The Best Costa Rica Trip Itinerary for 7, 10, and 14 Days

Complete Costa Rica Itinerary for 2 Weeks

If you have two weeks in Costa Rica, get ready for the adventure of a lifetime, and we’re very serious. This itinerary takes you through the best destinations in the country. You’ll see volcanoes, cloud forests, tropical beaches, as well as national parks full of unique wildlife.

You’ll start in San José, then explore La Fortuna, Monteverde and its hanging bridges, and Santa Teresa’s surf beaches, before ending your trip in Uvita, home to the famous Whale’s Tail Beach.

As we said before, you mightonly have 7 or 10 days in Costa Rica but that does not mean cannot maximize it. Pick the Costa Rica sample itinerary and review all of the details listed here below for your own best trip.

This day-by-day guide is meant to show you the best of CostaRica without overloading your itinerary. We’ll take you through the itinerary one day at a time with things to do,how to go from A-B and more.

Day 1: San José (Arrival)

Welcome to Costa Rica! Today is all about settling in before the trip around the country starts. After landing at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), take it easy with a meal at a local soda (small traditional restaurant) or explore San José’s historic spots like the National Theater or Mercado Central.

Welcome to Costa Rica! It’s all about getting things set up today before getting around the country. Relax with a meal at a local soda (small traditional restaurant) or take in the sights of San José, such as the National Theater and Mercado Central.

If you have time, head to Barrio Escalante in the evening. This is the best area in San José for food and nightlife. Rest up, because tomorrow, the real adventure starts!

Land at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)

After landing at SJO, expect 30-60 minutes for immigration. Have your customs form and return ticket ready to speed up the process. If you need cash, ATMs inside the airport dispense Costa Rican colones and USD.

This small airport has everything that you need. There is WiFi, which really nice while waiting, free luggage carts, and an easy baggage claim area. Diligent but friendly immigration officials too.

For a SIM card, get Kolbi, Claro, or Movistar at baggage claim ($5-$10) or find better deals in San José stores. While you will save some cash in San José, nothing beats the convenience of buying your sim card at the airport, so we recommend this option.

For taxis, use official orange airport taxis ($25-$35 to downtown) or rideshares like DiDi for cheaper rates. It’s only 17km from the airport, or about 20 minutes, so it’s a quick ride to your hotel. You can get a public bus but you’l have to get to the main road, so that’s not very convenient.

Have a Meal at Soda Tapia or Mercado Central

Soda Tapia, near La Sabana Park, is a great local diner serving traditional Costa Rican food 24/7 on the weekend and extended hours during the week. Try a casado (rice, beans, plantains, salad, and meat) or a gallo pinto breakfast with fresh juice.

At Mercado Central, you’ll find food stalls selling ceviche, empanadas, and fresh coffee. It’s a great place to experience authentic flavors, buy spices, or grab a quick, affordable meal before heading out.

What to eat in Costa Rica? I mean Costa Rican food is simple, yet pretty yummy. Begin with a casado (equivalent to beef, chicken or fish alongside rice, beans and greens) Gallo pinto is the national dish, usually served for breakfast with eggs and plantains.

If you like seafood, ceviche with fresh lime and cilantro is a must. Wash it down with agua dulce (sugarcane drink) or fresh tropical juices like guanábana, passion fruit, or tamarind. The perfect combo to have after a long flight.

Visit the National Theater or Gold Museum

One of the most beautiful buildings in Costa Rica is The National Theater, built in 1997. Without a doubt it should be on your list to visit while you are here! We are from Costa Rica, and we take great pride in that. With ornate ceilings, marble statues and gold detailing.

Join a guided tour ($10-$15) of the theater to understand its history better or simply have coffee at their in-house café.

Other than that, housed underground in Plaza de la Cultura, the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum showcases over 1,600 gold artifacts from Costa Rica’s indigenous cultures. Those include intricate ceremonial figurines and jewelry.

Both are entirely worth the trip, so do yourself a favor and check them out – particularly if you just arrived early in the day. At worst you have one more day left at the end of this itinerary to do your visit.

