Considered the happiest place in the world, Costa Rica is surrounded by deserted beaches, crater lakes, and stunning waterfalls that will take your breathe away. Since the late 1980’s, it became a popular tourist spot. Each year, millions of people visit this tropical paradise for its amazing flora and biodiversity. 

If you’re planning a trip with your kids, check out these top rated family spots in Costa Rica:

Explore the Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal, Costa Rica’s most active volcano, offers spectacular views of the surroundings. Visitors can explore the rich, diverse rainforest, watch the fiery-red lava, and see wild animals in their natural habitat. There’s strong local support here for keeping things wild. If you’re lucky, you might spot brown magpies, howler monkeys, tapir, or deer. The park is also home to a second volcano and endangered animals, such as the parrot snake, the jaguar, and white-faced Capuchin monkeys. 

Relax on Pristine Beaches

Also known as Costa Rica’s “Gold Coast,” Guanacaste features pristine beaches and crystal cleat waters. Families can relax and have a picnic, explore the sunny savannas, and visit remote fishing villages. This pace is surrounded by lush vegetation and hot springs. The hotels located nearby, such as Los Suenos Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort, offer adventure tours in Guanacaste and other wild areas. 

Have Fun in San José

Costa Rica’s vibrant capital offers plenty of activities for families and single travelers alike. Tourists can visit the Jade Museum, go to the Melico Salazar Theater, or spend the afternoon at Plaza de la Cultura. The Children’s Museum is a must see for kids, featuring interactive displays and workshops. Art and culture enthusiasts should not miss Teatro Variedades, the oldest theater in town. 

Go to the Zoo

Your adventure wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Simón Bolívar Zoo. This place boasts a snake-and-reptile house, a kids’ discovery area, and picnic spots. Opened in 1916, the zoo is home to typical Costa Rican animals and exotic species, such as jaguarondis, toucans, and monkeys. 

Discover the Local Cuisine

Described as hearty, savory, and memorable, the Costa Rican cuisine offers a world of flavors. Most dishes are made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, such as black beans, rice, plantain, and corn. Casado, a typical meal, consists of rice and beans, fish, meat, carrots, and cabbage salad. If you love meat, try olla de carne. Vegans and vegetarians will love patacones, empanadas, and bizcochos.

There are many other family-friendly attractions in Costa Rica, such as the popular Playa Hermosa, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and Monteverde. Your kids will love snorkeling in the shallow waters, spotting monkeys, and taking boat trips. This place also offers wildlife tours and water parks for all ages.