A Family-Friendly Adventure to Costa Rica

In La Fortuna, I recommend spending at least one day relaxing at the natural hot springs, whether at your own hotel or booking time at another hotel. Combine this with a spa treatment if you like. Make time to get near the volcano for kayaking, paddle boarding or hiking. The scenery is magnificent and the lake provides lots of nonmotorized water sport opportunities. Other options in La Fortuna include zip-lining excursions and canyoneering/rappelling down waterfalls as well as wildlife hikes to look for sloths. Depending on how adventurous your teen is, there is no lack of finding things to do in this area.

Next, head to Monteverde to the cloud forest. Don't miss the swinging bridges through the rain forest or the zip lining through the clouds, both epic adventures. Many of the hotels offer nighttime wildlife excursions with knowledgeable guides on all of the nocturnal animals in the region.

Finally, head to the coast for stunning beaches. The entire Papagayo Peninsula and Guanacaste province offer luscious backdrops and beautiful beaches. Take surf lessons and enjoy the warm waters for swimming and splashing. If you are an angler, you will want to take advantage of the deep-sea fishing tours available here. If you prefer land, do an ATV tour or a horseback ride.

I always encourage families to get a taste of the interior with lots of adventure and then end at the coast for some relaxation before heading home. Teens love Costa Rica for the mix of both. I've really enjoyed this trip as a one-on-one adventure with my son. So many memories to be made together!

Costa Rica isn't necessarily known for its cuisine, but what it lacks in innovation it makes up for in home-style cooking. Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, usually with fresh fruits, eggs and pastries. In La Fortuna, try Soda la Parada for authentic fare, and super cheap too.

Luigi's Pizza is great for a quick lunch or an inexpensive dinner.

Don Rufino is great for a more upscale restaurant experience and has a sommelier. If all else fails, you can never go wrong with the traditional arroz con pollo dish that is offered nearly everywhere you go.

Monteverde is very hilly and the towns dotted through the province are small. In Santa Elena, check out Restaurante de Lucia for a variety of options like vegetarian lasagna or sea bass. For a fabulous ribeye steak, try The Green Restaurant, just a few blocks away from Lucia.

In Papagayo, Poro Poro offers outdoor seating and live music at certain times. At the Andaz, Chao Pescao is a favorite. At the Four Seasons, Anejo is a winner.