Walk through Barrio Escalante for Dinner

For a gourmet Costa Rican meal, go with Silvestre or for incredible cocktails at Apotecario. Sure, those are a little pricey but you’ll have more time to indulge in more affordable food later on in this trip. Yes, those are on the expensive side, but you’ll have time on the rest of the trip to enjoy more humble (yet really, really tasty) food.

For a more casual bite, try Agüizotes Gastro Pub for great local fusion food. It is a safe, walkable city at nigh and the streets are filled with life – perfect after an entire day of travel (read: jet lag).

Day 2: Travel to La Fortuna & Relax

It’s time to leave the city behind and head for La Fortuna, home to the iconic Arenal Volcano. If you did any research about Costa Rican tourism, then this is probably the first place you saw, because it’s so popular and beautiful (though luckily doesn’t have that crowded feel).

The drive takes about 3.5 to 4 hours from San José, but once you arrive, you’ll feel the change in atmosphere. Beautiful lush jungle, incredible views, and endless outdoor activities to enjoy.

Ease into your trip by soaking in natural hot springs like Tabacón, Baldi, or the free El Chollín river, and enjoy a relaxed sunset walk around Lake Arenal before dinner.

Travel from San José to La Fortuna

The drive from San José takes 3.5-4 hours by car. Yes, it is a bit long but you will go through some beautiful mountains and small towns on the way. If you don’t rent a car, take a shuttle for 50-60 USD or public transport ($5 to $ 10) or private transfer($100+).

Shuttles are the most comfortable and best option by far, while public buses take longer but are budget-friendly.

If you end up going with driving, definitely make a stop in Zarcero to see beautiful topiary gardens (and grab some fresh cheese while at it).

Note that highways in Costa Rica are excellent, but the roads of the countryside have much to be desired. If you are a novice driver please do yourself a favor and get a shuttle.

Take in the Views of Arenal Volcano

One of Costa Rica´s most famous landmarks, towering at 1,657 meters /5.437 feet): Arenal Volcano. This is probably our favorite place to go when we take a few days off.

Though its last major eruption was in 2010, it’s still an active volcano. You’ll get stunning views from the main town, Lake Arenal, and Arenal National Park.

The best viewpoints are Mirador El Silencio, the Arenal 1968 Trail, and the observation decks at Tabacón Hot Springs. On clear days, the volcano’s perfect cone shape is breathtaking. Absolutely breath-taking.

Relax in Hot Springs (Tabacón, Baldi, or free El Chollín)

The town of La Fortuna is known for its thermal hot springs, warmed by the Arenal Volcano. These springs greatly vary when it comes to the overall experience and your budget.

If you want to treat yourself with an upscale experience, head on over to Tabacón ($75+ day pass), offering gorgeous pools and waterfalls, in addition to access the spa. It is the most expensive option in town but it surely has a great hot spring.

Baldi Hot Springs ($40+) is a more affordable resort with over 25 pools. Yes, there are more people, understandably, but not as many as the free hot springs. If you want a free option, head to El Chollín, a natural hot river just outside Tabacón. It’s completely free but gets crowded in the afternoon, so be ready for that.

Walk Around Lake Arenal for Sunset

Lake Arenal is Costa Rica’s largest lake. It stretches 33 square miles (85 km²), and you’ll have amazing sunset views over the water. Walk along the shore, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or just relax and take in the scenery. This is Pura Vida.

The lake is also great for fishing, windsurfing, and boat tours. If you’re lucky, you might spot howler monkeys or exotic birds in the trees nearby. It’s the perfect way to end your day in the city before heading back.

Day 3: Arenal Volcano & Waterfalls

Today is all about exploring Arenal and the incredible landscapes. Start the morning with a hike at the Arenal 1968 Volcano Trail, where you’ll walk on old lava fields with amazing views. After that, cool off at La Fortuna Waterfall, one of the most beautiful in Costa Rica (just be ready for the 500 steps down and back up!).

