6 Best Destinations to Explore in Costa Rica with Kids – Adventures the Whole Family with Love

If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable experience in Costa Rica with kids, you’ve come to the right place! Costa Rica is a paradise packed with lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and incredible beaches. Whether you’re ziplining through Monteverde’s cloud forests, soaking in La Fortuna’s hot springs, or catching waves at a world-class surf beach, this family-friendly destination has something for everyone.

In this Costa Rica Family Travel Guide, you will find:

Why You Should Visit Costa Rica with Kids

Costa Rica nails the family vacation formula:

• Safe and easy to navigate (hello, happy parents!).
• Packed with kid-friendly adventures (think waterfalls and hanging bridges).
• Beautiful luxury hotels that welcome kiddos.
• Super friendly locals who make you feel right at home.

Want to know the best part? It’s not just a kids’ playground. You’ll sneak in plenty of “Wow, this is amazing” moments for yourself, too.

The 6 Best Destinations to visit in Costa Rica with Kids

There’s so much to do throughout the country that it’s difficult to pick the best destinations for families in Costa Rica, but I’ve narrowed it down to six places you should consider for your next family vacation.

1. Monteverde – Explore the mystical cloud forests and wildlife.
2. La Fortuna & Arenal – Enjoy hot springs, waterfalls, and volcano views.
3. Manuel Antonio – Encounter abundant wildlife and pristine beaches.
4. Tamarindo – A luxury beach destination perfect for surfing lessons.
5. Papagayo Peninsula – Experience high-end resorts and secluded beaches.
6. Nosara – A wellness-focused hidden gem that offers a peaceful retreat from busier tourist areas.

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1. Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna

Hot springs, waterfalls, and a towering volcano? Yes, please! Arenal delivers adventure for every age group.

Must-Do Family Activities in Arenal

• Arenal Hanging Bridges Tour: A guided walk through the rainforest canopy where you’ll spot monkeys, birds, and maybe even a snake (don’t worry, you’re safely up high).
• Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs Tour: After hiking through the lush Arenal Volcano park, treat the family to an afternoon soaking in natural hot springs. Or, if you want to skip the exertion and go straight for the relaxation, get a day pass to Tabacón Hot Springs. It is a splurge-worthy pick for its lush tropical vibe. Los Lagos offers a less expensive day pass and waterslides for kids.
• Sloth-Watching Tour: One of the best parts of Costa Rica family vacations is wildlife spotting. Sloths are hard to see on your own because they basically look like a coconut way up in a tree, but with an expert guide, finding the sloths is easy, and you can see them much better with their fancy scopes than you could on your own. We learned so much about these adorable animals and saw a ton of them on our tour!
• White Water Rafting: Are you looking to get your adrenaline pumping during your family vacation in Costa Rica? Consider whitewater rafting if you have older kids. This tour (okay for kids 8+) will take you on a 9-mile paddle down the Balsa River with class III and IV rapids. For a mellower version, take a safari float instead. Our guides were amazing at making sure we saw wildlife as we floated down the river.
• La Fortuna Waterfall Hike: A short but steep trek down to one of Costa Rica’s most iconic waterfalls. Cool off in the pool at the base—it’s worth the stairs!

Pro Tip: In rainy season the Arenal Volcano might not be visible. We didn’t see it after 3 days on our most recent visit. Fortunately, rain didn’t otherwise detract from all of the wonderful Arenal activities!

Adventurous Tastes is reader-supported. I’ve included affiliate links in this post. If you make a purchase, we may receive commissions. All opinions are my own.

Family-Friendly Hotels in La Fortuna

Los Lagos Hotel & Spa – A mid-range family favorite with hot spring pools, slides, and a volcano view. If you want space, opt for the family villa. We stayed here for Christmas, and it was huge with a large kitchen, three bedrooms, two baths, and a wrap-around porch. One thing to be aware of – the property is huge, so you have to call a shuttle to pick you up when you want to go the the onsite restaurant, hot springs, or the entrance of the hotel.

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa – Luxurious rooms, stunning gardens, and access to private hot springs. Consider a day pass if you don’t stay here.

Nayara Gardens: For a truly indulgent experience in La Fortuna, Nayara Gardens is a top-tier choice. This boutique resort is known for its lush tropical surroundings, world-class service, and private casitas with outdoor showers and hot tubs. Families will love the spacious accommodations, the on-site sloth sanctuary, and the luxurious thermal pools.

2. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Monteverde’s misty cloud forests are like stepping into a fairy tale. If your family loves nature, this is the spot. This area has a cooler climate and misty weather so don’t forget to pack a light rain coat.

