Costa Rica Nature Destinations

For good reason, Manuel Antonio is the most popular beach area and national park in Costa Rica.  This area is incredibly beautiful with gorgeous beaches, jungle-lined hillsides, and an astounding amount of wildlife. With the combination of these factors, Manuel Antonio is considered to be a world-class tropical beach destination. Click on the links to read more about Manuel Antonio.

You haven't truly been to Costa Rica until you've been to Arenal, it's everything you've heard and more, especially if you love outdoor adventure! From trekking around the massive Arenal Volcano National Park. Home of the namesake Arenal Volcano, to zip lining through the rainforest, you'll have to go out of your way to find boredom in Arenal, which makes it a great destination if you're planning a family adventure vacation. 

Monteverde is known as the site with the largest number of orchids in the world, with 34 of its 500 species newly discovered. Over 60 species of amphibians, including the extinct Monteverde-endemic golden toad, have been found here. This area is also a stop for 91 species of migratory birds. The famed quetzal resides here seasonally. The mammals of Monteverde include representatives from both North and South America as endemic species.

Attracting wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe, the small town of Tortuguero on Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean Coast is named for the famed sea turtles that come to the area to nest. Tortuguero’s dense jungle maze of winding canals is evocative of the wild Amazon. A float down these ominous brown waters is an adventure in itself as you’re sure to hear the howling of monkeys and screeching of exotic birds along the way. 

Tucked away on the Osa Peninsula sits a hidden gem in Costa Rica – Drake Bay! Drake Bay isn’t usually at the top of everyone’s Costa Rica places to visit list, but it really should be. Home to gorgeous beaches, stunning sunsets, and that small-town vibe we all know and love, Drake Bay is paradise on earth.

On top of that, Drake Bay sits on the doorstep of Corcovado National Park and Caño Island Biological Reserve. So, as you can imagine, there are plenty of awesome things to do in Drake Bay, especially if you come for the wildlife.

Rincon de la Vieja National Park has adventures for the whole family.  You can hike various trails, cruise the Rio Negro, go camping or stay at one of the many haciendas inside the national park. Many of the haciendas offer highly recommended combo tours. These tours, either on foot or horseback, explore the various volcanic formations that make this region so unique. You’ll visit fumaroles, mud pots, hike to the waterfalls and stop for a relaxing soak in one of the several natural volcanic hot springs. It is a favorite amongst tourists, even during the rainy season.