Costa Rica is full of photogenic destinations, and the Gold Coast is home to some of the best vacation spots in Costa Rica. Take note of all the best things to do in Costa Rica and the top places you should visit on your next trip to the Flamingo area, which, by the way, is conveniently located just an hour from the international airport in Liberia (LIR).
Our team at Tropical Homes knows where to go; choose from pristine beaches to tropical landscapes full of natural beauty that captivate audiences. We can confirm: enjoying the local culture and its Pura Vida lifestyle leads to relaxation and fun. Read on to learn more about the best things to do in Costa Rica.
Our Top Recommended Activities
Scuba Diving
Taking a dive boat to Las Catalinas Islands, about a 30-minute ride from the Flamingo Marina or right from Playa Danta, always tops the list of best excursions in Costa Rica. Past guests have seen Giant Pacific Manta Rays, especially from November to May, reef sharks, turtles, eels, and tropical fish, which is why an underwater camera is a must!
And of course, have your camera ready before boarding the boat to capture the beauty of Playa Dantita’s secluded white-sand beach.
Boat Tours
Trust us—life on the water is always better! There’s nothing like sailing charters: spending the day in the sun, sipping cocktails, jumping into the refreshing ocean, and soaking it all in from the boat deck.
You might be lucky and catch a whale’s tail waving from the water—whale-watching season runs from December to April during their migration period. And with some more luck, you may also spot turtles and dolphins along the way.
If you prefer a fishing trip, you may get the opportunity to show off your catch on social media. We work with trusted local partners and are happy to coordinate a tailored trip just for you.
Once back on shore, head to The Beach House Bar & Restaurant in Potrero for their famous “you hook it, we cook it” special.
Snap-worthy Surroundings
La Senda
La Senda, a place surrounded by nature where you’ll be able to find your true self, is located just outside Tamarindo—about a 30-minute drive from Playa Flamingo. This unique location contains two energy vortexes comparable to those in Sedona, Arizona. La Senda is where nature, intention, and energy come together in harmony. An inspiring afternoon here may include a reflective walk through the cactus labyrinth, a sound healing or breathwork session, and a delectable, gourmet farm-to-table dinner.
Playa Avellanas
For more flawless Insta-shots, head to Playa Avellanas for the day. Take a walk on the wooden bridge surrounded by mangroves for an interesting backdrop, or unwind on a hammock at Lola’s while sipping a refreshing michelada (beer with lime juice and salt). And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a surf lesson?
Insta-dream Destinations
When searching for your accommodations, choose from two exclusive must-stay communities in the Flamingo area, which many consider to be the best vacation spots in Costa Rica.
Las Catalinas
Las Catalinas has the charm of a European village on a tropical beach. With its pristine shores, picturesque views, and enchanting colonial Mediterranean architecture, it offers countless Instagram-worthy moments!
Since Las Catalinas is such a spectacular town with so much to offer, why not stay on-site?
Early morning hiking on their trails is the perfect time for snapping pics of monkeys in the trees above you and capturing stunning ocean views. And if mountain biking is your thing, rent some at Pura Vida Ride and hit the trails—ranging from easy to challenging.
And there are restaurants galore to discover in the community. Choose from fine dining with breathtaking views at Sentido Norte, casual beach fare at Celeste, and local craft beer at the Brew House by Papagayo Brewing Co.
One of our most exceptional vacation rentals in Las Catalinas is Casa Cazenovia. Its rooftop terrace is perfect for a photo shoot—especially at sunset. With three bedrooms that sleep up to eight people, this place is ideal for families.
Mar Vista
Mar Vista is another exclusive area, known for its mountain & ocean views and luxurious community amenities. We recommend treating yourself to at least one mouthwatering meal at the community’s restaurant Gracia at Mar Vista for killer sunset pics and tasty tapas (try the bacon-wrapped dates), all while sipping on handcrafted cocktails (we love the coconut margarita). And no need to feel guilty—you can work it off the next day at the community gym or play on the on-site tennis courts, both accessible for an additional fee.
But not only does Mar Vista offer all the luxury you desire, you will also enjoy nature trails to explore wildlife and birds in the area.
If you’re looking to stay at Mar Vista, here’s a selection of our top-of-the-line vacation villas:
Casa de Iluminacion: When traveling with multiple families, this villa offers enough room for the kids to come along. With five bedrooms (for up to 16 people) and its open-concept design, you are sure to enjoy indoor-outdoor living at its best.
Casa Vista Contenta: For those looking for all the comforts of home yet wanting more personal space, this five-bedroom villa is perfect for you and your 11 friends and family members. Panoramic views and the villa’s architecturally exceptional style ensure lots of photo ops.
Casa Symbiotica: Words can’t describe this unique property! This five-bedroom villa is ready to host an unforgettable retreat or a fabulous group vacation. Featuring multiple luxurious amenities, stunning views and breathtaking infinity-edge pool, you may never want to leave this extraordinary home.
Costa Rica Itinerary Ideas
Get in touch with us at Tropical Homes today, and let’s start planning your itinerary—curating vacations that include the best things to do in Costa Rica is our specialty!