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The Gold Coast of Costa Rica, located in the northwest part of the country, is a tropical paradise perfect for sunny beach days and jungle adventures. With a well-established tourism industry, there is plenty to keep you occupied, even if you are traveling with the whole family or friend group. Options for luxury accommodation are also abundant in the regions of Playa Flamingo, Playa Potrero, Las Catalinas, and Brasilito Beach. Here you will find several options for Costa Rica vacation rentals for large groups with luxurious extras like private yoga decks and fireplaces with ocean views to really upgrade your trip.

Let’s explore some of the best activities and Costa Rica vacation rentals for large groups along the Gold Coast.

costa rica vacation rentals for large groups

Head Out onto the Water

The most popular experience for any family or large group has got to be a sailing/catamaran tour. This experience will have you and your group on the beautiful Pacific Ocean for the afternoon, where you will enjoy cocktails and lunch as you head out on the sea to a secluded beach. This full day includes a chance to try out stand-up paddle boarding, ocean kayaking, and even snorkeling. If this sounds too exciting you can also relax with a cocktail in hand and enjoy watching for whales, dolphins, and sea turtles from the comfort of the deck. However, catching the sunset on the ocean as you head back to the marina may be the highlight of the day.

Continue the party at your Costa Rica vacation rental with a pool party complete with a rocking Sonos Sound System on the pool deck. Located in the beautiful and walkable community of Las Catalinas, Casa Alouatta sleeps 16 and is perfect for two families traveling together who prefer their own space.

Take an Adventure Day

The most complete, adventure-filled day you can take is found along the slopes of the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. A day trip to Buenavista del Rincon is perfect for the whole family with everything you can want in a jungle/volcano adventure. Featuring over 10 hanging bridges, a zip line through the canopy, volcanic hot springs, and a thrilling 1,200-foot waterslide through the jungle, this adventure is sure to be the highlight of your trip to Costa Rica!

costa rica vacation rentals for large groups

Relax in ultimate comfort when you return to your Costa Rica vacation rental where you can all sit around a fire and recount your big adventure-filled day. Casa de Iluminacion sleeps 16 in the secure Mar Vista Community. It also features an attached apartment with a kitchenette and a private terrace.

Spin Your Reels in the Pacific

Cast your line for world-class sport fishing off Flamingo Bay and beyond. You will have a chance to reel in tuna, roosterfish, and red snapper in-shore. Go off-shore fishing and catch the thrill of a lifetime as you fight to reel in a whopping marlin. Thanks to ocean-friendly catch-and-release regulations, the waters are abundant with these impressive 300-pound fish. There’s a reason why they hold annual sailfish competitions here…and it’s not for lack of marlins!

At the end of the day, bring your freshly caught tuna or mah-mahi to Chef Rita at Casa Royal where she will cook up a feast that you can brag about! You can dine on your prize catch as you overlook the ocean poolside at this spacious Costa Rica vacation rental in Playa Potrero. The seven-bedroom, five-bathroom villa with a private chef sleeps up to 14 guests.

costa rica vacation rentals for large groups

Relax and Spend the Day in Luxury

All this action and adventure, not to mention the sunshine and sea, will leave you craving a day of rest and relaxation. Why not spend the day in at your luxury Costa Rica vacation rentals? Spend the morning in a private restorative yoga class for the whole house while overlooking the ocean. Take a very indulgent afternoon for a Swedish massage in your bedroom. End the day with a personalized meal that the whole group will enjoy prepared by your private chef. A day at home doesn’t get much better than this!

If you’re seeking a Costa Rica vacation rental for large groups that really makes you want to spend a day around the house, then Casa Ayla is the perfect choice. Boasting two private pools, an outdoor fireplace, two barbecues, stunning ocean views, and a brand-new yoga deck, this sprawling villa sleeps 18 guests in four separate units.

costa rica vacation rentals

Get Out on the Waves

From complete beginner to advanced, there are several surf options in the area. Tamarindo, the famous surf town featured in the classic “Endless Summer” film, offers breaks for all skill levels. Here you can find several surf schools that cater to the first-timer and beyond. Nearby Playa Grande is great for the experienced surfer and Playa Avellanas is a less busy beach that has a little something for every surfer in your group.

