Perfect 7-Day Itinerary For Costa Rica with Kids

After our first trip to Costa Rica, I knew we would return many times. There is something about the beauty, the culture, the environment and the wide variety of things to do. It’s paradise, it’s adventure, it’s relaxation, it’s experiences and it’s an amazing country for a family vacation. While you could make any time worth it, I think a 7-day Costa Rica Itinerary would be ideal, and I will let you know why. 

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What’s Special About Costa Rica? 

Costa Rica, a tropical paradise in Central America, is an ideal destination for families seeking adventure, nature, and relaxation. With its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, abundant wildlife, and friendly locals, Costa Rica offers a variety of kid-friendly activities that make for an unforgettable vacation. Whether your family is into zip-lining through rainforests, exploring volcanoes, or just relaxing by the beach, Costa Rica has something for everyone.

Let’s explore the diverse regions of Costa Rica, transportation options, airports, and two family-friendly 7-day itineraries to help you plan your perfect Costa Rican adventure not matter what you want to experience.

Costa Rica For A Family Vacation 

Costa Rica is known for its incredible biodiversity and commitment to conservation, with 25% of its land protected as national parks and reserves. The country’s landscapes range from active volcanoes and misty cloud forests to beautiful beaches along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” (Pure Life) lifestyle reflects its laid-back vibe and focus on nature and wellness, making it a fantastic destination for family vacations.

The country’s tropical climate means it’s warm year-round, though the dry season (December to April) is considered the best time to visit, especially if you’re planning to explore the beaches and national parks.

Exploring the Regions of Costa Rica

Costa Rica is divided into several distinct regions, each offering unique experiences for families. If you want to read a more in-depth description of each area of Costa Rica, and find the best options for places to stay, head to this post. 

1. San José and the Central Valley

• Best for: Cultural exploration and day trips.
• The capital city of San José is often the starting point for travelers arriving by air. While it’s a bustling city, the nearby Central Valley offers easy access to family-friendly attractions like coffee plantations, waterfalls, and cultural landmarks.
• Highlights: The National Museum of Costa Rica, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Poás Volcano, and exploring downtown San José.

2. Arenal and La Fortuna

• Best for: Volcanoes, hot springs, and adventure activities.
• Located in the northern part of the country, the Arenal Volcano area is famous for its towering active volcano, natural hot springs, and adventure opportunities like zip-lining and waterfall hikes. La Fortuna is the main town in the region, serving as a base for exploring the area’s natural wonders.
• Highlights: Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna Waterfall, hot springs (Tabacón and Baldi), hanging bridges, and kid-friendly hikes.

3. Monteverde Cloud Forest

• Best for: Wildlife and nature walks.
• Nestled in the mountains, the Monteverde Cloud Forest is one of Costa Rica’s most famous ecological areas. The misty forest is home to incredible wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds, and offers many family-friendly activities.
• Highlights: Cloud forest canopy tours, the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens, the Bat Jungle, and hiking trails through the reserve.

 4. Guanacaste and the Pacific Coast

• Best for: Beach vacations and water activities.
• The Guanacaste region, located on Costa Rica’s northwestern Pacific coast, is known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly resorts. It’s perfect for families looking to enjoy the beach, swimming, and water sports.
• Highlights: Tamarindo Beach (great for beginner surfers), Playa Conchal, Playa Flamingo, and national parks like Rincón de la Vieja.

 5. Manuel Antonio and the Central Pacific Coast

• Best for: Beaches and wildlife.
• Manuel Antonio National Park is a favorite among families, offering easy hiking trails, stunning beaches, and the chance to see wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and iguanas. The park is located near the town of Quepos on the Central Pacific coast, where you’ll find plenty of family-friendly accommodations and restaurants.
• Highlights: Manuel Antonio National Park, Espadilla Beach, catamaran tours, and dolphin-watching excursions.

