10 Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica in 2025 (With Travel Tips!)
Costa Rica is packed with incredible places—from volcanoes and cloud forests to stunning beaches and vibrant wildlife. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for more, this guide highlights the best places to visit in Costa Rica and how to get there comfortably with RideWise Costa Rica.
1. Arenal & La Fortuna
Known for the iconic Arenal Volcano, hot springs, and adventure tours, La Fortuna is a must-visit for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
Top activities:
- Ziplining
- Hot springs
- Waterfall hikes
🚌 RideWise Route: San José to La Fortuna – 3 hours
2. Monteverde Cloud Forest
Explore hanging bridges, lush cloud forests, and rare bird species in this eco-paradise. Monteverde is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
Don’t miss:
- Night tours
- Birdwatching (Resplendent Quetzal!)
- Coffee plantations
🚌 RideWise Route: La Fortuna to Monteverde – 3.5 hours
3. Manuel Antonio National Park
One of the top destinations in Costa Rica for beaches and wildlife. Expect monkeys, sloths, and some of the prettiest coastal views in the country.
Great for:
- Beach-goers
- Families
- Wildlife photography
🚌 RideWise Route: San José to Manuel Antonio – 3 hours
4. Tamarindo
A popular beach town on the Pacific Coast, ideal for surfing, nightlife, and sunsets. Great for beginner surfers and digital nomads.
Highlights:
- Surf schools
- Beach bars
- Sportfishing
🚌 RideWise Route: Liberia Airport to Tamarindo – 1.5 hours
5. Tortuguero
Accessible only by boat or plane, this jungle-lined village on the Caribbean coast is famous for sea turtle nesting and river safaris.
Top experiences:
- Boat tours
- Sea turtle nesting (July–October)
- Rainforest hikes
🚌 RideWise Tip: Combine with a San José hotel pickup and boat transfer
6. Jaco Beach
Close to San José, Jaco is known for surfing, nightlife, and easy access to nearby national parks. Perfect for short stays or weekend getaways.
Good for:
- Solo travelers
- Party-goers
- Weekend trips
🚌 RideWise Route: San José to Jaco – 2 hours
7. Santa Teresa
Remote, rugged, and relaxed, Santa Teresa is a surfer’s paradise with boho vibes and a strong wellness scene. Great for slow travel.
Don’t miss:
- Surfing
- Yoga retreats
- Beachfront sunsets
🚌 RideWise Tip: Accessible via ferry from Puntarenas – we handle it all!
8. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
A laid-back town on the Caribbean coast with Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae music, and vibrant food.
Best for:
- Culture
- Beaches
- Backpackers
🚌 RideWise Route: San José to Puerto Viejo – 5 hours
9. Rincón de la Vieja
Home to another impressive volcano, mud baths, and off-the-beaten-path hiking. A hidden gem for eco-adventurers.
Activities include:
- Waterfalls
- Horseback riding
- Natural hot springs
🚌 RideWise Route: Liberia to Rincón – 1.5 hours
10. San José
Often skipped, Costa Rica’s capital has a lively food scene, museums, and easy access to day trips.
Worth exploring:
- Central Market
- National Theater
- Day trips to Poás Volcano
🚌 RideWise Tip: Airport transfers & city tours available
Travel Smart Between Costa Rica’s Top Destinations
Choosing the best places to visit in Costa Rica is only the first step. Getting there safely and comfortably is just as important. That’s where RideWise Costa Rica comes in.
🚐 Why travelers choose us:
- Safe, private door-to-door service
- Bilingual drivers and Wi-Fi on board
- Custom stops and flexible pickup times
- Transparent, flat-rate pricing
Start Planning Your Route
Need help organizing your trip between these incredible locations? Get a free quote for seamless travel across Costa Rica.