Travel guide
Costa Rica is built for families: calm-water beaches, monkeys and sloths in the wild, and adventures for every age. Here is where to go and what to know before you book.
Costa Rica rainforest, Costa Rica
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Costa Rica packs a lot into a small country: beaches on two coasts, rainforest, volcanoes and wildlife your kids will actually spot. The tourism board describes it as a place with beach days, wildlife encounters and easy adventures suitable for every age.[3],[4]
It is also considered a safe place to land and an incredible place to stretch beyond your comfort zone. As anywhere, be mindful of your surroundings and follow local health guidance.[3]
The country protects more than a quarter of its land for conservation and holds 6% of the world's biodiversity. For a family, that means the wildlife is the attraction, not a side trip.[1]
Families can spot howler monkeys and sloths in their natural habitats, and the country has four distinctive types of monkeys clambering through its trees. Five kinds of sea turtles swim along the shores, and hundreds of bird species live in or pass through.[3]
San José, Costa Rica (SJO)
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These are the experiences the tourism board names for families. Pick two or three rather than trying to do them all.[4]
For wildlife, head to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, where travelers can explore the jungle and spot wildlife. The reserve sits at 1,600 meters above sea level.[1]
In the Northern Plains, Arenal Volcano towers over protected forests and heats natural hot springs, an easy win after a day of hiking.[1]
When travelling with children, it is especially important to visit beaches where the surf isn't too strong. Playa Biesanz has calm waves that are good for children to play in, and Playa Manzanillo has calm waves that are perfect for the whole family.[2]
Ostional is the headline wildlife stop for many families. Turtles arrive continuously during the Costa Rican rainy season, from July to November. September and October see the greatest concentration of nesting activity, with 7 km of the beach full of turtles.[2]
According to SINAC data, turtle waves at Ostional can range between 1,000 and 200,000 individuals depending on the season. That is a lot of turtles, and it is why the refuge is managed carefully.[2]
Only accredited local guides can let you into the Ostional refuge, to avoid interfering with nesting. Plan to go with a guide rather than walking in on your own.[2]
Costa Rica's regions each offer something different for a family day outside.[1]
Families can visit a beach hidden within a national park, which is a good way to combine a hike with a swim. The tourism board also points to safety tips on outdoor adventures for the whole family if you want to plan bigger days out.[3]
The Central Valley is home to Costa Rica's capital city and boasts museums, theater and food. It is a sensible first or last stop if you want a gentler day between beach and rainforest.[1]
Families can also discover a different culture in the cities or rural areas throughout the country, which is a good counterpoint to a week of sand and surf.[4]
Distances from San José are the useful planning measure. Playa Biesanz is a 3-hour trip, Playa Sámara 4 hours, Playa Manzanillo 4 hours and 50 minutes, and Playa San Juanillo and Playa Ostional 5 hours each.[2]
For San Juanillo, vehicle access is available but a 4x4 is recommended. If you are renting a car, check what you are booking before you commit.[2]
Puerto Viejo is just 15 minutes from Playa Manzanillo, with plenty of options for tours, lodging and restaurants, so it can work as a base for the Caribbean coast.[2]
Check passports first
A valid passport is mandatory to enter Costa Rica. Residents of the USA, Canada and most European countries can enter without a visa.[4]
Pack a reusable water bottle
The water is potable in most of Costa Rica, and bottled water is only recommended in a few rural areas. Fill your bottle before starting the day's adventure, because refill stations may be a long trek to locate.[4]
Bring dollars and a card
The colón is Costa Rica's currency, and U.S. dollars are also widely accepted. All major credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are located throughout the country.[4]
Leave the plug adapter at home
Outlets are 110V with standard U.S. two-prong plugs.[4]
Traveling with a pet?
Dogs and cats entering Costa Rica must have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. The veterinary examination must be conducted within two weeks prior to traveling, and animals 4 months or older need distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus and rabies vaccinations.[4]
No. Residents of the USA, Canada and most European countries can enter Costa Rica without a visa. A valid passport is mandatory to enter.[4]
Playa Biesanz, inside Manuel Antonio National Park, has calm waves that are good for children to play in. Playa Manzanillo also has calm waves that are perfect for the whole family.[2]
Turtles arrive at Ostional continuously during the rainy season, from July to November. September and October see the greatest concentration, with 7 km of the beach full of turtles.[2]
No. Only accredited local guides can let you into the Ostional refuge, to avoid interfering with nesting. Plan your visit around a guided tour.[2]
The water is potable in most of Costa Rica, and bottled water is only recommended in a few rural areas. Fill your reusable bottle before the day's adventure, since refill stations may be a long trek to locate.[4]
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Start planningThe facts above come from these pages, which we read on November 10, 2026. Opening hours, prices and event dates change, so check with the venue or organizer before you go.
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