As a travel firm specializing in planning unforgettable family vacations, one of the top questions we receive is “What is the best destination for families”. Without a doubt, Costa Rica is always at the top of our list for families looking for their next adventure. Costa Rica family travel is one of our top recommendations for unforgettable vacations—and for good reason. Kids and parents alike love the variety of animals, outdoor activities, and incredible resorts.

The best (and busiest) time to visit is November through April.  If you want to visit during the holiday season you should be planning now, as many resorts sell out by March.  Summer is also a great time to travel to Costa Rica, but keep in mind that it is considered the rainy season.  You may see afternoon showers but our team can make sure to plan around them accordingly.

And now for our top 5 reasons to take your family to Costa Rica!

1. Costa Rica Family Travel: Quick & Easy Flights

Any parent knows that choosing a destination that is relatively easy to reach is key.  Costa Rica is easily accessible from the U.S., with non-stop flights of less than 4 hours from Tampa and Atlanta, and less than 6 hours from New York City and Los Angeles.   With quick flights, it is easy to take a 4 or 5 night trip, although we recommend at least 6 as there is so much to do.

After arriving in Costa Rica, there is typically a bit of a drive from the airport to your resort, but with a private driver and careful planning, we can create fun stops and little adventures along the way to keep everyone happy!

2. You (and your kids!) won’t be bored.

Across Costa Rica, there are exciting opportunities for fun family adventures.  Each region offers different experiences that will create lasting memories.  The regions are somewhat spread out but we can help you choose the right locations to match your interests.

La Fortuna/Mount Arenal:  The La Fortuna region is known for its hot springs and outdoor adventures.  There are activities to interest every age group, including grandparents if they decide to tag along.  Visit hanging bridges, enjoy hot springs, take a bike tour, or go canyoning down waterfalls in the rainforest. 

Whether you’re ziplining, hiking, or kayaking, Costa Rica family travel offers non-stop adventure for all ages.

Horseback riding, river kayaking, tubing and ziplining are also very popular here.  And if you are up for a bit of a drive, the longest zip line in Costa Rica is within a couple of hours from here. 

Manuel Antonio National Park: Head south along the coastline and you will find the Manuel Antonio National Park. Staying in this area is perfect for wildlife viewing and hiking, and a private yacht tour will please everyone. Several beaches also make this a family-friendly area.

Papagayo Peninsula: Located within a short drive from the Liberia airport, this area is known for stunning views and abundant water activities. While those looking for a chill vacation can relax poolside at a five star resort, the golf fanatics in the family can book a tee time. For the water bugs there is swimming, boating, kayaking, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, paddle-boarding, and surfing. You won’t have a moment to be bored!

3. Family Dining in Costa Rica: Foodie Highlights for All Ages

The Costa Rican culinary scene is impressive.  What appeals to families are the diverse offerings that will please even the pickiest eaters. Many resorts offer traditional yet upscale Costa Rican cuisine alongside cheeseburgers and pizza for the kids. 

If dining al fresco is important, you will find unique restaurants with beautiful views everywhere.  Have lunch in a treetop bar & grille overlooking a waterfall or grab dinner at a two-story restaurant located in a converted cargo plane while watching the sunset.  The options are endless!

If you are looking for homestyle Costa Rican cuisine, don’t miss Vista Poas Restaurant at The Peace Lodge.  This makes a great stop if traveling from San Jose airport to La Fortuna, and you can also visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens Park while you are there.  

While there are gourmet meals and kid-friendly cuisine readily available, the adults can also pursue the perfectly crafted cocktail.   Costa Rica is known for Guaro, which is brandy and the main ingredient in many cocktails.  Take a mixology class to learn more about these local flavors or indulge in a wine pairing dinner.  We can help curate these special experiences that will make the adults as happy as the kids.

4. There are animal & nature viewing opportunities everywhere.

One of the most exciting parts of Costa Rica for kids is the variety of animals and biodiversity within its borders.  Staying near Manuel Antonio National Park is a must if seeing a sloth in its natural habitat is on your bucket list.  They can be spotted sleeping in the treetops or moving very slowly along branches perpetually searching for food. Toucans and tree frogs are also easy to spot!

Hoping to see monkeys up close and personal?  Take it from us, your kids will be thrilled when they walk out on their balcony and see monkeys swinging from the trees.  This is better than any zoo!  If you have kids that are particularly obsessed with animals, we can arrange private tours around the national parks so that they don’t miss a thing.  

Costa Rica is also unique because of its vast biodiversity.  Its geographical position explains both this and the climate diversity within its borders.  You can find mountains, rainforests, dry plains and volcanoes.  Each area presents a different climate and array of animals and plant life that you can explore as a family.  

5. Family Lodging for a Seamless Costa Rica Travel Experience.

Whether you are traveling with just your immediate family or bringing along grandparents and cousins, Costa Rica has a wide range of accommodations to fit every travel party.  From regular guest rooms and multi-bedroom suites to private bungalows, casitas and villas, we can help you find the right home base for your vacation.  Upgrade your experience with a private balcony or plunge pool.

Having tours on-site makes traveling with kids much simpler. Many resorts feature hot springs, waterfalls, and animal sanctuaries right at the property.  One of our favorites even features a fun river tubing adventure. For the adults, some resorts offer adult-only pools and swim-up bars for a well-deserved break from the family fun.    

For all these reasons, you can see why we always get rave reviews from our clients who take their families to Costa Rica. Where should we go? How do we get around? What are the best activities for kids?

We can help answer all these questions and create a custom Costa Rica family itinerary for you. Let’s Get Started!

Marcy Zyonse