See What Lies Beneath

Get under the waves and see the real ocean action: what lies beneath the water. Snorkeling in Costa Rica is an exciting way to see rare and colorful wildlife in a unique way. Schools of shimmering jacks, whimsical angel fish, and mysterious rays are just a few of the aquatic creatures you will see down below. Easier than scuba diving, snorkeling in calm, clear waters is an activity even kids can enjoy. With no major skills required, snorkeling is a fun activity for the whole group.

Bring the Whole Group on a Costa Rica Vacation

Costa Rica vacation rentals for large groups are abundant along the Gold Coast, particularly in areas like Playa Flamingo, Playa Potrero, Brasilito Beach, and Las Catalinas. Whether you are traveling with your extended family, or your kids and your best friends and their family, there is a perfect luxury beach villa with a private pool (and your own bathroom!) just for you. Spend your days hanging from the jungle canopy, relaxing by the pool, or doing a bit of both—there’s something for everyone. So, bring the whole gang…you won’t regret it!

By Jennifer LaCharite

Located at the skinniest point of Central America between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica is the most sought-after destination on the continent, and for good reason. This small country packs in a lot of beaches (Pacific and Caribbean), mountains, volcanoes, and waterfalls in a country the size of West Virginia. It is also considered a safe country that is relatively easy to visit. Let’s explore the top 10 things you should know before discovering Costa Rica.

  • Learn About the Culture

Reflected in its language and religion, Costa Rica has a heavy Spanish influence, followed by a small Jamaican influence on the Caribbean side and an Indigenous influence in the Cordillera de Talamanca. One of the best ways to understand a culture, however, is to taste it. When you arrive in Costa Rica be sure to stop in at a soda (local restaurant) and order a Casado, which will give you a taste of a traditional meal of meat, rice, black beans, sweet plantain, and salad that is being eaten in most households across the country every day. 

discovering Costa RicaTake a coffee tour and discover the rich roots of this top crop, not only agriculturally, but also for local Costa Rican people enjoying their afternoon “cafecito” – a custom of sharing coffee and snacks amongst friends and family.

Looking for local dining options near your Guanacaste vacation rental? Try Soda Marcell near Casa Arribada in Playa Potrero.

  • Respect the Environment

With over five percent of the world’s biodiversity in a country less than 51,000 square kilometers and 28 percent of its land protected from development, Costa Rica takes respect for the environment to a whole new level. As a recent earner of the UN’s highest environmental honor, “Champions of the Earth”, eco-friendly travel is becoming a movement in Costa Rica. 

Single-use plastic is banned in national parks so consider packing a reusable water bottle for your trip. Also, consider packing reef-safe sunscreen if you plan to go into the ocean. It’s not the law but it will help keep Costa Rica’s scuba diving and snorkeling world-class for generations to come.

Want to stay in a car-free community? Consider Casa Alouatta in Las Catalinas for your Guanacaste vacation rentals.

Guanacaste vacation rentals

  • Drinking the Water

You can help conserve the environment of this precious ecosystem by doing away with plastic water bottles. Tap water in developed areas of Costa Rica is considered safe to drink so you don’t have to worry about buying water or whether or not it is safe to brush your teeth. Many Guanacaste vacation rentals are also equipped with water filters or softeners as water along the Pacific Coast tends to be high in minerals like calcium. 

If you plan to travel to more rural locations or the Caribbean side, it is recommended to buy bottled water or bring a refillable bottle with a filter.

  • Best Time to Travel

Costa Rica has two seasons – dry season and rainy season. Most people travel to the region during the dry season from December through May to escape the northern winters and enjoy the hot dry weather in Costa Rica. The rainy season runs from June to November, with October being the wettest month. 

The busiest times are the Christmas season, Easter, and spring break so expect some crowds if your travel plans fall on these holidays. If you are more open with your travel plans consider discovering Costa Rica during the shoulder seasons, which is the point between seasons. This way you can get the best of both worlds. The cloudy skies make for the best sunsets combined with the cooling breezes of rainy season plus the sunny days of dry season are perfect for planning your adventures.

  • Road Trip Tips

While the country may look small, getting around can take much longer than expected. Many roads are curvy and single-lane, meaning you will not be able to drive as fast as you are used to. You must also watch for potholes on most roads around the country. It is not advisable to travel at night for these reasons, especially if you don’t know the area. 

