Things to do in Costa Rica with kids

Costa Rica is a great place to go with your family. Because of this country's hospitality culture, navigating is easy and there are truly so many memorable places to visit. If you're wondering how to travel in Costa Rica with kids, you're in the right place. Here's our guide of the best things to do in Costa Rica with kids with tips and advice from our local travel experts. 

Best things to do with infants and toddlers

When travelling with little ones, you’ll find most restaurants are equipped with high chairs. It's smart to bring along a lightweight, portable stroller and a baby carrier. While many attractions have stroller-friendly paths, a carrier can be super handy for trails and uneven surfaces.

Renting baby equipment is relatively inexpensive, and you’ll find Costa Rican grocery stores are well stocked with a variety of diapers, baby wipes, and formula.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a great place to go with young children. You’ll find easy walking trails, lovely waterfalls, and a small zoo featuring animals native to Costa Rica. Plus, the facilities are top-notch with plenty of rest stops and clean bathrooms, making it easy to manage diaper changes and feedings.

Butterfly Conservatory near Arenal

Another must-see  is the Butterfly Conservatory near Arenal. Toddlers are sure to entertained by the colorful butterflies flitting around in the enclosed gardens. The conservatory also has a frog pond and an insect museum.

Hot Springs

Lastly, don't miss the chance to relax at one of the country’s many hot springs. Places like Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa offer shallow, warm pools where even the youngest family members can splash around safely. Many resorts have specific areas designed for families.

Best things to do with kids

There are plenty of great things to do in Costa Rica with kids. Be sure to pack binoculars and a simple guidebook for local wildlife. Kids will love spotting animals and learning about them.  Don't forget to dress in layers and bring rain gear, as weather can be unpredictable.

Explore a national park 

Costa Rica has plenty of fantastic national parks, and they are great to visit with kids. Arenal National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park are among the most popular, and both offer family-friendly easy hikes.

Visit a fruit farm 

Costa Rica is a great place to take a guided tour of a local fruit farm to learn about sustainable agriculture and where your favorite fruits come from. Kids can taste fresh tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and bananas straight from the source. Farms often offer educational activities like harvesting fruit, making juice, or planting seeds.

Walk across hanging bridges 

Fearless kids will enjoy the thrill of walking across hanging bridges suspended high above the rainforest canopy. Places like Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park offer safe and exciting walks with panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano and its surroundings. These bridges provide a unique perspective of the forest ecosystem, allowing you to spot wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and colorful frogs.

Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica 

One of the best things to do with kids in Costa Rica is to visit the Sloth Sanctuary in Puerto Viejo de Limón. This sanctuary is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sloths. Guided tours educate visitors about these fascinating creatures. Kids can observe sloths up close, learn about their behavior and conservation efforts, and even participate in feeding sessions. 

Turtle watching 

Another great thing to do is to witness one of nature’s most incredible spectacles by visiting a sea turtle nesting site during nesting season. Ostional Wildlife Refuge and Tortuguero National Park are renowned for their turtle conservation efforts. You can witness sea turtles laying eggs or hatchlings making their way to the ocean. This hands-on experience teaches children about the lifecycle of sea turtles and the importance of protecting their habitats.

Kid-Friendly museums in San Jose 

There are plenty of museums to explore in downtown San Jose like the El Museo de Los Niños. This interactive museum features over 40 exhibits designed to stimulate children’s curiosity and creativity. Kids can explore a mock city, learn about science through hands-on experiments, and participate in workshops and special events. Or, learn about Costa Rica’s rich pre-Columbian history and cultural heritage at the Museo de Oro (Gold Museum).

Best things to do with teenagers

Costa Rica offers a wide range of activities that appeal to teenagers. Consider mixing adventurous activities like zip-lining, surfing, or white-water rafting with nature experiences such as hiking in national parks or visiting wildlife sanctuaries.

Zip-lining in Monteverde

Zip-lining through the cloud forests in Monteverde is an exciting experience that is sure to be memorable. The Sky Adventures Park offers various canopy tours that are perfect for older kids. This is great for adventurous teens, and it is a great way to see the rainforest.

