Costa Rica has skyrocketed in popularity over the past several years, and in 2025, it’s a hotspot for adventure seekers, families, and luxury travelers alike. Both of us have traveled to Costa Rica recently, and we’ve learned a thing or two about planning the perfect trip. Whether you’re staying for a long getaway or squeezing in a quick escape, here are our top tips and tricks to help you make the most of your Costa Rican adventure.
1. Plan Around Activities – Don’t Cram It All In
Costa Rica is known for its diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests and active volcanoes to sandy beaches and vibrant national parks. While it’s tempting to pack everything into one trip, we strongly recommend narrowing your focus, especially if your trip is under 7-8 days.
Kara’s lesson learned: Trying to split time between the Arenal volcano region in central Costa Rica and the beaches near Manuel Antonio National Park led to hours of winding drives on treacherous roads—not ideal for families or anyone who gets carsick! Stick to one region if your stay is short to truly enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.
2. Volcanoes Over Beaches (Trust Us, Florida Girls)
Costa Rica’s beaches might be beautiful for surfing, but as Florida natives, we found them just average. The real magic of Costa Rica lies in its interior—the volcanic regions surrounded by rainforests, suspension bridges, and exotic wildlife. Here, you’ll find activities like:
- Hiking near Arenal Volcano
- Spotting monkeys in the wild
- Exploring hanging bridges
- Relaxing in natural hot springs
If you only have time to visit one area, our top pick is Arenal and the surrounding rainforest region. It’s what Costa Rica is famous for, and it does not disappoint.
3. National Parks: Manuel Antonio – Worth It or Skip It?
Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most famous attractions, known for its pristine beaches and abundant wildlife. While it’s definitely worth seeing if you have time, we considered it a nice-to-have rather than a must-do. The park is beautiful, but it can get crowded, and you’ll likely already see plenty of monkeys and wildlife if you stay near Arenal or other rainforest areas.
4. Our Favorite Stays: Château El Silencio & Nayara Springs
One of the reasons we fell in love with Costa Rica is the exceptional eco-luxury accommodations. If you’re looking for places that allow you to fully immerse yourself in nature while indulging in comfort, these two properties are unbeatable:
Château El Silencio Lodge
- Location: Bajos del Toro, a lush rainforest region in central Costa Rica
- What it’s known for: A tranquil, eco-friendly retreat surrounded by waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildlife.
- On-site activities: Nature hikes, birdwatching, waterfall excursions, and cooking classes.
- Cost: $$$ (luxury pricing, but worth it for the serenity and service)
Nayara Springs
- Location: Near Arenal Volcano
- What it’s known for: Adults-only luxury with private plunge pools fed by natural hot springs.
- On-site activities: Spa treatments, guided tours, and yoga classes. Plus, you can book nearby adventures like ziplining and wildlife tours through the hotel.
- Cost: $$$$ (splurge-worthy for couples or special occasions)
Both properties offer so much on-site that you could spend several days there without venturing far. They also organize adventures like canopy tours, hikes, and cultural experiences, making them the perfect base for your trip.
5. Getting There & Around
- Fly Into: San José (Juan Santamaría International Airport – SJO) for central locations like Arenal and Bajos del Toro, or Liberia (Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport – LIR) if you’re heading to the northern beaches or national parks.
- Driving Tips: Be prepared for narrow, winding roads, especially in mountainous regions. Pack Dramamine and definitely hire a driver! Trust us. We got stuck several times on the roads.
Final Tips for the Perfect Costa Rica Adventure
- Stay Longer in One Spot: Both Château El Silencio and Nayara Springs offer enough activities to fill a week—don’t feel pressured to move around too much.
- Pack Smart: Bring waterproof gear (rain is inevitable), sturdy shoes for hiking, and layers for cooler rainforest mornings.
- Book Early: Costa Rica’s popularity is at a fever pitch in 2025, so secure your accommodations and tours well in advance.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for ziplining adventures or a relaxation enthusiast wanting to soak in hot springs, Costa Rica has something for everyone. But take it from us—slow down, soak it in, and focus on quality over quantity for a trip you’ll never forget.
Life’s short. Adventure often.
– Kate & Kara, TravelledTwins