If you arrive at the airport at night, consider staying at a hotel nearby and heading to your vacation rental the next day or arranging a shuttle to drive you. Some locations require 4×4 to reach safely. It is best to contact your vacation rental directly to ask about the road situation and whether 4×4 is required.

Just 60 minutes from Liberia International Airport, Villa de Oro is a centrally located Guanacaste vacation rental to several beaches, restaurants, and attractions.

Guanacaste vacation rentals

  • Surf Safety

Tamarindo Beach is one of the best places to learn how to surf in the world. This is thanks to its sandy shores that provide a soft landing for beginners and its smooth and consistent waves. But surf safety should be taken into your own hands in a place like Costa Rica, where lifeguards are not always on duty. Always surf or swim with a friend or other people nearby and watch for rip currents. 

If a current pulls you out to sea, try to stay calm, shout for help, and swim parallel to the shore until you escape the current. Watch for signs that say “cocodrilos – no nadar” as this means there may be crocodiles in the waters and swimming is not permitted. The crocs typically stick to rivers and estuaries but have been seen crossing the shores of beaches.

  • Speaking the Language

As long as you stay in popular tourist areas you will likely encounter Costa Ricans who speak English. It is a courtesy to try to learn a few phrases you can use when interacting with locals, however. 

Costa Rican Spanish is unique and considered quite formal as opposed to Mexican Spanish, for instance. Learn phrases such as “por favor” (please), “gracias” (thank you), “mucho gusto” (you’re welcome), “buenas” (greetings), and “ciao” (goodbye). Alternatively, the popular phrase “pura vida” (pure life) can be used to replace any and all of the aforementioned phrases in Costa Rica.

  • Spending Money

Costa Rica’s official currency is the colón, but most places will also accept US dollars. If you pay in dollars, note that change is typically given in colones, so it’s helpful to know the approximate exchange rate to ensure you receive the correct amount back. Use USD at larger grocery stores or tour companies displaying their rates in dollars, and keep a mix of colones and small USD bills for tipping and roadside stands.

Your credit card will be accepted at most restaurants, stores, hotels, car rental companies, etc. To avoid card fraud, always keep your credit card within sight—it’s perfectly acceptable to accompany your waiter or waitress to the bar if the card machine can’t be brought to the table. Similarly, feel free to walk over with your card at gas stations when paying. Additionally, it is recommended to watch your pump when filling up and check your receipt to ensure you are being correctly charged at gas pumps or pay with cash.

  • Is it Safe?

Costa Rica is considered a generally safe country with petty crime being the main concern for tourists. It is best to watch your belongings in crowded areas and not leave your valuables in your car. Do not carry all your credit cards together just in case you lose your wallet while discovering Costa Rica. Keep your passport locked up at your vacation rental and carry a picture of the photo page and your entrance stamp on your phone instead. 

Maison Blanche is a Guanacaste vacation rental nestled within the secure, gated community of Altos de Flamingo.

Guanacaste vacation rentals

  •  What to Bring 

Some people are bothered by the mosquitos during their first couple of weeks discovering Costa Rica. They seem to like the fresh blood! Be sure to bring bug spray along with a few other necessities like sunscreen, waterproof hiking shoes or sandals, flip flops, a hat, two swimsuits so one is always dry, and all your daily skincare stuff, vitamins, and supplements as they may be difficult to find. Hot tip: take vitamin B1 to deter mosquitos!

Bring an umbrella, raincoat, and pants if you plan to travel to the Cloud Forest or Central Valley, and jeans if you plan to ride a motorbike or horseback ride to prevent chafing.

Discovering Costa Rica couldn’t be easier with Tropical Homes of Costa Rica, providing the best Guanacaste vacation rentals in Playa Flamingo, Potrero, and Las Catalinas.

By Jennifer LaCharite

Ready to swap your parka for a bathing suit? Snow drifts for sand dunes? Boots for flip-flops? You get the picture: spend Christmas in Costa Rica and you and your family won’t be worried about what’s under the tree. Instead, you will be too busy enjoying the nature, beauty, adventure, and wonder of a Costa Rica Christmas vacation.

What You Can Expect the Weather to Be Like on Your Costa Rica Christmas Vacation

One of the top reasons to choose a Costa Rica Christmas Vacation is the tropical weather. Temperatures along the popular North Pacific Coast range between 26 and 32 degrees Celsius (79 – 90 F) in December with plenty of sunny days in the forecast. 