 6. Puerto Viejo and the Caribbean Coast

• Best for: Laid-back beach vibes and cultural experiences.
• The Caribbean coast, particularly the town of Puerto Viejo, offers a more laid-back, bohemian vibe compared to the Pacific side. This area is known for its Caribbean culture, stunning beaches, and abundant wildlife.
• Highlights: Cahuita National Park, Jaguar Rescue Center, snorkeling at Punta Uva, and learning about Caribbean culture.

 7. Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park

• Best for: Off-the-beaten-path wildlife adventures.
• The remote Osa Peninsula is home to Corcovado National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. It’s perfect for families who love wildlife and want to experience Costa Rica’s rainforests in their purest form.
• Highlights: Corcovado National Park, guided wildlife tours, and visiting Drake Bay.

Transportation Options in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers several transportation options for families. Be sure to consider things like amount of luggage you may have, car seats, strollers, etc. Depending on your kids age(s), some options will be better than others. 

1. Rental Car: Renting a car is a popular choice for families who want flexibility and the ability to explore different regions at their own pace. Roads can be winding and bumpy in rural areas, but the main highways are well-maintained. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended if you’re planning to visit remote areas like Monteverde or the Osa Peninsula. If you are comfortable with renting a vehicle, I would recommend this option so you are able to hop around to various places easily. 

2. Private Shuttles: Many families opt for private shuttles, which are more comfortable than public buses and allow you to travel directly between destinations. Shuttle services can be arranged through hotels or tour companies. We have personally done this when we were staying near the beach for the first half of our trip and near La Fortuna for the second half. It worked out but the connivence of a rental car would have been nice! 

3. Public Buses: Costa Rica has an extensive public bus system, which is an affordable way to travel within cities and towns. While buses are safe and reliable, they can be slow and crowded, making them less ideal for families with young children.

4. Domestic Flights: For long-distance travel between regions like San José and the Osa Peninsula or the Caribbean coast, domestic flights can save time. Local airlines such as Sansa and Nature Air offer short flights between major tourist destinations.

5. Ride Sharing: There are ride share options, like Uber and Lyft, in Costa Rica. We personally used Uber in La Fortuna and found it to be easy to use and inexpensive compared to in the US. This is a good option if you want to use a private shuttle to get from far-distances and uber within smaller areas. Keep in mind, it might be more difficult in the high season. 

Airports in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has two main international airports on either side of the country:

1. Juan Santamaría International Airport (San Jose International airport) (SJO): Located near the capital, San José, this is the country’s busiest airport. It’s the main gateway for visitors exploring the Central Valley, Arenal, Monteverde, and the Caribbean coast.

2. Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR): Located in Liberia in the Guanacaste region, this airport is ideal for those visiting the northern Pacific coast, including popular beach destinations like Tamarindo, Playa Conchal, and Papagayo Peninsula.

Both airports offer flights from major international carriers and are well-connected to the rest of the country via shuttle services, rental cars, and domestic flights.

7-Day Itinerary for Costa Rica

There are three itineraries listed below, take a look at each one and determine which would be best for your family! The first goes into more detail but includes places listed in itineraries #2 and #3, so refer back to the first option if you want more detail about anything. 

7-Day Itinerary #1: The Family Who Wants To See It All

Day 1: Arrival in San José

• Stay: San José
• Highlights: Central Market, Children’s Museum
• Activities:
  • Land at Juan Santamaría International Airport and head to your hotel to freshen up.
  • Visit San José’s Central Market for a fun introduction to local food and culture.
  • If the kids still have energy, head to the Children’s Museum, where they can learn about Costa Rican history, science, and culture through interactive exhibits.

San José is the perfect place to acclimate to Costa Rica’s atmosphere, and a quick city tour is a great way to start your adventure.

