20 of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica

Squeezed between two oceans and spanning just 19,730 square miles (51,100 square kilometers), Costa Rica packs more biodiversity into its borders than seems possible. A quarter of this tiny Central American nation's land is protected in national parks and reserves, and Costa Rica has long been at the forefront of eco-tourism. Here is our list of the most beautiful places to visit in Costa Rica, though the list truly could go on forever. 

Playa Biesanz, Manuel Antonio

Found near the popular Manuel Antonio National Park, Playa Biesanz is a tranquil escape from the crowds. A short jungle trail leads to this hidden cove, where white sand meets turquoise waters. Best visited at low tide, the beach lacks facilities, so come prepared. Named after an American Quaker settler, it's an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter Costa Rican beach experience.

Mirador El Silencio, Arenal

For unobstructed views of Arenal Volcano, head to Mirador El Silencio. This private reserve near La Fortuna boasts clear vantage points of the volcano’s striking cone. On sunny days, you might even catch a glimpse of its reflection in Lake Arenal. Once considered dormant, the volcano's dramatic 1968 eruption transformed it into one of Costa Rica's most famous landmarks, now a must-see for any volcano enthusiast.

Catarata del Toro, Bajos del Toro

Catarata del Toro is a stunning waterfall that plunges 270 feet (82 meters) into an extinct volcanic crater. It's easily one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica, surrounded by cloud forests, and with a rock face streaked with colorful minerals. You can either take in the view from the top or go for a more challenging hike down to the base. What really sets this waterfall apart is its distinctive blue color, caused by mineral deposit.

Playa Negra, Guanacaste

SSurfers from around the world head to Playa Negra for its famous waves, once spotlighted in Endless Summer II. The beach's striking black sand, a result of volcanic activity, adds to its unique allure. While surfing is the main draw, calmer areas offer swimming and tide pools. Despite its popularity among wave-riders, Playa Negra maintains a laid-back vibe, great for adrenaline seekers and beach bums.

Rio Celeste, Tenorio Volcano National Park

The vibrant blue waters of Rio Celeste wind their way through Tenorio Volcano National Park, offering one of Costa Rica's most beautiful places. A chemical reaction between volcanic minerals gives the river its surreal turquoise hue, which, while technically an optical illusion, feels nothing short of magical. A hike through the rainforest leads to various viewpoints, the Rio Celeste Waterfall, and natural hot springs.

Isla Tortuga, Nicoya Peninsula

Despite its name, Isla Tortuga isn't a major turtle nesting site. Instead, this uninhabited island off the Nicoya Peninsula offers pristine beaches and clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Accessible by catamaran, it's a popular day trip destination. Kayaking, banana boat rides, and beach volleyball are on offer — with swaying palms and turquoise seas.

Playa Ventanas, Ojochal

Named for its unique cave formations resembling windows, Playa Ventanas offers more than just a grey sand beach. At high tide, waves crash through the caves, creating natural blowholes. The surrounding jungle teems with wildlife: from sloths, howler monkeys and toucans. Less crowded than nearby beaches, it's perfect for those seeking a more secluded coastal experience.

Sendero Los Quetzales, San Gerardo de Dota

This 7 km trail through cloud forests connects Cerro Punta and Boquete. Famous for quetzal sightings, it's a birdwatcher's paradise with over 300 species. The resplendent quetzal, once revered by ancient Mesoamerican cultures, is the star attraction. The varying elevations and lush vegetation here make for a challenging but rewarding hike.

Montezuma Falls, Nicoya Peninsula

Montezuma Falls, one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful places, is a series of three waterfalls the Nicoya Peninsula. The lower fall features a 12-meter (40ft) drop, forming a swimming pool perfect for a dip, while the upper falls are known for their rope swing. Surrounded by lush forest, you’ll likely spot monkeys and exotic birds nearby. Some locals believe the falls have healing properties, attracting those seeking relaxation and renewal. 

Tortuguero National Park, Caribbean Coast

Tortuguero National Park is a paradise of rivers, canals, beaches, and rainforests on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast. Accessible only by boat or plane, it’s best known as a critical nesting site for sea turtles. Wildlife here is incredibly diverse, with jaguars, tapirs, and various bird species among the park’s many residents. This region is one of the country’s wettest, receiving up to 236 inches (6,000mm) of rain each year.  

