Costa Rica is an oasis of natural beauty, with endless breathtaking vistas and exciting opportunities for exploration in nearly every direction. There is no shortage of beautiful sites to visit within this Central American country, making it a popular bucket list destination for travelers. But if you are looking to discover some hidden gems in Costa Rica, look no further. Here is a list of six destinations that are a bit more off the beaten path and are a must for your next Costa Rica vacation.

Isla Del Caño

Isla Del Caño is an Island off Costa Rica’s Pacific coast and home to one of its many nature preserves. Here, you’ll find world-class snorkeling and scuba diving and the chance to see unique fish, sea turtles, sting rays, and more near its extensive coral reef systems. You might also be swimming alongside Humpback Whales, dolphins, and vibrant marine life – all of which are a big part of why Costa Rica is an ecotourism destination.

Bajos del Toro

 Despite its relative proximity to the capital city of San Jose, Bajos del Toro remains a quiet escape for those seeking solitude and serenity in nature. The area boasts numerous waterfalls, including the Rio Agrio Waterfall, Skyfall Waterfall, and Hidden Treasure Waterfall, among others. Numerous swimming holes in the area allow for a refreshing dip after adventuring in the region.

Playa Zancudo

Playa Zancudo is the perfect choice for travelers looking to get away from busy beach crowds. Its location in the southwest of the country and away from any major urban areas means that you can often go an entire day and only see a few other beachgoers. As you unwind on the dark sand beaches of Playa Zancudo, keep your eyes out for some of the many wildlife species who call the area home, including Toucans, Scarlet Macaws, Capuchin Monkeys, sloths, and crocodiles.

Tortuguero National Park

This one is for all the turtle lovers! Green Sea Turtles, Hawksbill Turtles, and Leatherback Turtles all call this Caribbean coastline home. For the best turtle spotting, visit between June and October. Those lucky enough to see the incredible spectacle of hatchlings making their first race to the sea will leave Tortuguero National Park with a memory to last forever.

Turrialba Volcano National Park 

The Turrialba Volcano is an active volcano located about a two-hour drive east of San Jose. Turrialba Volcano sits at an elevation of almost 11,000 feet, and requires a strenuous 2-hour hike to its summit. Those who make the trek are rewarded with magnificent views of the crater and valley below. Note that this volcano is so active that the entire park was closed to visitors between 2014 and 2020 due to its increased volcanic activity. We recommend checking on its status prior to mapping out your next big hike!

La Amistad International Peace Park

La Amistad International Peace Park is literally off the beaten path. The park has no paved roads leading to any of its entrances, with horseback and foot travel being the primary means for intrepid travelers who choose to visit. Note that to access the entrance stations, you’ll need a 4WD vehicle, and this can be a multi-day trek depending if you arrive from the Caribbean side or the Pacific side of the Talamanca Cordillera. There is just about everything here, from cloud forests to tropical rainforest lowlands. It is estimated that two thirds of the animal species found throughout the entire country of Costa Rica reside within La Amistad International Peace Park,.

Costa Rica: An Ecotourism Paradise

Tropical vacations aren’t always about frozen margaritas and Jimmy Buffett covers. While you can find those things in Costa Rica if that is what you are after, the true beauty of Costa Rica lies in its natural wonders. Birdwatching, hiking, snorkeling, waterfall viewing, and more; Costa Rica has it all.

Hidden gems are tucked away all over this majestic landscape. Costa Rica is an ecotourism paradise waiting to be explored – get out there and experience it for yourself!