Costa Rica Off-the-Beaten-Path Destination: 7 places to explore

Costa Rica has its share of big-name destinations —La Fortuna, Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio—but there's so much more waiting off the beaten path. If you're after something quieter, more local, and a little wild, these seven under-the-radar spots are for you. Think tucked-away waterfalls, misty cloud forests, and authentic experiences you won’t find in the guidebooks.

San Gerardo de Dota

Cloud Forest & Quetzal Watching

Hidden in the Cerro de la Muerte region, San Gerardo de Dota is a peaceful mountain valley known for its pristine cloud forests and abundant birdlife. Far from the crowds of Monteverde, this destination offers a tranquil setting with crystal-clear rivers, native oak trees, and cool, fresh air year-round.

The main draw is the resplendent quetzal, a sacred bird in Mesoamerican cultures. Birdwatchers from around the world come between January and May to spot these elusive creatures during the mating season.

In addition to birding, you can:

• Hike scenic trails inside Los Quetzales National Park

• Try fly fishing for trout in the Savegre River

• Enjoy peaceful stays at eco-lodges run by local families

Travel Tip: Pack warm clothing, temperatures can drop below 10°C (50°F) at night.

• Stay at: Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge (from $110/night)

• Eat at: Café Kahawa – cozy café with local trout and pastries

• Getting There: 2.5-hour drive from San José via Route 2

Bajos del Toro

Epic Waterfalls Without the Crowds

This lush mountain village remains one of Costa Rica’s most jaw-dropping secrets. Nestled between the Poás and Juan Castro Blanco volcanoes, Bajos del Toro is famous for epic waterfalls that plunge into old volcanic craters.

Top waterfalls include:

• Catarata del Toro: A 90-meter waterfall plunging into a volcanic crater

• Blue Falls of Costa Rica: A series of bright turquoise waterfalls with surreal color due to volcanic minerals

Check out our blog "Costa Rica Waterfalls: Your Ultimate Guide to Nature’s Best" for more information about these waterfalls

Surrounded by untouched cloud forest, this area is perfect for hikers and waterfall chasers looking to escape the crowds of La Fortuna. Lodges here promote sustainability, and the local vibe is quiet and authentic.

Travel Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid sudden rains and slippery trails.

• Stay at: El Silencio Lodge & Spa (from $450/night)

• Eat at: Restaurante La Parada – hearty mountain food with vegetarian options

• Getting There: 2-hour drive from San José (4x4 helpful during rainy season)

San Francisco de Coyote

Wild Beaches & Sunset Surfing

Located on the southern Nicoya Peninsula, San Francisco de Coyote is a sleepy beach village surrounded by undeveloped coastline and jungle. With barely any tourism infrastructure, it’s ideal for travelers looking for complete disconnection from the world.

Highlights include:

• Playa Coyote and Playa San Miguel: long, uncrowded beaches perfect for sunset walks and beginner-friendly surf

• Tide pools, mangroves, and wildlife watching (especially howler monkeys and iguanas)

• Night sky stargazing far from light pollution

Travel Tip: There’s no ATM in town, so bring enough cash for your stay. Wi-Fi can be slow or unavailable in some guesthouses.

• Stay at: Salvatierra Guesthouse (from $140/night)

• Eat at: LocosCocos – local favorite for ceviche, smoothies & ocean views

• Getting There: 5.5-hour drive from San José (Route 21 + Route 160; 4x4 recommended)

San Vito & Wilson Botanical Garden

Southern Culture & Tropical Science

In southern Costa Rica near the Panama border, San Vito offers a completely different experience from the tourist trail. It was founded by Italian immigrants in the 1950s, and today you can still sense the fusion of Italian and Costa Rican culture in its cafés and architecture.

The star attraction is the Wilson Botanical Garden, part of the Las Cruces Biological Station. It features:

• Over 1,000 plant species, including rare orchids and palms

• Birdwatching opportunities (over 400 species recorded!)

• Educational tours guided by resident biologists

This region also allows you to explore traditional agriculture, indigenous reserves, and nearby protected forests with minimal crowds.

Travel Tip: Combine San Vito with a border crossing to Panama or a visit to La Amistad International Park.

• Stay at: Green House Cabañas (from $100/night)

• Eat at: La Casa Italiana Ristorante – homemade pasta and pizza with a Costa Rican twist

• Getting There: 6-hour drive from San José (Route 2 + Route 237)

Santa María de Dota

Coffee Culture in the Highlands

Nestled in the heart of the Tarrazu coffee region, Santa María de Dota is a charming town known for its coffee fincas, scenic trails, and authentic small-town charm. Unlike tourist-heavy Monteverde, this area offers a real look into Costa Rica’s rural coffee-growing culture.

