The Ultimate Guide to Family Vacations in Costa Rica

• April 11, 2025
• Villa Punto de Vista
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This guide will share everything you need to know to start planning epic family vacations in Costa Rica with kids.

Costa Rica is a small gem in Central America that’s tailor-made for family adventures. Roughly the size of West Virginia, it crams in cloud forests, active volcanoes, and pristine beaches all within a few hours’ drive.

This country is incredibly safe and kid friendly, making it an ideal family vacation spot. Locals (called Ticos) love children and welcome your whole family with open arms. The entire country is very family-centric and values time spent with those you love.

Don’t be surprised to hear “¡Pura Vida!” (meaning pure life) everywhere. It’s the joyful national motto and way of life. Even if it’s your first time visiting Costa Rica, you’ll find it easy to navigate; many people speak English.

The best part is the sheer variety of experiences. In one trip, you can spot abundant wildlife in a steamy Costa Rican rainforest, soak in hot springs by an active volcano, and build sandcastles on a palm-fringed beach.

Whether you have daring teens ready to zip-line or little kids excited to see butterflies, Costa Rica has something for everyone. One day you might watch baby turtles on the Caribbean coast, and the next hear howler monkeys in Manuel Antonio. Few places make learning about nature a family fun experience. It’s no wonder travel to Costa Rica with kids is often described as the ultimate family adventure. 

Table of Contents

1. When to Go to Costa Rica
2. Where to Go in Costa Rica
3. Family Friendly Accommodations
4. How to Get Around
5. Best Activities for Kids
6. Wildlife Encounters
7. Exploring Costa Rican Culture
8. What to Eat in Costa Rica
9. Safety and Travel Tips
10. Why Manuel Antonio Is Perfect for Families
11. Why Villa Punto de Vista Is the Ideal Family Stay
12. Final Thoughts + Call to Action

When to Go to Costa Rica

Choosing when to go to Costa Rica is all about finding the right balance between weather and crowds. The country has two main seasons:

• Dry Season (December–April)
• Rainy Season, also known as Green Season (May–November)

Truthfully, there’s something for every family during every season, and there’s no bad time to visit Costa Rica.

Dry Season

The dry season, also called “summer” by locals, usually means plenty of sun and very little rain, especially on the Pacific coast.

Here’s a simple pros and cons table for the Dry Season in Costa Rica:

Green Season

The rainy season, or “green season,” brings daily rains but also unique advantages. Typically, mornings are clear and rain falls in afternoon bursts followed by a quick return to sunshine. The forests become lush and vibrant, making this the time when the jungle truly lives up to its name.

If you want to learn more about traveling during green season, read this post about the perks of off-season travel.

Microclimates in Costa Rica

It’s also important to know that Costa Rica is home to many microclimates, which means that different parts of Costa Rica have their own weather patterns. The Caribbean coast tends to have a different rhythm (often drier when the Pacific side is wet, and vice versa).

High-altitude areas like the Monteverde Cloud Forest are cooler and mistier year-round. Pack accordingly by bringing ponchos or umbrellas, sturdy sandals that dry quickly, and plenty of sunscreen. With a bit of planning, you can find the perfect time of year for your Costa Rica family adventure.

Where to Go in Costa Rica

When families are planning a trip to Costa Rica, they say one of the most overwhelming parts is where to go. Since the country is packed with family-friendly destinations, the choices are plentiful. Here are some top spots to consider:

Manuel Antonio (Central Pacific Coast)

Manuel Antonio National Park is a must for families. Yes, we may be a bit biased because our villa is here, but it’s truly one of the most family-friendly destinations in the country.

There are easy trails that lead to beautiful beaches where monkeys play in the trees. Inside the park, you might spot sloths and colorful birds in the morning, then picnic or paddle in calm turquoise waters in the afternoon. 

For guests who stay at our villa, you don’t even need to step outside your room to spot these playful creatures. One of our clients’ favorite features of the villa is just how many up-close-and-personal interactions you get to have with sloths, monkeys, toucans, geckos, and more.

