalls. Hikers can take a tour from San Isidro to Piedras Blancas and climb Mount Chirrip ó, the highest peak in Costa Rica.
9. San Isidro
San Isidro is a small town located in Costa Rica, known for its agricultural center and excellent birding opportunities. Tourists can explore the nearby Los Quetzales National Park, Chirripó National Park, Cloudbridge Nature Reserve, and Nayaca Waterfalls. Hikers can take a tour from San Isidro to Piedras Blancas and climb Mount Chirripo in Chirripó National Park.
The vibrant culture of San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital city, is also worth exploring. Visit Irazu Volcano National Park, Mercado Central, and Barrio Escalante. Take a tour of the National Theatre, National Museum, pre-Columbian Gold Museum, National Children’s Museum, Parque Diversiones Amusement Park, INBioparque (National Biodiversity Institute), and The Insect Museum. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay in San Isidro!
10. Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Rincon de la Vieja National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most popular national parks. Located in the Guanacaste province, this park is home to a variety of wildlife and vegetation. The park covers an area of over 12,000 hectares and includes cloud forests, swamps, coral reefs, dry forests, and rainforests. It is also home to a number of active volcanoes including the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano.
The park offers visitors a wide range of activities such as hiking, bird watching, horseback riding, and swimming in natural hot springs. There are also several trails that lead to waterfalls and other attractions such as the Las Pailas Trail which leads to bubbling mud pots and fumaroles. Visitors can also explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna with knowledgeable guides who can help spot wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, toucans, and iguanas. With its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, Rincon de la Vie ja National Park is a great destination for families looking for an unforgettable holiday experience.
11. Nicoya Peninsula
The Nicoya Peninsula is a stunning destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of Costa Rica. Located on the Pacific Coast, this 80-mile stretch of coastline offers plenty of opportunities for land-based exploration and water sports. From surfing in Malpais, Samara, Tamarindo, and Montezuma to kayaking, boating, and paddle boarding, there’s something for everyone.
Turtle watching at Las Baulas National Marine Park or snorkeling on Tortuga Island are also popular activities here. For those looking for an adventure, the untouched rainforests, bays, beaches, and rivers of the Osa Peninsula offer plenty of activities such as hiking, wildlife tours, snorkeling, scuba diving, and boat tours. Adrenaline seekers can go rappelling at San Pedrillo Waterfalls or La Llorona Waterfall for an unforgettable experience. With its diverse range of activities and stunning landscapes, the Nicoya Peninsula is sure to be a hit with families looking for an unforgettable holiday.
Stress-Free Costa Rica for Family Travel
Costa Rica is the perfect destination for families looking to take their first international trip with kids. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture, Costa Rica offers a unique and exciting experience for all ages. To make your family vacation even more stress-free, Costa Rican Vacations provides an experienced travel experienced team to assist you with any emergency or request. Last-minute tours, special items, and helpful advice can be requested from the team. Knowing that your family is in safe hands will make your trip less stressful and more enjoyable.
Make This Your Best Vacation Ever…You Deserve It!
Planning a family vacation to Costa Rica can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture, Costa Rica is the perfect destination for families looking for a unique adventure. To make sure your trip is as enjoyable as possible, it’s important to plan ahead and prepare for any potential issues that may arise. Our tips on Costa Rica for families will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful country.
We have created an exciting one-week itinerary in Costa Rica specifically designed with young kids in mind. From exploring the Arenal Volcano National Park to visiting the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.
Before all, Choose the Right Destination
Choosing the right destination for a family vacation can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why we offer stress-free travel for families with access to 24/7 customer service and unbiased advice. Our team can help you choose the best accommodations in Costa Rica for families, from large resorts to boutique eco-resorts. We’ll work with you to create a unique experience that will satisfy your entire travel group.
Costa Rica is an ideal destination for families looking for adventure and relaxation. With its diverse landscapes and kid-approved activities, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country. Luxury hotels guarantee safety, comfort, and peace of mind while providing access to stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities. Whether you are looking for an all-inclusive resort or a more intimate setting, our team can help you find the perfect place to stay during your family vacation in Costa Rica.