Another reason December is perfect for a Costa Rica Getaway is the season. Costa Rica has two: summer and winter, or dry and rainy season. December marks the end of the rainy season, so it will have all the sun you expect, but the ground will have retained enough moisture to keep everything lush and green. There may even be some cool breezes left!

Christmas in Costa RicaWhat You Can Expect to See on Your Costa Rica Christmas Vacation

Nothing is as rewarding as getting the chance to immerse yourself in the culture of a country you visit. Christmas in Costa Rica is a wonderful opportunity to experience unique customs and rich heritage. 

Holiday Décor: Costa Rica’s strong Catholic roots mean Christmas is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The shops and streets will be lined with Christmas décor such as lights, Christmas trees, reindeer – everything but the snow! 

One of their proudest traditions is laying out the nativity display, which they call portals or pasitos. Most homes will have their own pasito under the tree and towns will often display a life-sized portal for everyone to enjoy.

Fireworks: The Christmas season in Costa Rica begins and ends with a bang – literally! It is common for Costa Ricans to celebrate the holiday season with fireworks so don’t be surprised to see (and hear) these colorful displays throughout the season. Tamarindo Beach puts on a spectacular New Year’s Eve display, with the colors cascading over the ocean. It is a fabulous sight you won’t want to miss.

Costa Rica Christmas vacationEl Tope: Dancing horse parades known as el Tope, can often be seen on the streets of towns across Costa Rica during Christmas time. The largest display is taking place in the city of San Jose, featuring 3,000 horses strutting through the downtown core. Smaller towns, including the beach communities, also host smaller rodeos during the holiday season, with bull riding, local food, and beer gardens.

Local Events: For those spending their Costa Rica Christmas vacation in the Potrero and Flamingo Beach area, you will find many restaurants serving the traditional holiday food you expect. Many offer Christmas Eve or Christmas Day meals complete with turkey and all the fixings. These popular meals will likely require a reservation so be sure to plan ahead.

The Marina in Flamingo is already planning a Christmas event on December 14. The Festival of Lights will light up the sea and sky with lit-up yachts and shops sparkling under the stars.

What You Can Expect to Do on Your Costa Rica Christmas Vacation

Costa Ricans celebrate Christmas in a big way, with most people taking their vacations and holidays at this time. If you want to celebrate like a Costa Rican, do what they do – spend time with your family at the beach.

Surfing: Nearby Tamarindo Beach is the most popular spot to learn how to surf in the country, thanks to its consistent waves and soft sandy landing. What could be more unique than catching some waves on your Christmas vacation? Don’t be surprised to see a few surfers donning Santa hats!

Costa Rica Christmas vacation

Horseback riding: Picture you and your family dashing through the sand on a horse on Christmas Day. Over the beach you’ll go, laughing all the way. Ha, ha, ha!

Adventure tours: From ziplining to waterfall rappelling to exploring volcanos, there are endless exciting adventures available on your Costa Rica Christmas vacation.

Eat tamales: A Costa Rican Christmas wouldn’t be complete without tamales. Traditionally, families gather to spend time together during the preparation, which is a time-intensive but cherished process. This is why tamales are typically made only once a year, and luckily for you, it’s at Christmas time! Be sure to try a few during your stay, as every family has their own unique recipe – but act fast, because they don’t last long!

Where You Can Expect to Stay on Your Costa Rica Christmas Vacation

Casa Sol Azul: If you want the perfect place to spend your Costa Rica Christmas vacation with family and friends than this four-bedroom/four-bathroom house is it. Enjoy the epitome of outdoor/indoor living, with a wall of glass that opens up onto the terrace, a private swimming pool, and barbecue grill. Located in the hills of Playa Potrero, you will enjoy stunning ocean views from the whole property.

With two sofa beds, this property comfortably sleeps 10. An on-site housekeeper and caretaker ensure you will have a worry-free, safe stay.

Christmas in Costa Rica

Bella Catalina: This seven-bedroom ocean-view villa, sleeps up to 14 guests and is ideal for large families. With a massive outdoor area featuring a private pool and a sprawling open-concept indoor space you will not feel crowded.

