Costa Rica Rest & Relaxation 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. 

Tamarindo Beach is a long beach with great waves. The currents here can be strong so watch the posted advisories when swimming, but much of Tamarindo Beach is perfect for those just learning how to surf. The vibe of Tamarindo is best described as “Party and Play.” Great swimming, surf, fishing, and water sports during the day, buzzing nightlife come sunset. Because of its central location, tourists often base themselves here and explore Guanacaste over a number of days. Younger crowds enjoy the local bars and discotheques.

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is a small coastal town on the Caribbean sea surrounded by the lush tropical rainforest, gorgeous white sand beaches, and a huge array of different wildlife. With a mixture of Afro Caribbean, Bri Bri Indigenous, Ticos, Americans, and Europeans alike, Puerto Viejo offers a diverse and multicultural vibe. Famous for its ‘Go Slow’ attitude, you won’t find a more laid-back town in Costa Rica.  Puerto Viejo is not for everyone. Puerto Viejo is more suited for the down-to-earth traveler looking for a no-frills, authentic experience.

This Pacific beach town is best known for its roaring surf and relaxed vibe. The strong sun, dark sands, dusty roads, and chill beach bars help round out the image of this steadfast surfer town. But Nosara is about more than remarkable waves: the laid-back town is a haven for yoga retreats, wildlife watching, and thrilling adventures. Located just south of Guanacaste’s famed Gold Coast, Nosara is far enough off the beaten path to afford seclusion and privacy, the perfect setting for a transcendental yoga experience.

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.