Costa Rica is a vibrant paradise known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. However, to really appreciate the most beautiful places in Costa Rica, you sometimes have to take the road less traveled. Popular destinations like Arenal and Manuel Antonio are must-visits…but so is the South Caribbean, Northern and Southern highlands, and remote Osa Peninsula.
Here are some of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica
It is impossible to boil down all of the beautiful places to be found in this small country. However, here is a good start.
Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
Gandoca-Manzanillo, a picturesque locale on the Caribbean coast, ranks among the best destinations in Costa Rica for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This hidden gem is celebrated not only for its rustic charm but also for its commitment to preserving the natural beauty and wildlife that thrive here. The refuge is home to some of the most secluded beaches in the country, where lush greenery literally meets clear turquoise waters.
Key highlights include:
Wildlife Watching: The area is a sanctuary for endangered species such as the leatherback turtle, which nests on its beaches. The dense forests are alive with the sounds of exotic birds and the rare sightings of sloths.
Snorkeling and Diving: The coral reefs here are vibrant and well-preserved, offering a spectacular underwater experience for snorkelers and divers.
Breathtaking Beaches: Manzanillo is renowned for its pristine white sand beaches framed by lush rainforest. The beaches here are often less crowded compared to other tourist spots, offering visitors a serene and tranquil environment to enjoy the beauty of nature.
This blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and community-focused tourism makes Gandoca-Manzanillo not just a great destination for adventurers, but one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica.
San Gerardo de Dota
San Gerardo de Dota is a serene hideaway, nestled in the high-altitude Talamanca Mountains, and is revered as one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica for tranquil retreats and nature exploration. This area is particularly famous for its cloud forests and as a prime location for bird watching, especially for spotting the elusive resplendent quetzal.
Key highlights include:
Cloud Forest Exploration: Walk through misty forests and alongside streams that weave through the valley—a perfect setting for photographers and nature lovers seeking peace.
Bird Watching: The town’s quiet and pristine environment makes it an ideal spot for observing numerous bird species in their natural habitat, providing one of the best birding experiences in the country. Some notable examples include the violet sabrewing, spangle-cheeked tanager, sulphur-winged parakeet, and long-tailed silky-flycatcher.
Local Cuisine and Coffee: Experience the local flavors in cozy lodges that serve farm-to-table dishes, and taste some of the world’s best coffee, grown and harvested right in San Gerardo de Dota.
With its cool climate and less commercialized approach, San Gerardo de Dota offers a unique mountain escape, solidifying its reputation as one of the best towns in Costa Rica for those looking to unwind amid nature.
Key highlights include:
Wildlife Watching: The area is a sanctuary for endangered species such as the leatherback turtle, which nests on its beaches. The dense forests are alive with the sounds of exotic birds and the rare sightings of sloths.
Snorkeling and Diving: The coral reefs here are vibrant and well-preserved, offering a spectacular underwater experience for snorkelers and divers.
Breathtaking Beaches: Manzanillo is renowned for its pristine white sand beaches framed by lush rainforest. The beaches here are often less crowded compared to other tourist spots, offering visitors a serene and tranquil environment to enjoy the beauty of nature.
This blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and community-focused tourism makes Gandoca-Manzanillo not just a great destination for adventurers, but one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica.
Terraba-Sierpe National Wetlands
Terraba-Sierpe is often celebrated as one of the best places to visit for ecological enthusiasts. This is due to its sprawling wetlands, and one of the largest mangrove ecosystems in Central America. This area offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore rich biodiversity in a relatively untouched environment.
Key highlights include:
Bird Watching Extravaganza: Home to a variety of bird species, Terraba-Sierpe is a haven for ornithologists and amateur bird watchers alike. The area’s extensive mangroves serve as a critical habitat for avian life, including the majestic scarlet macaw and the elusive mangrove hummingbird.
Kayaking Adventures: Glide through serene waterways and under the expansive canopies of mangroves. Kayaking here is not just about exercise but also about immersing oneself in the tranquility and absorbing the sounds and sights of this vibrant ecosystem.
Cultural Engagement: Participate in community-led tours that provide insights into the sustainable practices that protect their natural resources and learn about the indigenous cultures that have thrived in these wetlands for centuries.
While the meandering rivers of this area are a delight to experience up close, they’re even more impressive from above. If you ever have a chance to see the sunlight glinting off the snaking waterways from a plane, count yourself lucky.
Key highlights include:
Cloud Forest Exploration: Walk through misty forests and alongside streams that weave through the valley—a perfect setting for photographers and nature lovers seeking peace.
