Travelling to Costa Rica with family is an increasingly popular choice amongst parents looking for an alternative escape to the norm. With so much to see and do, a family trip to Costa Rica is bound to be filled with adventure and memories to last a lifetime!
Whether you’re looking for an active getaway or a relaxing retreat, Costa Rica has a lot to offer. The rugged terrain and exotic landscape make it the perfect destination for an out-of-the-ordinary adventure, and the stunning scenery is equally conducive to a more laid-back vacation.
Is Costa Rica safe for families?
In case you’re still not convinced, the country is considered one of the safest in Central America and it’s super accessible, too.
What is the best resort in Costa Rica for families?
For a fully catered Costa Rica family holiday, Jaco and Guanacaste are the top spots for large-scale resorts full of facilities, amenities and entertainment. They’ve thought of everything!
The perfect balance of activity and relaxing luxury, Costa Rica’s resorts offer kids clubs, watersports and adventure activities to ensure the kids never say ‘I’m bored’. On the other hand, spas, pool complexes and fine dining options provide the chance to escape the buzz and while the time away in tranquil surroundings.
And one of the best things about all-inclusive resorts for the best family vacation in Costa Rica – the fantastic amenities at the resort can entertain the kids and buy some time for the two of you to enjoy some peace!
Is Costa Rica a good place for a family vacation?
A natural playground, Costa Rica is laden with beautiful beaches and tropical rainforest so there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained. Mischievous monkeys howl from the jungle trees as you walk through hanging bridges, or zipline through the forest for the ultimate thrill. Don’t worry – many of the adventure experience companies have offers tailored specifically for the young ones, with specialist expert guides on hand to keep your mind at ease!
If you’re staying in the La Fortuna region, the Arenal Volcano National Park is a must-do for your trip to Costa Rica with family. Arenal is Costa Rica’s most active volcano and its lava has been flowing consistently since 1968 when the volcano erupted. Whilst the eruption was tragic, it changed the region geographically in such a way that makes it one of Costa Rica’s most visited locations today. There are plenty of hiking options available, you can take a walk over hanging bridges through the rainforest, visit relaxing naturally-heated hot springs or take to the water in a raft, boat or canoe. With so many possibilities it is a must-see with your family!
In Tamarindo, thrill-seekers will be spoiled for choice with the range of ziplines available – a quintessential Costa Rican activity! You and your family can fly from canopy to canopy in the middle of the rainforest, the perfect birds-eye view to spot birds and native wildlife as you soar through the trees!
Meanwhile on the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo offers a more laid-back vibe typical of many Caribbean towns. Gorgeous beaches, great surf breaks and a relaxing energy sweep the coast-line for those of you needing a break from adventure and a chance to unwind in a tropical paradise.
A cultural Costa Rica family holiday
San Jose is one of the best places in Costa Rica for families looking for a cultural experience. The Costa Rican culture is a blend influenced by many other cultures including European and Caribbean, and the capital is the prime place to immerse yourself in it. Many theatres and museums showcase the best in Costa Rican culture, including the Museo de los Niños (Children’s Museum) which is set in a medieval castle.
Outside of the city there’s still plenty of opportunity to get involved in the local culture. Costa Rica is host to festivals throughout the year, so keep an eye on the calendar for ones you could attend. The festivals are flamboyant, colourful and a spectacular display of typical Costa Rican togetherness.
Get educated about EcoTourism
Who says education can’t be fun? Another great thing about Costa Rica for your family holiday is the opportunity to teach the kids about the environment through fun, memorable activities. One of the most eco-friendly places to holiday in the world, Costa Rican tourism focuses largely on sustainability making for a responsible choice for your family vacation, too.
Every hotel and restaurant is part of a nationwide recycling program and there are many eco resorts that run exclusively on renewable energy. In a country full of national parks and environmental reserves it is the ideal place for the kids to learn about conservation!
Best beaches in Costa Rica for families
With its stunning stretches of golden coastline, the list of best Costa Rica beaches is endless. But, when it comes to the best beaches in Costa Rica for families specifically, it can be narrowed down a little.
Hermosa Beach in Guanacaste province, on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, is one of the most popular beaches for families with young kids. At over a mile long and with less than half the crowds of its neighbouring beaches, there’s more room to play and keep an eye whilst enjoying a dip in the calmer, stiller waters.
For a more tropical experience, Manuel Antonio is set in a lush rainforest, surrounded by thick jungle. Deer and lizards and monkeys can be spotted here and the beach is a hotspot for hiking and water activities.