Day 2: Travel to La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)

• Stay: La Fortuna
• Highlights: Arenal Volcano, Hot Springs
• Activities:
  • In the morning, take a scenic drive (3 hours) to La Fortuna, the gateway to Arenal Volcano.
  • After settling in, visit the Arenal Volcano National Park and take a leisurely hike on the trails. The volcano itself is an iconic sight, and the surrounding forests are home to exotic wildlife like toucans and howler monkeys.
  • In the afternoon, unwind at one of the region’s famed hot springs. Kids will love the thermal pools and water slides. You can either stay at a resort with hot springs like The Royal Corin hot springs resort or The Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa, or book a day pass.  

Day 3: Adventure Day in La Fortuna

• Stay: La Fortuna
• Highlights: Ziplining, Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall
• Activities:
  • Start the day with an exciting zipline tour over the rainforest. Many tours cater to families and offer shorter lines for younger children (be sure to check age requirements prior!).
  • After lunch, explore the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges. The bridges take you through different layers of the rainforest, offering incredible views of the jungle canopy and wildlife.
  • End the day with a visit to the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall. It’s a short hike to reach the waterfall, but the crystal-clear pool at the bottom is worth it. Don’t forget swimsuits for a refreshing dip!

Day 4: Monteverde Cloud Forest

• Stay: Monteverde
• Highlights: Cloud Forest Reserve, Night Wildlife Tour
• Activities:
  • Depart from La Fortuna for Monteverde, a 3-4 hour drive, part of which includes a scenic boat ride across Lake Arenal.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the mystical Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. It’s cooler here, and the misty environment makes it feel like you’re walking through a fairy tale.
  • For a special family adventure, sign up for a nighttime wildlife tour. This guided tour will give you the chance to spot nocturnal creatures such as sloths, armadillos, and various bird species.

Day 5: Wildlife and Chocolate Tour

• Stay: Monteverde
• Highlights: Butterfly Garden, Chocolate & Coffee Tour
• Activities:
  • Visit the Monteverde Butterfly Garden in the morning. Kids will love seeing the vibrant butterflies and learning about their life cycles.
  • In the afternoon, enjoy a hands-on chocolate and coffee tour. This is an engaging and educational experience for the whole family where you can learn about Costa Rica’s famous coffee and the chocolate-making process, with tastings included!

Day 6: Beach Time in Manuel Antonio

• Stay: Manuel Antonio
• Highlights: Manuel Antonio National Park, Beach Day
• Activities:
  • Travel to Manuel Antonio (about 4 hours), one of Costa Rica’s most famous beach destinations. Known for its white-sand beaches and lush tropical forest, it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy nature.
  • After checking into your accommodation, head straight to the beach to relax or splash around in the gentle waves.
  • If you’re up for more adventure, take a catamaran tour in the afternoon, which may include dolphin watching and snorkeling.

Day 7: Manuel Antonio National Park & Departure

• Stay: None (Departure)
• Highlights: Wildlife Viewing, Relaxation
• Activities:
  • Spend the morning exploring Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can hike trails through dense forest, spot wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and iguanas, and enjoy more beach time.
  • After a relaxing morning, begin your journey back to San José (a 3-hour drive) for your evening flight home.

7-Day Itinerary #2: Classic Family Adventure

This itinerary is perfect for families wanting to experience a mix of adventure, nature, and relaxation in major areas of Costa Rica.

Places you will visit: 

San Jose, La Fortuna, Beaches of Guanacaste 

Day 1: Arrival in San José

• Fly into San Jose. 
• Either stay the night in San Jose and visit: Children’s Museum or explore La Sabana Metropolitan Park OR
• Make the 3 hr drive to La Fortuna (this would be my vote)
• If you arrive earlier in the day, spend time in the town of La Fortuna! It’s a 10 minute drive from most hotels and resorts.  

Day 2: Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna

• Book a guided tour in the morning to either take a coffee and chocolate tour or do a wildlife safari boat tour.
• Enjoy the nearby hot springs. 