Must-Do Family Activities in Arenal

• Guided Cloud Forest Hike: Explore the incredible biodiversity of the reserve with an expert guide.
• Monteverde Night Tour: After sunset, the forest comes alive. This tour lets you spot nocturnal animals like frogs, tarantulas, and kinkajous. My 9-year-old was a little scared of the nighttime tour we took, but my more adventurous 11-year-old enjoyed it. The highlight was spotting a tarantula!
• Ziplining Adventure: No Costa Rica family vacation is complete without a little bit of adventure, and Monteverde is home to some of the best ziplining in the world. We had the time of our lives zipping through the clouds at Selvatura Park. It is a thrilling experience for older kids and teens. My 11-year-old was in heaven! We did it as a combo tour with the hanging bridges, which are not as scary as they sound since they don’t sway.
• Farm Tour: A last minute add on during our recent trip, but this visit to Finca El Paraiso for a farm tour and cheese making experience ended up being one of my kids’ favorite experiences. We got the chance to feed the adorable calves, milk a cow, and help make cheese using the milk.

Pro Tip: At Selvatura, don’t skip the chance to do the Tarzan experience if you weigh less than 200 lbs. If we you weigh more, spring for the superman experience. Trust us, it’s worth it!.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Monteverde

• Koora Hotel – Eco-chic suites surrounded by nature, plus a killer view of the Nicoya Gulf. This is where stayed, and we adored it. The two-level villas are spacious and luxurious, and the on-premise restaurant has top-notch food and an excellent view.
• Senda Monteverde – A great eco-lodge with modern rooms, delicious food, and walking trails.

3. Manuel Antonio National Park

This is where rainforest meets beach. It’s laid-back and full of wildlife—think sloths and capuchin monkeys just hanging out.

Must-Do Family Activities in Manuel Antonio

• Guided Manuel Antonio National Park Tour: Get the inside scoop on the park’s critters with a naturalist guide (and their handy telescope). Be aware, this park is very popular and tickets sell out well in advance, so don’t plan on buying it day of. The park is very crowded, and it’s essential to have a local guide who knows where to look for all the tiny, but fascinating creatures. They have high powered scopes and cameras that make it much easier to see than you could with the naked eye.
• Catamaran Sailing Tour: Sail along the coast for snorkeling and dolphin watching with lunch and snorkeling gear included.
• Surfing Lessons: The beaches near Manuel Antonio are an ideal location for beginner-friendly surf lessons with warm waters and gentle waves.
• Ziplining: If you didn’t do you ziplining in Monteverde, you can still do it here. This thrilling experience is a must for adrenlanie-junkies!

Family-Friendly Hotels near Manuel Antonio

Arenas del Mar is a 5-star luxury beachfront resort in Manuel Antonio blending rainforest adventures, sustainable practices, and direct beach access for an upscale tropical escape. We spent a day here on our recent trip, and from the delicious welcome drink to the wild stretch of coastline, it was heavenly! Watching the playful monkeys steal food off of people’s balconies was a fun pastime while relaxing by the pool!

For families seeking a blend of luxury and adventure, Tulemar Resort is an unbeatable 4-star choice in Manuel Antonio. This award-winning resort offers private villas nestled in a lush rainforest setting, with direct access to a secluded beach. Guests frequently spot sloths, monkeys, and toucans right from their balconies!

Pro Tip: Hotel San Bada rates quite well on TripAdvisor but we absolutely hated it. The rooms were run down, and the pool chairs were incredibly uncomfortable. Book early in this area to avoid disappointment.

4. Tamarindo: Surfing and Beach

Luxury For families looking for a high-end beach escape, Tamarindo delivers with luxury resorts and tons of activities.

Must-Do Tamarindo Activities

• Surfing Lessons: Tamarindo Beach is famous for its gentle waves, making it perfect for beginner surfers.
• Catamaran Cruise: Sail along the coast at sunset with opportunities to snorkel and spot dolphins.
• Las Baulas National Park Boat Tour: Learn about sea turtle conservation while visiting this protected area.
• Guachipelin Adventure Volcano Zipline Horseback River Tubing Combo: Soar through the jungle on a zipline, ride horseback through epic scenery, and tube down a rushing river—then unwind in hot springs and a volcanic mud bath!

Family-Friendly Hotels in Tamarindo

• Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas – A luxury boutique hotel with a focus on sustainability.
• Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel – A beachfront oasis with a welcoming atmosphere for families.

5. Papagayo Peninsula:

Ultimate Relaxation and Luxury For those looking to indulge, the Papagayo Peninsula is home to world-class resorts and pristine beaches.