The nearby town offers lots of tour options (from mangrove boat rides to horseback riding excursions) and plenty of places to eat and stay. Manuel Antonio perfectly blends pristine beaches with rainforest adventures in one place.

Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna

For a mix of adventure and natural beauty, head to the Arenal/La Fortuna area in north-central Costa Rica. The main draw of the area is Arenal Volcano National Park, with its majestic cone and miles of trails.

The town of La Fortuna is the gateway to activities. You can swim at the base of the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall (older kids and adults can handle the steps), walk across jungle hanging bridges with panoramic views, and unwind in natural hot springs (some resorts here have their own hot springs pools!). Don’t miss the view of Lake Arenal, and if time allows, a day trip to the sky-blue Rio Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio National Park is jaw-dropping.

Monteverde Cloud Forest

Up in the mountains, Monteverde is a cooler escape known for the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Walking through this misty, magical forest on suspended hanging bridges makes your family feel like explorers in a fairy-tale jungle.

Kids will love the hummingbird garden and seeing brilliant butterflies at the local butterfly garden. While the adventurous in the bunch will be thrilled to fly as Monteverde is the birthplace of zip lining. Several companies offer kid-friendly canopy tours with safety gear and guides who can tandem with younger ones. After a day of hiking or zip-lining, you can relax at a cozy eco-lodge with the sounds of nature all around.

Guanacaste’s Beaches (North Pacific)

For sun and sand, the Guanacaste region in northwest Costa Rica is a popular choice. Tamarindo Beach offers a fun surf-town vibe which is great for surf lessons as the waves are gentle for beginners.

A bit up the coast, Playa Flamingo and Conchal Beach have calmer waters and soft sand perfect for younger kids. This area is known for its family resorts, including some of the best family resorts in the country, complete with pools and kids’ clubs. Many are all-inclusive, making mealtimes simpler when traveling with a whole crew. Guanacaste is the driest part of Costa Rica, so if you’re visiting during the winter months, you’re almost guaranteed beach-perfect weather.

Family Friendly Accommodations

After a full day of adventure, you’ll want a comfortable, family-friendly place to unwind—and Costa Rica delivers. From full-service resorts to private villas like ours in Manuel Antonio, there’s something for every travel style.

Why a Private Villa is Ideal for Families

While traveling with kids can be magical, it also comes with its own set of challenges. That’s where a private luxury villa really shines. You get the space, support, and flexibility families need—without sacrificing comfort or style.

At Villa Punto de Vista, for example, you’ll find:

• A private estate designed for groups and families
• An infinity pool, game room, and personal concierge
• Quick access to a virtually private beach
• On-site chef service or a full kitchen for easy meals
• Total flexibility to create your own schedule

Added Perks for Parents

Traveling with little ones? We’ve got you covered. Our villa provides a lot of the baby gear you need, including:

• Cribs
• High chairs
• Car seats 
• Pool floats
• Beach toy
• Other kid-friendly gear – always ask!

No need to overpack or stress, as we make it easy for your family to settle in and enjoy.

Guest Testimonial: 

“For families with kids, Villa Punto de Vista went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed for our daughter, Charlotte. From the moment we arrived, car seats were ready for her transportation to and from the villa, which immediately made us feel at ease. Beach toys were set up and ready to go for her, and when her hands got messy with sand, Harold was right there offering towelettes to keep things clean. They even had a high chair ready and waiting for her during meals, and a pre-set grocery list allowed the staff to pick up milk and other essentials before we arrived, ensuring that everything was perfect for Charlotte during our stay. Pool floats were also available for her, which made pool time a safe and fun experience for the whole family.” – Alyssa, September 2024

Pro Tip: Book Early

Family travel often means working around school breaks and holidays. Be sure to reserve your dates early, especially during peak travel seasons, when villas tend to book up fast.

How to Get Around

While having a car can make in-country travel a bit more flexible, it can be complicated to navigate roads if you’re not used to driving in a foreign country. Oftentimes there will be detours not listed on Google Maps, which is why for our guests, we always recommend private shuttles or drivers to make the trip a bit more stress-free.