In the afternoon, it’s time to walk on the Mistico Hanging Bridges. That’s a perfect way to spot wildlife like toucans, monkeys, and sloths. If you still have energy, do yourself a favor and take a chocolate and coffee tour in the rainforest. Easily one of the best things to include in your Costa Rica itinerary.

Hike the Arenal 1968 Volcano Trail

This historic trail follows the lava flows from the massive eruption in 1968, and this is where you’ll see stunning views of the volcano. It’s a moderate 2.5-mile (4 km) hike and it takes about 2 hours.

You will pass by lava fields, rainforests, and scenic lookout points. Expect to see toucans, howler monkeys, and tropical plants along the way. If you travel for flora and fauna, this is an absolute treat.

The trail is rocky and uneven, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Entrance costs US$26 per person, and guided tours are available if you want to learn more about the volcano and the area. A little expensive (close to US$100 per person) but absolutely worth it. After all, you’re not in Costa Rica every day!

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

One of Costa Rica’s most iconic waterfalls. La Fortuna Waterfall plunges 230 feet (70 meters) into a crystal-clear pool, and that’s a must-do. Swimming is allowed, but the current can be strong near the falls, so do keep that in mind.

The hike down 500 steps takes about 10-15 minutes, but the climb back up is steep. Entrance costs US$18 per person (only $5 per children though), and there are changing rooms and bathrooms on-site. We recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the lush jungle all around.

Explore the Mistico Hanging Bridges for Jungle Views

The Mistico Hanging Bridges Park features a 2-mile (3.2 km) trail with 16 bridges, including 6 long suspension bridges with breathtaking canopy views. It’s one of the best places here to spot wildlife, including sloths, howler monkeys, toucans, and poison dart frogs.

The walk is easy and family-friendly, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours, and you don’t need a particularly high fitness level. Entrance costs $32 per person, and guided tours are available at $48 per person for those who want a closer look at the rainforest ecosystem.

Take a Chocolate & Coffee Tour in the Rainforest

We’re locals, and we know that entry fees and tours pile up and cost relatively high. But if there was one guided tour to consider, this is the one.

You’ll learn about Costa Rica’s famous coffee and chocolate at a plantation near La Fortuna. See how coffee beans are grown, roasted, and brewed, then taste fresh local coffee.

Next, discover how cacao is processed into rich, handmade chocolate, with samples along the way. Tours last about 2 hours and cost $30-$50 per person, depending on the farm. Are they worth it? Oh yes, absolutely. Welcome to Costa Rica!

Day 4: Outdoor Activities or Rio Celeste Day Trip

You have two great options today. If you love adventure, go whitewater rafting on the Balsa or Sarapiquí River, or zipline over the rainforest. If you prefer something more relaxed, take a day trip to Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park.

The hike is about 2 hours round trip, but the reward is worth it. A bright turquoise waterfall straight out of a postcard. Either way, this will be one of the most memorable days of your trip. 100% guaranteed!

Go Whitewater Rafting on the Balsa or Sarapiquí River

This part of the country is a top spot for rafting, with options for beginners and more experienced ones. The Balsa River (Class II-III) is great for first-timers and families, while the Sarapiquí River (Class III-IV) has bigger rapids and more adrenaline.

Expect 2-3 hours on the water, with chances to spot monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds along the riverbanks. That’s right, you never get enough wildlife in our country! Tours include lunch, transportation, and safety gear, costing $65-$85 per person and they last about 5 hours. Dry bags and water shoes are recommended.

Zipline Through the Rainforest

Another incredible thing to do in La Fortuna is ziplining, and that’s brilliant if you enjoy some adrenaline rush.

The best zipline parks are Sky Adventures, Arenal Mundo Aventura, and Ecoglide. They feature multiple cables, some over 2,600 feet (800 meters) long. Most tours last 2-3 hours and include hanging bridges, Tarzan swings, and rappelling options.

Prices range from $55-$85 per person, with some packages including an aerial tram ride. It’s a must-do activity for adventure lovers and one of the best ways to see Costa Rica’s rainforest from above.

