Costa Rica with Kids: The Ultimate Family-Friendly Travel Guide
- Aurélise Leroux
- Apr 16
- 7 min read
Updated: May 29
Costa Rica is an incredible destination for families seeking adventure, nature, and cultural experiences. With its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and welcoming locals, this Central American gem offers something for every family. Whether you're looking for fun things to do in Costa Rica with kids, the best family-friendly hotels, or a perfect Costa Rica itinerary with kids, this guide has you covered!
Why Visit Costa Rica with Kids?
Costa Rica is one of the safest and most family-friendly destinations in the world.
Here are a few reasons why families love it:
Adventure & Wildlife – From spotting sloths in the rainforest to seeing sea turtles on the beach, Costa Rica is a nature-lover’s paradise.
Eco-Tourism & Sustainability – Many lodges and tours focus on sustainability and education, making learning fun for kids.
Variety of Activities – Whether your family loves beaches, volcanoes, or zip-lining through the jungle, there’s something for everyone.
Friendly Locals – Costa Ricans (Ticos) are incredibly welcoming, and their "Pura Vida" lifestyle makes visitors feel right at home.
Things to Do in Costa Rica with Kids
Explore Manuel Antonio National Park
One of the best national parks for families, Manuel Antonio National Park offers easy hiking trails, pristine beaches, and lots of wildlife like monkeys and iguanas.
Learn at Kids Saving the Rainforest
This wildlife sanctuary in Manuel Antonio is a great way for kids to learn about conservation and see rescued animals up close. If you're not planning a stop near Manuel Antonio and Quepos, Costa Rica has many wildlife sanctuaries. Check out our blog: Best Wildlife Sanctuaries to Visit in Costa Rica
Go Wildlife Spotting in Tortuguero National Park
If your kids love animals, this is the place to be. Take a boat tour through the canals to see caimans, sloths, and nesting sea turtles (July–October).
Visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens
A fantastic stop north of San José, this park features five waterfalls, a butterfly garden, a hummingbird sanctuary, and a rescued wildlife refuge.
Have fun at Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs
Arenal Volcano is a must-see, with family-friendly activities like:
Hot Springs – Resorts like Baldi Hot Springs and Tabacón Resort & Spa have kid-friendly pools. If you are not staying at the hotel, you can simply purchase day passes, which allow you to access all the hotel amenities.
Hanging Bridges – Explore the rainforest canopy on safe suspension bridges.
Waterfalls – Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall for a refreshing swim.
Experience Adventure Parks
Sky Adventures (Arenal & Monteverde) – Zip-lining, hanging bridges, and gondolas.
Diamante Eco Adventure Park – Wildlife sanctuary, ocean views, and family-friendly zip lines.
Enjoy the Beaches in Guanacaste
Costa Rica has stunning beaches, and many are perfect for families:
Playa Conchal – Crystal-clear waters and gentle waves.
Playa Hermosa – Calm waters ideal for younger kids.
Tamarindo – Great for surf lessons and family-friendly resorts.
Take a Crocodile Safari on the Tárcoles River
A thrilling boat tour where kids can see massive crocodiles up close in a safe environment.
Visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest
Take a kid-friendly night walk to spot nocturnal animals or visit the butterfly garden and reptile house.
Try Chocolate & Coffee Tours
Several farms, such as those in La Fortuna and Monteverde, offer interactive tours where kids can make their chocolate while parents enjoy fresh coffee.
Best hotels: Where to stay in Costa Rica with Kids?
Best Family-Friendly Hotels & Resorts
Luxury Resorts
The Springs Resort and Spa
The Springs Resort and Spa in La Fortuna is an ideal choice for families with kids due to its wide range of kid-friendly activities and amenities. The resort features multiple natural hot springs, a water slide, a wildlife preserve, and a kids' club, ensuring that younger guests stay entertained. Additionally, the spacious accommodations and stunning views of the Arenal Volcano make it a comfortable and memorable family getaway. With its combination of adventure, relaxation, and family-focused services, The Springs Resort offers the perfect balance for a fun and stress-free vacation with kids.
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
The Four Seasons Resort in Guanacaste is the perfect hotel for families traveling with kids, offering a mix of luxury, adventure, and kid-friendly amenities. The resort features a dedicated Kids For All Seasons program with fun activities, a private beach with calm waters, multiple pools, and exciting outdoor experiences like wildlife spotting and water sports. Family-friendly dining options and spacious accommodations make it easy for parents to relax while kids stay entertained. With world-class service and a stunning beachfront location, the Four Seasons ensures an unforgettable family vacation in Costa Rica.
Mid-Range Hotels
Bosque del Mar
Bosque del Mar is a serene beachfront hotel that's perfect for families seeking nature and comfort. Located right on Playa Hermosa, one of the calmest beaches in Guanacaste, kids can safely swim, snorkel, and build sandcastles. The hotel has suites with multiple beds and even some kitchenettes, making it convenient for families. The tropical garden setting and shaded pool area offer a relaxed vibe, while nearby activities like wildlife tours, sailing, and paddleboarding provide fun for all ages.
