Costa Rica is one of the most exciting and diverse destinations on the planet. It’s an easy flight from the U.S., but once you land, it feels like you’ve stepped into a completely different world. Think gorgeous rainforests, steamy volcanoes, and endless beaches all packed into one tiny country. From watching sea turtles nest in Tortuguero National Park to soaking in the hot springs of La Fortuna, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in Costa Rica.
First-time visitors, though, often underestimate just how much there is to see (and how quickly travel times can add up). To help you plan the ultimate adventure, I’ve rounded up my favorite Costa Rica travel tips to keep your trip full of pura vida vibes.
Head off the beaten path
One of my favorite Costa Rica travel tips is to wander a little beyond the usual tourist trail. Casey Halloran, CEO & Co-Founder at Costa Rican Vacations, sums it up perfectly: “For hidden gems, venture just 45 minutes beyond the well-known hotspots. You’ll typically find quieter beaches, friendly people, affordable prices, and more authentic experiences.”
Take Bajos del Toro, for example. This tiny mountain town sits about 40 miles from San José, but it feels worlds away. It’s honestly one of the smallest places I’ve ever visited in Costa Rica, and that’s what makes it such a great escape. You won’t find big resorts or busy streets here, just a couple of little markets, one small hotel, and endless green scenery.
The best part? Waterfalls are everywhere. Just pull up Google Maps, search “waterfall,” and pick a hike. Sometimes even spotting a random town on the map and deciding to check it out on a whim can be rewarding. If you don’t speak Spanish, though, it’s worth memorizing a few key phrases. They go a long way when you’re exploring spots this remote.
Rent a car
If you really want to explore at your own pace, renting a car is the way to go. Staying put in one city? Taxis are totally fine. But once you start planning those cross-country adventures, a car makes life so much easier.
Public buses can be slow and unreliable, and taxis are few and far between once you leave the main hubs. With a rental, you can head out whenever you like and take those spontaneous side trips without worrying about finding a driver or waiting for the next bus.
Slow down a bit
One of the first things you’ll notice in Costa Rica is the phrase pura vida. Literally translated, it means “pure life” or “simple life,” but it’s so much more than a saying, it’s a whole mindset. Life here moves at a gentler pace, and the locals embrace it with a smile.
“When visiting Costa Rica, I always encourage travelers to embrace the pura vida lifestyle in simple, meaningful ways, like savoring fresh-picked tropical fruits from a roadside stand or enjoying meals made with locally grown vegetables,” says Debbie Gruelle, founder and designer of Lamangata Luxury Surf Resort.
The key is to slow down and let the country’s rhythm guide you. Don’t cram every waterfall, volcano, and beach into a single day. Linger over a long lunch, watch the sunset from a quiet beach, or just enjoy the sound of the rainforest. Sometimes the best memories come from doing less.
Eat in the sodas
Want to taste the real Costa Rica without blowing your budget? Skip the fancy tourist restaurants and head for the sodas. These are small, family-run eateries that serve up hearty, home-style meals. They’re easy to spot (most have “soda” right in the name) and are where locals go for everyday comfort food.
The must-try dish is a casado, a classic plate that usually includes gallo pinto (rice and black beans), a choice of meat or fish, a simple salad, and maybe a few extras like plantains or tortillas. Portions are generous and the price is hard to beat at around $10 for a filling meal.
Get up early
Costa Rica runs on an early-bird schedule, and it’s worth joining in. “Costa Rica can get super hot and humid during the main daylight hours, so it’s incredibly common for locals to go to bed early and rise very early in the morning,” says Kanika Puri, Chief Customer Officer at Fast Cover Travel Insurance.
Following their lead gives you a double win: you’ll see what daily life is really like and enjoy cooler, more comfortable conditions for exploring. Hit the trails at sunrise, watch wildlife before the crowds arrive, or sip your morning coffee while the jungle slowly wakes up around you. By midday, when the heat cranks up, you’ll already have a full day’s adventures under your belt.
Consider shoulder season travel
If you’re wondering about the best time to visit Costa Rica, think beyond the typical high season. Traveling during the shoulder months of May and June or September and October can stretch your budget and give you a whole different experience.
These in-between seasons bring fewer tourists, which means quieter beaches, easier reservations, and a more relaxed vibe at the country’s top attractions. You might encounter a bit more rain, but it usually comes in quick bursts, leaving long stretches of sunshine and plenty of time to explore.
Tap water is safe to drink
Here’s one of the most reassuring Costa Rica travel tips: you can safely drink the tap water in most of the country. Unlike many other parts of Latin America, Costa Rica’s water quality is generally excellent, especially in major cities and popular tourist areas.
That said, if you’re heading to more remote regions like the Caribbean Coast or tiny off-the-beaten-path towns, it’s smart to double-check. In these spots, bottled water might be the safer choice. When in doubt, just ask a local or the hotel staff.
Carry a bit of cash
You don’t need to travel with a big stack of bills in Costa Rica as credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Still, it’s smart to keep a little cash on hand for those moments when cards aren’t an option.
A small amount of Costa Rican colones is especially handy for things like roadside fruit stands, small-town restaurants, or tipping guides. U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, but locals will appreciate (and sometimes prefer) colones, especially in more off-the-beaten-path spots.
Stay safe
If you’re wondering, is Costa Rica safe? The answer is yes for the vast majority of travelers, as long as you take the same precautions you would in any other country. One of the most important Costa Rica travel tips is to stay alert and protect your belongings. Petty theft, like pickpocketing or bag snatching, is the most common issue travelers face.
Avoid flashing expensive jewelry or accessories, keep your valuables out of sight, and never leave your bags unattended. Be wary of scams, and trust your instincts if something feels off. It’s also a good idea to know where the nearest hospital or clinic is, just in case of emergencies.
