There are numerous outdoor activities you can do during your vacation — especially when you stay in a tropical resort paradise like Costa Rica! Costa Rica is home to so many outdoor activities that are great for families, solo travelers, athletes, or those who just enjoy being outside and soaking in the pristine views and unique nature.
Let’s check out some of the top activities in Costa Rica for adrenaline junkies, nature lovers, and everyone in between during your stay! We have a feeling you may never want to leave!
Ziplining
Soar high above the trees and feel the wind go through your hair on one of the many ziplining courses throughout Costa Rica! You can choose between short and easy courses that are good for first-timers or children or go on miles-long courses that zip you at high speeds through the treetops. If you go to this country, you NEED to go zip lining – there are so many courses that will be close to where you stay that it is easy, fun, and exciting for a half or full-day trip.
We recommend checking out the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, with over 3 kilometers of cables, Arenal Volcano National Park, with long courses and tracks above the treetops, and Guanacaste, the home of Diamante Adventure Park with a dual zipline that lets you zip alongside your friend or loved one.
Volcano Hiking
There are dozens of volcanoes in Costa Rica! We love going volcano trekking while we are in Costa Rica — there is no better way to see the lush greenery, bright blue lakes, never-ending white clouds, and nature down below. We recommend going to Irazu Volcano for an easy stroll with children or older adults.
If you are trekking with fairly fit individuals, try the Arenal Volcano in the national park that is home to numerous hiking trails. Or, if you are in the mood for a challenge, try the Hule Lagoon and Volcanic Crater for a full-day excursion.
Hiking
You don’t have to hike up a volcano to enjoy hiking in Costa Rica! This beautiful country is home to peak climbs, forest walks, rainforest treks, and everything in between. We love going to Manuel Antonio National Park’s main trail for sightseeing, the Monteverde Cloud Forest with over 13 kilometers of winding trails, and Cerro Chirripo — if you have a head for heights, that is! This towering peak in Costa Rica is 382 meters high, providing you with unbeatable coastal views.
Rafting
Whitewater rafting is a fun-filled and heart-pounding way to see a different side of Costa Rica. Get used to your feet not being on land as you share a kayak with an experienced professional who can take you through some of the most twisted and high-speed rapids in the entire country!
Check out The Naranjo River if you are interested in a fairly difficult stream that is going to have your adrenaline pumping and your blood flowing. If you would rather take it easy with your kids, then we recommend going to the Penas Blancas River in Arenal National Park. For the true daredevils, you can’t go wrong with the Pacuare River, which flows quickly through canyons, dro-offs, forests, and waterfalls.
Snorkeling
Costa Rica is home to bright blue waters, crystal clear water, coral reefs, friendly marine life, and far-reaching views that are truly going to take your breath away. The ocean in this country features expansive marine life and tons of opportunities for you to go beneath the surface to see a whole other world. There are dozens of snorkeling destinations in Costa Rica, so you always have somewhere to choose from that is not overcrowded with other tourists.
We recommend checking out Gandoca Manzanillo Refuge to view bright coral reefs, unique inlets, and shallow bays for easy swimming. If you want to try something a bit more challenging, the Cahuita National Park offers one of the biggest coral reefs that are great for a half-day trip. If you are an experienced diver or snorkeling professional, head to Cocos Island!
Surfing
Last but not least, Costa Rica is one of the top surfing destinations in the entire world – and for good reason! The waves here are tough and crash, ensuring you can get inside the wave’s “tube” and ride it all the way to the sand. We recommend going to Playa Jaco for moderate surfers who want to get frequent breaks and challenging waves.
If you are just learning how to stand up or paddle your surfboard, head to Playa Tamarindo for friendly conditions. For expert surfers who enjoy a challenge, the Nicoya Peninsula is THE place to go. Head here any time of the year to challenge yourself in the fast and rapid waves.
Contact Us
Our properties are suitable for solo vacationers as well as those visiting in large groups. Browse through our property options and choose the one that matches your holiday goals. Looking for a rental for your Costa Rico summer experience? Contact us today to book.
