13 Must-Visit Gems in Costa Rica: Beyond Arenal and Manuel Antonio
Costa Rica's compact size packs in diverse wonders that can't all be explored in a single week. After visiting icons like Arenal and Manuel Antonio, venture to these off-the-beaten-path highlights. Tackle them on one epic trip or return repeatedly.
Flying into San José
Most U.S. nonstop flights arrive in San José, in the Central Valley, near thrilling white-water rapids, rainforest hikes, and coffee plantations. Start your adventure with these nearby escapes.
1. Tour the National Theatre
Before leaving San José, visit the stunning National Theatre. This neo-classical gem impresses outside but dazzles inside with ceiling murals, ornate details, and Italian marble sculptures. Enjoy hourly tours or catch a National Symphony Orchestra performance.
2. Summit Poás Volcano
Costa Rica's most active volcano, Poás features two crater lakes. Just 90 minutes from San José, a paved road leads to the visitor center. Editor's Note: Check park status due to past eruptions in 2017 and 2019.
Visit mornings for clear views of both oceans before clouds arrive. Midweek means fewer crowds. Lower slopes offer dense cloud forest hikes teeming with wildlife.
3. Witness Catarata del Toro
In the Northern Plains, this 300-foot waterfall plunges into an extinct volcanic crater on a private reserve (admission fee ensures top facilities and fewer crowds). Hike steeply to the base or admire from viewpoints above.
Near Arenal
Arenal offers kayaking on its lake, zip-lining, mountain biking, and hot springs. Spend 2-3 days peeking at the cloud-shrouded summit.
4. La Fortuna Waterfall
A 20-minute rainforest hike reveals this 140-foot cascade into a swimmable pool—perfect for Instagram and rope swings. Don't miss it near Arenal.
5. Rio Celeste's Magical Waters
In Tenorio Volcano National Park, a moderate hike along Rio Celeste leads to Los Teñideros, where clear streams merge into vibrant blue (thanks to volcanic minerals). This unique phenomenon is found nowhere else.
The Caribbean Coast
Fly into San José for sunny Caribbean beaches and seclusion.
6. Tortuguero National Park
A short flight northeast lands you in 'Turtle Land.' Canal boat tours reveal turtles, crocs, birds, and monkeys. Night guided beach walks witness sea turtles nesting.
7. Puerto Viejo Beaches
This southeast Caribbean haven boasts wide, secluded shores for warm-water swims. Nestled between Cahuita and Gandoca-Manzanillo National Parks for wildlife adventures.
Flying into Liberia
Head to Guanacaste or Nicoya Peninsula for drier weather, beaches, and surfing amid regular forests.
8. Santa Rosa National Park
Costa Rica's first national park (now 26% protected land) offers dry tropical forest wildlife spotting. Bumpy roads need 4x4; trails lead to Witch's Rock and surfing at Playa Naranjo.
9. Gulf of Papagayo Luxury
En route to Nicoya, indulge at upscale resorts on this peninsula for stylish relaxation.
10. Pacific Beach Towns
Tamarindo: Developed with conveniences. Nosara: Yoga, surfing, organic eats, boutique stays. Samara: Bohemian white sands, calm reef-protected waves, jungle-meets-beach vibe.
From Manuel Antonio
Continue south along the Pacific after its beaches and rainforest.
11. Marina Ballena National Park
At Playa Uvita, spot humpback whales (Jan-Apr, Jul-Oct) near a whale-tail sandbar—Costa Rica's only marine park.
12. Nauyaca Waterfalls
A day trip from Uvita: Hike or horseback to dual falls with swimming pools and picnic spots.
13. Osa Peninsula & Corcovado
Remote biodiversity hotspot. Reach via water taxi. Drake Bay: Kayak mangroves, fish, snorkel. Boat to Caño Island for world-class diving amid dense fish schools.
This is just a taste of Costa Rica's treasures. Use our itinerary tool to plan your perfect trip.
