Costa Rica is a Central American paradise known for its incredible biodiversity, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes. This eco-tourism destination offers world-class wildlife viewing, adventure activities, and a laid-back 'pura vida' lifestyle that welcomes travelers from around the globe.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
The best all-ages attraction in Costa Rica combines an animal sanctuary (rescued tapirs, pumas, sloths, monkeys), butterfly observatory, hummingbird garden, and a scenic walk to five waterfalls. The car-access makes it easy with young children.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Arenal Hot Springs Family Day
Multiple hot spring resorts near La Fortuna have dedicated children's pools at comfortable temperatures alongside slide features and shallow areas. Tabacón, Baldi, and Ecotermales all have family-friendly sections.
Duration: 2-4 hours
Sloth Sanctuary Tour, Cahuita
The original sloth sanctuary near Cahuita provides hands-on education about rescued and rehabilitated two-toed and three-toed sloths. The gentle pace and interactive elements fascinate children and adults alike.
Duration: 2 hours
Beginner Zip-lining, Monteverde
Several zip-line operators in Monteverde offer family-friendly beginner courses with shorter cables and safety training. The exhilaration of soaring through cloud forest canopy creates unforgettable memories for children old enough to follow safety instructions.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Chocolate Tour, Sarapiquí or Puerto Viejo
Interactive chocolate tours where children harvest cacao pods, learn about fermentation and roasting, and make their own chocolate bars. Universally loved by all ages and educational in the best possible way.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Hanging Bridges at Mistico, Arenal
Self-guided walks across 16 suspension bridges through Arenal rainforest canopy provide wildlife viewing from above. Wildlife including howler monkeys, hummingbirds, and poison dart frogs delight children on the gentle paths.
Duration: 2 hours
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Los Altos Beach Resort & Spa
Manuel Antonio's most family-friendly resort features multiple pools including a dedicated kids' pool with waterslides, a children's activity program, family-sized rooms, and beach shuttle to nearby beaches.
Family features: Kids club, waterslides, connecting rooms, family suites, beach shuttle
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
The gold standard for family luxury in Costa Rica. The exceptional Kids For All Seasons program runs daily activities while parents relax. Multiple pools, calm beach access, and a large property with space to explore.
Family features: Full-day kids club (ages 4-12), teen activities, kids pool, beach, multiple restaurants
Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort
Near Arenal Volcano, this resort's thermal river pools include shallow children's sections and waterfall features that delight all ages. Family rooms and bungalows accommodate groups well.
Family features: Children's thermal pools, family bungalows, jungle walks, proximity to La Fortuna activities
Tulemar Bungalows & Villas, Manuel Antonio
Spacious private villas with kitchenettes near Manuel Antonio National Park. Three private beaches allow safe swimming without crowds. Howler monkeys visit the grounds daily.
Family features: Private beaches, full kitchens in villas, wildlife on property, spacious accommodation
Hotel Arenal Observatory Lodge
The Smithsonian's original research station near Arenal offers the closest accommodation to the volcano with 870 acres of private trails. Affordable family rooms and kids love the volcano proximity.
Family features: Volcano proximity, wildlife trails, natural waterfall pool, affordable family rooms
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Most Costa Rican sodas welcome children warmly — family-sized portions and kids' rice and bean plates available at minimal cost
Kids' menus at tourist restaurants typically $5-8 for simple pasta, chicken, or local dishes
Bring reef-safe sunscreen — regular sunscreen is prohibited in Manuel Antonio and other marine protected areas
Fresh fruit from supermarkets and market vendors provides healthy, inexpensive snacks children love
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Build in at least two pool days for every active day — children need downtime and most family hotels have excellent pool facilities
Book accommodation with kitchenettes for at least part of the trip — self-catering saves money and accommodates picky eaters
Most adventure activities have minimum age 7-8 and weight requirements — verify before booking zip-lines, rafting, or canopy tours
Wildlife spotting requires early mornings (6-8AM) when animals are active — tired children may be less patient, so start short and easy