Situated right on Potrero Beach, this property features a huge covered outdoor kitchen/eating area, fire pit, gazebo, and grassy areas to spend quality time with your loved ones. Easily walk to local shops and restaurants so everyone can feel free to explore a bit on their own.

Casa Gran Vista: For a more intimate Christmas celebration, Casa Gran Vista is the right place. Up to six guests can enjoy three spacious bedrooms in the gated community of Mar Vista, located just a seven-minute drive to the beaches of Brasilito and Flamingo.

Guests here are invited to explore the home’s garden, which has over 20 fruit trees including papayas, bananas, limes, oranges, mangos, grapefruit, and avocados. Pick the fruit right off the tree for a fresh smoothie or cocktail!

Flamingo Rose Vista: If you prefer a cozier experience, this two-bedroom condo in the heart of Flamingo Beach is a great option, especially if you want to walk around and enjoy the town.

The two-story penthouse overlooking Potrero Bay and Flamingo Harbor is only a four-minute walk to the beach. Guests can also enjoy a shared pool on the property.

Christmas in Costa RicaMake this holiday season one to remember with a Costa Rica Christmas vacation. Enjoy warm weather, exciting adventures, luxurious accommodations, and unique traditions – all with the stress-free relaxation you deserve.

Feliz Navidad!

 

By Jennifer LaCharite

Imagine yourself walking along a forest trail, with sunlight sneaking through the tree branches, one or two butterflies following your path, and no sound but that of the jungle and distant streaming water. Feeling like an enchanted creature yet? If not, visit the Guanacaste Costa Rica waterfalls to get into the spirit. These sweet water marvels will soak your skin, washing away all daily-life stress, and leave you refreshed in your purest state. As if visiting world-class beaches wasn’t enough, here are the best waterfalls in Guanacaste for you to enjoy on your trip to Costa Rica.

  • Rincón de la Vieja National Park

Kicking off our list with a hearty dish, Rincón de la Vieja National Park is 2 hours away from Playa Flamingo, by car, and is home to many of the waterfalls in Guanacaste. We recommend planning ahead and dedicating a full day to explore the park, as it offers a wide range of activities beyond waterfall hikes. You can enjoy zip lining, tubing, rafting, horseback riding, and many other must-have Costa Rican experiences. If you plan wisely, you might return home having checked off a few items on your bucket list.

waterfalls in Guanacaste

  • Oropéndola

Falling from a height of 25 meters (82 feet), the Oropéndola waterfall is amongst the largest ones in Rincón de la Vieja. You must access the park through the Las Pailas entrance and get a ticket at Hacienda Guachipelín, to reach it. A typical Costa Rican lunch, known as casado, is included in the walking journey that will lead you through a hanging bridge to the secluded cataract that falls into a turquoise-water natural swimming pool. The hike is quite easy and the destination, nothing far from outstanding. 

  • Las Chorreras

These twin waterfalls cascading against a rock canyon are another must-see at Hacienda Guachipelín. You can take the short 20-minute trail or the long 40-minute trail to get there. Either one will get you to this deep blue oasis, brimming with rejuvenating volcanic minerals. Put your loads aside for a moment, dive in and take a couple of years off that worn-out skin of yours. 

Guanacaste Costa Rica waterfalls

  • La Cangreja

Look but don’t touch! Swimming isn’t permitted at La Cangreja, but both the sight of the waterfall and the journey to reach it are well worth the adventure. If diving isn’t your priority and you enjoy a more challenging hike, then this might be the cataract for you. The 5-kilometer (3 miles) trail guarantees a George-of-the-Jungle experience. Coatis, iguanas, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, and over 300 bird species make up the cast of this breathtaking natural production. 

  • La Victoria

If you were looking for a chance to feel like a real-life mermaid, then La Victoria waterfall may be the place for you. This 35 meter (115 foot) cascade resembles a magical oasis deep in an enchanted forest, surrounded by lush flora and the soothing murmur of wildlife. You’ll embark on an hour long journey through jungle trails to get there, and be able to stay for over an hour before returning. 

  • La Leona

From magical beings to action heroes, La Leona waterfall is a full-day adventure trip not suitable for the faint of heart, breath or feet! The tour consists of a 3-hour adrenaline-packed hike that, at times, will have you wading through water up to your waist! The reward? A precious swimming hole and cataract within a cave, unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. 