Private drivers 

This type of service offers door-to-door transportation, letting you sit back and soak in the scenery. Truthfully, if you’re coming to us in Manuel Antonio, the drive from San Jose feels like an excursion in itself with stops for photo ops, restaurants, and snacks, of course. 

Shared Transportation

If you’d rather not spend on a private driver, you can look at getting a rental car or taking a shared tourist shuttle. These are budget-friendly ways to get between popular destinations (just expect a few stops to pick up others). 

Domestic Flights

In some cases, domestic flights are available, too. For example, many of our clients will charter small planes from San José to Quepos or Tamarindo Beach or hop on a Sansa flight. These can dramatically cut travel time (a 3-hour drive becomes a 30-minute flight), which is a big plus if you have wiggly kids. 

Bonus Tip: Pad Your Itinerary

Costa Rica’s charm lies in the unexpected, whether it’s a rainstorm, a sloth crossing the road, or a roadside fruit stand. Build in extra time for travel days so you can enjoy the journey, not stress about delays.

Best Activities for Kids

There are so many family friendly activities in Costa Rica that it’s hard to summarize. But here are a few client favorites: 

Zip-Lining & Canopy Tours

Strap in and soar above the treetops!

 Zip lining is a must-do for thrill-seeking families. Many parks in Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, or Arenal have kid-friendly zip-line options, some allowing smaller children to ride tandem with a guide. Flying over the jungle is so exciting, and kids love to brag about it afterward to their friends when they get home.

Hiking & Hanging Bridges

Costa Rica’s trails range from easy walks to waterfall treks. Popular hikes like the one to La Fortuna Waterfall end in a rewarding swim at the base. In many reserves you can traverse hanging bridges through the forest canopy which is a fun way to spot birds and monkeys. 

Even young children can handle shorter trails (with hand-holding), especially with the promise of a cool swim or a cool treat after.

Wildlife Night Tours

As the sun sets, the rainforest comes alive in a different way. 

Guided night tours let you and the kids search with flashlights for glowing frog eyes, sleeping birds, and other nocturnal critters. It feels like a mini safari in the dark. Just a bit spooky, but completely safe and super intriguing. An evening walk might reveal a red-eyed tree frog or a porcupine climbing a branch. It’s an unforgettable way to see the jungle from a new perspective.

For our guests staying at Villa Punto de Vista, rather than leaving the villa, the team on-site can bring the kiddos around property to see what they can spot. Sometimes it’s more than the neighboring park because the animals feel safe with few crowds.

Water Sports & Beach Fun

With two coasts, Costa Rica offers every water activity under the sun. Take surf lessons together in Tamarindo or Jaco, instructors will get even first-timers riding the waves. Go whitewater rafting on a gentle river (many tour operators offer family-friendly trips) or a more adventurous one for teens and parents who crave thrills. One of our favorite rivers near our villa in Manuel Antonio is a day trip to the Pacuare River.

Snorkeling is easy off many beaches like Conchal or in Cahuita on the Caribbean side, and certified divers can even try scuba diving at spots like Caño Island to see reef sharks and rays. 

For something tranquil, consider a kayak guided tour through mangroves or a family boat trip to spot dolphins. Of course, sometimes the best times are simply spent building sandcastles and splashing in the waves at a beautiful beach after a lovely beach BBQ.

Wildlife Encounters

If your kids are animal lovers, Costa Rica will absolutely blow their minds. This country is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth – and seeing wild animals in their natural habitat is a powerful, unforgettable experience for children and adults alike. It’s not every day you get to watch a sloth hanging just a few feet above your head or see a monkey baby clutching its mother’s back as they swing across the canopy.

Here’s where you’ll find the most exciting wildlife encounters by region – and why Manuel Antonio and the Osa Peninsula are the most awe-inspiring of all.

Explore Wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park

One of the best places to see wildlife up close is Manuel Antonio National Park. This compact but incredibly rich park is home to some of Costa Rica’s most iconic creatures. It’s no exaggeration to say that Manuel Antonio offers some of the best, easiest-to-access wildlife in the entire country. You don’t need to venture far because wildlife finds you here.

