Costa Rica for Teens Guide
From adrenaline adventures to awe-inspiring nature, Costa Rica is the ultimate destination for traveling with teens.
Planning the best vacation with teenagers can be challenging. But Costa Rica truly stands out as the perfect destination for families. Located between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica offers a mix of adventures, educational opportunities, and eco-conscious experiences that will appeal to both teenagers and adults. Plus, the country is known for its range of plants and animals, stunning landscapes, and abundant wildlife, guaranteeing that every family member will have an incredible time.
So, whether you're in search of excitement, immersing yourself in traditions, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, here is everything you need to know about visiting Costa Rica with teenagers.
Costa Rica with Teenagers
Every corner of this country offers something to discover that caters to both the adventurous spirit and the environmentally conscious mindset.
Costa Rica is celebrated as one of the friendliest countries in the world, providing ample opportunities for instilling an appreciation for nature and environmental awareness in teenagers. Witnessing their commitment to ecotourism and sustainable practices through wildlife reserves and eco-friendly local lifestyles is not only entertaining but also educational and inspiring. This makes it undeniably one of the destinations for families visiting Costa Rica with teenagers.
If your family seeks thrills and adventure during their vacation, rest assured that Costa Rica’s wide range of adrenaline-fueled activities will not disappoint. The options are limitless, ranging from white water rafting, ziplining, and horseback riding to serene experiences like volcano hiking, waterfall exploration, surfing, snorkeling, and kayaking. After thrilling days of adventure and discovery, take time to unwind on the unspoiled beaches Costa Rica is renowned for.
You can rely on our expertise to create a personalized vacation that perfectly aligns with your family's interests and preferences. Whether you're seeking nature, excitement, relaxation, or a combination of it all, here is everything you need to know about why Costa Rica is the best vacation with teenagers.
Where to Stay in Costa Rica with Teenagers
If you're considering where to stay in Costa Rica with teenagers for your vacation, you've come to the right place. With a Scott Dunn vacation, you'll have access to a range of hotels and accommodations throughout the country. Whether you're looking for a secluded rainforest resort or a charming boutique hotel in the Central Valley, we have options that will cater to everyone's preferences.
Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort in Arenal has you covered on both fronts with a blend of luxury and thrill. The resort's exclusive Two Bedroom Arenal Suite provides families room to stretch out and a modern design. Apart from the suite's separate dining and living room, Arenal is a hotspot for adventure with activities like zip lining, waterfall rappelling, and horseback riding.
For families wanting an all-inclusive experience, lodges like El Remanso, Lapa Rios, and Playa Cativo on the Osa Peninsula are perfect. They offer excellent repelling experiences and wildlife tours, making them ideal for an exciting Costa Rica vacation with teens.
Of course, our team of location experts take the time to truly understand your desires and what constitutes your dream vacation and will assist you in finding the best hotel.
In the meantime, please refer to our list of properties to explore the options that best meet your needs.
Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica with Teenagers
Costa Rica is a dream destination for many, packed with beautiful places to explore. From its vibrant rainforests to the sparkling Caribbean coast, a trip to Costa Rica can be as relaxing or as adrenaline filled as you want. But if you're specifically looking for the best places to visit in Costa Rica with teens, you've come to the right place.
Starting with the capital, San Jose; centrally located and brimming with fascinating galleries, museums, and restaurants, it's a great place to understand the country's history and culture. It's one of the best parts of Costa Rica for teenagers to visit, offering a blend of urban excitement and cultural exposure.
Nature lovers will want to experience attractions like Monteverde or the Osa Peninsula. Said to be one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth, the latter is a top spot for getting close to rare animals such as tapirs and anteaters and is often included in our Costa Rica trip ideas for teens.
Want to add some thrilling adventure? Head to the gorges and rolling hills of the Turrialba Valley or experience an exhilarating kayak down the rapids of the Pacuare River. These are prime examples of unique things to do in Costa Rica with teenagers that cater to those seeking more adventurous pursuits.
Or, if relaxation is the goal, the pristine beaches of Puerto Viejo and Tortuguero offer an idyllic setting to unwind and soak up the sun. These locations provide options for surfing and diving, allowing for a balance of leisure and excitement that's perfect for families with teens.
Planning your trip might feel overwhelming with so much to see and do. But worry not; our destination experts are on hand to help you navigate the multitude of options. From urban exploration to nature experiences, active adventures, and tranquil retreats, this guide will lead you to the perfect vacation customized to your family's interests and preferences.
Arenal Volcano Walk
Arenal, Costa Rica
The best way to get as close as possible to the spectacular Arenal Volcano is to walk the reserve’s easy series of trails, which will take you through secondary rainforest and former lava fields. The park is known for its diverse wildlife.
Coastal Kayaking & Snorkeling Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Experience one of Costa Rica’s most striking coastlines by open-seat ocean kayak. Paddle to Biezans Bay for a refreshing swim and snorkel or just relax and enjoy the tranquillity of a private white sand beach.
Golfo Dulce Dolphin Tour
Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
Take a boat out into Golfo Dulce to look for dolphins. On occasion, super-pods of 300+ dolphins can be seen cavorting in the sparkling waters. The trip ends with an opportunity to snorkel over a coral reef, and a beach picnic.