  • Llanos de Cortés

An unparallel alternative to all of those who find challenging hikes unappealing, Llanos de Cortés is a majestic waterfall comfortably located between Liberia and Bagaces, just a two-hour drive from Playa Flamingo, and within walking distance from the parking lot! You arrive, park your car, pay a $7 fee, and make your way down the stairs to this accessible yet impeccably preserved natural sanctuary. You’ll find a small beach where you can relax and enjoy a picnic, explore various pathways, and take short jumps into the pool. It’s like visiting any other Guanacaste beach, except this one features a stunning waterfall that’s 15 meters (50 feet) wide and 3.6 meters (12 feet) tall.

Guanacaste Costa Rica waterfalls

  • Belén

More of a multi-level pool patio than an outstanding waterfall per se, this hidden gem in Guanacaste is the ultimate lounging spot. With an infrastructure made entirely of rock, this spot is well worth a visit if you’re looking for a unique hangout with a different scenery and atmosphere. Just a 20-minute drive from Nosara (2 hours from Playa Flamingo), it’s an ideal place to cool off after a day in the sun.

  • Poza los Coyotes

Lesser known but equally as outstanding as its neighbour La Leona, Poza los Coyotes is a deep light blue water haven that will have you pinching yourself back to reality. The water streams softly through a narrow canyon and into a wider swimming pool where we swear, you might just spot a mermaid or two. Another 2 hour-drive from Playa Flamingo will get you there, but no hikes required! Just a 400 meter (0.25 miles) stroll from the parking lot and you’re done. 

Guanacaste Costa Rica waterfalls

  • La Piedra del Indio

If you are wondering what qualifies as a best-kept-secret, then you should visit La Piedra del Indio, you simply won’t understand how such a place is not a mainstream destination yet. This stunning waterfall cascades down an uneven rock wall from a height of 80 meters (260 feet). It looks wild, fierce and magical. And as many other Guanacaste Costa Rica waterfalls, getting to this one is part of the adventure, whether you choose to hike or horseback ride, keep an eye out for animal sightings! 

Where To Stay

As waterfalls in Guanacaste are merely part of an exciting Costa Rica vacation, where to stay should always be a strategic decision. Our advice: stay close to the center of the action, and move around from there. Our top Tropical Homes Recommendations are a standard 2-hour drive away from the best waterfalls in the province.

Casa Ayla

Nestled within the vibrant Mar Vista Community, this stunning property can comfortably accommodate up to 18 guests. With stunning views and 2 infinity pools, you’ll be in the waterfall spirit at this luxurious sanctuary.

Guanacaste Costa Rica waterfalls

Casa Cazenovia

This delightful 3-bedroom abode offers an instant connection to both nature and the heart of the coastal paradise, Las Catalinas. Plan your waterfall experiences from this rooftop terrace and poolside paradise!

Casa Symbiotica

This stunning 11,000 square-foot luxury home hosts up to 19 guests and features a heated infinity pool, hot tub and low–depth lounge area, large covered veranda, workout room, media room and 180 degree views of both Brasilito and Flamingo.

Ocean-View Condo in Luxury Complex – 360 Splendor 204

Your home away from home awaits in this one-bedroom Playa Flamingo condo. Situated in a prime location, you’ll be treated to stunning coastal views, a vibrant forest backdrop, and jaw-dropping sunsets. Imagine lounging by the salt-water infinity pool or savoring the scenery from the 5,000 sq. ft. rooftop terrace. This is the perfect setting for your getaway.waterfalls in Guanacaste

Casa Arribada

Vaulted ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glass doors, and a lush backyard oasis that beckons with its tranquil ambiance: a shaded seating area, BBQ grill, and a sparkling pool adorned with a unique waterfall sculpture to set the mood. Rinse off after a day at the nearby beach (just a 5-minute walk away) in the convenient outdoor shower, then unwind under the stars in this private tropical haven.

So, trade the warm sand, salty ocean and radiant sunlight of Costa Rican beaches for a day or two at a freshwater, magically shaded, jungle-surrounded waterfall in Guanacaste. You’ll feel purified and rejuvenated! 