What makes it special:

• Visit family-run coffee farms, pick cherries, and learn the roasting process

• Walk through Reserva Forestal Los Santos, home to quetzals, tanagers, and tapirs

• Enjoy horseback rides, local festivals, or just relax in cafés overlooking the valley

The town is proud of its heritage, and locals are happy to share stories about their families’ role in Costa Rica’s world-famous coffee legacy.

Travel Tip: Visit between November and February for the harvest season, you can even join the picking!

• Stay at: Hotel de Montaña Suria (from $80/night)

• Eat at: Café Privilegios Dota – creative cuisine that incorporates local coffee beans and herbs

• Getting There: 2.5-hour drive from San José (via Interamericana Route 2)

Barra Honda National Park

Caves, Cliffs & Dry Forest Wildlife

Barra Honda is a karst limestone cave system tucked into the dry tropical forests near the Nicoya Peninsula. Unlike lush rainforest parks, Barra Honda surprises visitors with unique terrain, fossil-rich caves, and elevated lookouts over the Gulf of Nicoya.

Here’s what makes it special:

• Explore Terciopelo Cave, a 17-meter descent into chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and fossilized shells from when the area was underwater

• Hike scenic trails with panoramic viewpoints and spot white-faced monkeys, agoutis, and armadillos

• Learn from local guides about geology, climate change, and sustainable tourism

This park is rarely crowded, making it ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a non-traditional national park experience.

Travel Tip: Cave tours are limited to a few people per day. Book in advance and bring hiking shoes.

• Stay at: Rancho Humo Estancia (from $200/night)

• Eat at: Soda La Amistad – hearty, homemade meals and smoothies in nearby Nicoya

• Getting There: 3.5-hour drive from San José (via Route 1 to Nicoya, then Route 18)

Drake Bay (San Pedrillo Station)

Wild Gateway to Corcovado

Tucked into the Osa Peninsula’s western edge, Drake Bay is one of the most wild and biodiverse corners of the country. It’s the gateway to the San Pedrillo Station of Corcovado National Park, offering off-the-grid experiences for adventurous travelers.

Unlike the more developed Puerto Jiménez entrance, San Pedrillo is:

• Quieter, more rustic, and ideal for deep jungle hikes

• Full of wildlife, tapirs, toucans, pumas, and all four types of Costa Rican monkeys can be spotted

• Surrounded by untouched coastline perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, or beach camping

Many lodges are solar-powered and accessible only by boat, adding to the sense of isolation and immersion.

Travel Tip: Pack light, bring quick-dry clothes, and prepare for humidity. Most accommodations include all meals and tours.

• Stay at: Poor Man’s Paradise Lodge (from $200/night, all meals included)

• Eat at: Kalaluna Bistro – a hidden gem in Drake Bay with locally-sourced gourmet meals

• Getting There: Drive to Sierpe (4 hours from San José), park your car, and take a 1-hour boat ride to Drake Bay. Alternatively, fly into Drake Bay Airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best off-the-beaten-path places to visit in Costa Rica?

Some of the best hidden gems include San Gerardo de Dota (cloud forests), Bajos del Toro (waterfalls), San Francisco de Coyote (remote beaches), and Drake Bay (Corcovado access). These places offer fewer crowds and more authentic experiences.

Is it worth going off the beaten path in Costa Rica?

Absolutely. While popular areas like La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio are beautiful, the lesser-known regions give you a chance to connect with nature and local culture in a more intimate and meaningful way, often at lower prices and with fewer tourists.

Are these destinations safe for solo travelers and backpackers?

Yes, Costa Rica is considered one of the safest countries in Central America. The hidden gems we list are generally peaceful and welcoming. Just use standard travel precautions, secure your belongings and check transport schedules, especially if you’re in rural areas.

Do I need a 4x4 vehicle to reach these hidden spots?

It depends on the destination. San Francisco de Coyote and parts of Bajos del Toro have rough or unpaved roads where a 4x4 is recommended. Others like San Gerardo de Dota or Santa María de Dota are reachable with a regular car during the dry season.

Can families visit these lesser-known places too?

Definitely! Many of these destinations are family-friendly. San Gerardo de Dota, for example, is peaceful and great for nature walks with kids. Just make sure to check accommodations and road conditions in advance if you’re traveling with young children.

When is the best time to explore off-the-beaten-path areas in Costa Rica?

December to April is the dry season and makes travel easier. However, visiting during the green season (May to November) brings lush landscapes, lower prices, and fewer tourists, ideal if you’re flexible and okay with occasional rain.

Are there guided tours available in these lesser-known destinations?

Yes! Local guides and tour companies offer customized experiences, from birdwatching and farm visits to jungle treks and cave exploration. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during high season.