1. Book in Advance
When traveling with kids, spontaneity is not always the best option. It’s important to book and plan ahead of time in order to ensure a successful vacation. Arriving in a town without any hotel vacancies can be a nightmare, especially when you have children in tow. Booking your accommodations in advance will help you avoid this situation and give you peace of mind that your family will have somewhere comfortable to stay during your trip.
Advance booking also allows you to take advantage of discounts and special offers that may not be available if you wait until the last minute. You can also research different hotels and attractions before making your reservations so that you can make sure they are suitable for your family’s needs. Planning ahead also gives you more time to save up for your vacation, which is especially important if you’re on a budget. Taking the time to book in advance will help make sure that your family has an enjoyable and stress-free vacation experience.
2. Take Your Time
Traveling can be a stressful experience, especially when you’re trying to fit too much into a limited amount of time. To make the most of your journey, it’s important to take your time and not overpack the itinerary. Allow yourself and your family to explore and experience the journey at their own pace. Delays, traffic, and missed connections are inevitable when traveling, so give yourself some extra time in case of any unexpected delays.
When deciding when to travel, take into account the weather so that everyone in your family will be comfortable during your trip. The Caribbean coast is hottest and most humid from December to April, while the Pacific coast is driest during this time. The mountainous regions can be chilly, especially at night, so consider traveling during the warmer months of May to November if you plan to spend time in the mountains.
3. Pack Important Items
When packing for a trip to Costa Rica, it is important to remember to bring along some essential items. A special blanket or favorite book can provide comfort and familiarity in an unfamiliar environment. Snack foods are also important, especially if you have a picky eater. If there is a specific brand of diaper or other goods that your child needs, make sure to check with us in advance so we can ensure it is available.
It’s also helpful to create an activity bag for children to take on trips. This should include standby favorites like busy books and handheld game systems as well as the latest diversions to keep kids entertained. Many areas of Costa Rica have stores and supermarkets that carry imported goods, but not all brands and not all goods, so it’s best to come prepared with activities for your little ones.
4. Buy What You Can Locally
When traveling to Costa Rica, it is important to buy what you can locally. This will help reduce the number of items that need to be brought from home and save on packing space. Common items such as diapers, baby wipes, antibacterial gel, sippy cups, and coloring books can all be found in most stores throughout the country. There are also plenty of snacks available in supermarkets for those looking to try something new.
Accommodations in Costa Rica range from large luxurious resorts to boutique eco-resorts, hotels, and lodges. Our team can work with you to create a unique experience that meets the needs of your entire travel group. Whether you’re looking for an adventure filled with outdoor activities or a relaxing stay at a beachfront resort, there is something for everyone in Costa Rica. With its diverse landscapes and a wide variety of accommodations, it is easy to find something that suits your family’s needs perfectly.
6. Ready an Activity Bag
Creating an activity bag for children to take on trips is a great way to keep them entertained and engaged during long journeys. It’s important to include standby favorites like busy books, handheld game systems, and other diversions that will keep kids occupied. When packing the activity bag, it’s best to pack lightly but remember to bring any special items that your child needs. If there are certain brand-name goods that are not available in Costa Rica, consider bringing them along with you. To ensure that you have all of the necessary items for your trip, it’s best to verify with us in advance if there is a specific item or brand that you need.
By preparing an activity bag ahead of time, you can make sure that your child has plenty of fun activities and entertainment options while traveling. This will help make the journey more enjoyable for everyone involved and ensure that your child stays engaged throughout the entire trip.
7. Pack the Tablet
When packing a tablet for a family trip, it’s important to consider the age of the children who will be using it. Downloading age-appropriate apps can help keep kids engaged and entertained during long car rides or layovers. Movies are also great for keeping kids occupied, so make sure to load up the tablet with some of their favorite films.
In addition to pre-loaded content, parents should also create an activity bag for their children to take on trips. This should include standby favorites like busy books and handheld game systems as well as the latest diversions that will keep kids entertained.