Day 3: Arenal Volcano National Park

• Explore Arenal Volcano National Park with a kid-friendly hike.
• Try the zip lines or walking the hanging bridges for an exciting aerial view of the rainforest. There are great options to just visit the hanging bridges or also spend the full day with a guided option to see the La Fortuna Waterfall, the hanging brides and visit more hot springs. 

Day 4: Monteverde Cloud Forest

• Time to head to your next destination! Drive or take a shuttle to Monteverde (about 3 hours).
• Visit the Monteverde Butterfly Garden and enjoy a night tour to see nocturnal wildlife.

Day 5: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

• Hike the trails of the Monteverde Cloud Forest and spot wildlife like monkeys and sloths.
• Try a canopy tour or visit the Hummingbird Garden.

Day 6: Beach Day in Guanacaste

• Drive to your final destination – Playa Hermosa (about 2.5 hours).
• Spend the day at the beach in Playa Hermosa, where the kids can swim and snorkel.

Day 7: Departure

• Drive or take a shuttle to San Jose airport for your flight home.

7-Day Itinerary #3: Beach and Wildlife Escape

This itinerary is ideal for families who want to combine equal time on the beach with equal time for wildlife exploration.

Day 1: Arrival in Liberia

• Arrive at LIR Airport and transfer to a beach hotel in Tamarindo.
• Relax on the beach and settle in.

Day 2 & 3: Tamarindo Beach Days

• Spend the day at Tamarindo Beach. Try surf lessons or go boogie boarding with the kids.
• Explore the town and grab dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.

Day 4: Rincón de la Vieja National Park

• Head to your next accommodation location near Rincón de la Vieja National Park (about 1.5 hours).
• Spend the day at the park. 
• Hike to the hot springs and waterfalls or try the natural mud baths.

Day 5 & 6: Make the drive to La Fortuna 

• Drive or take a shuttle to La Fortuna (3 hours). 
• Book a guided tour in the morning to either take a coffee and chocolate tour or do a wildlife safari boat tour.
• Enjoy the nearby hot springs. You can either stay at a resort with hot springs like The Royal Corin or The Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa, or book a day pass. 
• Try the zip lines or walking the hanging bridges for an exciting aerial view of the rainforest. There are great options to just visit the hanging bridges or also spend the entire day with a guided option to see the La Fortuna Waterfall, the hanging brides and visit more hot springs. 

Day 7: The saddest day of them all- departure day

• Drive or take a shuttle to San José for your flight home.

Helpful Tips for Traveling to Costa Rica with Kids

1. Health and Safety

• Health Precautions: Costa Rica is a relatively safe destination. Bring mosquito repellent and consider using clothing with built-in insect protection, especially in areas with higher humidity like rainforests.
• Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unexpected changes. While Costa Rica has a decent healthcare system, it’s always a good idea to be covered for any situation, particularly with kids.
• Water Safety: Tap water is generally safe to drink in most tourist areas, but you can always stick to bottled water to be extra cautious, especially if your kids are sensitive to changes in water quality.

2. Plan for Travel Times and Breaks

• Long Drives: Many key destinations like Arenal, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio involve drives of 3-4 hours or more. Bring snacks and entertainment (download movies, games, or audiobooks), and plan for rest stops to avoid cranky kids. Many gas stations or small roadside stops have clean restrooms and snacks. One of our favorite meals was a quick stop on the side of the road- it was incredible, but I could never tell you where it was. Just look for the small spots and I bet you will leave happy! 
• Travel Sickness: Costa Rica’s roads can be windy, some are even fully dirt roads, especially heading to Monteverde or along coastal routes. If your kids are prone to motion sickness, pack some medication or natural remedies like ginger candy.

3. Adapt to Costa Rican Time

• Early to Rise, Early to Bed: In Costa Rica, it’s common for Costa Ricans to start their day early. Many tours and wildlife adventures begin at sunrise when animals are most active. It’s helpful to adjust your family’s schedule to make the most of these early mornings and avoid the heat of midday. Plan for early dinners, as restaurants in smaller towns often close by 8 or 9 PM.

