Costa Rica · Things to do
5 things to do in Costa Rica with kids
The five best family things to do in Costa Rica are soaking in the hot springs below Arenal volcano, spotting sloths and monkeys on a guided walk, crossing the rainforest on hanging bridges, swimming at the La Fortuna waterfall, and spending a day at Manuel Antonio. The first four cluster around La Fortuna, and the beach is on the Pacific coast.
What to do, in order
- 1
Stand under Arenal volcano
Arenal is a near-perfect cone rising above the town of La Fortuna. It has been quiet since 2010, so you will not see lava, but the shape and the surrounding national park are still impressive. The area has many hot spring resorts where river-fed pools run from warm to hot, and children can play in the cooler ones while adults soak. Check minimum ages and any restrictions on the hottest pools. Go late afternoon, when the day trippers leave, and book ahead in the dry season. Clouds often hide the summit by afternoon, so look in the morning.
- 2
Spot sloths and monkeys
Wildlife is easy to miss without help, because sloths sleep high in the canopy and look like a clump of leaves. A local naturalist guide with a spotting scope finds them in minutes and often knows where howler monkeys, toucans and frogs are resting. Night walks, with torches, show tree frogs and insects. Guided walks in Manuel Antonio National Park and around Monteverde and La Fortuna are common choices. Keep voices low, never feed animals, and bring binoculars. Early mornings, when animals are most active, are the best time for children who can wake up.
- 3
Walk the hanging bridges
Several private reserves, including near Arenal and Monteverde, have trails with suspension bridges that carry you through the rainforest canopy, high above the ground. The bridges are sturdy and have railings, and walking them with children gives a different view from the forest floor, with birds and trees at eye level. Allow two to three hours. Wear closed shoes and bring a light rain jacket, as showers are common in the afternoon. Go in the morning, when it is cooler and the wildlife is more active.
- 4
Swim a jungle waterfall
La Fortuna Waterfall drops about seventy metres into a clear pool in the forest. You reach it by a long stone staircase, a few hundred steps, which is manageable for most school-age children but tiring on the way back up. There is a swimming area at the base, though the current near the falls can be strong, so stay in the marked area and use life jackets for younger children. Go in the morning, when the light is good and it is less crowded. Check that the route is open, because heavy rain can close it.
- 5
Beach day at Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio National Park is a small park on the central Pacific coast with white-sand beaches, forest trails and plenty of wildlife behind the sand, including monkeys and sloths. Beaches inside the park are calm and shallow, which suits young children. The park limits the number of daily visitors and is normally closed one day a week, so book tickets in advance and check opening days. Go early, take water and snacks, and keep food away from monkeys, who steal bags. Outside the park, Playa Espadilla has bigger waves.
Plan it
- Best time
- December to April is the dry season, with the best beach weather and the most visitors. May to November is the green season, with afternoon showers, fewer crowds and lush forest. September and October are the wettest months.
- How long
- Ten days is a good fit: about four nights around La Fortuna and Arenal, and four nights at Manuel Antonio, with travel days in between. A week works if you choose just one of these regions.
- Getting around
- Most families rent a car or use private shuttles. Roads can be slow and winding, and distances are longer than they look on a map. Shuttle buses link La Fortuna with Monteverde and the Pacific coast. Fly into San Jose or Liberia.
Good to know
- Pack a light rain jacket and quick-dry clothes, even in the dry season.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Book park tickets and popular guided tours in advance in high season.
Frequently asked
Is Costa Rica good for families with young children? +
Yes. It is a relaxed, nature-focused country with many family-friendly lodges and guided activities. Plan shorter drives, build in pool time, and check age limits on zip-lines and other adventure activities before you book.
How many days do you need in Costa Rica with kids? +
Ten days is a comfortable plan for two regions, such as Arenal and Manuel Antonio. A week is enough for one region. Travel days take longer than expected, so avoid adding too many bases.
When is the best time to go to Costa Rica with kids? +
December to April has the driest weather and is the easiest for travel. May to November is rainier but greener and quieter, with sunny mornings and showers in the afternoon. Plan outdoor trips early.
Can you still see lava at Arenal volcano? +
No. Arenal stopped its long eruption in 2010 and has been quiet since. You can still see the cone, visit the national park, and relax in hot springs fed by the volcano's heat.