An active volcano rising 1,670 meters surrounded by lava fields and rainforest trails. The main trail cuts through secondary forest where wildlife spotting is common, and the observation point at the end offers clear views across the Arenal Lake.
A 70-meter waterfall reached by a 500-step descent through primary rainforest. The pool at the bottom is swimmable in dry season and the climb back up takes around 30 minutes through the same trail.
A protected high-elevation cloud forest with hanging bridges and wildlife viewing trails. The reserve protects hundreds of bird species, including the resplendent quetzal during migration months.
Natural geothermal pools fed directly by the Arenal Volcano, surrounded by cascading waterfalls and tropical gardens. The water temperature varies from warm to hot across different pool tiers.
A compact park combining rainforest trails with white sand beaches. The main trail loops through the forest with wildlife spotting common, then opens to Playa Manuel Antonio where swimming is allowed.
A coastal park where a flat trail follows the shoreline past coral reef, beaches, and rainforest sections. Snorkeling at the marked reef spots is best in calm morning water.
A network of jungle canals accessible only by boat from the Caribbean coast. Sea turtles nest on the beaches between July and October, and the canals offer wildlife viewing throughout the year.
A neoclassical theater built in 1897 with marble staircases and a ceiling painted with coffee beans. Daily guided tours cover the lobby, the main hall, and the backstage area, with performances held most evenings.
An accessible volcano 30 kilometers from San Jose with one of the largest craters in the world. The main viewpoint looks across the boiling sulfur lake, and the Botos Lagoon trail leads through cloud forest on the way back.
A private nature park combining multiple waterfalls with wildlife exhibits including sloths, toucans, and native cats. The trail system connects the falls via stairs and bridges through primary forest.
A long Pacific beach with consistent surf breaks suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers. The town behind the beach has a full service strip with surf schools, restaurants, and sunset bars.
A beach made of small crushed shells rather than sand, located inside a resort zone north of Tamarindo. The water is shallow and clear, and the surrounding dry forest trails lead to lookout points.