There are few places in Costa Rica that are not well suited to families. Visit a wildlife rescue center, get to know Manuel Antonio National Park, cross suspension bridges in the Monteverde Could Forest, and explore the canals of Tortuguero National Park.
With careful planning, driving times between regions can be broken up with fun nature excursions to keep the kids entertained.
Get startedby describing your ideal trip, and we will connect you to a local specialist that will help you plan out the details.
Costa Rica Travel Insights
Why Costa Rica is Great for Families
For parents toying with the idea of an international vacation, this Latin American nation is chock-full of family experiences that will leave a lasting impression for years to come. Below, we’ve compiled five reasons why you should put Costa Rica at the top of your family's travel list.
Family-Friendly Arenal and Manuel Antonio National Park- 9 Days
Fun for the whole family, this itinerary covers two of Costa Rica's most famous areas. Arenal and Manuel Antonio are some of the best representations of Costa Rica; Arenal area features one of the most famous volcanos in the country, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, while Manuel Antonio National Park is renown for its white sandy beaches and vast diversity of tropical plants and wildlife.
Costa Rica Volcano & Pacific Beach Family Adventure - 6 Days
Combine towering volcanoes with Pacific beaches on this six-day itinerary that's perfect for active families looking for plenty of adventure in a short amount of time. Start with wildlife-spotting hikes and waterfall swims in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, then head for the coastal surf village of Tamarindo for family surfing lessons and laid-back beach time. Wrap things up with a sailing cruise along the Guanacaste Peninsula, stopping for a barbecue lunch and some snorkeling along the way.
Coast to Coast Family Adventure - 11 Days
Experience the best Costa Rica has to offer on this family-friendly 11-day adventure. You'll watch sea turtles on the Caribbean beaches of Tortuguero National Park, hike around Arenal Volcano, zip-line through the cloud forest of Monteverde, and finally relax on the remote, Pacific beaches of Guanacaste. Along the way, you'll make your own hot chocolate and coffee from bean to cup, spot monkeys in the wild, swim under a waterfall—and maybe even catch a wave.
Family Fun on the Caribbean Side - 7 Days
With your kids in tow, get out and explore Costa Rica's capital city before making your way through the lush lowlands toward the Caribbean Coast in this adventure tour. From nature treks to river rafting to pristine beaches, this week-long itinerary is created for families who want to experience Costa Rica's splendid scenery, wildlife, and distinctly laid-back culture.
6 Family-Friendly Activities in San José
Costa Rica abounds with wildlife and outdoor activities, setting the scene for an ideal family vacation. But you don't need to head straight to the beach—travelers flying into urban San José will find plenty to do with kids upon arrival. Interactive museums, local markets, and more are a great way to spend a day in the city.
Costa Rica Family Vacation: Volcanoes, Jungles, Beaches and Wildlife - 14 Days
This extensive itinerary will introduce you to all of Costa Rica's iconic experiences. Activities range from thrilling jungle adventures to relaxing trips to the beach, making this tour a great option for any traveler.
Volcano & Pacific Beach Family Adventure - 7 Days
Experience a range of Costa Rica's top natural highlights on this family-oriented 7-day adventure. Beginning in Liberia, you'll explore Rincón de la Vieja National Park, home to a towering volcano of the same name. Next, you'll base yourself in the surf town of Tamarindo, a great jumping-off point for visiting the sun-kissed beaches and unspoiled rainforests of the Nicoya Peninsula. There are plenty of kid-friendly activities along the way, including waterfall hikes, kayak excursions, surf lessons, and whitewater rafting.
Best Time of Year to Visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica's dry season (December to April) is considered the best time of year to visit, with most travelers arriving for reliable sunshine and prime beach days. Yet insiders know the rainy "green" season (May to November) can be just as rewarding: think quieter trails, better availability at standout lodges, and landscapes at their most vivid (and wildlife at their most active). Besides, rain typically arrives in short afternoon bursts, leaving mornings wide open for outdoor adventure.
How it works
Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Step 3
Securely book your trip
Meet our Local Travel Specialists
Bryan Leon
Growing up in a coffee plantation area near San Jose, Costa Rica's vibrant capital, I was fortunate to have parents who instilled in me a deep love and appreciation for nature. As a certified...
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Olman Romero
I was born in Turrialba, a region rich in history and natural beauty, home to the Guayabo National Monument, the most important pre-Hispanic archaeological site in the country, as well as the...
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Elena Mora
"I was born in Costa Rica and grew up on my family's sugar and coffee plantation farm in the mountains of Turrialba. From an early age, I learned from my family to deeply cherish and respect our...
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Yuliana Valverde
For more than a decade, I have dedicated my career to sharing the beauty, warmth, and natural wonders of Costa Rica with travelers from around the world. What inspires me most is creating...
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Trip Reviews for Costa Rica
It was great. Enjoyed all excursions! Sloth w...
Costa Rica
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Jun 28 - Jul 5, 2026
It was great. Enjoyed all excursions! Sloth walk, agriculture farm, boat ride near volcano… Epic family event
So happy to hear that this was epic for your whole family, Gail!
Hoping to serve you again in more adventures to come 🗺️🧭
Wonderful week in Costa Rica
Costa Rica
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Jul 3 - Jul 11, 2026
Hello Maggie,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review!
It was truly a pleasure helping you plan this adventure for your amazing group.
I am delighted to hear everything came together so smoothly and that you enjoyed the hotels and activities.
I will be sure to share your kind words with him. I also appreciate your understanding regarding the airport transfer delay. It means a lot.
Thank you again for trusting me with your Costa Rica vacation.
I hope to help you plan another unforgettable adventure in the future.
Pura Vida!
Olman
Costa Rica is amazing.
Costa Rica
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Jun 29 - Jul 8, 2026
Everything went really smoothly. All of our adventures were amazing. Just as described. The little hiccups, which were not anyone swallowed were made right immediately. Thank you, Alina and team. One more note, all of the guides and people who hosted us were exceptional. So nice, knowledgeable that you felt like you were at home.
