Costa Rica Family Vacation: One of Our Favorite Trips
Costa Rica has been one of our favorite family vacations. We cover some of the best areas, including two of our favorites: La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio.
Our Favorite Costa Rica Locations for a Family Vacation
Costa Rica, a small country in Central America, boasts a myriad of natural wonders that are sure to enthrall the whole family. From the lush rainforests and turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean to the verdant mountains, Costa Rica is a paradise to explore.
La Fortuna: A Gateway to Adventure
La Fortuna is another must-visit on your Costa Rica vacation. This charming town, located in the shadow of the imposing Arenal Volcano, is the gateway to many outdoor adventures and one of the most famous areas of Costa Rica.
Manuel Antonio: A Tropical Paradise
Manuel Antonio, known for its striking beauty and abundant wildlife, is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit on your Costa Rica vacation. Nestled on the Pacific coast, this beach town boasts an enchanting combination of rainforest, white-sand beaches, and coral reefs.
Our Favorite Manuel Antonio Resort
Here’s a quick overview of the best resort by TripAdvisor, Tulemar. We spent a week at this resort and wouldn’t hesitate to go back! Check out our complete Tulmear review here.
Tulemar Overview
Tulemar Resort is a luxurious getaway in the heart of Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. Offering a range of accommodations, from intimate bungalows to spacious villas, it’s the perfect destination for any traveler. With its private beach, lush rainforest surroundings, and abundant wildlife, Tulemar provides an unforgettable experience in a tropical paradise.
Where To Eat: El Patio de Café Milagro for breakfast. Our favorite dinner was a private check, Chef Jose, cooking in our villa!
How To Get There: To reach Tulemar Resort, fly into one of Costa Rica’s two main international airports, Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José or Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. From there, rent a car or arrange a private shuttle (our preference) to transport you directly to the resort. The journey from SJO takes approximately 2.5-3 hours, while the drive from LIR lasts around 4-5 hours, offering scenic routes through the beautiful Costa Rican countryside.
Tip: We found some great prices during October, the rainy reason. Check for the best prices here:
Explore the Wonders of Monteverde Cloud Forest
The Monteverde Cloud Forest, a short hour’s drive from San Jose, is home to stunning biodiversity. Canopy tours are popular here, allowing you to get up close and personal with Costa Rica’s unique wildlife, like the red-eyed tree frog.
Head to the Beaches
For those seeking sun, sand, and surf, Costa Rica has you covered. The gorgeous beaches of Playa Flamingo and Playa Grande are perfect for building sandcastles with younger kids or taking surf lessons with older ones.
Plan Your Itinerary
So, how do you start planning your Costa Rica family vacation? A guided tour is a great option for first-time visitors. It takes care of all the daily activities and logistics, leaving you to enjoy your vacation.
However, renting a car could be a good option if you cherish the freedom of exploring at your own pace. It’s worth noting that driving in Costa Rica can be challenging due to its winding roads and unpredictable weather. The sun sets early in this tropical paradise—around 6 pm all year round—so plan your travel day accordingly to avoid driving after dark.
Consider the Weather
From December to April, the dry season is the best time to visit Costa Rica. The rainy season is also good from May to November if you don’t mind a few showers and want to enjoy the lush, green landscapes.
Our October trips have been where we found some great deals!
Embrace the Pura Vida Lifestyle
“Pura Vida”, or “Pure Life”, is a phrase you’ll often hear in Costa Rica.
This phrase perfectly captures the country’s laid-back, enjoy-life-to-the-fullest ethos. This contagious mindset will make your Costa Rica family vacation even more memorable.
Conclusion
Costa Rica is the perfect place for a family vacation. With its stunning natural wonders, friendly locals, and endless adventures, it’s a great trip if you’re looking for something different.
