Looking for a couples vacation in Costa Rica that blends nature, privacy, and sustainability? Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary, or just time away together, Costa Rica has the ideal settings for reconnecting. With its tropical landscapes, eco-conscious stays, and peaceful beaches, this country offers more than just beauty—it creates unforgettable shared moments. Below, we explore romantic Costa Rica through destinations that are perfect for couples who value both comfort and a mindful approach to travel.

Why Costa Rica is a Top Choice for Couples

Couples from around the world are drawn to Costa Rica for its mix of adventure, serenity, and strong focus on sustainability. The country’s diverse regions allow you to plan a vacation that matches your shared interests—whether it’s soaking in hot springs, walking through cloud forests, or enjoying quiet sunsets by the sea.

Costa Rica’s commitment to protecting its environment means you’ll find many boutique hotels and lodges that follow eco-friendly practices, such as using solar energy, recycling, or sourcing food locally. This makes it a favorite among couples who want a meaningful travel experience with a lower impact.

1. Osa Peninsula – Intimate Rainforest Escapes

Located in the southern Pacific region, the Osa Peninsula is one of the most biodiverse areas in the country. It’s a haven for couples looking to disconnect from the noise of daily life and immerse themselves in untouched nature.

Eco-lodges here are usually built with sustainability in mind, offering open-air bungalows with views of the ocean or rainforest. Mornings often begin with the sound of howler monkeys or tropical birds. You can hike together through Corcovado National Park, kayak along the Golfo Dulce, or simply enjoy the stillness from a hammock. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and nature takes center stage.

2. La Fortuna & Arenal – Relaxation and Volcano Views

La Fortuna, home to the Arenal Volcano, offers couples the best of both worlds: peaceful moments in natural hot springs and exciting activities like ziplining or waterfall hikes. The area is filled with eco-resorts and wellness retreats designed to help couples unwind.

Imagine soaking in thermal pools surrounded by tropical gardens or enjoying a couple’s massage after a morning hike to the La Fortuna Waterfall. Many accommodations also have private balconies with views of the volcano, perfect for romantic evenings. The region promotes sustainable tourism through conservation programs and locally owned businesses.

3. Santa Teresa – Beachside Peace and Surf Culture

On the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa has become a favorite for couples seeking sun, surf, and slow living. This small beach town is known for its stunning coastline, laid-back atmosphere, and boutique hotels that often run on renewable energy or practice water conservation.

Days here are best spent barefoot—walking along the beach, joining a yoga class, or sharing a sunset ride on horseback. Many restaurants in town offer organic, locally sourced meals. Whether you surf together or simply relax under the palm trees, Santa Teresa offers a calm and romantic rhythm.

4. Monteverde – Misty Forest Walks and Cozy Lodges

If you prefer cooler temperatures and forest views, Monteverde is a romantic retreat in the mountains. Its cloud forest reserve is a unique environment filled with hummingbirds, orchids, and the occasional glimpse of a quetzal.

Couples can book cabins or eco-lodges perched on hillsides, complete with fireplaces and panoramic windows. Daytime walks on hanging bridges or through butterfly gardens are peaceful and memorable. At night, join a guided nature walk to hear the sounds of the forest after dark. Sustainability is a big part of life here, with many accommodations certified by the country’s CST (Sustainable Tourism Certification) program.

5. Puerto Viejo – Color, Culture, and Caribbean Breezes

On the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo combines vibrant culture with natural beauty. This small town has a unique Afro-Caribbean influence, seen in its food, music, and warm local hospitality.

Couples can spend their days biking to nearby beaches like Punta Uva or Playa Cocles, visiting wildlife rescue centers, or snorkeling in Cahuita National Park. Accommodations range from beachfront cabins to jungle bungalows, many of which are built with sustainable materials and a strong connection to the community. It’s a lively yet intimate place to spend quality time together.

Make the Most of Your Couples Vacation in Costa Rica

The beauty of Costa Rica lies in its diversity—there’s a romantic destination for every kind of couple, whether you’re looking for quiet nature, soft sand, or cool mountain air. Choosing eco-conscious places to stay, supporting local businesses, and traveling responsibly adds even more meaning to your time together.

One of the best ways to experience romantic Costa Rica is by road. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and reach destinations that feel personal and private. To start your journey, rent a car in Costa Rica with Poas Rent a Car. Their reliable vehicles and excellent service make it easy to travel together, wherever love takes you.