Take a Day Trip to Rio Celeste (Tenorio Volcano National Park)

Alright, so in case ziplining and rafting aren’t your cup of tea, Rio Celeste is the best alternative, and we highly recommend it. Rio Celeste is famous for its bright turquoise water, created by a natural chemical reaction in Tenorio Volcano National Park.

The 3.7-mile (6 km) return hike takes about 2-3 hours, and it takes you to the stunning Rio Celeste Waterfall and the Laguna Azul (Blue Lagoon). The trail can be muddy and slippery, so hiking boots are recommended.

Entrance is $12 per person, and swimming is not allowed inside the park. It’s a perfect day tour from La Fortuna, about 1.5 hours away by car. We recommend joining a day tour, which doesn’t cost much (less than US$100 per person) and everything is included: Transportation, entrance fees, and everything else.

Day 5: Head to Monteverde & Explore

Say goodbye to La Fortuna and take the scenic route to Monteverde. The journey includes a boat ride across Lake Arenal, followed by a bumpy but beautiful drive through the mountains (about 3.5 to 4 hours total).

Once in Monteverde, visit the Cloud Forest Reserve. The reserve has very unique wildlife and stunning trails, and that’s probably the best place to go hiking on this Costa Rica trip itinerary.

End the day with a coffee and chocolate tour (if you didn’t do it in La Fortuna) or a night walk, where you might spot sleeping birds, tarantulas, or even a sloth!

Travel from La Fortuna to Monteverde

Next ride on this itinerary: The journey from La Fortuna to Monteverde. The fastest and most scenic way is the Jeep-Boat-Jeep transfer ($30-$35 per person), which takes 3.5 hours and includes a boat ride across Lake Arenal.

If you drive, expect a 4-hour ride on winding mountain roads. We recommend it only for 4×4, not regular city cars. Public buses take longer but offer a budget-friendly option. Once you arrive, breathe in the cool mountain air and get ready to explore the cloud forest.

Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

You’ll get to Monteverde around lunch time or in the afternoon, and you’ll have enough time to explore the forest reserve. You’ll spot rare wildlife, giant ferns, and hanging moss. Follow the well-marked trails, which range from easy to moderate and take 2-4 hours to explore. There are 6 trails in total, and they all vary in length and level.

Walk across the famous suspended bridge for panoramic views. If you go with a guide, he will help you spot monkeys, sloths, and the elusive resplendent quetzal.

Entrance costs $26 per person, and guided tours cost $30 or $35 depending on the time (those do not include tickets). Wear hiking boots and bring a rain jacket, because Monteverde’s cloud forest stays cool and damp year-round.

Walk the Hanging Bridges at Selvatura Park

If there’s a unique way to see the rainforest from above, it’s from the Selvatura Park’s hanging bridges. The 2-mile (3.2 km) trail has 8 suspension bridges, some stretching over 500 feet long and 200 feet high.

You’ll spot monkeys, toucans, and orchids. It’s an easy, self-guided walk that takes about 1.5-2 hours. There are several tickets available that vary in price depending on the options you choose (ziplining, butterfly garden, hanging bridges, etc).

Visit the Monteverde Butterfly Garden

The Monteverde Butterfly Garden, also known as Jardin de Mariposas, is a great family-friendly activity showcasing over 30 butterfly species. You’ll walk through four enclosed habitats, each designed to mimic Costa Rica’s different climates.

The garden also houses insects and tarantulas, and that’s a fun educational stop if you travel as a family (and you’re not scared of spiders). Guided tours last 45 minutes to 1 hour and cost $20 per person. The best time to visit is mid-morning when butterflies are most active.

Day 6: Cloud Forest & Ziplining in Monteverde

Monteverde is the place to be for ziplining, and today is your chance to experience it. Head to Extremo Park or Selvatura Park for some of the best zipline courses in the country, including a Tarzan swing and superman zipline.

