The country’s name means “Rich Coast” due to the vast quantities of jewels and gold found by the Spanish when they first discovered Costa Rica. Costa Rica's charm lies in its lush rainforests, unspoiled beaches and abundance of wildlife. With breathtaking landscapes and a myriad of creatures – from toucans to monkeys to jaguars – it's easy to see why. Where else can you hike active volcanoes, zip line through cloud-covered rainforests and surf warm turquoise waters within the span of just a few days? In this compact but diverse tropical paradise, exhilarating outdoor activities are abundant. Nature-seekers will roam thick jungles while beachgoers will sprawl across the powdery sands. It's hard not to admire all the splendors this "Rich Coast" has to offer. Residents – known as Ticos – often recite the catchphrase "Pura Vida" (or "pure life"). To truly immerse yourself in the good life, kick back and admire the awe-inspiring scenery.

Top 8 Attractions

Arenal Volcano National Park

The Arenal Volcano is a truly picturesque volcana with am almost perfect symmetrical cone. Surrounding the volcano are lush forests that are bursting with wildlife. There are beautiful waterfalls, hanging bridges, hiking and horseback riding trails, butterfly gardens, hot springs, and zip lines tours.

Tabacon Hot Springs

Tabacon Hot Springs is the largest accessible network of natural hot springs in Costa Rica. The pools are located within a private rainforest reserve and part of the Tabacon Thermal Resort. You don’t have to stay there in order to use the hot springs, you can purchase a day spa to experience the springs. The highly mineralized and naturally heated water flows through the resort and fills multiple pools that vary in temperature. It is quite a relaxing experience to soak in a natural hot tub in the midst of lush landscape up in the mountains.

Nicoya Peninsula

The Nicoya Peninsula's sparkling 80-mile shoreline boasts beach-centric towns with cream-colored shores and dense forests. Half of the peninsula is found in the Guanacaste province, while the other half sits in the Puntarenas province. Nosara Beach's powdery sands line the Nicoya Peninsula's western edge. You'll also find fishing and cattle-ranching communities east of the rustic coastline.

Guanacaste

Costa Rica's "Gold Coast" is one of the nation's most unique destinations and that's not just because of its secluded beaches. The region's dry, sunny savannas contrast the misty cloud-covered rainforests found in other parts of the country. To the east, you'll admire volcanoes comprising the Cordillera de Guanacaste. Along the coast – which extends all the way to the Nicaraguan border – you'll find pockets of white sand flanking hotels and remote fishing villages. Visit Santa Rosa National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves the site of the 1856 Battle of Santa Rosa

Corcovado National Park

Corcovado National Park: Experience this 160-square-mile misty rainforest for its diverse wildlife. Buzzing insects and chirping birds can be seen and heard as you stroll through the verdant jungle. Trek along the hazy trails and you're likely to spot macaws, tapirs, jaguars, spiders or howler monkeys. Corcovado National Park is located along Costa Rica's South Pacific coast; the three closest towns are Drake Bay, Puerto Jimenez and Carate.

Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica's smallest protected green spaces, but don't let its size throw you off. Within the park's 3 square miles, you'll find untamed beaches, secluded coves, nature trails and a thick rainforest. You can stretch out on the park's coastline or wander along one of the walking paths to spot rare birds, camouflaged iguanas and purple-and-orange crabs. If you're a lover of furry creatures, you'll be pleased to discover that this park contains so many monkeys that the park built a suspension bridge to grant them free reign of the area.

Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde Cloud Forest- Imagine winding through a misty oasis; strikingly tall trees wrap you in a sea of green. Add to that more than 100 mammals, 400 types of birds and 2,500 plant species, and you have Monteverde's lush 25,700-acre reserve. While wandering along one of the hiking trails, you may spot a small hummingbird or a resplendent quetzal feasting on a ripe aguacatillo (a fruit similar to an avocado).

Isla Chiquita

Isla Chiquita - Accessible only by boat from Paquera, and surrounded by palm trees and forests, this remote, laid-back resort overlooks the Paquera Bay. This island is home to "glamping" resort (a combination of the words “glamour” and camping”) blending adventure and eco-friendly appeal of a camping experience with the comforts and amenities of a traditional hotel. Isla Chiquita elevates the glamping experience with premium tent accommodations featuring plush bedding, organic bath products and lounging decks with gorgeous ocean or tropical forest views. But be warned, there is no TV or AC here. Untouched nature at its purest, enjoy, relax and sink into a hammock to read a good book.