Must-Do Family Activities in Papagayo

• Snorkeling and Kayaking: Crystal-clear waters make for perfect conditions.
• Guachipelin Adventure Volcano Zipline Horseback River Tubing Combo: Listed above in the Tamarindo section, also picks up from Papagayo.
• Luxury Spa Days: Pamper yourself at one of the many high-end spas in the region. Both the Four Seasons and Andaz have excellent spas.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Papagayo:

• Four Seasons Costa Rica – One of Costa Rica’s most luxurious resorts with top-notch amenities.
• Andaz Papagayo by Hyatt – A high-end option with family-friendly pools, beachfront access, and cultural experiences.

6. Nosara: A Laid-Back Beach Escape

If you’re looking for a relaxed, wellness-focused beach town, Nosara is a fantastic family-friendly destination. Known for its yoga retreats, healthy cafes, and consistent surf waves, this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat from busier tourist areas.

Must-Do Family Activities in Nosara:

• Ostional Wildlife Refuge – Depending on the season, you may witness thousands of sea turtles nesting along the beaches.
• Mangrove Kayaking Tour – Paddle through the mangroves and spot howler monkeys, iguanas, and a variety of bird species.
• Waterfall rapelling – If you’re a real adrenaline junkie, try rapelling down a waterfall in Nosara. Ages 9+.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Nosara:

• Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort – A tranquil escape with family suites, daily yoga classes, and wellness-focused dining options.
• The Gilded Iguana – A stylish boutique hotel with an on-site surf club, spacious rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere for families.

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Best Tours to Enjoy in Costa Rica with Kids

Know Before You Go: Tips for Traveling in Costa Rica with Kids

Here are a few things I wish I knew before going to Costa Rica:

1. Water: Tap water is safe in most places, but bottled water is a safer bet in rural areas.
2. Best Time to Visit: The dry season (December to April) is the most popular, but the green season (May to November) has its perks—fewer crowds and lush landscapes.
3. Getting Around: Rent a 4×4 if you plan to explore off-the-beaten-path spots. For longer distances, private shuttles are a convenient option. Note that driving takes longer than distances might imply. Many roads are slow and windy, while others, like the route to Manuel Antonio, get backed up with traffic on weekends and holidays.
4. Packing Must-Haves: Don’t forget bug spray, quick-dry clothes, and a sturdy pair of walking shoes.
5. Pace Yourself: Costa Rica has so much to see, but hopping between too many destinations can be exhausting. Stick to 2-3 main regions for a 10-14 day trip.
6. No Flushing: You aren’t supposed to flush anything down the toilet besides the obvious. Toilet paper goes into a nearby trashcan. Do the the humidity the toilet paper often feels damp, too so it’s a real sensory experience for those not used to it!

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What to Pack for a Costa Rica Family Vacation

Packing smart is key for an amazing Costa Rica family vacation. Here’s what you’ll want to bring:

• Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes (it’s hot and humid!) – Women’s – Athleta with ease tee or With ease open back tank, Target girls short-sleeved gym shirt, Old Navy CloudMotion (women’s, girls, men’s, boys)
• Hats for sun protection – women’s packable hat, women’s packable fedora, men’s packable wide-brimmed hat
• Sturdy walking shoes and water shoes for adventures. (Reefs Kids, Women’s, Quickdry Shoes (women’s, men’s), Merrell Moab hiking shoes (women”s, men’s)
• Swimsuits and quick-dry towels for beach days and hot springs. Rash guards (Men’s, Women’s Short Sleeve, Long Sleeve, Boys Long Sleeve, Girls Rash Guard Swimsuit and Long Sleeve). Here’s a colorful towel you can easily stash in your luggage.
• Dry bag for protecting your items at the beach and other water activities (phone pouch, backpack)
• Bug spray (I love this dry feel one with picardin) and reef-safe sunscreen to protect against bites and burns. Sunscreen is expensive in Costa Rica, so its worth bringing from home.
• Packable rain jackets—especially if you’re visiting the cloud forests or during the rainy season. (Women’s, Men’s, Girls, Boys)
• Binoculars for spotting wildlife in the national parks.
• Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated
• Daypacks for carrying essentials during excursions.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Costa Rica with Kids

Costa Rica is the ultimate destination for families who love adventure, nature, and making memories together. With a little planning (and maybe a little help from me), you’re guaranteed an unforgettable trip filled with “wow” moments. So pack those bags and get ready to pura vida your way through this incredible country!

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Adventurous Tastes is reader-supported. I’ve included affiliate links in this post. If you make a purchase, we may receive commissions. All opinions are my own.