Planning a trip to Costa Rica with teenagers, but not sure where to go and what to do?
We have lived in Costa Rica and traveled from the Pacific coast of Costa Rica to the Caribbean with our own son.
We will tell you our five best places to go in Costa Rica with family and our favorite things to do in each place with teens.
A Costa Rica vacation with teenagers is the perfect combination of adventure, nature, and downtime at the beach.
You’ve chosen the right country, now let’s talk about where to go and what to do on your Costa Rican teenage holiday.
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Best Things About Costa Rica For Teenagers
One of our #1 travel tips with teens is to choose adventure.
Costa Rica is a prime destination for adventure-seeking teens due to the sheer amount of activities.
This Central American gem offers an unparalleled playground for young and old alike.
Teens can hike through misty cloud forests, encounter exotic creatures, and dive into turquoise waters to explore vibrant coral reefs. This immersion in nature fuels their sense of adventure and fosters a deep appreciation for the environment.
Whether it’s ziplining through the treetops, white-water rafting down raging rivers, or tackling challenging ATV rides along rugged trails, there’s no shortage of heart-pounding adventures in Costa Rica.
Okay, we get it. Costa Rica is great for teens. But what is the best area to stay in Costa Rica with family?
There are lots of answers to this question.
Our top 5 places in Costa Rica with teens have spots on both of Costa Rica’s coasts and also include the two top central valley places of Monteverde and Arenal.
We have personally been to all of these places and recommend them to you based on our own experience.
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TL;DR We get it. Here are our 3 favorite places to stay and things to do in Costa Rica with teenagers.
Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica With Teens
The Caribbean Coast and Tortuguero
The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, with its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, offers a unique experience for teens.
One must-visit destination is Tortuguero, a remote village and national park known for its pristine beaches and abundant wildlife.
Teens can witness the nesting of endangered sea turtles and even participate in conservation efforts. Exploring the park’s intricate network of canals by boat or kayak allows them to encounter monkeys, colorful birds, and caimans.
The combination of breathtaking nature and conservation activities in Tortuguero makes it a must-visit destination for an enriching and adventurous experience.
Tortuguero is less traveled than some of Manuel Antonio and La Fortuna making it feel a little more undiscovered. And you can only get to Tortuguero by boat.
While it takes a bit more effort to get to Tortuguero, it is so worth it. It is truly our favorite spot in the entire country!
La Fortuna/Arena
The Arenal region, dominated by the majestic Arenal Volcano, is an ideal spot for teens seeking adventure and thrill.
Arenal is located in the northwestern part of Costa Rica.
Hiking trails lead to breathtaking views where they can marvel at the volcano’s beauty.
The area is also renowned for its hot springs, providing a perfect opportunity for relaxation after a day of exploring.
Teens can get their adrenaline pumping by zip-lining through the rainforest canopy, rappelling down waterfalls, or embarking on a thrilling canyoning adventure.
There is so much to do here in La Fortuna it makes sense that it is a top Costa Rica family spot.
Monteverde
Monteverde, a cloud forest reserve nestled in the mountains, offers a unique and mystical experience for teenagers.
Monteverde is only about 85 miles from La Fortuna to Monteverde, but plan for 3-4 hours. The roads close to Monteverde are unpaved and are very slow going. They are absolutely traversable by rental car–we used a rental car as do most–but it is slow going.
Still, Monteverde is so worth it.
The lush, misty environment is home to an incredible diversity of plants and animals. It is not uncommon to see monkeys while walking down the street. We saw them daily.
Teens can traverse hanging bridges suspended high above the forest floor, granting them panoramic views and the chance to spot elusive wildlife.
If you missed the zip lines in Arenal, check them out here. We did! We chose the Original Canopy Tour and had the best time.
Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio, located on the Pacific coast, combines pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife, making it an excellent destination for teens.
The Manuel Antonio National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, where teens can spot monkeys, sloths, and colorful tropical birds while hiking through scenic trails.
Adventurous teenagers can try their hand at surfing or paddle boarding along the coast, or even take a thrilling horseback ride through the jungle.
However, please be aware that Manuel Antonio is often over touristed so while we include it, because it is beautiful, we also add a note of caution.