8. Be Prepared for Costa Rican Weather
Costa Rica is known for its beautiful tropical climate, but the weather can be unpredictable. It’s important to pack clothes that are appropriate for the varying temperatures you may encounter. Bring layers and cozy pajamas if you plan on traveling to higher elevations, as it can get quite chilly at night. Don’t forget to bring plenty of ocean-friendly sunblock for beach trips, as the sun in Costa Rica can be very strong.
It’s also important to know what currency is accepted in Costa Rica before your trip. The official currency is Colones, but US dollars and major credit cards are widely accepted. Make sure your bank or credit card company knows you will be out of the country so they don’t freeze your accounts while you’re away. Have some Colones on hand for tipping and dining at local restaurants that don’t accept credit cards or US dollars.
9. Embrace a Routine
Routine is an important part of life, especially for children. It helps them to feel safe and secure, and it can be disrupted when traveling. To help families maintain their routine while on vacation, many tours offer morning and afternoon departures to accommodate family schedules. This allows parents to plan the day around their children’s needs and ensure that they get enough rest and have time for activities that they enjoy.
In addition, hotels may have check-in or check-out times that don’t fit with a family’s routine. In these cases, it is possible to request early check-in or late check-out so that the family can stick to their normal schedule. This can make a big difference in helping children adjust to the new environment and ensuring that everyone has a pleasant experience on vacation.
10. Involve Your Kids in Planning
Planning a family trip to Costa Rica is an exciting adventure that can be made even more fun by involving the kids in the pre-planning. Setting the scene and letting them pick at least one activity will make them feel like they are part of the process. Costa Rica offers a variety of activities for all ages, from nature hikes and animal sanctuaries to white water rafting and ziplining. Choose tours that will wear out the kids, such as zip lines, whitewater rafting, hikes, etc., so they can experience all that this kid-friendly paradise has to offer.
Cliff jumping off the waterfalls of Manuel Antonio is an adrenaline-pumping activity for older kids, teens, and adults. When researching companies that offer ziplining experiences, make sure they are reputable and safe, and that your kids are comfortable with heights. Surfing is another great activity for kids as young as five in Costa Rica; private surf lessons.
10 Reasons Why Every Parent Should Consider A Trip To Costa Rica
- Incredible Wildlife: Costa Rica is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, from sloths and monkeys to toucans and iguanas. You can explore the rainforest with your family and spot some of these amazing creatures in their natural habitat!
- Adventure Activities: Costa Rica offers plenty of adventure activities for the whole family, such as white water rafting, zip-lining, and hiking. There are also plenty of opportunities to go horseback riding, surfing, or kayaking.
- Beautiful Beaches: Costa Rica has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax or an exciting beach with plenty of activities, you’ll find it here!
- Delicious Cuisine: Costa Rica is known for its delicious cuisine. From traditional dishes like gallo pinto to fresh seafood, there’s something for everyone here.
- Friendly Locals: The people of Costa Rica are incredibly friendly and welcoming. You’ll be sure to feel right at home as you explore the country with your family!
- Affordable Accommodation: There are plenty of affordable accommodation options in Costa Rica, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. You’ll be sure to find something that suits your family’s needs and budget.
- Safety: Costa Rica is a very safe country, making it an ideal destination for families. The crime rate is low and the locals are friendly and welcoming.
- Easy Accessibility: Costa Rica is easily accessible from the US and Canada, making it a great option for families who don’t want to travel too far.
- Variety of Activities: Costa Rica offers something for everyone; from beach-hopping to white water rafting or from exploring ancient ruins to spotting wildlife in its many national parks.
- Quality Time Together: A trip to Costa Rica is the perfect opportunity for families to spend quality time together. You can explore the country’s stunning landscapes, enjoy delicious cuisine, and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Costa Rica Summary
Overall, Costa Rica is an ideal destination for families looking for a fun and exciting holiday. With its incredible wildlife, adventure activities, beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, friendly locals, affordable accommodation options, safety, and easy accessibility; it’s the perfect place to make memories that will last a lifetime!
