Our guide on the most Beautiful Towns in Costa Rica for your next trip.
Costa Rica is renowned for its stunning landscapes, from lush rainforests to pristine beaches. While the country’s natural beauty is often the main draw, its charming towns offer a perfect mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation.
From the volcanoes of La Fortuna to the bohemian beaches of Santa Teresa, Costa Rica offers an array of beautiful towns that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, these destinations provide a perfect mix of natural beauty and vibrant local life.
Here’s a guide to some of the most beautiful towns in Costa Rica, each with its own unique vibe and attractions.
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Beautiful Towns in Costa Rica
1. La Fortuna
Why It’s Beautiful: Nestled at the base of the Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna is famous for its lush surroundings, natural hot springs, and waterfalls. The town is an adventure hub with a backdrop of one of the most picturesque volcanoes in the world.
What to Do:
Hike Arenal Volcano National Park for spectacular views of the volcano and surrounding forests.
Visit the La Fortuna Waterfall, which plunges 200 feet into a natural pool where you can swim.
Soak in the numerous hot springs that are fed by the geothermal activity of the volcano.
Best Time to Visit: December to April (dry season) for clear views of the volcano and outdoor activities.
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2. Monteverde
Why It’s Beautiful: Perched in the cloud forest, Monteverde is one of the best places in Costa Rica for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its cool, misty atmosphere and dense greenery make it one of the most enchanting places in the country.
What to Do:
Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve for birdwatching and hiking, with a chance to spot the elusive quetzal.
Take a walk through the hanging bridges for a bird’s-eye view of the lush canopy.
Try out the ziplining adventure tours, which are some of the best in Costa Rica.
Best Time to Visit: March to May for clearer skies, but Monteverde can be enjoyed year-round.
3. Manuel Antonio
Why It’s Beautiful: Manuel Antonio is home to Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its picture-perfect beaches, diverse wildlife, and lush rainforests. The town itself is small and charming, offering a laid-back vibe with easy access to the park.
What to Do:
Relax on the pristine Manuel Antonio Beach and explore the park’s well-maintained trails.
Spot sloths, monkeys, and toucans as you hike through the jungle.
Take a catamaran tour to see dolphins and whales off the coast.
Best Time to Visit: December to April (dry season) for beach activities and wildlife sightings.
4. Tamarindo
Why It’s Beautiful: Tamarindo is a vibrant beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula, known for its stunning sunsets, long stretches of beach, and world-class surf. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, with a lively nightlife scene.
What to Do:
Learn to surf at Tamarindo Beach, which is perfect for beginners and seasoned surfers alike.
Take a sunset cruise to experience the beautiful Pacific coastline.
Visit the nearby Las Baulas National Marine Park, where leatherback turtles nest.
Best Time to Visit: November to April for sunny days and ideal surfing conditions.
5. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Why It’s Beautiful: Located on the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is famous for its laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and Afro-Caribbean culture. The town’s colorful architecture and vibrant food scene make it a top destination for those seeking a unique experience in Costa Rica.
What to Do:
Relax on Playa Cocles or Playa Negra, famous for their black volcanic sand.
Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center to learn about local wildlife rehabilitation efforts.
Explore Cahuita National Park for a mix of snorkeling, hiking, and wildlife spotting.
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to October for the best weather on the Caribbean side.
6. Santa Teresa
Why It’s Beautiful: Santa Teresa is a bohemian beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula, known for its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and surf culture. The town is surrounded by jungle, giving it a wild, untouched feel.
What to Do:
Surf at Playa Santa Teresa, known for its consistent breaks and stunning sunsets.
Take a yoga class at one of the many wellness retreats in town.
Hike to Montezuma Waterfalls, just a short drive away.
Best Time to Visit: December to April for sunny weather and good surfing conditions.
7. Ojochal
Why It’s Beautiful: Ojochal is a small village on Costa Rica’s South Pacific coast, offering a more tranquil experience compared to the country’s more touristy areas. It’s known for its pristine beaches, jungle-covered mountains, and excellent dining options.
What to Do:
Relax on the secluded Playa Ventanas, famous for its sea caves.
Go on a whale-watching tour to see humpback whales off the coast.
Dine at one of the town’s fine dining restaurants, which serve up a mix of local and international cuisine.
Best Time to Visit: December to April for dry weather and better wildlife viewing.
8. Grecia
Why It’s Beautiful: Nestled in the Central Valley, Grecia is a charming town known for its unique red metal church, Iglesia de la Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes, and beautiful surrounding landscapes. The town is surrounded by rolling hills, coffee plantations, and mountains.
What to Do:
Visit the iconic red metal church, which was imported from Belgium in the 19th century.
Explore the nearby Los Chorros Waterfalls for a refreshing hike and swim.
Tour a coffee plantation and learn about Costa Rica’s coffee-growing heritage.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with mild temperatures due to its location in the Central Valley.
9. Montezuma
Why It’s Beautiful: Montezuma is a small, artsy town on the Nicoya Peninsula known for its beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and relaxed, bohemian atmosphere. The town attracts a mix of backpackers, yogis, and eco-conscious travelers.
What to Do:
Hike to the Montezuma Waterfalls, where you can swim in the natural pools.
Enjoy a day at Playa Grande, a quiet beach just a short hike from town.
Take a boat trip to Isla Tortuga for snorkeling and wildlife watching.
Best Time to Visit: December to April for the best beach weather.
10. San Gerardo de Dota
Why It’s Beautiful: San Gerardo de Dota is a hidden gem in Costa Rica’s cloud forest region. The town is a peaceful retreat known for its pristine landscapes, clear rivers, and abundant birdlife, especially the rare Resplendent Quetzal.
What to Do:
Birdwatch in Quetzales National Park, famous for its colorful quetzals and diverse avian species.
Hike through the Los Quetzales National Park trails for stunning views of the cloud forest.
Relax by the crystal-clear waters of the Savegre River, known for its trout fishing.
Best Time to Visit: December to April for birdwatching and clear skies.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.