What you might see:

• White-faced capuchin monkeys
• Two- and three-toed sloths
• Howler monkeys
• Scarlet macaws
• Iguanas
• Toucans
• Agoutis
• Tree frogs

Manuel Antonio National Park’s compact trails and abundant wildlife make it ideal for families with young kids. Local guides use spotting scopes to help kids see creatures they’d otherwise miss like a bat snuggled under a leaf or a blue morpho butterfly flitting through the trees. For many families, this is the highlight of the whole trip.

Bonus: Guests at our villa often spot monkeys, sloths, and toucans without even leaving the property. It’s like living in your own private nature documentary.

Guest Testimonial: 

“We enjoyed the dining space immensely as it’s surrounded by trees, and we got frequent visits and sightings of the incredible Costa Rica wildlife. The sloths were calmly moving around the treetops, and the monkeys that visited every morning just made it so that everyone would get out of bed as soon as they woke up to enjoy their antics.” – Birna, November 2024

Manuel Antonio’s easy-to-navigate trails, proximity to beaches, and abundance of visible wildlife make it especially appealing for families with kids.

Osa Peninsula: The Wildest of Them All

Osa Peninsula is also a great spot. Home to Corcovado National Park, this region contains 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity yes, the world’s — within just 0.001% of its landmass. It’s remote, raw, and wildly beautiful.

What you might see:

• Tapirs
• Spider monkeys
• Scarlet macaws
• Coatis
• Anteaters
• Poison dart frogs
• Crocodiles
• Even wild cats (like jaguars or ocelots, if you’re incredibly lucky)

This area is best for adventurous families with slightly older kids who are ready for real jungle immersion. Hikes are longer, but the payoff is immense.

More National Parks Worth Visiting

Beyond Manuel Antonio, several other parks across the country offer unforgettable animal encounters. In Tortuguero National Park, boat tours through lush canals reveal howler monkeys, crocodiles, and toucans — all before lunch. 

Arenal offers easy trails with chances to spot coatis, toucans, and colorful frogs, especially on night walks.

In Monteverde, the misty cloud forest is home to hummingbirds, butterflies, and the elusive quetzal, plus fun nature centers for kids.

Visit Wildlife Sanctuaries and Rescue Centers

For a more structured and up-close experience, visit a wildlife sanctuary or rescue center. These facilities care for injured or orphaned animals and often welcome visitors for educational tours. Your kids might find themselves just feet away from a sleepy sloth, a playful monkey, or a toucan munching on fruit.

Two excellent options include:

• Kids Saving the Rainforest near Manuel Antonio
• Jaguar Rescue Center on the Caribbean coast

These visits offer heartwarming moments while also teaching children about conservation and the importance of protecting Costa Rica’s wildlife.

Exploring Costa Rican Culture

Costa Rica isn’t just about nature. Its culture is a joy to experience, especially with children. Family and community are at the heart of Costa Rican life, so you’ll find locals exceptionally welcoming to you and your kids. Don’t be surprised if a waiter or a shopkeeper dotes on your little ones; Ticos don’t just tolerate children, they genuinely adore them.

Embrace the Pura Vida Lifestyle

Embrace the easygoing “¡Pura Vida!” lifestyle. This pure life philosophy isn’t just a saying, it’s a warm, positive outlook that you’ll feel everywhere. You might notice it when chatting with a local family at a park or when a bus driver patiently waits as you wrangle a stroller. Encourage your kids to say “hola” (hello) and “gracias” (thank you). Most kids enjoy trying out a bit of Spanish and locals will appreciate the effort (often rewarded with a big smile.

Say Yes to Spontaneous Moments

Often, the most memorable cultural moments happen when you slow down and stay open to the unexpected. Say yes to chatting with a fruit vendor, watching a street performer, or joining a spontaneous soccer game in the park. These are the moments where Costa Rica’s true heart shines through—and where your family will feel part of it all.

