Fun Things to Do and See in Costa Rica

If you have decided to visit Costa Rica, be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime! This country has become famous for offering so many things to do and see, which is one of the reasons tourism continue to increase. Costa Rica also has things for people of all ages and on any budget so whether honeymooning or taking a family vacation, there will be no time for boredom. While there are too many things to mention in one article, we have pulled together five fun things you can do and see while visiting this beautiful tropical oasis.

Surfing – With more than 800 beaches, you can be sure to find numerous spots perfect for surfing. The water in Costa Rica is warm all year long and the beaches clean and pristine. There are some shops where surfboards can be rented but keep in mind that surfers typically bring their own. Known for boasting some of the best surfing in all of Central America, this is definitely a surfer’s haven. The following are a few of the best surf spots in Costa Rica:
-Puerto Viejo de Talamanca – Rated as one of the best, but also most challenging, this is a great place for skilled surfers
-Jaco – This area of Costa Rica is easy to reach and a location visited by many returning surfers
-Pavones – While it takes time to reach this surfing spot, once there you will discover the longest left breaking waves in the world

White Water Rafting – This is another popular adventure in Costa Rica where you can take a beginner or expert tour. While not for everyone, white water rafting is something people with an adventurous heart will love. We recommend the following:
-Turrialba – Known as the white water capital of Costa Rica, this is a perfect choice to find top notch tour guides
-La Fortuna – White water rafting from this area will take you to several rivers to include Sarapiqui, Balsa, Toro, and San Carlos
-Quepos – Both the Naranjo and Savegre Rivers can be reached from this location

Bird Watching – If you prefer a more laid back approach to your trip to Costa Rica, bird watching is something enjoyed by visitors and locals alike. Considering that close to 900 different species of birds live in Costa Rica, and that this country accounts for less than 0.03%, you can only imagine the possibilities associated with bird watching. To see birds throughout the year or during special migration seasons, check out these recommendations.
-Corcovado National Park – One of the most loved of all areas, this national park has the largest population of endangered scarlet macaws in the country.
-Cerro de la Muerte – To see resplendent quetzal, this is the best place to visit
-Carara National Park – In addition to an abundance of macaw, this is also home to boat-billed herons, trogons, egrets, and anhingas
-Tortuguero National Park – The final place we would recommend for bird watching is the Tortuguero National Park where you will see agami heron, bare-throated tiger heron, and sungrebe, among other species

Sport Fishing – Taking a day cruise or multi-day tour for sport fishing guarantees tremendous fun. Marlin, sailfish, giant yellow fin tuna, grouper, snook, rainbow runners, wahoo, and roosterfish are just a few of what you can catch in Costa Rica. Outfitters are easy to find throughout the country but you might consider these areas for some of the best sport fishing in the world.
-Santa Catalina Islands
-Nicoya Gulf
-Herradura Bay
-Cabo Blanco
-Matapalo Cape
-Damas
-Drake Bay
-Puerto Moin
-Los Chilis
-Rio Frio

Scuba Diving – Whether you are an experienced diver or wanting to become certified, Costa Rica offers something for everyone. The coastal area offers many offshore islands and beautiful reefs with diverse marine life that can be seen while diving. Sea turtles, giant manta rays, puffer fish, dolphins, and even an occasional whale are just a few of what you will find beneath the water in Costa Rica. No matter what part of the country you visit, Pacific, Caribbean, or Coco’s Island, scuba diving is an outstanding means of enjoying Costa Rica from a different vantage point.

To prepare for your trip to Costa Rica, we highly recommend that you take some online Spanish lessons. Not only will having the ability to communicate with the local people be more fun, but you will also have the chance to find out where some of the best and seldom talked about restaurants can be found. While the people of Costa Rica are very hospitable, knowing Spanish language shows them respect, making them even more eager to show you a good time.