Rafting the Pacuare River
San Jose and Central Valley, Costa Rica
The Pacuare River offers some of the finest white water in Latin America, winding through rugged canyons deep inside one of Costa Rica's impressive rainforests. As no roads lead to Pacuare Lodge, rafting in and out is the perfect way to arrive in style!
Rio Celeste & Volcano Hike
Arenal, Costa Rica
Witness the unearthly blue color of the Rio Celeste as you take a rainforest hike in Tenorio Volcano National Park. Geological oddities and the Rio Celeste waterfalls are additional fascinations.
Arenal Sky Tram & Sky Trek
Arenal, Costa Rica
Soar through the rainforest canopy on this thrilling zip wiring adventure in the Arenal reserve. Experience the sights and sounds of the rainforest from a bird’s-eye view, admiring the wildlife and spectacular scenery from above. Minimum age 8 years old.
Catamaran Sail with Snorkeling
Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Silently glide in a catamaran along Costa Rica's Pacific Coast past exotic bays, golden beaches and tropical jungles, spotting dolphins, sea turtles and whales before dropping anchor in a quiet bay to go snorkeling or kayaking in the pristine warm waters.
Natural History Walk in Arenal Hanging Bridges
Arenal, Costa Rica
Enjoy a fantastic natural history walk through primary tropical forest, crossing 1800 meters of canopy walkway, in the company of an expert naturalist guide. See a wonderful array of flora and fauna on the way including sloths, monkeys and exotic birds.
Arenas del Mar
Manuel Antonio National Park, Manuel Antonio & Uvita, Costa Rica
The secluded beachfront eco resort of Arenas del Mar is located close to Costa Rica's Manuel Antonio National Park, home to wild, tropical beaches, unusual flora and fauna and rocky outcrops backed by lush forest.
Nayara Gardens
Arenal, Costa Rica
A stylish hotel surrounded by lush tropical forest with unbeatable views of one of the world's most picturesque volcanoes, Arenal. Nayara Gardens provides the perfect base from which to explore the central region of Costa Rica.
Pacuare Lodge
Turrialba and Pacuare, Costa Rica
Pacuare Lodge is a luxurious nature and adventure lover’s paradise hidden away in the heart of Costa Rica’s most pristine jungle. Best accessed by white water raft, it combines thrilling adventure activities and an abundance of wildlife.
Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort
Papagayo Peninsula, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
The Andaz Peninsula Papagayo is a fantastic beach resort set on the beautiful Papagayo Peninsula in northern Costa Rica with fabulous views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding tropical forest. The Andaz is a great choice for both couples and families.
El Mangroove
Papagayo Peninsula, Guanacaste
El Mangroove is a stylish yet casual beach hotel located in the lovely Papagayo bay. The hotel's 85 suites are styled with recycled wood, local artwork and contemporary stone finishes. Facilities at the hotel include 2 restaurants, a pool, spa and beach.
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
Papagayo Peninsula, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Four Seasons Resort Papagayo offers luxurious resort-style accommodation, exemplary service and superb facilities in a beautiful setting on Costa Rica's northern Papagayo peninsula south of Liberia. A great option for families and has its own kids club.
Playa Cativo Lodge
Golfo Dulce, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
Playa Cativo Eco Lodge is a beachfront boutique hotel on the Golfo Dulce offering an unparalleled experience set in 1,000 acres of private rainforest, surrounded by the Piedras Blancas National Park, a former extension of the Corcovado National Park.
Wild Costa Rica
Central Valley, Tortuguero, Osa Peninsula & Manuel Antonio
Travel from coast to coast and explore Costa Rica’s rich natural highlights on this luxury tour. Stay at charming hotels in spectacular surroundings and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, like going off the beaten track to spot local wildlife. Finish off by unwinding at a boutique hillside retreat that shares a beach with iguanas and monkeys
$6,800 pp
Family Fun in Costa Rica
San Jose, Pacuare, Osa Peninsula, Arenal & Papagayo
Explore the stunning natural diversity of Costa Rica. Sample the very best activities on this action-packed and fun-filled family adventure with an escorted tour across the jewel of Central America. Stay in jungle lodges inspired by Robinson Crusoe and go kayaking with dolphins, or try your hand at rafting, tubing and paddleboarding.
$9,200 pp
Active Costa Rica
San Jose, Turrialba District, Arenal and Santa Teresa
A fantastic introduction to Costa Rica that begins with an off-the-beaten-track adventure at the wonderful Pacuare Lodge. Hike, bike or kayak onwards to immerse yourself in the beauty of the province of Alajuela and stay near the iconic Arenal Volcano, then finish up with a few days of laid-back luxury in charming Santa Teresa.
$7,100 pp
Costa Rica with Kids
Central Valley, Tortuguero, Arenal & Papagayo
Share an adventure with family on a luxury Costa Rica tour. Wander through diverse landscapes and take in wonderful wildlife, majestic volcanoes and beautiful beaches. Enjoy adventurous activities suitable for everyone, from lagoon boat trips to canopy walks, before finishing up with a splash of relaxation on the sun-kissed Pacific coast.
$5,400 pp