Visit local markets and towns

A great thing to do in Costa Rica with teenagers is to visit markets like Mercado Central in San Jose or Feria Verde in Heredia. These markets offer an array of fresh produce, local crafts, and cultural insights. You can shop together for new fruits to try, or for souvenirs.

White-water rafting on the Pacuare River

For a thrilling adventure, take your teenagers white-water rafting on the Pacuare River. It's an excellent way for them to experience the raw beauty of Costa Rica’s rivers and rainforests while enjoying the excitement of navigating the rapids. There are various tours available, catering to different skill levels, so you can find one that suits your family's needs.

Surfing lessons

Surfing lessons at one of Costa Rica’s famous beaches, like Tamarindo or Jaco, can be both fun and challenging for teens. The warm waters and reliable waves make these spots ideal for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Many surf schools offer teen-specific classes, focusing on both safety and fun.

Canyoning and waterfall rappelling

For the more adventurous, canyoning and waterfall rappelling in places like La Fortuna can be a truly exhilarating experience. Teens can rappel down waterfalls and navigate through canyons.

Where to stay with kids

There are many family-friendly accommodations to choose from that will provide swimming pools, playgrounds, and family suites. Many eco-lodges and resorts offer kid-specific activities and babysitting services, giving you some downtime as well.

• Arenal: Arenal, with its volcano, hot springs, and lush rainforests, is a fantastic base. The nearby town of La Fortuna provides family-friendly accommodations and dining options. The area is rich with outdoor activities that cater to all ages, from gentle nature walks to more adventurous pursuits like canyoning and zip-lining. The park's trails are well-maintained and suitable for kids of all ages. The hanging bridges offer a thrilling perspective of the forest canopy, and guided tours can provide educational insights about the local flora and fauna.
• Manuel Antonio: Manuel Antonio, with its stunning national park and beautiful beaches, is another excellent choice. The town itself is small and walkable, making it easy to explore with kids. Family-friendly hotels often offer amenities such as kiddie pools, playgrounds, and family suites.
• Nicoya Peninsula: For a beach-centric stay, consider the Nicoya Peninsula. Towns like Santa Teresa and Nosara offer pristine beaches, tide pools, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for families. The beaches here are generally safe for swimming, and the towns have a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
• Guanacaste: This region offers beautiful beaches and a variety of family-friendly resorts. Playa Hermosa and Playa Conchal are excellent choices for their calm waters and abundant activities.

Best places to visit

Costa Rica has plenty of great places to visit with kids. 

Arenal

 The Arenal Volcano provides a stunning backdrop for hikes, hot springs, and exploring the rich biodiversity of the area. Families can enjoy the thrilling experience of walking across hanging bridges, visiting the breathtaking La Fortuna waterfall, and spotting a variety of wildlife. Activities like kayaking on Lake Arenal and visiting the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park are great things to do with kids.

Manuel Antonio

The Manuel Antonio National Park is another must-visit. Its combination of great beaches and wildlife spotting opportunities, including monkeys and sloths, will keep kids entertained for hours. The beaches within the park are perfect for swimming and playing in the sand. The park also offers short, easy trails ideal for young hikers.

In addition to the park, the area offers dolphin watching tours and snorkeling opportunities. Always check local conditions and heed any warnings about currents or marine life, and of course, supervise children closely, especially in the water.

Costa Rica’s Beaches

Costa Rica is famous for its beaches, and many are in fact fantastic for kids. 

• Tamarindo Beach: Located on the Pacific Coast, Tamarindo is famous for its excellent surfing conditions and vibrant town atmosphere. Here you can enjoy water sports, explore nearby estuaries, and try local cuisine.
• Playa Conchal: Known for its shimmering white sand composed of crushed seashells, Playa Conchal offers calm, crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and is a short distance from the vibrant town of Brasilito.
• Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste): Situated in the Guanacaste region, Playa Hermosa lives up to its name with its beautiful, serene environment. The beach is known for its gentle waves and safe swimming conditions, which is perfect for those who are seeking a peaceful retreat.
• Playa Samara: Nestled on the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Samara is a family-friendly beach with a relaxed atmosphere. The bay features gentle waves, ideal for swimming and kayaking. Families can also explore nearby coral reefs or take horseback riding tours along the shore.