Simple Ways to Immerse in Culture

You don’t need to plan elaborate cultural tours to get a feel for the local way of life. Some of the best experiences come from simple, spontaneous moments:

• Visit a central market and let the kids pick out a new tropical fruit to try
• Stroll through a village plaza at sunset—where kids play soccer and grandparents sit on benches catching up
• Catch a local festival if one’s happening nearby—dancing, music, and colorful costumes are a feast for the senses
• Dine at a soda (a casual, local restaurant) and try a traditional casado or gallo pinto
• Take a family cooking class to learn how to make tortillas together – it’s messy, fun, and unforgettable

Our on-site concierge loves taking families to the local market and teaching the kiddos about all the different fruits and veggies that are unique to Costa Rica. And, of course, they go back to the villa and have a taste!

Which leads us to the next part of planning your family trip to Costa Rica!

What to Eat in Costa Rica

One of the perks of traveling here is the delicious Costa Rican food that the whole group will love. The cuisine is generally mild and fresh which is ideal for kids’ palates. 

Get ready for rice and beans.

Staples like rice and beans show up in almost every meal. In fact, your family might start the day with gallo pinto, the beloved breakfast of rice and black beans stir-fried together, often served with eggs and tortillas. It’s simple but tasty and gives everyone plenty of energy for the day. 

Don’t skip casado.

This is a plate packed with rice, beans, salad, sweet plantains, and a protein (chicken, fish, pork, or beef). You can often get a casado for each family member with different protein choices. The sweet fried plantains on the side are usually a hit with kids (they taste like candy!). Many places also offer familiar items like fries or chicken fingers if needed, but a lot of kids end up loving the local staples.

Don’t miss the tropical treats. 

Everywhere you go, vendors sell fresh fruit like pineapple, mango, and watermelon – often chilled and cut up to snack on. Try a cold “pipa” (young coconut) for refreshing coconut water, or a batido (fruit smoothie) for a sweet pick-me-up. Costa Rica also has plenty of sweets: your kids might love churros (sugary fried dough) or granizados, the local snow cone doused in fruity syrup and condensed milk – messy but delightful on a hot day!

Dining in Costa Rica is generally relaxed and family-oriented. Many restaurants have high chairs and will happily accommodate kids. In tourist hubs, you’ll find pizza, pasta, and other familiar options if needed, but we encourage trying the local bites – your child might discover a new favorite dish (or at least have fun taste-testing!). And parents, don’t forget to enjoy a cup of famous Costa Rican coffee with your breakfast – you’ve earned it.

Staying Safe and Healthy in Costa Rica: What Families Need to Know

Costa Rica is one of the safest and most traveler-friendly countries in Latin America, with a solid healthcare system and a welcoming atmosphere for families. Still, it’s always helpful to know what to expect before you go. Here’s what parents should keep in mind to stay safe, healthy, and stress-free during your adventure.

Health Tips for Families

Costa Rica’s public and private healthcare systems are well-respected, and many doctors in tourist areas speak English. For any serious medical emergency, dial 911.

To keep your family healthy on the go:

• Bring travel insurance to cover unexpected illnesses or injuries.
• Pack a small first-aid kit with fever reducers, motion sickness medication, allergy meds, and anything your child might need.
• Tap water is safe to drink in most areas, but if you’re visiting remote regions, stick to bottled water just to be sure.
• Bug spray is essential in rainforest areas. While malaria isn’t a concern in tourist zones, dengue can be. Apply repellent and consider long sleeves at dusk.
• Protect against the sun with reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. The tropical sun is stronger than you might expect—even on cloudy days.

Personal Belongings & Beach Safety

In Costa Rica, you have to worry more about the monkeys stealing your things than other scenarios. These silly creatures love snagging things and trading for snacks. No, we’re not kidding!

Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach. When swimming, choose beaches where others are around and ask locals if the water is safe. Some pretty beaches have strong currents, so it’s best to get local advice!

Smart Preparation for Peace of Mind

A little preparation goes a long way:

• Make digital or paper copies of important documents like passports and store them separately from the originals.
• Carry both credit cards and cash (small U.S. bills and Costa Rican colones) for tips, snacks, and small purchases.
• Keep your hotel’s name and address handy – take a photo of the business card or save it on your phone in case you need to give directions to a taxi or local.

