Experience rainforests in Costa Rica’s national parks
What’s better as a young traveler than seeing a rainforest or volcano for the first time? Costa Rica’s National Parks allow families to do just that and more. With so many parks, there are abundant opportunities to spot wildlife and engage in outdoor activities. The Arenal Volcano National Park offers day hikes, the massive La Fortuna waterfall, chocolate tours (that’s right, a chocolate tour!), and even a chance to see lava rocks from the 1968 eruption. The town of La Fortuna is also a great home base for families on vacation, with its small-town charm and family-run hotels.
The Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica’s Puntarenas Province is a must-visit for its diverse wildlife, including capuchin monkeys and sloths. Families can also enjoy activities like taking a night tour of the park, surfing lessons, and relaxing on the park’s stunning Playa Manuel Antonio. Even better, Manuel Antonio and the Arenal Volcano National Parks offer a discounted rate for children under 11 years.
If anyone in the family has a love for sea turtles, Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast is a must-visit destination. Witness green, leatherback, and hawksbill sea turtles nesting during the nesting season, typically from July to October. Guided tours ensure you’ll see these gentle giants up close while contributing to their conservation.
Waterfall hikes and exhilarating zip lines
La Paz Waterfall Gardens is another family-friendly destination located in the mountains of Costa Rica’s Central Valley. The park is also the largest animal sanctuary in the country, with a butterfly garden, hummingbird aviary, snake sanctuary, and more. The Rio La Paz, Main, and Fern trails will take you through the lush rainforest to see five cascading waterfalls, with plenty of opportunities for amazing photos along the way. The park’s Peace Lodge also offers accommodations for families looking to stay the night.
No trip to Costa Rica would be complete without visiting at least a few of the country’s over 300 beaches. Some popular family-friendly beaches include Flamingo Beach and Playa Hermosa in the Guanacaste Province. These beaches offer calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Not far from Playas Flamingo and Hermosa is the unique Playa Conchal. This white sand beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundance of seashells, giving it its unique name.
Those seeking an adrenaline rush won’t have to venture far from the beach. White-water rafting, ziplining, and canyoning are just a few options to choose from. Rio Perdido in Guanacaste has zip lines, a waterfall swing, and plenty of canyoning trails and platforms. Diamante Eco Adventure Park offers a few extra perks for kids with a Superman Zip Line Pass, ideal for children ages five and up.