Traveling with kids means finding a destination that offers adventure, safety, and meaningful experiences for all generations. Costa Rica delivers on all fronts, making it a prime choice for families seeking a mix of nature, culture, and fun. With an emphasis on sustainability and immersive activities, family travel Costa Rica lets children and adults alike connect with the environment while creating lasting memories. In this post, you’ll discover a variety of kids activities Costa Rica that suit families looking for eco-friendly and engaging experiences.

Why Costa Rica Stands Out for Family Travel

Costa Rica is a leader in eco-tourism, with many family-focused options designed to inspire curiosity and respect for the natural world. The country’s manageable size and good infrastructure allow families to explore at a comfortable pace. Local guides and hotels often cater to younger guests, with bilingual staff, kid-friendly menus, and safety measures that put parents at ease.

Families interested in responsible travel will appreciate that many tours incorporate environmental education, support local communities, and encourage sustainable practices. This makes Costa Rica not only fun but also a meaningful destination for children to grow their awareness of the planet.

1. Visit the Sloth Sanctuary in Cahuita

The Sloth Sanctuary, located near Cahuita on the Caribbean coast, is an excellent place for kids to see these unique mammals up close and learn about their conservation. The sanctuary rehabilitates injured and orphaned sloths, teaching visitors about their behavior and habitat needs.

The guided tours are interactive and paced well for children, making it an ideal stop for families who want an educational yet gentle wildlife encounter. Nearby, the calm beaches and community-oriented town offer a welcoming environment to relax after your visit.

2. Horseback Riding in the Central Pacific

Horseback riding is a fun and accessible activity for families, and the Central Pacific region offers excellent trails that wind through forests, rivers, and farms. Places like Tárcoles or Jaco provide tours suitable for all ages, where kids can enjoy learning to ride or just enjoy the scenery alongside their parents.

This outdoor activity allows families to connect with nature and local culture in a relaxed way. Many operators emphasize safety and sustainable practices, such as limiting the number of riders and respecting natural habitats.

3. Explore the Marino Ballena National Park Beaches

Marino Ballena National Park, located near Uvita, is famous for its beautiful beaches and unique whale-tail-shaped sandbar. This park offers safe swimming areas and tide pools that kids love to explore.

Families can combine beach time with guided snorkeling or tide pool walks, spotting colorful fish and small marine creatures. During certain seasons, whale watching tours operate nearby, creating exciting opportunities for kids to witness marine life in its natural environment.

4. Butterfly Gardens in the Central Valley

Butterfly gardens such as the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens or INBio’s Butterfly Exhibit near San José offer a quiet, colorful experience perfect for younger children. Walking through these gardens, kids see butterflies in all stages of life and learn about their role in ecosystems.

These spaces are easy to access from the capital and offer shade, rest areas, and educational signage. They provide a calm break from more active outings while sparking wonder and appreciation for insects and pollinators.

5. Surf Lessons for Kids in Dominical

Dominical is a laid-back surf town with beaches that are beginner-friendly, making it a great spot for kids interested in learning to surf. Several surf schools offer lessons tailored for children, focusing on safety and fun.

Even if your children prefer to stay on the sand, the town has plenty of casual restaurants and parks where families can spend the day together. The surf culture here is welcoming and relaxed, making it an excellent introduction to one of Costa Rica’s most popular sports.

6. Canoe Tours in Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park, on the northern Caribbean coast, is known for its extensive canals and rich biodiversity. Canoe tours in the calm waterways are suitable for families, allowing kids to see turtles, monkeys, and exotic birds from a close yet safe distance.

Many tours are guided by naturalists who share stories about the local environment and wildlife. The slow pace of canoeing is ideal for younger children and adults alike, providing an immersive experience without requiring strenuous effort.

7. Visit a Sustainable Farm in the Nicoya Peninsula

The Nicoya Peninsula is home to several small sustainable farms that welcome families for hands-on experiences. Kids can help pick fruits, feed animals, or learn traditional farming techniques, connecting with Costa Rica’s rural roots.

These farm visits are educational and promote sustainability by showing how local communities grow organic food while protecting their land. They often include farm-to-table meals and storytelling sessions that enrich the cultural experience.

Planning a Memorable Family Vacation in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers families a chance to connect with nature, culture, and each other. By choosing activities that respect the environment and local communities, your trip becomes not only enjoyable but also responsible. The country’s variety ensures every family member—from toddlers to grandparents—will find something exciting and appropriate.