Provided with exciting wilderness landscapes, delicious food, friendly people, decent infrastructure and an all-in-all safe environment, Costa Rica could easily be considered the most ideal family destination – like an all-real, natural Disneyland! With games and activities that everyone, from toddler to adult, can enjoy together, and simultaneously. If you are interested in getting yourself and your gang away from tech-based entertainment, then traveling to the family-friendly Costa Rica should be on your bucket list. It’s merely a matter of finding where to stay and learning what to do.

The Magic Kingdom of Guanacaste

If Costa Rica is Disneyland, then Guanacaste should be the Magic Kingdom. No other province in the country captures and embodies the Costa Rican spirit like this Pacific haven. The tropical atmosphere, the chill out vibes, the warm-hearted locals, the surfable ocean, the artisan markets, the international shops, the skate parks, the opulent jungle, the untamed free animals, the hikes, the volcanoes, the pristine beaches, the outstanding sunsets and the countless activities. All this can be found in the promised land of Guanacaste. The offer is so rich that you could keep coming again and again and never have two trips the same. 

costa rica for families

If you came and decided to do beaches alone, you would be able to return home saying you have experienced what the Magic Kingdom of Costa Rica is all about. Pick your game, pack your belongings for the day and set out for your family adventure.

  • Some beaches like Tamarindo and Playa Grande are perfect for surfing, you can book a group lesson and learn all together!
  • Some others are great for snorkeling, like Playa Conchal or Pirates Bay.
  • Playa Flamingo is renowned for its scuba diving and deep-ocean fishing.
  • Lastly, if all you want is a family-friendly Costa Rican beach, to spend the day together under the sun building sand castles, think about Playa Avellanas or Playa Potrero.

Where To Stay – Playa Potrero

Strategically located close to some of the most stunning beaches in Guanacaste, such as Playa Flamingo and Playa Penca, as well as some of the busiest and most developed beach towns like Tamarindo, this small coastal village still manages to retain its serene and laid-back atmosphere. You’ll be living within the limits of Disneyland, close to all the action, but able to choose how close to the fireworks you want to get every day. Just 1.5 hours away from the Liberia Airport, Playa Potrero is the perfect choice for a family vacation in Costa Rica!

Casa Arribada

Bring your loved ones together in this 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath retreat with space for up to 10 guests. Enjoy a private pool with a waterfall, outdoor BBQ, and family-friendly amenities like a Pack ‘n Play and beach gear. Walk to Playa Potrero or explore nearby Flamingo and Conchal with ease using a golf cart. Your dream family vacation awaits in Casa Arribada.

Guanacaste vacation rentals

Casa Sol Azul

If you are looking for a spacious comfortable ocean view home, then look no further. Casa Sol Azul is a remarkable 4-bedroom house that sleeps up to 10 people. You could even come with family friends and share the space, and the adventure!

If you’d like to broaden your experience beyond the mainstream beach activity, you can always visit La Fortuna, home to the active volcano Arenal and the multiple activities available around it. From your basic yet always endearing hiking, to a waterfall tour, zip lining, rafting, ATV tours, wildlife watching and more. 

costa rica for families

Costa Rica for Families

Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t know where to start? Remember: the smartest move is deciding where to stay first. Once you know where your base of operations will be, you can start browsing through your activities brochure. Keep in mind that you’ll always have a stunning beach to fall back on, so even the most uneventful day is guaranteed to be a fulfilling experience. That settled, you are now ready to decide upon the itinerary that would suit your family best. How many members are we talking about? What’s the age group? Are you sports-driven? As family friendly Costa Rica truly does have it all for all, we are going to categorize the most relevant adventures in terms of difficulty, and let you choose the kind of trip you want to have. But don’t forget, location’s first!

Where To Stay – Casa del Mar

Casa Del Mar is private, secure and located within the pristine, gated community of Mar Vista, in Playa Flamingo, which has 24 hour security throughout. It is exquisitely designed to be the quintessential modern vacation home, with its large open floor plan and expansive windows, engulfing you in the Costa Rican sunlight! With 3 bedrooms, 6 beds and 4 bathrooms, this house can comfortably host a family of 10.

costa rica for families

Appropriate for All Ages – Beginner Level

How many activities does a baby need? Give them a box and stick and you got entertainment for hours, right? Well, if you are traveling with a toddler and the box and the stick routine doesn’t do it for you, here are a couple of experiences the whole family can enjoy. 

