Costa Rica Family Adventure From Beaches to Jungles

Jungle excursions:

La Fortuna Waterfall — I would say this is a must-see! The waterfall itself is breathtaking, making it a perfect backdrop for countless photos — my girls certainly couldn’t get enough. The hike to reach the falls is lovely, but be prepared for a number of stairs along the way. On our way back, our guide took us to a fantastic local restaurant where we enjoyed delicious, authentic Costa Rican cuisine. He then recommended we explore the charming town of La Fortuna, where we strolled around and treated ourselves and our guide to ice cream at Pops, a local favorite. The whole experience, with its laid-back Pura Vida vibe, was incredibly relaxing and memorable.

Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park is an absolutely stunning place to explore. Walking through the park was such a peaceful experience, and our guide’s expertise helped us spot hidden wildlife — even those barely visible through binoculars. The hanging bridges were breathtaking, and although I’m a bit afraid of heights, I felt completely safe on them. This is definitely a must-do for families with kids of all ages, offering a perfect blend of adventure and nature!

Club Rio at The Springs Resort and Spa Arenal is an excellent option whether you're staying at the resort or just looking for a day of adventure and relaxation. The activities here cater to all levels, with options like horseback riding, river rafting, tubing, rock climbing, fishing, hiking and visiting a wildlife sanctuary. Of course, there are also several hot springs tucked within the lush forest, perfect for unwinding. Plus, the onsite restaurant is a great spot to enjoy a meal before, after or between activities.

Coastal adventures:

Diamante Eco Adventure Park was the highlight of our trip, especially the ziplining, which quickly became the family favorite. With five ziplines, including the thrilling “Superman,” where you soar on your stomach like you're flying, it’s an unforgettable experience. The park also features an animal sanctuary with native wildlife like crocodiles, monkeys and sloths. For a more relaxed experience, you can wander through the botanical garden and enjoy hands-on activities with sugarcane, coffee and chocolate. If you're up for water activities, the park’s private beach is perfect for snorkeling, sea kayaking or paddleboarding. Don’t forget to bring plenty of sunscreen and bug spray!

Private snorkeling tour: On one of our last days, we booked a private snorkeling tour, and it was such a fantastic experience. The guides were incredibly fun and took us on a wildlife-spotting adventure before finding the perfect spot for snorkeling. They also treated us to delicious snacks and drinks onboard, adding to the experience. To top it off, they made time for some water tubing, which my husband and kids absolutely loved. While group snorkeling is available, there’s something special about the personalized attention and unique experience of a private tour.

Café & Macadamia: On our way from Liberia Airport to the resort, we made a stop at Café Macadamia. The food was spectacular, and the frozen lemonades were a fun treat for everyone. Plus, the view of Lake Arenal was simply breathtaking — definitely worth the stop.

Soda Rodríguez: If you're looking for traditional Costa Rican cuisine at an affordable price, I recommend Soda Rodríguez in downtown La Fortuna. The flavors are authentic, and it's a great spot to experience local dining without breaking the bank.

Ginger: For a change of pace, Ginger in Playa Hermosa offers Asian-inspired tapas plates in a lively atmosphere. The food, cocktails and overall ambiance make this a top spot for a unique dining experience.

Father Rooster’s: Located right on the beach in Ocotal, Provincia Guanacaste, Father Rooster’s is the perfect place to enjoy a meal after a day on the black-sand beach. The laid-back vibe and beachfront location add to the appeal of this popular dining spot.

Soda shops and private chef experience

One of the joys of Costa Rica is that no matter which soda shop you visit, you're sure to experience amazing Costa Rican cuisine — it's hard to go wrong! For the second half of our vacation, my family rented a home in Playa Hermosa and hired a private chef for a truly special dining experience. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy local flavors in the comfort of your own space, and I highly recommend it!