Hotel Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs – La Fortuna
Hotel Arenal Manoa is a fantastic mid-range choice for families, offering spacious junior suites with plenty of room for kids and parents to relax. The property has multiple natural hot spring pools that are safe and fun for children, wide open green spaces, and incredible views of Arenal Volcano. It’s close to La Fortuna’s top family attractions like Ecoglide ziplining, Mistico Hanging Bridges, and the La Fortuna waterfall. The atmosphere is peaceful yet kid-friendly, and the on-site restaurant serves a variety of dishes to satisfy all ages.
Hotel Poco a Poco
Hotel Poco a Poco in Monteverde is a fantastic mid-range option for families traveling with kids. It features a heated indoor-outdoor pool, a children’s play area, and family-friendly rooms, making it a comfortable and fun stay for all ages. Its location near Monteverde’s cloud forests allows easy access to exciting activities like hanging bridges, zip-lining, and wildlife spotting. The hotel also offers an on-site restaurant with kid-friendly options and a spa for parents to relax. With its cozy atmosphere and great amenities, Hotel Poco a Poco is an excellent choice for families exploring Monteverde.
Budget-Friendly Stays
Villas Jacquelina
Villas Jacquelina is a perfect family-friendly accommodation nestled in the heart of Quepos, offering spacious, fully equipped villas ideal for families. This eco-friendly boutique hotel provides a tranquil atmosphere with lush tropical gardens, making it a peaceful retreat for both parents and children. With an outdoor pool, kids can enjoy the area while parents relax. The villas come with kitchenettes, making it easy to prepare meals for the whole family. The location is just a short drive from Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s top family destinations, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting, beach days, and nature walks. Villas Jacquelina also provides a welcoming and homey feel, ensuring families feel comfortable and at ease during their stay.
Hotel Fiesta Resort
Fiesta Resort in Puntarenas is one of the best hotels to stay with kids because it’s an all-inclusive beachfront resort packed with family-friendly amenities. It features multiple swimming pools, a kids’ club with supervised activities, a playground, and nightly entertainment for all ages. The resort's all-inclusive dining makes meals easy for families, and the calm beach provides a safe environment for children to play. With its fun atmosphere, daily activities, and stress-free vacation experience, Fiesta Resort is a fantastic choice for families looking to relax and enjoy Costa Rica together.
Best Western Jacó Beach All-Inclusive Resort
Best Western Jacó Beach All-Inclusive Resort is a great budget-friendly option for families traveling with kids. This all-inclusive beachfront resort offers a large swimming pool, kid-friendly activities, and unlimited food and drinks, making it a stress-free choice for parents. Its prime location in Jacó provides easy access to the beach, local shops, and family-friendly excursions like boat tours and wildlife spotting. With its laid-back atmosphere and great value, it's an excellent choice for families looking to enjoy a fun and affordable vacation in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica Itinerary with Kids (10 Days)
Days 1-4: Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna
Relax in the hot springs at your hotel if they have them, or read our blog to discover the best hot springs in La Fortuna
Hike around Arenal Volcano and learn more about this amazing giant. We did the Mirador El Silencio hike, and we also did a day at Arenal Volcano National Park Observatory Lodge, and Leila, my daughter, really enjoyed it too. No matter which one you choose, you won't be disappointed. I would say that the Mirador is a bit more physically demanding, so if your children are young, it might be better to spend the day in the Arenal Volcano National Park Observatory Lodge.
Explore the hanging bridges, the waterfalls, and go ziplining at Sky Adventures. A wonderful moment of adventure and fun with the family!
Day 5-6: Monteverde
Visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. For more info, check out our blog article: Exploring Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: all you need to know
Take a guided night walk.
Alternative Beach Option: If your family prefers a beach-centered trip, swap Monteverde for the Nicoya Peninsula and enjoy family-friendly beaches. But you can fully enjoy the beaches in Manuel Antonio (see the following information)
Day 7-10: Manuel Antonio
Visit the Manuel Antonio National Park. For more info, check out our blog article: Manuel Antonio National Park: thing to do near Quepos & Manuel Antonio
Relax on the beautiful beaches: Playa Espadilla (near the park), Playa Playita (in the continuity of Espadilla, it is on the left and is less crowded), and Playa Biesanz (no waves, perfect for the safety of your children). Book a surf lesson for your children; smiles and good energy are guaranteed.
Take a boat tour to see the sunset. Some of the boats (ask specifically) have a water slide. It's a perfect way to end the day on a fun note while admiring the incredible sunsets on the Pacific coast.
Tips for Visiting Costa Rica with Kids
Pack Smart – Lightweight clothes, rain gear, bug spray, and reef-safe sunscreen.
Book in Advance – Popular destinations like Arenal and Manuel Antonio fill up quickly.
Choose Kid-Friendly Tours – Opt for shorter hikes and guided tours that cater to families.
Mind the Weather – The dry season (December–April) is best for beach trips, while the green season (May–November) is great for fewer crowds and lush landscapes.
Stay Flexible – Allow downtime for kids to rest between activities.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica is an ideal family vacation destination filled with adventure, nature, and relaxation. Whether you’re looking for thrilling activities, beautiful beaches, or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. With this guide, you can confidently plan the perfect Costa Rica itinerary with kids, ensuring an unforgettable trip for the whole family.
Have you visited Costa Rica with kids? Share your experience in the comments below!
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