If you prefer something slower-paced, walk the hanging bridges, where you’ll be surrounded by misty cloud forest and exotic wildlife. There’s limited time in Monteverde, but you can still do both if you plan it properly.

After lunch, visit the Monteverde Butterfly Garden or take in the sunset at The View Restaurant before winding down around town.

Try Ziplining & Tarzan Swings at Extremo Park

Something our guests always ask us is where to get an adrenaline rush at Monteverde. Well, Extremo Park it is, and the name only give it away.

You’ll fly over Monteverde’s cloud forest on one of Costa Rica’s most extreme ziplining courses. Extremo Park’s course has 14 cables, including a mile-long Superman zipline, and yes, it goes quite fast!

For an extra thrill, take the Tarzan Swing, a 148-foot free fall that will leave your heart racing. Tours last 3 hours and cost $95 per person. If you love adventure, this is a must-do.

Take a Coffee Tour at Don Juan Coffee Farm

After ziplining (or as an alternative, in case this isn’t your cup of tea) a coffee and chocolate tour is a great continuation to this itinerary.

Sip freshly brewed coffee and taste rich handmade chocolate at Don Juan Coffee Farm. Walk through the plantation, learn how farmers grow, roast, and brew Costa Rica’s world-famous coffee, and get hands-on experience making chocolate from cacao beans.

The 2-hour tour costs $52 per person and includes plenty of samples. Smell the fresh roasted beans, taste pure organic chocolate, and see why Monteverde’s coffee is among the best in the world. If you like coffee, please, go and enjoy.

Day 7: Travel to Santa Teresa

Today, you’re heading to Santa Teresa, a laid-back surf town on the Nicoya Peninsula. Getting there is part of the adventure—expect a shuttle + ferry combo or a scenic drive if you’re renting a car.

The journey takes about 5-6 hours from Monteverde, so once you arrive, take it easy. Settle into your hotel, grab a smoothie or fresh seafood, and head to Playa Santa Teresa for a golden sunset over the Pacific.

If you’re up for it, enjoy the chill nightlife in town with bars and live music. The absolute dream and we know this is what you’re in Costa Rica for. Enjoy.

Travel from Monteverde to Santa Teresa

Getting to Santa Teresa from Monteverde takes some effort, but it’s worth it. The fastest way is a shuttle + ferry combo (5-6 hours, $50-$60 per person), which includes a ride to Puntarenas, a ferry to Paquera, and a final drive to Santa Teresa.

If you’re driving, expect bumpy, unpaved roads. Again, we recommend doing it only with a 4×4. Public buses take longer but are cheaper, so that’s an ok option if you travel with a tight budget. Once you arrive, kick off your shoes, grab a smoothie, and enjoy the setting.

Relax on Santa Teresa Beach

Santa Teresa Beach stretches for miles, and there’s soft sand, warm water, and a relaxed atmosphere. Exactly what you’d expect from a tropical destination. Find a shady spot under a palm tree, swim in the gentle waves, or just enjoy the laid-back surf town energy.

Vendors sell fresh coconuts and fruit, and seafront cafés have smoothies, açai bowls, and fresh seafood. Unlike more crowded beaches in Costa Rica, Santa Teresa feels wild and untouched (in a good way), perfect for a peaceful afternoon by the ocean.

Take a Beginner-friendly Surf Lesson

Santa Teresa is one of the best places to learn how to surf, with consistent waves and sandy-bottom beaches. Local surf schools offer private and group lessons ($50-$70 per session), with instructors guiding you through the basics before getting you in the water.

Playa Carmen and Playa Hermosa are better for beginners, with smooth, rolling waves that make learning fun. After your lesson, rent a board and practice at your own pace. You might just get hooked!

Watch the Sunset at Banana Beach

Santa Teresa’s sunsets are legendary, and Banana Beach is one of the best places to watch them. Grab a cocktail, find a hammock, and listen to live music as the sky turns pink, orange, and purple.

The bar here serves fresh ceviche, tropical drinks, and great seafood, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of surfing or exploring. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a fire show or drum circle after dark.