4. Pack Smart for Kids

• Clothing: Costa Rica’s climate is tropical, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing. For kids, pack extra clothes, especially for beach days, waterfall visits, or rainy hikes. Quick-dry materials are a plus.
• Rain Gear: Even if you’re visiting during the dry season, the rainforest areas can still get afternoon showers. Lightweight rain jackets or ponchos are essential.
• Baby Gear: If you’re traveling with toddlers or babies, pack lightweight strollers for urban areas, but know that baby carriers are better for exploring parks and forests. Some hotels or car rental companies offer baby gear rentals if you prefer to pack light.

5. Kid-Friendly Food Options

• Local Cuisine: Costa Rican food is simple, healthy, and kid-friendly. Dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans), grilled chicken, plantains, and fresh fruit are great options for children. Most restaurants offer familiar food like pasta, pizza, and fries, so picky eaters will be satisfied.
• Snacks: Bring a few of your kids’ favorite snacks from home, as familiar options might not always be available in local stores. Local markets sell fresh fruit like pineapples, mangoes, and bananas that kids usually love.

6. Wildlife Etiquette

• Respect Nature: Costa Rica is home to diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds, which your kids will love seeing up close. Teach your children to observe animals quietly, avoid feeding wildlife, and stay on marked trails for their safety and to protect the ecosystem.
• Be Prepared for Encounters: Some animals, like monkeys or raccoons, can be curious and might approach you. Keep your belongings secure to avoid unwanted attention, especially food items.

7. Cash and Currency

• Currency: The local currency is the Costa Rican colón, but US dollars are widely accepted in most tourist areas. It’s a good idea to carry small bills for tips and purchases in more remote locations. Many places accept credit cards, but be prepared for occasional cash-only spots, particularly in rural areas.
• ATMs: There are ATMs in major towns, but if you’re traveling to more remote regions, it’s wise to withdraw cash in advance.

8. Choose Accommodations with Kid-Friendly Amenities

• Family-Friendly Hotels: Look for accommodations with amenities like swimming pools, kid’s menus, or even on-site activities like nature walks or children’s play areas. Many eco-lodges and resorts offer family rooms or villas for extra space.
• Renting a Car with Car Seats: If you plan to rent a car, ensure you request a car seat or booster seat in advance. Many car rental companies offer this option, but it’s important to confirm availability.

9. Be Flexible with Schedules

• Don’t Over-Schedule: While Costa Rica offers tons of exciting activities, avoid cramming too much into one day. Factor in downtime, whether it’s an afternoon at the pool, beach, or simply relaxing at your hotel. Younger kids may need naps after adventurous activities like hikes or ziplining.

10. Introduce the Kids to Costa Rica Before You Go

• Engage in Learning: Get your children excited about the trip by reading books or watching documentaries about Costa Rican wildlife, volcanoes, and culture. This will build anticipation and help them better appreciate the experiences when you arrive. We love watching Youtube videos about destination before we go, look up family vlogs before you travel! 
• Language Fun: Teach your kids a few basic Spanish phrases. It’s fun for them to practice greetings or ordering food, and locals will appreciate the effort.

Bonus Tip: Pura Vida!

Teach your kids about the Costa Rican phrase “Pura Vida” – it means “pure life” and reflects the country’s relaxed, positive outlook on life. You’ll hear it everywhere, and encouraging your family to embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle will add to the joy of your trip.

A few of my favorite memories from a Costa Rica trip were those which were unplanned, like finding baby sea turtles making their way into the ocean while on a night walk, or the hilarious tour guide while we were riding ATVs through a small town, or the amazing food we found at local restaurants. It’s such a beautiful country all around and I hope your family has the best experience with one of these 7-day itinerary for Costa Rica options!