Family-Friendly Places to Visit in Costa Rica: A Guide to the Pura Vida Adventure

Are you looking for your next family adventure? Costa Rica is an exceptional destination for families, offering a perfect mix of adventure, wildlife, culture, and relaxation. Whether you're exploring lush rainforests, enjoying pristine beaches, or immersing yourselves in local culture, Costa Rica's diverse landscapes and family-friendly accommodations make it an ideal spot for a memorable family vacation. Below are some of the best places to visit in Costa Rica that offer something special for families traveling together.

1. Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna

For families seeking adventure and breathtaking natural beauty, the Arenal Volcano area is a must-visit. This iconic volcano offers an array of activities that will keep the whole family engaged.

Things to Do:

Arenal Hanging Bridges: Take a thrilling walk on the suspended bridges that offer stunning views of the rainforest canopy. The hanging bridges are relatively easy to navigate and give you the chance to spot wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, coati, snakes and colorful birds.

La Fortuna Waterfall: A short hike (with some stairs) takes you down to the impressive La Fortuna Waterfall. Families can swim in the cool, refreshing pool below the falls—a fun and memorable experience for kids and adults alike.

Hot Springs: After a day of adventure, relax in one of the many hot springs in the area, such as Baldi Hot Springs or Ecotermales. These natural thermal pools are perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

Why It’s Great for Families: The Arenal area offers both adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for families with kids of all ages. There are easy hikes, wildlife encounters, and soothing hot springs to unwind after exploring.

2. Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde is one of Costa Rica's most famous cloud forests, known for its misty atmosphere, biodiversity, and eco-friendly tourism. It’s an excellent destination for families looking to experience Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife in a peaceful, scenic setting.

Things to Do:

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: The reserve offers well-marked trails that are easy for families to navigate. You’ll see a variety of wildlife, including howler monkeys, quetzals, and exotic insects. Opt for a guided tour to enhance your experience and learn about the local flora and fauna.

Sky Walk & Sky Trek: If you’re seeking a bit of adventure, take the family on the Sky Walk, a series of hanging bridges that provide panoramic views of the forest. For a more adrenaline-pumping experience, try the Sky Trek zipline tour, which is one of the longest in the country.

Butterfly Garden and Hummingbird Garden: These interactive gardens are ideal for younger children, giving them the opportunity to learn about local species while enjoying beautiful displays of butterflies and hummingbirds.

Why It’s Great for Families: The Monteverde Cloud Forest combines outdoor exploration with educational experiences. It’s a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about nature in a fun and engaging way, while also offering activities that are safe and family-friendly.

3. Manuel Antonio National Park

One of Costa Rica's most beloved national parks, Manuel Antonio offers a little bit of everything—beautiful beaches, wildlife, hiking trails, and calm waters perfect for family swimming. It’s the perfect blend of nature and relaxation.

Things to Do:

Wildlife Watching: The park is teeming with wildlife, and kids will love spotting monkeys, sloths, toucans, and iguanas as they walk along the trails.

Beach Time: Manuel Antonio's beaches are family-friendly, with calm waves ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Playa Espadilla is a favorite, offering soft sand and gentle surf.

Hiking in the Park: The park has easy-to-moderate trails, including one that leads to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It’s a great opportunity for families to stretch their legs and explore the tropical forest.

Why It’s Great for Families: Manuel Antonio is a great place to mix relaxation with outdoor activities. Families can spend the day enjoying the beach, hiking through the rainforest, and spotting wildlife—all while staying within a manageable, short distance from one another.

4. Tortuguero National Park

Known as the "Amazon of Costa Rica," Tortuguero is a remote and unique destination that feels like a different world. Located on the Caribbean coast, this park is a haven for wildlife and one of the best places in the world to watch sea turtles nesting.

Things to Do:

Boat Tours: The primary way to explore Tortuguero is by boat. Take a guided boat tour through the park's winding canals to spot wildlife such as caimans, monkeys, turtles, and a variety of bird species.

Turtle Nesting Tours: If visiting during nesting season (typically from July to October), families can take a night tour to see sea turtles nesting on the beach. It's an awe-inspiring experience, especially for older children who appreciate nature’s wonders.

Tortuguero Village: Spend some time exploring the charming village of Tortuguero, where you can learn about local culture and the importance of sea turtle conservation.

Why It’s Great for Families: Tortuguero offers a sense of adventure and a deep connection to nature. It’s a slower-paced destination that’s perfect for families looking to unplug, enjoy the outdoors, and witness incredible wildlife in action.

5. Guanacaste & The Pacific Coast

For families looking to spend more time relaxing on beautiful beaches, the Guanacaste region on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is a fantastic choice. With its sunny weather, clear waters, and variety of family-friendly resorts, Guanacaste offers a great balance of relaxation and adventure.

Things to Do:

Playas del Coco & Playa Hermosa: These beaches are calm, beautiful, and perfect for families with kids. You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply building sandcastles by the shore.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park: For families who enjoy hiking and adventure, Rincón de la Vieja National Park offers volcanic activity, hot springs, waterfalls, and wildlife. The park has a variety of family-friendly trails and adventure activities such as horseback riding and zip-lining.

Wildlife Watching at Hacienda El Viejo: Take the family on a boat tour through the estuaries of Hacienda El Viejo, where you can spot crocodiles, monkeys, and tropical birds.

Why It’s Great for Families: Guanacaste has a range of family-friendly activities, including both active excursions and laid-back beach days. It’s perfect for families who want to spend their days enjoying the sun, sand, and surf.

6. Puerto Viejo & The Caribbean Coast

For families looking for a more laid-back, cultural experience, Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast offers a slower pace with vibrant local culture and stunning natural beauty. Puerto Viejo is a small, colorful town surrounded by pristine beaches and tropical rainforest.

Things to Do:

Cahuita National Park: This park offers easy, family-friendly trails and some of the best snorkeling in Costa Rica. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds.

Jaguar Rescue Center: Take the family to the Jaguar Rescue Center, where you can see and learn about rescued animals, including sloths, monkeys, and reptiles. It’s educational and fun for kids of all ages.

Relax at the Beaches: Puerto Viejo’s beaches are perfect for families. Playa Cocles is known for its soft sand and gentle waves, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing with kids.

Why It’s Great for Families: Puerto Viejo is a quieter, more laid-back option compared to other parts of Costa Rica. The Caribbean coast offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation with a focus on cultural immersion and wildlife experiences.

Final Thoughts

Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes and family-friendly activities make it a top destination for families looking to explore the wonders of nature. From the misty cloud forests of Monteverde to the golden beaches of Guanacaste, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant country. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures, wildlife encounters, or simply some quality family time on the beach, Costa Rica delivers an unforgettable vacation experience. Pura Vida!

Thanks for reading!

The Wild Wonders Family