Things to do in Costa Rica

When it comes to things to do in Costa Rica, exploring the country’s diverse wildlife undoubtedly takes the top spot. Brushed by the Caribbean Sea and encompassed by a 19,000-hectare national park, Tortuguero should be the first stop on your itinerary. A significant nesting site for green sea turtles, this is the best place to see these tough-shelled creatures as they come to the beach to lay their eggs.

Over on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, the Osa Peninsula is home to some of the most wildlife-rich rainforests in the world. If you embark on a hiking tour through Corcovado National Park, you’ll be able to spot sloths, monkeys, toucans and macaws, along with countless other animals.

And, if you have time to spare, Ballena Marine National Park is the place to go to see bottlenose dolphins and humpback whales.

Often dubbed the happiest and most peaceful place on the planet, Costa Rica is one of the best places for a wellness holiday. For days that are utterly relaxing from start to finish, a yoga retreat is just the ticket. You’ll begin your morning with a group meditation session, followed by a yoga class led by an expert instructor. Then, the afternoons are your own to spend however you’d like. Perhaps you want to explore some of the country’s incredible wildlife? Or have a go horse-riding along the beach?

To top off your wellness holiday, you might want to spend some time in a luxury, Costa Rican spa. Think hot spring waterfalls, infinity pools that overlook the ocean, and super-serene, candle-lit treatment rooms. The only catch? Once you’re here, it’s rather difficult to leave!

Whether you’ve come to Costa Rica to kick back or catch some waves, there’s a beach to perfectly match what you’re looking for. Over by the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa Beach is one of the country’s renowned surfing spots. But, with its lush, jungle backdrop and dazzling white sand, it attracts plenty of non-surfers, too.

If you’re ready to take on some more powerful waves, Playa Hermosa de Jaco has its fair share of rough swells. And, the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down, as Jaco is well-known for its vibrant nightlife.

For swimming, sunbathing and a taste of the slow life, Playa Flamingo is the place to go. With soft sand that takes on a subtle, pink tint and super-clear water that’s great for snorkelling and diving, there’s a reason why it’s so many people’s top pick.

Aside from surfing, there are loads of other adrenaline-inducing activities for you to dive into during your Costa Rica holiday. If you fancy staying by the sea, kite-boarding and windsurfing lessons are offered at most of the main beach spots along both the Pacific and Caribbean Coast. Or, if that’s not quite thrilling enough, you can take a boat trip over to the Bat Islands for the ultimate adrenaline adventure. It’s home to a fantastic array of marine life, but it’s the up-close bull shark encounters that keep people coming back for more.

Heading inland to Costa Rica’s rainforests and rivers, white-water rafting and kayaking are also great options if you’re wanting to get your heart pumping. Or, you can keep it short and sweet with a zip-line over the jungle.