If you are planning a trip to Costa Rica during high season (mid-December-April) we would recommend skipping Manuel Antonio and choosing Cahuita on the Caribbean side of the country instead
Cahuita is a lovely sleepy little beach town on the Caribbean coast. If you decide not to rent a car, you can easily get to Cahuita by bus.
Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa, located on the Nicoya Peninsula, offers a laid-back beach atmosphere and world-class surfing, making it a favorite among adventurous teens.
The long stretches of sandy beaches provide the perfect setting for teens to catch waves, take surf lessons, or simply relax under the sun.
The area is also known for its vibrant beach town atmosphere, with hip cafes, local markets, and live music.
Teens can immerse themselves in the local surf culture, explore nearby waterfalls, or take part in yoga classes.
The best way to get to Santa Teresa is to take the ferry from Puntarenas.
After arriving in Puntarenas, you will embark on a ferry at the Puntarenas Ferry Terminal to traverse the Gulf of Nicoya.
This scenic ferry ride, lasting approximately 70 minutes, offers captivating views of the coastline.
To ensure a smooth journey, we suggest securing your tickets in advance, especially during the high season from mid-December to April.
Once you reach the Paquera Ferry Terminal located on the Nicoya Peninsula, it will take approximately 1.5 hours by car to reach the enchanting Santa Teresa and its stunning Santa Teresa Beach.
Some people prefer to stay closer to the ferry in Paquera, especially to experience the bioluminescence, but we definitely prefer Santa Teresa.
If you prefer the quiet and peace of the Nicoya Penisula, you can continue further south to the Southern Pacific coastline and the Osa Penisula.
Corcovado National Park is one of the most diverse and richest tropical forests in the entire world. It is also home to the second-largest gathering of Scarlett macaws in all of Costa Rica.
Now that you have the best spots, how do you put them together? Don’t recreate the wheel, use our 10-day itinerary.
Okay, we have the best places to stay in Costa Rica for young adults, let’s move on to the specific of the best things to do.
Best Things to To Do in Costa Rica With Teens
Now the good part…let’s talk about all the best things to do with teens in Costa Rica. For some of these activities like zip lining, we only listed the place where we did it.
However, just know that some activities like zip lining and horseback riding are available in most tourist destinations in Costa Rica.
Best Things to Do in Tortuguero With Teens
1. Kayak Tour in Tortuguero
Exploring the canals of Tortuguero National Park on a kayak is an immersive experience for teenagers.
Guided by experts, they can paddle through the serene waterways, surrounded by lush vegetation. As they navigate through the mangroves, they will spot monkeys leaping from tree to tree and vibrant bird species soaring above.
If you have a great guide, like we did, you will even be able to see those sneaky Caiman with their amazing camouflage.
The tranquil journey allows teens to appreciate the park’s unique ecosystem and observe its diverse wildlife up close.
2. Hiking In The National Park
Tortuguero National Park in Costa Rica is a fantastic spot for hiking.
The park features beautiful rainforests, winding trails, and abundant wildlife. You can spot turtles, monkeys, colorful birds, and maybe even jaguars if you’re lucky.
Just remember to bring bug spray, wear comfortable shoes, and have your camera ready to capture memorable moments. We had our favorite Costa Rica animal spotting here: a family of three spider monkeys!
You can certainly hike Tortuguero National Park on your own. We did! Just be sure to hike on the same day you take your kayak tour.
Anything you do in the National Park requires a day permit. We recommend hiking the same afternoon that you took your kayak tour as your permit is good for the full day.
If you prefer a guide to help you spot more animals, this 5-star tour is the way to go. Guided tours are a great way to see even more animals and learn from locals, most of whom grew up in Tortuguero.
3. Turtle Tour
A visit to Tortuguero is incomplete without experiencing nesting sea turtles.
Teenagers can join a guided turtle tour during the nesting season, which typically occurs from July to October.
Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, you and your teen can witness the remarkable journey of sea turtles as they emerge from the ocean, find their way to the beach, and lay their eggs.
This firsthand encounter with these ancient creatures is an unforgettable and educational experience for teenagers, fostering a deeper appreciation for marine conservation.
4. Explore The Town of Tortuguero
Exploring the town of Tortuguero with your teen is an opportunity to immerse yourselves in the local culture and experience the laid-back atmosphere of this coastal community.
The town is small and unassuming. As you wander through its streets, you’ll find colorful buildings, vibrant murals, and friendly faces.
