Catamaran Snorkel Sunset Cruise from Tamarindo or Playas del Coco
A catamaran afternoon with a snorkel stop and sunset, from Tamarindo or Playas del Coco. Suits first-timers and families comfortable on a boat.
See Tour Deals & PricesDiscover memorable day trips, beautiful destinations, and fresh ideas for your next Costa Rica getaway. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, find something worth coming back for.


Dry-season sunshine, calm bays, sailing and volcano hot springs near Liberia.

Jacó, Manuel Antonio and Carara: the closest beaches to San José.

Uvita, Dominical and the Osa: whales, waterfalls and Caño Island.

Tortuguero canals, Cahuita and Puerto Viejo’s village rhythm.

Coffee farms, volcano viewpoints and San José markets.

Hot springs, hanging bridges, cloud forest and Río Celeste.
Pick two regions that fit your days, and leave the rest for next time.
Path 2Swap the region you know for one you don’t, or build a trip around an interest.
Path 3Weekend and long-weekend routes with realistic drive times.
A catamaran afternoon with a snorkel stop and sunset, from Tamarindo or Playas del Coco. Suits first-timers and families comfortable on a boat.
See Tour Deals & PricesA day pass to thermal pools set in gardens near Arenal. Paths between pools include steps and slopes.
See Tour Deals & PricesA boat trip to snorkel at Caño Island from the Uvita area, a strong “next trip” idea for returning visitors who have done Manuel Antonio.
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The country is small on a map but slow on the road. Picking two or three bases well matters more than seeing everything.

Coming back is the best way to see a different side of Costa Rica. Here are four ways to change the trip.

The best Costa Rica trips usually mix sand and forest. These pairings keep the travel time sensible.

A good day trip spends more time doing than driving. Use these checks to pick well.