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5 Fun Things to Do with Kids in Costa Rica

Kids on tropical beach in Costa Rica

Spring break adventures for the whole family are abundant in Costa Rica!

Heading to Costa Rica for Spring Break with the family, and looking for things to do with the kids? You’re sure to be spoiled for choice, so we have some suggestions to help you see more of gorgeous tropical Costa Rica.

Central Pacific Coast

Alma del Pacifico, in Esterillos Este, Parrita, just south of Jacó, on the Central Pacific Coast, is just over an hour from Juan Santamaria Airport in San José. The lovely boutique hotel’s walking paths lead through colorful ornamental, herb and vegetable gardens to your oasis bungalow. You and the family will have all the creature comforts of home, including kitchenette and terrace.

There are several great activities for all interests and ages. Manuel Antonio National Park, on the outskirts of Quepos, is a good place to start. It’s abundant wildlife, gentle surf and gorgeous white-sand beaches are just for starters. A guide can help you locate the rainforest canopy’s residents; capuchin and squirrel monkeys, as well as sloths. Shaded and paved trails lead from the forest to the beaches—there are 3—where everyone can enjoy the sun and surf. For the more adventurous, the hike up to Cathedral Point will take you to higher ground for spectacular views of the coastline. Tip: don’t leave bags unattended on the beach because the critters will definitely investigate the contents.

The whole family will appreciate a trip to Pueblo Santa Juana for a mountain and zipline tour. Activities include a hike through the rainforest hills, swimming in a waterfall pool and a visit to an authentic Tico sugar mill. In addition, you can enjoy a traditional lunch overlooking Manuel Antonio National Park before heading off for a flight through the canopy on a zipline.

Nearby, Jacó Ropes Adventure Park offers a 155-foot zipline, a Tarzan swing through the rainforest, and creek crossing via cargo net, among other activities. The kids will enjoy a chance to work off some energy while surrounded by the rainforest and its residents.

Monteverde

Hotel Belmar, just up the road from Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, aims to provide guests with the very best in eco-tourism. The guest chalets take inspiration from their Austrian cousins; each one beautifully and comfortably furnished. Dedicated to eco-tourism, the 5-leaf boutique hotel’s sustainable management philosophy has supported the area’s thriving local employment market.

Costa Rica’s Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, situated on the continental divide, is made up of several different reserves, including privately-held buffer zones and parts of Arenal Volcano National Park.

It’s also one of the most bio-diverse places anywhere on Earth: 3,021 plant varieties, more than 100 different mammals, including 6 different marsupials, and 400+ bird species.

Guided tours are some of the best ways to experience the Reserve. Monteverde Sky Adventure Park, is another, with many family-friendly tour choices: The Sky Tram, Sky Walk, or Sky Trek. Each offers a unique experience of the area’s cloud and rain forests, from a leisurely stroll over the trails to canyoneering and rafting. There’re adventures for everyone, regardless of ability or interest.

Spring Break never looked so good! Even the Littles in the family will have a blast when you travel to Costa Rica for Spring Break. Reach out today and talk to one of our advisers; you’ll be sure to have the perfect Costa Rica family vacation.

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