The simplicity of Tortuguero creates an authentic and welcoming environment where you and your teen can connect with the local community.
One highlight of the town is indulging in its street food scene. We had the very best tortilla from “Mama” tortilla stand. Delicious!
Grab a bite to eat and head to the public docs to enjoy very inexpensive and delicious food with a beautiful view.
Best Things To Do La Fortuna/Arena With Teenagers
Arenal National Park and the surrounding area is the perfect place for an adventurous teen.
The nearby town La Fortuna is a small town with a big heart for adventure.
6. Hike Arenal Volcano
The Arenal Volcano is a must for adventurous teens. You can hike the trails and get up close to its impressive presence.
The surrounding forests and Lake Arenal offer stunning views. It’s not a difficult hike, so most teens can enjoy it and learn about the volcano’s history along the way.
It’s an adventure that combines education with awe-inspiring natural beauty.
7. Visit La Fortuna Waterfall and Hot Springs
Head to La Fortuna Waterfall for a dose of nature’s power. You can swim in the pool at the base or simply marvel at its beauty.
Afterward, relax in the nearby hot springs for a soothing experience. It’s the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation, surrounded by the lush rainforest.
The waterfall is just 3.5 miles from Fortuna. Signs clearly point the way and there is a parking lot for your car.
If you don’t have a rental car or prefer the expertise of a guide, you can book an all-day tour that includes everything you want to do in Arenal hiking the volcano, walking the hanging bridge and time at the waterfall.
8. Visit The World’s Largest Hot Springs
If you prefer hot springs without nature, Baldi Hot Springs is one of the largest hot springs in the world, with 25 thermal pools.
Baldi also has several slides and a children’s splash zone. We spent the day at Baldi when our son was a tween and had a lovely time.
You can stay at Baldi Hot Springs or just get a day pass.
9. White Water Rafting
If your teens crave excitement, white water rafting in the Arenal area is a must.
With experienced guides, you can navigate the rapids together and conquer the rushing waters.
There are options for all levels, so everyone can have a thrilling experience. It’s a chance to share an adventure, have fun, and appreciate the natural beauty around you.
Teens have to meet a minimum age to white water raft. There are several tours in the area, but this 5-star tour requires teens to be 14 years of age.
10. Walk Mistico Park Hanging Bridges
Exploring the Mistico Park Hanging Bridges is a unique way to experience the rainforest. Walking along these suspended bridges offers breathtaking views of the lush canopy.
Keep an eye out for monkeys and colorful birds. It’s a peaceful and adventurous activity that allows you to appreciate nature’s wonders.
The Mistico Hanging Bridge Park is about a 30-minute drive from La Fortuna. If you have a rental car, you can certainly get there on your own.
If you are traveling by public transit, as we often do in Costa Rica, you can grab a tour.
11. Canyoning and Waterfall Rappelling
For an adrenaline rush, try canyoning and waterfall rappelling.
With professional guides, you and your teen can descend down cascading waterfalls, feeling the excitement as you conquer each drop.
Canyoning is one of the few things we haven’t done yet but is on our list for our next trip. If you take this top rated tour, please send us your thoughts. We’d love to hear about it!
12. Paddleboarding at Lake Arenal
If your teenagers are seeking more adventure in Costa Rica, they’ll definitely enjoy paddleboarding at Lake Arenal.
Paddleboarding offers a unique opportunity to explore the lake, enhance balance and core strength, and take in breathtaking views.
Whether they’re beginners or experienced paddleboarders, the calm and picturesque setting of Lake Arenal provides the ideal backdrop for an enjoyable and memorable experience for your teens.
You can rent paddle boards at the public dock in Lake Arenal. You can book a paddleboard in advance and pick it up steps from the lake.
There are no public buses to Lake Arenal so if you don’t have a rental car, this activity is not for you.
Best Things To Do Monteverde With Teenagers
In Monteverde, renowned for its cloud forest, there are four amazing activities that will make your time with teens truly memorable:
13. Walk Among the Clouds on the Hanging Bridges at Selvatura Park
Experience the magic of the cloud forest by taking a walk on the hanging bridges at Selvatura Park.
Suspended high above the forest floor, these bridges offer breathtaking views of the lush greenery below.
It’s a serene and immersive experience that will leave you and your teens in awe of the incredible nature surrounding you.
