Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 51 travelers

Magical Costa Rica: A 7-Day Family Friendly Adventure

Saturday, December 16: Exploring San Jose

Start your Costa Rican adventure by arriving in San Jose, the capital city. In the morning, visit the Children's Museum, a fun and educational attraction where kids can explore interactive exhibits. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the beautiful Parque Metropolitano La Sabana, a large urban park with playgrounds and walking trails. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at Tin Jo, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and tasty Asian cuisine.

  • Children's Museum: $10/person, 2-3 hours
  • Parque Metropolitano La Sabana: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Tin Jo Restaurant: $15-30/person, 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 17: Arenal Volcano National Park

Embark on a scenic drive to Arenal Volcano National Park. In the morning, take a guided hike through the park's trails, admiring the stunning views of the volcano and lush rainforest. After lunch, relax at the Baldi Hot Springs, where you can soak in natural thermal pools. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at Don Rufino, a family-friendly restaurant offering traditional Costa Rican cuisine.

  • Arenal Volcano National Park: $15/person, 3-4 hours
  • Baldi Hot Springs: $35-60/person, 2-3 hours
  • Don Rufino Restaurant: $15-30/person, 1-2 hours
Monday, December 18: Manuel Antonio National Park

Head to Manuel Antonio, a stunning coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and wildlife. In the morning, explore Manuel Antonio National Park, home to diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Afternoon relaxation at Playa Espadilla, one of the park's pristine beaches. In the evening, enjoy a sunset dinner at El Avion, a unique restaurant housed in a refurbished airplane.

  • Manuel Antonio National Park: $16/person, 3-4 hours
  • Playa Espadilla: Free, 2-3 hours
  • El Avion Restaurant: $15-30/person, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 19: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Travel to Monteverde, famous for its cloud forests and abundant biodiversity. In the morning, explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve on a guided tour, discovering its unique flora and fauna. Afterward, visit the Butterfly Gardens, where you can observe colorful butterflies up close. In the evening, enjoy a cozy dinner at The Tree House Restaurant, nestled in the treetops.

  • Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: $20/person, 3-4 hours
  • Butterfly Gardens: $15/person, 2-3 hours
  • The Tree House Restaurant: $20-40/person, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 20: Tamarindo Beach

Make your way to Tamarindo, a vibrant beach town with golden sands and excellent surfing conditions. Spend the morning enjoying water activities such as surfing or paddleboarding. In the afternoon, explore the Marino Las Baulas National Park, known for its nesting sea turtles. Indulge in a seafood feast at Nogui's, a popular family-friendly beachfront restaurant.

  • Tamarindo Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Marino Las Baulas National Park: $10/person, 2-3 hours
  • Nogui's Restaurant: $15-30/person, 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 21: Tortuguero National Park

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Tortuguero National Park, accessible only by boat or plane. In the morning, take a boat tour through the park's intricate network of canals, spotting wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and toucans. After lunch, visit the Sea Turtle Conservancy Museum to learn about the park's important turtle conservation efforts. Enjoy a delightful dinner at Miss Junie's, a local restaurant specializing in Caribbean cuisine.

  • Tortuguero National Park: $15-20/person (boat tour), 3-4 hours
  • Sea Turtle Conservancy Museum: $5/person, 1-2 hours
  • Miss Junie's Restaurant: $10-20/person, 1-2 hours
Friday, December 22: San Jose City Tour

Head back to San Jose for a final day of exploration. Take a guided city tour in the morning, visiting landmarks such as the National Museum and the National Theater. In the afternoon, shop for souvenirs at the Mercado Central, a bustling market offering a variety of local goods. Enjoy a farewell dinner at Restaurante Grano de Oro, renowned for its elegant ambiance and exquisite cuisine.

  • San Jose City Tour: $30-50/person, 3-4 hours
  • Mercado Central: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Restaurante Grano de Oro: $30-60/person, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where you can witness beautiful waterfalls, explore animal exhibits, and even hold hummingbirds. Another off-the-beaten-path gem is the Sloth Sanctuary in Limon, where you can get up close to these adorable creatures and learn about their conservation. Locals also love exploring the stunning Rio Celeste, a river known for its striking blue color, located within Tenorio Volcano National Park.

Check hotel and flight prices here

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version