Best Places for Families to Travel in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure, making it an ideal destination for families looking to explore and create unforgettable memories. With its diverse ecosystems, friendly locals, and a plethora of activities, there's something for every member of the family to enjoy. From the bustling streets of the capital city to the tranquil beaches of the coast, here are some of the best cities and towns to visit with kids in Costa Rica.

San José

As the capital city of Costa Rica, San José is a hub of cultural activity with plenty of family-friendly attractions. The Children's Museum (Museo de los Niños) is a hit with interactive exhibits that educate and entertain. The Spirogyra Butterfly Garden is a peaceful escape within the city where kids can learn about the life cycle of butterflies. For outdoor fun, visit La Sabana Metropolitan Park, the city's largest urban park, which offers playgrounds, paddleboat rentals, and open spaces for picnics. The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to April. To save on costs, consider purchasing a city pass that includes multiple attractions.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take a guided tour at the Children's Museum, where kids can engage in hands-on activities and learn about Costa Rican culture and history.

Where to Stay & Eat: Family-friendly hotels like the Park Inn by Radisson offer amenities like pools and kid-friendly menus. For dining, try the Mercado Central for a variety of local foods that are both delicious and affordable.

La Fortuna

La Fortuna, home to the majestic Arenal Volcano, is a paradise for families who love nature and adventure. The Arenal Volcano National Park offers easy hikes with stunning views, perfect for little legs. Nearby, the La Fortuna Waterfall is a great spot for a refreshing swim. For a relaxing day, visit the Baldi Hot Springs, where kids can enjoy water slides and warm pools. The best time to visit is during the dry season, but the green season offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds. Look for combo tour deals to save on multiple activities.

Travel Tip: At the Arenal Volcano National Park, take the guided lava flow hike to learn about the volcano's history and spot wildlife along the way.

Where to Stay & Eat: Consider staying at the Hotel Los Lagos, which features its own hot springs and a crocodile farm. For family dining, La Choza de Laurel serves up traditional Costa Rican dishes in a kid-friendly atmosphere.

Monteverde

Monteverde is renowned for its cloud forests and biodiversity. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a must-visit, with guided tours that allow families to discover the unique flora and fauna. The nearby Selvatura Park offers canopy tours and hanging bridges that are thrilling for all ages. The Butterfly Gardens and the Monteverde Orchid Garden are also great for a more leisurely pace. Visiting during the dry season can be more comfortable, but the green season brings out the best in the cloud forest's lushness. Booking tours in advance can often result in discounts.

Travel Tip: At Selvatura Park, don't miss the hummingbird garden where you can see these tiny birds fluttering at close range.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Hotel Fonda Vela offers spacious rooms and beautiful grounds for kids to explore. Tramonti is a family-friendly restaurant offering delicious Italian cuisine with a Costa Rican twist.

Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio is famous for its national park and beautiful beaches. Manuel Antonio National Park is compact yet teeming with wildlife, making it perfect for families to spot monkeys, sloths, and iguanas. The park's beaches, like Playa Espadilla, are ideal for swimming and sandcastle building. For a fun learning experience, visit the Kids Saving the Rainforest sanctuary to see rescued animals. The dry season is the best time for beach activities, but visiting in the shoulder months can offer a good balance of weather and fewer tourists. Look for hotels that offer complimentary park tours.

Travel Tip: Take a guided tour in Manuel Antonio National Park early in the morning when animals are most active and the park is less crowded.

Where to Stay & Eat: Stay at the family-friendly Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge, which includes a butterfly garden and a family pool. El Avion is a unique restaurant set in an old airplane, offering a fun dining experience with great views.

Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a lively beach town on the Pacific coast, known for its surf-friendly waves and laid-back atmosphere. Families can take surf lessons together at Tamarindo Beach or enjoy a catamaran tour to spot dolphins and snorkel among tropical fish. The Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge offers mangrove tours where you can see crocodiles, monkeys, and various bird species. The dry season is ideal for beach activities, but even in the wet season, mornings are often sunny. Many surf schools offer family package deals.

Travel Tip: Visit the Tamarindo Night Market on Thursday evenings for a fun family outing with local crafts, food, and live music.

Where to Stay & Eat: Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas provides family villas and a kids' pool. For dining, try the Green Papaya Taco Bar, which has a casual atmosphere and a sandbox for kids.

Tortuguero

Tortuguero is a remote village on the Caribbean coast, accessible only by boat or plane, offering a unique adventure for families. The Tortuguero National Park is a haven for wildlife and is especially famous for its sea turtle nesting beaches. Take a boat tour through the jungle canals to spot monkeys, birds, and caimans. The turtle nesting season from July to October is a special time to visit, but the park is beautiful year-round. Since the area is remote, all-inclusive packages can be cost-effective.

Travel Tip: Participate in a guided night tour during turtle nesting season for a chance to see these magnificent creatures lay their eggs on the beach.

Where to Stay & Eat: Mawamba Lodge offers family-friendly accommodations with guided tours included. The lodge's restaurant serves buffet-style meals suitable for all family members.

Sarapiquí

Sarapiquí is an off-the-beaten-path destination for families who enjoy ecotourism and learning about conservation. The La Selva Biological Station offers guided walks where families can learn about rainforest research and biodiversity. Adventure seekers can go white-water rafting on the Sarapiquí River or take a chocolate tour to learn about the process from bean to bar. The best time to visit is during the dry season, but the green season offers a more authentic rainforest experience. Booking activities as a package can often reduce costs.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Tirimbina Rainforest Center, where you can walk across one of the longest suspension bridges in Costa Rica.

Where to Stay & Eat: Selva Verde Lodge provides a true rainforest experience with family-friendly accommodations. For dining, Chilamate Rainforest Eco Retreat offers fresh, locally sourced meals in a family-friendly setting.

Costa Rica's cities and towns offer a wealth of experiences that cater to families with children of all ages. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature, learn about local wildlife, or simply relax on the beach, there's a perfect spot for your family in this vibrant and welcoming country.