Bird Watching: The town’s quiet and pristine environment makes it an ideal spot for observing numerous bird species in their natural habitat, providing one of the best birding experiences in the country. Some notable examples include the violet sabrewing, spangle-cheeked tanager, sulphur-winged parakeet, and long-tailed silky-flycatcher.
Local Cuisine and Coffee: Experience the local flavors in cozy lodges that serve farm-to-table dishes, and taste some of the world’s best coffee, grown and harvested right in San Gerardo de Dota.
With its cool climate and less commercialized approach, San Gerardo de Dota offers a unique mountain escape, solidifying its reputation as one of the best towns in Costa Rica for those looking to unwind amid nature.
Key highlights include:
Wildlife Watching: The area is a sanctuary for endangered species such as the leatherback turtle, which nests on its beaches. The dense forests are alive with the sounds of exotic birds and the rare sightings of sloths.
Snorkeling and Diving: The coral reefs here are vibrant and well-preserved, offering a spectacular underwater experience for snorkelers and divers.
Breathtaking Beaches: Manzanillo is renowned for its pristine white sand beaches framed by lush rainforest. The beaches here are often less crowded compared to other tourist spots, offering visitors a serene and tranquil environment to enjoy the beauty of nature.
This blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and community-focused tourism makes Gandoca-Manzanillo not just a great destination for adventurers, but one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica.
Celeste River
The Celeste River in Tenorio Volcano National Park is renowned for its vivid turquoise waters. It’s a spectacular natural phenomenon caused by the chemical mix of sulfur and calcium carbonate. Make sure to check with your local agency or guides, as there are certain times of the year when the water is clearer and more vivid!
Key highlights include:
Hiking Trails: With trails ranging from beginner to advanced, the path to “El Teñidero” where the river changes color is particularly popular. A visit here is best started early in the morning to avoid crowds and to catch the ethereal morning mist.
Photography Opportunities: The river’s stunning turquoise set against the lush green backdrop provides exceptional photo opportunities. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography enthusiasts.
Local Wildlife: The surrounding forest is a habitat for diverse wildlife, including monkeys, tropical birds, and rare insects, making this off-the-beaten-track site a fantastic spot for wildlife observation.
Bajos del Toro
Bajos del Toro is a secluded valley surrounded by mountains and known for its cooler, misty climate that supports a unique cloud forest ecosystem. The abundance of waterfalls, including the impressive Bajos del Toro waterfall, and the rich biodiversity are key reasons why this area stands out as one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica. The preservation efforts by the local community and the natural architectural splendor of the waterfalls and forests make it a picturesque and significant location for environmental conservation.
Key highlights include:
Waterfall Exploration: The area is dotted with numerous waterfalls, with Bajos del Toro waterfall being a major highlight. Hidden falls like Del Toro Amarillo and Blue Falls offer secluded spots perfect for nature lovers.
Botanical Diversity: The rich botanical life includes an impressive array of ferns, orchids, and mosses. Guided tours often focus on the unique flora and fauna of the area, offering an educational component to your visit.
Adventure Activities: Bajos del Toro offers a variety of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. From hiking and zip-lining through the forest canopy to horseback riding and canyoning down rushing waterfalls, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Monteverde
Key highlights include:
Waterfall Exploration: The area is dotted with numerous waterfalls, with Bajos del Toro waterfall being a major highlight. Hidden falls like Del Toro Amarillo and Blue Falls offer secluded spots perfect for nature lovers.
Botanical Diversity: The rich botanical life includes an impressive array of ferns, orchids, and mosses. Guided tours often focus on the unique flora and fauna of the area, offering an educational component to your visit.
Adventure Activities: Bajos del Toro offers a variety of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. From hiking and zip-lining through the forest canopy to horseback riding and canyoning down rushing waterfalls, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Exploring Costa Rica Responsibly
As you plan your visits to these beautiful areas, we encourage you to tread lightly and respect the natural environments that make these places so special. Practicing responsible tourism helps ensure that the ecosystems and wildlife continue to thrive and that these beautiful locations remain for future generations to enjoy. This means sticking to marked trails, respecting wildlife, and supporting local communities by engaging in eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism activities.
Ready to Visit Costa Rica?
Are you planning on visiting the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica firsthand? Camino Travel is here to help you plan an unforgettable journey, whether traveling to Costa Rica’s more popular or lesser-known beautiful places.
With experienced guides and tailored itineraries, we ensure a travel experience that respects and preserves the natural beauty and cultural heritage of our destinations. Book your adventure with Camino Travel and get ready to enjoy the ride.