  • Hiking: Guanacaste is full of clearly defined trails where you can perfectly push down a stroller as you hike through the sloth, monkey and butterfly filled rainforests. 
  • Animal sanctuaries: A great choice if you’d like to have a closer encounter with animals, from Monkey Farm to Ponderosa Adventure Park, Guanacaste has plenty of options that will have your toddler and yourself equally dazzled. 
  • Sailing: How about enjoying the costarican sunset from a privileged point of view? Rent a catamaran tour and sail away with your family to get front-row seats to nature’s daily spectacle.
  • Beach: Don’t be surprised if hanging out at the beach ends up being your first choice as well as your last. With each beach offering a unique experience, you can enjoy as many coastal adventures as there are beaches to discover.

Where To Stay – Casa Alouatta

A 5 bedroom and 6 bathroom home located in Las Catalinas, perfect for two whole families traveling together that prefer, at times, their separate space. Las Catalinas is a beautiful and walkable community that offers the Pacific ocean on one side and over 1,000 acres of spectacular tropical dry forest hills and valleys with extensive hiking and biking on the other. If logistics is an issue for you and would rather stay put in one place and still find plenty to do, this might just be the place for you.

family friendly costa rica

Ideal For Young Children – Intermediate Level

Now this group surely presents more of a challenge. Though the beach is sure to satisfy them all, here are a few more possibilities to pull from the hat when wanted or needed. 

  • Horseback riding: Sightseeing takes an interesting turn when it meets horseback riding!
  • Surf: The ultimate family friendly Costa Rica experience! You can book a group lesson in any of the plenty of surf schools located in basically every beach, and learn to surf all together (don’t be surprised if your kids pick it up before you do). One ride down a wave and you won’t look back – you’ll want to do it again and again!
  • Foodie tours: Costa Rica for families at its finest, book a day trip to one of the many cacao or coffee farms in Guanacaste and give yourself and your children a local culinary experience. Learn how they plant, care, harvest, and produce these two world-class delicities and have a taste while you are at it!
  • Surf-skate: If not for you, for the kids! Surfing and skating skills are more easily learned when young, and one complements the other. Watch your kiddos slide into fun times with a surf-skate private or group lesson.

Where To Stay – Casa Gran Vista

As its name in spanish proclaims, Casa Gran Vista counts with an incredible Playa Flamingo view. Nestled in the exclusive Mar Vista Community, this luxurious vacation rental is perfect for families or groups, offering comfortable accommodations for up to 6 guests across 3 spacious bedrooms, each with a full ensuite bathroom. 

costa rica for families

Challenging adolescents – Advanced Level

Probably the hardest-to-please age group of them all. No matter how hard you try, these young adults always manage to stay unimpressed – until Costa Rica. Try any of the following and, heart-crossed, you’ll get yourself a smile.

  • Zip lining: Ever tried soaring over an entire rainforest at medium to high speed while hanging from a cable in the air? Thought so… Try it once and you’ll never forget it. Expert tip: some places allow younger children to take the ride if attached to a guide.
  • Rafting: No kids allowed! The rapids, ranging from milder to more intense experiences, are definitely for grown-up adventurers. You need to paddle, hang on to the boat, and be ready to take action if, for whatever reason, you happen to fall!
  • Diving: Ideal for the whole family. Book a diving lesson and discover Costa Rica’s subaquatic world. 
  • ATV tours: No matter where you are, driving an ATV is always fun for those who enjoy on-wheels action, but when exploring the exhilarating landscapes of Costa Rica, believe us, it gets even better.

Where To Stay – Casa de Iluminación

This 16-guests Playa Flamingo home has been thoughtfully designed to ensure a dream vacation with all the modern technical amenities you may need. Its features include an open-concept kitchen and living room, 5 bedrooms with en suites, grill and gas range, and covered outdoor dining/lounge areas with a fire pit. Facing westward, floor-to-ceiling windows offer jaw-dropping sunset views of the infinity pool deck and the endless Pacific Ocean beyond. 

costa rica for families

We hope this Costa Rica for families guide helps you get a clear idea of what this country has to offer. Put your cell phones down, unplug your headphones, and set off to one unforgettable family adventure in this natural Magic Kingdom. We guarantee you won’t return home as the same person. Pura vida!