Day 8: Waterfalls & Nature in Santa Teresa

Time to explore further! Start your day at Montezuma Waterfalls, a three-tiered cascade that you can hike to in about 20 minutes. The lower falls are great for a quick swim, while the upper levels have cliff-jumping spots for the adventurous.

After cooling off, head to Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, Costa Rica’s first protected park. Here, you’ll hike through dense jungle filled with howler monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds before reaching a secluded beach.

Lastly, we suggest taking an ATV for a ride around the coast, surely something you can’t skip.

Visit Montezuma Waterfalls

Take a short 20-minute drive to Montezuma, where you’ll find one of most beautiful waterfalls in the country. You can hike 20 minutes through the jungle to reach the lower falls, where you can swim in a natural pool.

Feeling adventurous? Climb up to the second and third waterfalls for cliff jumping. The entrance is free, but local guides offer tours for around $10-$15. Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best photos.

Take a Trip to Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve

Cabo Blanco is Costa Rica’s first protected reserve, and it’s home to dense jungle, beautiful beaches, and unique wildlife (different than other parts of Costa Rica).

The challenging 6-mile (10 km) hike takes about 3-4 hours round trip, which will lead to a remote, untouched beach. Along the way, you can see howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, and tropical birds. The entrance costs $12 per person (that’s right, much cheaper than Monteverde and La Fortuna), and the park is open Wednesday to Sunday from 8.00 AM to 4.00 PM.

Bring water, snacks, and good hiking shoes, as the trail can be tough but worth every step.

Try ATV Riding Along the Coastline

If there’s one cool way to see more of Costa Rica, it’s with an ATV. Rent an ATV for the day and go explore the jungle roads or some hidden beaches far from the tourist attractions. ATV rentals cost about 70 to 80 USD per day, which is quite reasonable.

Popular routes include Playa Hermosa, Mal País, and Montezuma, so you really get a mix of jungle and ocean views. Most rental shops provide helmets and maps, but drive carefully please, roads can be rough. If you prefer a guided tour, local companies offer sunset and waterfall ATV rides.

Day 9: Surf, Yoga & Sunset Ride in Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is a world-famous surf spot, so whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, today is the perfect day to hit the waves. Take a surf lesson if you’re new to it, or rent a board and head to Playa Carmen or Playa Hermosa for mellow, rolling waves.

Don’t worry if that’s your first time, there are plenty of schools for beginners in this part of Costa Rica.

After a session in the water, unwind with a yoga class at Pranamar or Nautilus, two of the best studios in town. End the day with a sunset horseback ride along the beach, an unforgettable way to take in the scenery.

Surf at Playa Carmen or Playa Hermosa

Santa Teresa is a world-class surf destination, and Playa Carmen and Playa Hermosa are perfect for beginners. if you already took a class on day 7, this is your chance to practice.

Playa Carmen has gentle, rolling waves, while Playa Hermosa offers longer, more forgiving breaks. The warm water and laid-back surf culture make this a must-try.

Take a Yoga Class at Pranamar or Nautilus

Other than surf, Santa Teresa is also a yoga hotspot. Pranamar and Nautilus have some of the best classes. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced yogi, you’ll find beachfront sessions, jungle decks, and expert instructors leading classes in Vinyasa, Hatha, and Yin yoga.

Sessions cost $15-$25 (private sessions are more expensive, up to $40 per hour), and many include breathwork, meditation, or sound healing. Practice with ocean waves or jungle sounds in the background and make this a truly relaxing experience.

Go Horseback Riding on the Beach

Riding a horse along the shoreline at sunset is a bucket-list experience in Costa Rica. You definitely will not regret it.

Guided beach and jungle rides ($50-$80 per person) take you through the trails around the city and scenic ocean viewpoints. Tours last 1.5 to 2 hours, with horses suitable for all levels. They’re used to tourists, so don’t worry if this is your first time.

Most rides end at the beach, where you can gallop in the waves or watch the sun set over the Pacific.