There are tours to take you from town to the park and back. These tours combine walking the hanging bridges and zipline!
However, if you have a car, you can certainly do this on your own.
14. Soar through the Canopy on One of the Largest Zip-lining Courses in the World
For an exhilarating adventure, try zip-lining in Monteverde. Fly through the treetops on one of the world’s largest zip-lining courses.
We did this exact tour with the Original Zip Canopy Tour and loved it. Our own teen’s favorite experience was the huge tarzan swing.
The stunning views of the cloud forest and mountains will captivate your teens, giving them a thrilling perspective on the beauty of Monteverde’s landscapes.
15. Horseback Riding Through Scenic Beauty
Saddle up for a guided horseback ride through Monteverde’s picturesque landscapes, where you can explore green pastures, charming farms, and breathtaking vistas.
It’s a calming and immersive experience that allows you and your teens to connect with nature and appreciate the scenic beauty of Monteverde’s countryside.
We chose Equus for our horseback ride. We took the sunset tour and loved the view over the ocean as the sun sank in the sky.
The tour also teaches you how they make rum from sugar cane, and includes a taste if your teen is of legal age in Costa Rica.
16. Night Tour in the Cloud Forest
You and your teen can explore the mysteries of Monteverde’s cloud forest on a night tour. You can find these night tours all over Costa Rica, but Monteverde is where they are best.
Led by knowledgeable guides, you will venture into the darkness and witness the forest teeming with nocturnal creatures.
You can listen to the captivating night sounds, observe unique plants and flowers, and keep a keen eye out for incredible wildlife like sloths, owls, and frogs.
This experience provides a fresh perspective on the cloud forest’s biodiversity, creating lasting memories for you and your teenager during your Costa Rica adventure.
Best Things To Do Manuel Antonio With Teenagers
Manuel Antonio is a must-visit destination when traveling with teens in Costa Rica. However, as you’ll read in our 10-day Costa Rica itinerary, while we appreciate the beauty of this part of Costa Rica, it can be over touristed.
If you are coming to Costa Rica in the high season (mid-December) through April, consider skipping this part of the country.
Here are three great activities to enjoy in Manuel Antonio. But also remember part of traveling with teens is scheduling some downtown, and Manuel Antonio is perfect for just that.
17. Explore Manuel Antonio National Park
Make sure to include a visit to Manuel Antonio National Park, the smallest but most famous national park in Costa Rica.
To make the most of your visit, plan for an early morning start as the park tends to get crowded later in the day.
Guided tours are recommended as they provide valuable insights and help you navigate the park’s trails, ensuring you don’t miss out on the abundant wildlife.
From sloths and monkeys to colorful birds and reptiles, the park is a treasure trove of biodiversity. You and your teen can explore the lush trails, observe wildlife in their natural habitat, and take in the stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
18. Hike or Swim at Nauyaca Waterfall
Embark on an adventure to Nauyaca Waterfall, located near Manuel Antonio. Nauyaca Waterfall is about 60- minute drive from Manuel Antonio.
The waterfall cascades down into a clear pool, inviting you and your teens to swim and cool off in its crystal-clear waters.
The journey to the waterfall is just as exciting as the destination itself.
If you have a car, you will drive to the original Don Lulo Entrance (there is another entrance but it is pretty rough for a rental car. At the entrance, you can choose to get to the Falls by hiking, horseback or 4×4.
The hike to the waterfall is about 7 miles round trip.
If you don’t have a rental car, you can also book a tour that includes transport from Manuel Antonio, a 4×4 ride to the falls, and a yummy lunch.
19. Relax on the Beach
No visit to Manuel Antonio is complete without spending time at the stunning beaches.
The area boasts pristine sandy shores and turquoise waters, offering a perfect setting for beach activities. Manuel Antonio has some of the best beaches in Costa Rica.
Whether it’s playing beach volleyball, building sandcastles, or simply lounging under the shade of palm trees, the beach in Manuel Antonio provides a picturesque backdrop for quality family time.
Best Things To Do in Santa Teresa With Teenagers
Santa Teresa is on the Nicoya Peninsula, which is known as one of the world’s five blue zones.
Given that this area is known for long life and good health, time in Santa Teresa is about connecting with nature and each other.
When visiting Santa Teresa with teenagers, there are plenty of activities to engage in, but you can also just enjoy some beach time.
