Part of our Costa Rica guide.
This page gathers five destinations across Costa Rica, from the capital to the Pacific coast, with key things to do in each.
Related travel guides: Trip Planning And Inspiration In Costa Rica.
The Best Things To Do In San Jose, Costa Rica
San Jose, the capital, is the cultural and economic hub of the country. Its colonial architecture and green parks offer a starting point for exploring Costa Rican heritage. Visit the National Museum in the Bellavista Fortress, stroll through the central market for local crafts, and walk the boulevard of Avenida Central. For a view of the city, head to the top of the National Theatre. San Jose also serves as a practical base for day trips to nearby volcanoes and cloud forests.
The Best Things To Do In Arenal, Costa Rica
Arenal is in northern Costa Rica, in the province of Alajuela, between rainforest and the Arenal Volcano. It is famous for its iconic volcano, which stood as Costa Rica's most active for several decades before it entered a resting phase. The volcano’s last major eruption was in 1968, and it has been dormant since a period of reduced activity beginning in the late 2000s. Hot springs fed by geothermal waters line the area around La Fortuna, the main town. For a complete guide to La Fortuna, Costa Rica, note that hiking trails in Arenal Volcano National Park and hanging bridges at Mistico Park are top activities. Wildlife spotting — including howler monkeys and toucans — is common on guided walks.
The Best Things To Do In Jaco, Costa Rica
Jaco is a beach town on the Pacific coast, close to San Jose and known for its surf breaks and nightlife. The town sits between rainforest and beaches, offering surf lessons at Playa Jaco and calmer swimming at Playa Herradura a short drive south. Crocodile-watching tours on the Tárcoles River run nearby. Jaco’s main street has restaurants serving fresh seafood and bars with live music. For travelers wondering how much to tip a tour guide in Costa Rica, a standard is 10–15% of the tour cost, but always check if gratuity is included.
Uvita Costa Rica Guide: Things To Do + Tips - Be My Travel Muse
Uvita is a small town in the Puntarenas Province, on the Pacific coast, known for its commitment to sustainable tourism. Its main attraction is Marino Ballena National Park, a marine reserve where humpback whales migrate between December and April and again from July to October. The park’s “Whale’s Tail” sandbar appears at low tide, extending into the ocean. Kayaking, snorkeling, and waterfall hikes to Uvita Waterfall are popular. The town’s laid-back atmosphere makes it one of the hidden gems in Costa Rica for eco-conscious travelers.
The Best Things To Do In Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Tamarindo is a beach town on the Pacific Coast with golden sand and consistent surf. Beyond surfing, activities include snorkeling at Playa Conchal, sailing in the bay, and canopy tours in the surrounding dry forest. Wildlife safaris in the nearby Las Baulas National Marine Park offer chances to see leatherback turtles nesting (seasonal). The town’s culinary scene ranges from sodas serving casado to upscale restaurants. For logistics, rental cars and shuttle buses are the main options for getting around Costa Rica between these destinations; the drive from San Jose to Tamarindo takes about four hours. Budget for fuel and tolls, and note that it costs in Costa Rica roughly $1 per liter for gasoline as of 2024.
