Adventures you must not miss when you are in Costa Rica

$1,626.7 billion. That’s the estimated market size of the adventure tourism industry by 2026. But numbers aside, what makes adventure travel so irresistible? It’s about discovering the unknown, challenging your limits, and creating stories you’ll tell for a lifetime. And when it comes to thrilling escapades, very few places are as rewarding as Costa Rica.

Thanks to visa-free entry, picturesque landscape, and easy access to heart-racing adventure activities – Costa Rica is every thrill seeker’s dream holiday destination. No surprise that Costa Rica recently ranked as the 12th most sought-after travel destination worldwide, outpacing several European heavyweights.

If visiting Costa Rica is on your 2025 travel bucket list, read this guide carefully. We’ve curated a lineup of outdoor adventure activities you cannot, should not, and must not miss when you touch down in this tropical paradise.

Ride the waves in style
If you leave Costa Rica without giving surfing a fair shot, you might regret it later. Costa Rica’s surfing culture is woven into its social fabric. The soft sandy beaches of Playa Carmen would be a good place to start for complete newbies. Playa Guiones and Santa Teresa are also fairly safe choices for beginners.

If you are looking for a less crowded, more relaxing spot with crystal-clear waters and epic surf camps, Nosara would be another amazing choice. More seasoned surfers prefer spots like Tamarindo Beach, Dominical, Jaco, and Samara Beach.

These surfing spots are known for consistent waves with powerful reef breaks and barreling waves- perfect for the advanced surfer looking to showcase their skills.

For easy access to the beach and stunning views of the pristine Pacific coastline, consider staying at a seaside hotel in Costa Rica. These are mostly luxury boutique hotels nestled in laid-back coastal towns.

Most of these properties offer surfing lessons for beginners. And once you’re done catching waves, you can kick back and enjoy amazing food and exuberant local culture.

Domo Hotel recommends looking for a boutique hotel near Nosara Beach. Great people, great food, and a wide range of outdoor activities—you get it all here. Plus, these spots often arrange group activities, like watching sunsets, to foster a sense of community.

Experience volcano hiking
Costa Rica’s charm isn’t limited to its deep blue oceans and white beaches. This country is home to several active and dormant volcanoes. Taking a hike to the Arenal Volcano will reward you with unique landscapes, lava views, and even a hot spring dip after the trek.

For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Arenal 1968 park. This trail guides you past lava rock formations from the 1968 eruption. Here, you can get up close to the volcano’s massive natural forces. The longer “Lagoon Trail” gives you panoramic views of Arenal Lake and the volcano’s summit.

On the fence about how safe volcano hiking is? The answer is generally safe, as long as you’re prepared and respect the natural environment. Costa Rica has well-maintained trails, and the staff on-site are knowledgeable, but conditions can change quickly due to volcanic activity, so always stay updated.

Keep these tips in mind when planning your hike to Arenal Volcano:

• Wear sturdy hiking boots for uneven terrain.
• Bring water, snacks, and sun protection.
• Stick to marked trails and follow signs for safety.
• Check for volcanic activity alerts before heading out.

Wildlife watching: Witness Costa Rica’s technicolor biodiversity
Take a hike through the unspoiled rainforests, cloud forests, and coastlines of Costa Rica to witness the country’s breathtaking biodiversity in full glory. With a rich variety of flora and fauna, it’s no wonder that wildlife watching is one of the top activities.

We recommend starting your journey with the world-famous Corcovado National Park, located on the Osa Peninsula. Known as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, here you can spot everything from jaguars to scarlet macaws.

For an undeniably surreal forest bathing experience, head to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where mist-covered treetops harbor an abundance of wildlife, including the elusive quetzals.

If you’re up for an even more relaxed pace, try Manuel Antonio National Park—its beautiful beaches and lush forests offer plenty of opportunities to spot monkeys, sloths, and vibrant tropical birds.

Lastly, Tortuguero is the go-to place for turtle-watching. It’s unreal when you see those giant creatures coming ashore. Costa Rica’s wildlife is simply unmatched, and these places are the best way to experience it up close.

Zipline through the rainforest
If hiking Costa Rica’s trails doesn’t fully satisfy your adventure cravings, zip-lining might just do the trick. Get ready for an adrenaline rush as you soar through the lush rainforests, with lush green canopies stretching out below you and the sounds of wildlife filling the air.

The country is famous for its canopy tours, like those in Arenal, where you can zip right past the imposing volcano. For something equally breathtaking, head to Monteverde.

The cloud forests there have an almost mystical quality, making the experience feel like you’ve stepped into a nature lover’s dream. Expect stunning views, heart-racing speeds, and maybe even a surprise visit from a toucan or monkey.

Make every second an unforgettable one in Costa Rica!
If there’s one thing you shouldn’t do in Costa Rica, it’s leave without soaking up everything it has to offer. The country’s beauty and adventure will leave you wanting more. From surfing and wildlife watching to volcano hikes and ziplining, these experiences are what make Costa Rica worth visiting time and again. So, pack your bags, your adventure awaits!

The article Adventures you must not miss when you are in Costa Rica first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.