Enjoy a Sunset Catamaran Cruise

The last activity in Santa Teresa is the sunset catamaran cruise. And you can enjoy lots of activities while you’re at it. You can snorkel, sip cocktails, and spot dolphins or sea turtles. The cruise lasts 3 – 4 hours ($85-$120 per person) and include drinks, snacks, and live music.

Some boats stop at secluded beaches for swimming, while others offer paddleboarding or kayak options. Please note: It always sells out, so make sure to book now.

Day 10: Travel from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio

Say goodbye to Santa Teresa and make your way to Manuel Antonio for a couple nights. The journey takes 5-6 hours, including a ferry ride from Paquera to Puntarenas.

Once you arrive, take a walk around Quepos, the lively gateway town with shops and restaurants. For dinner, head to El Avión, a unique restaurant inside an old cargo plane, with incredible ocean views. Read on for all the details.

Travel from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio

The journey takes 5-6 hours and includes a ferry from Paquera to Puntarenas. If driving, expect winding roads and occasional potholes, so a 4×4 is best.

Shuttles cost $50-$60 per person, while a private transfer runs around $200. Expensive but that may be worth it depending on your preference. Once in Manuel Antonio, the humid jungle meets the Pacific, setting the stage for more adventure.

Walk Around Quepos Town & Marina Pez Vela

Quepos is a cute town with markets, cafés, and ocean views. Very authentic Costa Rican town. Walk through the waterfront boardwalk, where you’ll find fishing boats, souvenir shops, and fresh seafood vendors.

Stop by Marina Pez Vela, a modern harbor with restaurants, bars, and boutique stores. If you’re here in the evening, the marina is a great spot to watch the sunset while enjoying a cold drink.

Have Dinner at El Avión

Up for a unique dinner? What if we told you you can dine inside a C-123 Cargo plane? The plane was part of a Cold War scandal and it now serves as a bar and dining area with panoramic ocean views.

Enjoy fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and local Costa Rican dishes while watching the sunset. Try the mahi-mahi, seafood pasta, or casado, and don’t skip their signature piña colada served in a fresh pineapple.

Day 11: National Park Hike & Beach

Today, you’ll explore Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most famous in Costa Rica. The setting is a little similar to La Fortuna but very unique in its own way.

Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy easy jungle trails leading to white-sand beaches. Keep your eyes open for sloths, capuchin monkeys, and iguanas, as wildlife is everywhere here.

After hiking, relax at Playa Manuel Antonio, one of the country’s most stunning beaches. If you want more adventure, try parasailing, jet skiing, or a catamaran tour with snorkeling in the afternoon. End the day with a catamaran tour.

Hike in Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the best places to see wildlife up close. Walk the easy trails and keep an eye out for monkeys, sloths, and iguanas hanging around.

The main trail is flat and easy, but if you want a little workout, take the Cathedral Point trail for ocean views. Tickets cost $18, and the park closes on Tuesdays, so plan ahead. Get there early to beat the heat and the crowds.

Swim at Playa Manuel Antonio

This beach looks straight out of a postcard: soft white sand, clear blue water, and jungle all around. We already know you’ll say “wow” many, many times!

The waves are calm, so it’s perfect for swimming or just floating. Since it’s inside the national park, there are no vendors or shops, so bring snacks, water, and anything else you need. Watch out for the cheeky monkeys and raccoons, because they love stealing food!

Try Parasailing or Jet Skiing

For a different view of the coast, go parasailing or jet skiing over Manuel Antonio’s blue waters. Parasailing ($85-$100) lifts you high above the ocean, so you get an insane view of the park and beaches.

Prefer speed? Hop on a jet ski ($90-$120 per hour) and explore hidden coves and rocky cliffs. If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins or sea turtles while you’re at it.

Take a Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling

A catamaran tour is one of the best ways to enjoy this part of the country from the water. Yes, you might have taken it in Santa Teresa already, so you can skip this one if that’s the case.