And remember, Ticos are incredibly friendly. If you ever need help, don’t hesitate to ask. Locals are often eager to assist families! With these basics covered, you can relax and enjoy the trip, knowing you’ve got safety squared away.

Why Manuel Antonio Is Perfect for Families

It’s no surprise that Manuel Antonio consistently ranks as one of the top family destinations in Costa Rica. This small but vibrant region offers the best of the country in one easy-to-navigate package—making it especially appealing for families with kids.

Nature and Beaches in One Place

Manuel Antonio National Park blends lush rainforest and pristine beaches in a compact, accessible area. Even younger children can manage the park’s easy trails, where wildlife is abundant and visible. In just a few hours, your family might spot monkeys swinging overhead, a sloth tucked into a tree, and colorful parrots calling through the canopy – then finish the day swimming at one of the park’s calm, protected beaches.

The park’s beaches are a huge bonus for families. Sheltered by a bay, the water is gentle and shallow – a rare find on the often-wavy Pacific coast and ideal for young swimmers.

Family-Friendly Amenities at Your Fingertips

Outside the park, the surrounding area offers everything a traveling family might need. The nearby town of Quepos and the Manuel Antonio area are home to:

• A wide range of family accommodations, from budget hotels to spacious luxury villas
• Restaurants for every palate, including casual local sodas, pizza places, and ice cream shops for those occasional “no more rice and beans” moments
• Easy access to shops, services, and essentials—all within a short drive

Adventures Without the Hassle

What sets Manuel Antonio apart is how conveniently close everything is. You won’t spend hours in the car trying to reach activities. Most tours and experiences are located within 15 minutes of your accommodations.

Popular options include:

• Kid-friendly zip line tours in the nearby hills
• Horseback rides to waterfalls
• Sunset catamaran cruises, often with dolphin sightings and opportunities to meet sea creatures

With so much nearby, you can fill your days with adventure without the stress of long transit times.

Easy to Get To

Manuel Antonio is also simple to reach, making it a smart choice for your first or final stop in Costa Rica. It’s about a three-hour scenic drive from San José, or just 25 minutes by domestic flight. Either way, you’ll spend less time getting there and more time enjoying your trip.

FAQs for Visiting Costa Rica as a Young Family

Q: Is Costa Rica safe for families with young children?

A: Yes! Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America and very family-friendly. As with anywhere, exercise common travel precautions, but locals are warm, welcoming, and often go out of their way to accommodate kids.

Q: Do I need a car seat or stroller?

A: If you’re renting a car, bring a car seat or request one with your rental (availability may be limited or not up to U.S. standards). Lightweight, collapsible strollers work best for cobblestone streets and beach towns. A baby carrier is also a great option for nature excursions, but in parks like Manuel Antonio National Park, there are paved areas and walkways for strollers.

Q: Do we need any vaccines or special health precautions?

A: No special vaccines are required for most travelers. Just make sure routine vaccines are up to date. Mosquito repellent is helpful in rural or jungle areas, and always use sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Q: Are there calm beaches for young kids?

A: Definitely, especially where we are located in Manuel Antonio! Playa Manuel Antonio (inside Manuel Antonio National Park) and Playa Biesanz are known for gentle waves and shallow water.

We Can’t Wait to See Your Family in Manuel Antonio

Your Costa Rica adventure will be one for the family memory books. It will be full of laughter, discovery, and stories to retell for years. Few places offer as much family fun and bonding time as this little country does. By choosing the right time to go, the right mix of activities, and the perfect home base, you’re setting up a vacation where every member of the family, from the littlest explorer to the grandparents, has an amazing time.

Now it’s time to make it happen. If you’re dreaming of those monkeys on the balcony and that infinity pool sunset, why not take the next step? Let Villa Punto de Vista be your family’s home in Costa Rica. We specialize in taking care of all the details so you can focus on each other. Reach out today to inquire about dates!