Recommended itineraries with kids

For inspiration, here are some of sample itineraries for your trip to Costa Rica with kids, created by our local travel experts. Or, skip the hours of research and let us handle the details. Our tailor made trip service allows you to enjoy your trip while we handle the planning and booking. Our trips are completely customizable, and come with support 24/7 during your trip. See our Costa Rica trip library for more inspiration.

Itinerary #1: The beaches and animals of Costa Rica

This 10-day family itinerary will take you to see the best of Costa Rica’s beaches and animals. Day one begins with an arrival at SJO International Airport and a transfer to La Fortuna, where you can relax in the Arenal Volcano hot springs. The second day includes a visit to La Fortuna Waterfall, a swim in its pond, a traditional lunch, and a hike in Arenal Volcano National Park. 

On the third day, explore the rainforest from hanging bridges, guided natural history tours, and more hot springs. Transfer to Monteverde via boat on the fourth day, followed by an afternoon of local exploration. 

Day five features a cloud forest tour with zip lines or hanging bridges, plus a coffee, cocoa, and sugar cane tour. On the sixth day, embark on a night tour to see nocturnal wildlife in Monteverde. Transfer to Manuel Antonio on the seventh day for beach and National Park relaxation. A guided nature walk and wildlife spotting are planned for the eighth day, with free time for beach activities. 

Day nine includes a catamaran trip with snorkeling and a chance to see marine wildlife, ending with a sunset. The trip concludes on day ten with a transfer back to San Jose Airport for departure. Book this trip.

Itinerary #2: Road trip through Northern Costa Rica

This 10-day Costa Rica itinerary starts with your arrival and rental car pickup on day one, followed by a drive to La Fortuna to learn about Arenal Volcano and enjoy its hot springs. On the second day, visit La Fortuna Waterfall, swim in its pond, have a traditional lunch, and hike around Arenal Volcano National Park. 

Drive to Rio Celeste on day three, stopping in Monterrey to explore the village and meet local artisans. Day four involves exploring Río Celeste with a guide in Tenorio Volcano National Park before driving to Nosara. Spend days five and six at leisure in Nosara, surfing, doing yoga, or relaxing. 

On day seven, drive to Monteverde, explore local shops, and take a guided night walk in Valle Escondido Preserve. Day eight includes a canopy tour or hanging bridges walk, a coffee, cocoa, and sugar cane tour, and exploring Santa Elena. 

Drive to Alajuela on day nine, with an optional stop in Sarchi for souvenirs. The trip concludes on day ten with a drive to the airport, rental car drop-off, and departure. Book this trip.

Practical tips for travelling to Costa Rica with kids

Here are some practical tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip for the whole family.

Getting around

Renting a car is often the best option for families, providing flexibility and comfort. Be prepared for some rough roads in remote areas, and bring a car seat if you need one. If you prefer not to drive, hiring a private shuttle is another good option. 

In cities and towns, sidewalks can be uneven or nonexistent, so a sturdy stroller is recommended for younger children. Public transportation, like buses, is also viable, but it may be less convenient with very young children or lots of luggage.

How many days with kids

To fully enjoy Costa Rica with kids, plan to spend at least 10 to 14 days. This allows ample time to explore different regions without feeling rushed. You’ll want to tailor your trip to your family’s pace and interests. Shorter trips can still be rewarding but may require more selective planning to avoid over-scheduling. 

Longer stays provide flexibility in your itinerary, accommodating breaks and spontaneous exploration. Kids may need downtime or adjustments due to weather, so more days provide room for adaptation without missing out on experiences.

When to go to Costa Rica

You’ll definitely want to carefully consider what month you travel to Costa Rica.

• Dry Season: The dry season (December to April) is ideal for sunny weather and clear skies, making it perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
• Green Season: The green season (May to November) brings lush landscapes and occasional rain showers. It’s a great time for nature enthusiasts to witness vibrant flora and fewer crowds.

For a more in depth look, see our guide to when to go to Costa Rica.

What to pack

You’ll want to bring lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate, along with sturdy shoes for hiking. Water shoes can also be helpful.

Don't forget sun hats, sunscreen, and swimwear. A lightweight rain jacket or poncho for each family member is also a good idea due to the frequent rain showers, especially if visiting during the wet season.