Puerto Viejo, Caribbean Coast

Known for its beaches and surf spots, Puerto Viejo is also a gateway to Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. Here you can visit the Jaguar Rescue Center to see rehabilitation efforts in action. Nearby, colorful buildings house a host of diverse restaurants that reflect the town's Afro-Caribbean influences. Don't miss trying the local rice and beans dish, cooked in coconut milk—a true Caribbean staple.  

Playa Uvita, Ballena National Marine Park

Part of Ballena National Marine Park, Playa Uvita is famed for its "Whale's Tail" sandbar that is visible at low tide. This stunning beach is prime whale-watching territory from December to April and July to October. The calm waters make it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling around its coral reefs. Part of the "Thermal Convection Dome," Playa Uvita benefits from nutrient-rich waters, attracting a variety of marine life, including dolphins and sea turtles.

San Lucas Island, Gulf of Nicoya

Once dubbed Costa Rica’s "Devil’s Island" for its brutal prison conditions, San Lucas Island is now a national park and a great place to explore. Here you can explore abandoned prison structures complete with inmate artwork. A great day trip from Puntarenas, the island is also home to great beaches and hiking trails. 

Corcovado National Park, Osa Peninsula

Dubbed "the most biologically intense place on Earth" by National Geographic, Corcovado National Park is a vast rainforest and one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica. Spot elusive jaguars, Baird’s tapirs, and scarlet macaws. With trails suited for all levels, it’s a haven for hikers looking to experience some of the most intense wildlife encounters on Earth for those willing to make the journey.

Bajos del Toro, Central Valley

Bajos del Toro, hidden in Costa Rica's Central Valley, is a waterfall paradise. The area features the 300-foot Catarata del Toro and the strikingly blue Río Agrio waterfalls, all surrounded by misty cloud forests. Once a gold mining hub, this off-the-beaten-path destination is one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica.

Playa Carrillo, Samara

A 3 km stretch of golden sand, Playa Carrillo is a picture-perfect, undeveloped beach lined with palm trees that provide natural shade. Its calm waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, while the west-facing shore offers breathtaking sunsets. Due to its pristine beauty, the beach is often used for fashion photoshoots.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Guanacaste

Rincón de la Vieja National Park in Guanacaste, which translates to "Old Woman's Corner," is named after a local legend about an indigenous healer. The park is known for its geothermal features and is built around an active volcano. Here you can hike to waterfalls, soak in volcanic mud baths, or try out adventure activities like zip-lining. Don't miss the "Las Pailas" trail to see bubbling mud pots and steam vents up close.

Terraba Sierpe Mangroves, Osa Peninsula

One of Central America's largest mangrove forests, Terraba Sierpe is a crucial habitat for crocodiles, caimans, and birds. Evidence of pre-Columbian settlements adds archaeological interest. One of the best places to visit is Costa Rica, this forest is home to some of Latin America's largest mangrove trees, reaching over 130 feet (40 meters). It’s best visited by boat or guided kayak tour.

Playa Matapalo, Puntarenas

Popular with surfers for its consistent waves, Playa Matapalo offers a long stretch of dark sand backed by wildlife-rich forest. The area remains relatively undeveloped, preserving its wild character. It's also an important nesting site for olive ridley sea turtles. Whether you're seeking uncrowded waves or a pristine beach, Playa Matapalo delivers.

Cerro Chirripó, Chirripó National Park

At 12,533 feet (3,820 meters), Cerro Chirripó is Costa Rica’s highest peak and a great place for challenging trek through diverse ecosystems. From rainforest to páramo, the two-day trail rewards you with potential views of both oceans and takes you from cloud forests to alpine tundra. The summit area can experience freezing temperatures, a rarity in tropical Costa Rica. Advance reservations are required for this unique trekking experience.

Ready for your dream trip to Costa Rica?

Our tailor-made trip service allows you to go on the trip of your dreams without the planning or hassle. All of our planned itineraries are created by local travel experts and can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Spend your time focusing on your trip and let use handle the details.

• Tropical Costa Rice (7 days): Experience the wonders of Costa Rica's diverse ecosystem. Explore volcanoes, indulge in hot springs, leisurely drift along tranquil waterways, and encounter wildlife in lush tropical lowland forests.
• Costa Rica Express (10 days): Start with Arenal Volcano with its waterfalls, hot springs and hanging bridges before crossing the lake to Monteverde. The unique cloud forest invites both adventure and nature lovers for canopy and zip-lining activities as well as wildlife spotting. Finish the trip on the beach in Manuel Antonio.

Or browse our trip ideas gallery for inspiration and to be sure you don't miss any of the best places to visit in Costa Rica.