Here are some of the best things to do in Santa Teresa that are sure to capture their interest and create lasting memories.
19. Surfing Lessons
Santa Teresa is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, making it a great place for teenagers to learn or improve their surfing skills.
We took our first surfing lesson in Ensenada, Mexico. Our son was too young to be able to stand up. So we tried again with surfing lessons in Santa Teresa and with great instruction, he was able to stand up and ride his first wave.
Whatever you do in Santa Teresa, a surf lesson is a must.
Riding the waves and experiencing the thrill of surfing is an exhilarating adventure for teenagers.
20. Bioluminescence Kayak Tour
We actually chose the Nicoya peninsula just for the experience of taking a bioluminescence kayak tour during the night.
We have only seen bioluminescence in one other place in our travels, Cartagena, Colombia.
On the tour, you will get to witness the captivating phenomenon of bioluminescence as the water glows with a shimmering blue-green light caused by tiny marine organisms.
Paddling through the bioluminescent waters is an otherworldly experience that teenagers are sure to find fascinating and unique.
But be aware that the bioluminescence is nearer to Paquera than Santa Teresa so you will have to drive about 1.5 hours one way to experience this natural phenomenon.
22. Snorkeling Tour to Isla Tortuga
No place on the Nicoya Peninsula is better for snorkeling than Isla Tortuga.
Take a snorkeling tour to the nearby Isla Tortuga, a stunning island known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
Teenagers can explore the vibrant underwater world, snorkel amidst colorful coral reefs, and encounter a variety of tropical fish species.
The tour often includes opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a beachside barbecue, providing an unforgettable day of adventure and relaxation.
ATV or Quad Bike Adventure
One of the most popular things to do in Santa Teresa is to take an ATV to Montezuma Falls.
In fact, many people rent ATVs for their entire time in Santa Teresa as the roads are pretty bumpy on the Nicoya Peninsula.
The ATV ride is about 40 minutes from town. Once there you and your teen will get to swim in the crystal clear water of the falls.
Yoga and Wellness Classes
Santa Teresa is renowned for its yoga and wellness scene. Engaging in yoga or wellness classes can provide teenagers with a rejuvenating and calming experience.
There are many great places to take a yoga class, but Horizon is very highly rated both for yoga and as an accommodation. Horizon Hotel and Yoga Center has much more than just yoga. The hotel has sea views, a pool, and onsight dining.
Horizon is a little piece of heaven in Santa Teresa and their two-bedroom villa is perfect for small families.
FAQ: Costa Rica With Teens
What is the best Costa Rica tour company?
Costa Rica is fairly easy to navigate on your own. But the best, inexpensive tour company in Costa Rica is definitely Intrepid Tours.
Intrepid takes a sustainable approach to travel and uses local guides whenever possible.
Is Costa Rica a kid-friendly vacation?
Yes, Costa Rica is a very family-friendly vacation.
The country offers wonderful adventure and opportunities to be close to nature.
From exploring national parks and spotting exotic animals to enjoying water sports and engaging in educational eco-tours, Costa Rica provides a diverse range of family-friendly activities and accommodations that make it an ideal choice for a vacation with kids.
Are there Costa Rica all-inclusive hotels?
Yes. While not as many as Mexico, Costa Rica does have all-inclusive resorts, even kid-friendly ones.
If you are traveling with older teens, be aware of the legal drinking age in Costa Rica.
Yet, Costa Rica is a country that is meant to be explored, so we say skip the all-inclusive hotel and experience the country on your own.
Conclusion: Costa Rica with Teenagers
Costa Rica offers the perfect destination for a memorable trip with teenagers. With its blend of
adventure, natural wonders, and stunning beaches, a Costa Rica vacation is an ideal combination for families seeking an unforgettable experience.
Having explored Costa Rica extensively, we have narrowed down our top five places to visit with your family and shared our favorite activities to make the most of your time.
From thrilling adventures like surfing lessons and hiking to breathtaking encounters with nature such as bioluminescence kayak tours and snorkeling trips to vibrant coral reefs, Costa Rica provides endless opportunities for excitement and exploration.
By choosing Costa Rica as your destination, you have set the stage for an incredible teenage holiday.
Now armed with information about the best places to go and the exciting things to do, you can plan a trip that caters to your family’s interests and creates cherished memories for everyone involved.