Most tours last 3-4 hours ($85-$120) and include snorkeling, lunch, and unlimited drinks. You’ll cruise past the park, stop at Biesanz Bay for snorkeling, and maybe even see dolphins or whales (that’s seasonal, please remember this). Want the best experience? Book this tour.

Day 12: Travel to Uvita & Whale’s Tail

Next stop: Uvita, a quiet coastal town known for the Whale’s Tail Beach. It’s not very far from Manuel Antonio, and that’s quite nice given that you’ve been taking long bus rides up until now.

The drive from Manuel Antonio takes about an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore. At low tide, walk along the sandbar shaped like a whale’s tail, part of Marino Ballena National Park.

In the afternoon, take a boat tour to spot humpback whales and dolphins if you’re visiting during whale season (July-Oct, Dec-April). And if you still have time, head to Nauyaca Waterfalls for a swim and take it easy after nearly 2 weeks in Costa Rica.

Travel from Manuel Antonio to Uvita

The drive from Manuel Antonio to Uvita is short and easy. It’s just one hour on a smooth coastal road. You can take a rental car, shuttle ($20-$30), or public bus ($5). The ride is beautiful, with ocean views, palm trees, and a relaxed vibe.

Once you arrive, get ready for quieter beaches, waterfalls, and some of the best whale-watching in Costa Rica. I only recommend coming to Uvita if you spend 2 weeks in Costa Rica, as it’s not as beautiful as Manuel Antonio or Santa Teresa. If you do plan 2-week Costa Rica itinerary, please do include it!

Visit Whale’s Tail Beach at Marino Ballena National Park

Whale’s Tail Beach is arguably one of the coolest natural spots in Costa Rica. It’s a sandbar that literally looks like a whale’s tail when the tide is low. Walk along the sand, swim in the calm waters, or just chill and take it all in.

The entrance fee is US$6, and if you visit between July-October or December-April, you might even see real whales just off the shore!

Head to Nauyaca Waterfalls

Nauyaca Waterfalls is one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica, with huge cascades and a deep natural pool for swimming. You can hike 4 miles (6.5 km) round trip, or take a 4×4 truck ride ($32 per person) if you don’t feel like walking.

The entrance fee is $10, and it’s worth getting there early before the crowds. Pack a swimsuit because you’ll definitely want to jump in and cool off!

Day 13: Relax & Explore Uvita

After days of adventure, today is perfect for relaxing in nature. Visit Nauyaca Waterfalls, one of the most impressive waterfalls in Costa Rica, where you can swim in deep blue pools beneath the falls.

If you prefer a quieter spot, head to Playa Hermosa or Playa Ventanas, both known for their calm waves and stunning coastal views.

Wrap up your time in Uvita with a sunset dinner at Restaurante Los Laureles for fresh seafood and local flavors.

Take a Whale-watching Tour

If you’re in Uvita during whale season (July–October and December–April), don’t miss a whale-watching tour. Humpback whales migrate here from both hemispheres, so your chances of spotting one are pretty high.

Tours last 3-4 hours ($75-$100 per person) and sometimes include dolphin spotting and snorkeling. The best part? Seeing a massive whale breach right in front of you, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Relax at Playa Hermosa or Playa Ventanas

If you’re looking for quiet, uncrowded beaches, Playa Hermosa and Playa Ventanas are perfect. Playa Hermosa has soft sand, gentle waves, and no big crowds, great for sunbathing or beginner surfing.

Playa Ventanas gets its name from the cave-like rock formations (“windows”) you can walk through at low tide. Bring snacks since there aren’t many shops nearby, and enjoy the setting.

Day 14: Back to San José & Fly Home

It’s time to head back to San José to catch your flight home. The drive from Uvita to San José takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, so plan accordingly. If you have extra time, stop in Sarchí, Costa Rica’s most famous artisan town, known for its colorful hand-painted oxcarts and souvenirs.

Once in the capital, grab a final meal, do some last-minute shopping at Mercado Central, and head to the airport. Yes, all good things come to an end, but Costa Rica will always be here for your next vacation!