One of the best ways to make your trip flexible and stress-free is by renting a car. Rent a car in Costa Rica with Poas Rent a Car and enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re heading to the coast, mountains, or countryside, having your own vehicle makes it easier to access off-the-beaten-path destinations and create a personalized family adventure full of fun and discovery.

Costa Rica is a haven for travelers who crave nature, biodiversity, and raw, untouched beauty. With lush rainforests covering much of the country, it’s a dream destination for photographers looking to capture wildlife, misty canopies, and vibrant flora. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a traveler with a smartphone and a love for nature, the country offers countless opportunities to create stunning visual memories. In this guide, we’ll explore practical rainforest photo tips to help you make the most of your time in one of the most biologically rich places on Earth.

Why Costa Rica is a Photographer’s Paradise

From the Pacific to the Caribbean coasts, Costa Rica is packed with ecological diversity. The country’s national parks, private reserves, and rural areas offer a variety of rainforest environments where you can photograph animals like toucans, sloths, red-eyed tree frogs, and monkeys—often all in a single morning hike.

For couples traveling together, capturing these moments can be part of the shared experience, creating lasting memories beyond selfies. Eco-conscious travelers will also appreciate how many photography tours are designed with sustainability in mind, respecting wildlife and supporting local communities.

If you’re interested in nature and conservation, Costa Rica photography is more than just art—it’s a way to document and appreciate the natural world responsibly.

Essential Rainforest Photo Tips

1. Pack Light, But Smart

Rainforests are humid, muddy, and often wet, so the lighter your gear, the better. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a zoom lens (such as 70-300mm) is great for wildlife shots, while a macro lens can capture tiny frogs and insects. Don’t forget a microfiber cloth to clean lenses and a dry bag to protect your gear during rain showers.

Smartphone cameras have come a long way, and with the right approach—like using Pro mode or attaching a clip-on macro lens—they can be surprisingly effective for shooting close-ups of flowers, textures, and even wildlife.

2. Use Natural Light to Your Advantage

Lighting in the rainforest can be tricky. The canopy often blocks direct sunlight, creating soft, diffused lighting that’s perfect for capturing details without harsh shadows. Early morning is the best time for photography: the wildlife is active, the light is soft, and the forest is alive with energy. If you’re photographing birds or animals, try to position yourself with the sun behind you to avoid backlit subjects.

Consider raising your ISO slightly to compensate for the dim light under the trees, and use a fast shutter speed for moving subjects. A small tripod or monopod can help stabilize your camera without weighing you down.

3. Be Patient and Move Quietly

In the rainforest, patience pays off. Wildlife photography requires quiet movement and a good eye. Instead of rushing through trails, stop often, listen for rustling leaves or bird calls, and scan the trees and ground carefully. Many animals—like sloths and tree frogs—stay motionless and blend in well with their environment, so slowing down can reveal hidden treasures.

Hiring a local guide for a rainforest tour is one of the smartest moves you can make. Guides know where to find animals and can help you spot things you’d otherwise miss. Many are also amateur photographers themselves and know how to position you for the perfect shot.

4. Tell a Story Through Your Photos

Instead of only focusing on wildlife portraits, think about capturing the environment around your subject. Show how a monkey blends into the foliage, or how morning mist hangs over the treetops. Mix wide shots, close-ups, and mid-range compositions to tell a more complete visual story of your rainforest experience.

Photographing couples can also be a wonderful way to highlight the human connection to nature. Shots of you and your partner walking hand-in-hand through jungle trails, or quietly observing a bird through binoculars, make for meaningful, personal memories.

5. Respect Nature While Shooting

One of the most important rainforest photo tips is to be respectful. Don’t bait or disturb animals for the sake of a shot. Stay on marked trails, avoid flash photography with sensitive wildlife, and follow your guide’s lead. Sustainable photography practices ensure that these incredible ecosystems remain healthy for future generations of travelers and photographers alike.

Getting Around to the Best Photo Locations

Some of Costa Rica’s best rainforest photography spots—like Corcovado National Park, the Monteverde Cloud Forest, and the lowland jungles of Tortuguero—are spread out across the country. Public transport can be limiting, especially if you want to visit remote areas during sunrise or stay after sunset. Renting a car is the most flexible way to travel at your own pace, chase the best light, and stop at unexpected scenic viewpoints.

If you’re planning a photo-focused trip, rent a car in Costa Rica with Poas Rent a Car. They offer reliable service, competitive rates, and flexible pickup options to help you reach your dream photography spots with ease. With the freedom to explore the rainforest on your own schedule, your camera—and your memories—will thank you.