Wondering if Costa Rica is a good destination to visit with kids? As a family living here since 2013 with two kids (now 9 and 6) born in Costa Rica, we can definitely say, yes! We’ve explored beaches, rainforests, and volcanoes with our kids all around the country and know what works for families.
In this post, we’ll share why Costa Rica is great for kids and give you practical tips about transportation, kid-friendly activities, and accommodations. We’ll also share local insights about traveling to Costa Rica with kids from our years of living here that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
Why Costa Rica Is Great with Kids
1. Costa Rica has SO many things to do with kids
Costa Rica is a natural playground with a diverse environment all within one small country. Your kids will be able to experience rainforests, volcanoes, cloud forests, and beaches during a single vacation!
The wildlife viewing is really amazing here and often happens without much effort – monkeys swinging in trees above you, toucans flying overhead, and even sloths hanging out outside your window. Nature is very accessible, with well-maintained trails and easy hikes in many areas.
We have lots of articles on our website with things to do in Costa Rica with kids, but here are some of our favorites to give you an idea:
- Wildlife viewing – Spot monkeys, sloths, toucans, and frogs on a guided hike, night tour, or boat tour – even from your hotel in some places.
- Hanging bridges and hiking – Walk through the rainforest canopy on suspension bridges or explore volcano trails with amazing views.
- Adventure activities – Try family-friendly ziplining, whitewater rafting, or even waterfall rappelling.
- Beach days – Swim, body surf, or take surf lessons – our kids started surfing around age 5 and love it!
- Waterfall visits – Cool off in one of the country’s many natural swimming holes.
- Agricultural tours – Learn how chocolate and coffee are made (with tastings!). We started doing these tours when our kids were toddlers. They’re very hands-on.
2. The locals are very friendly and welcoming
One of the best things about Costa Rica for families is how genuinely welcoming locals are to children.
Costa Ricans (Ticos) truly value family and go out of their way to make kids feel special. Don’t be surprised when a restaurant server or shop owner interacts with your kids or offers them a treat.
Tour guides are also usually great with kids, going the extra mile to make sure children are engaged and having fun.
Free Booking Service
If you need help booking any activities for your family’s trip, feel free to reach out through our Tours page. We book tours all around Costa Rica. Booking through us doesn’t cost extra and helps support our website.
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3. Costa Rica is a safe destination for families
If you’re concerned about safety when traveling with your kids, you’ll be glad to know that Costa Rica is generally very safe for family travel. It’s considered one of the safest countries in Central America, with a stable democracy and no army.
Most crime is petty theft that you can avoid with basic precautions – like not leaving anything inside your rental car or leaving valuables unattended at the beach. For more detailed safety information, check out our Safety Tips post.
4. The water is safe (almost everywhere)
You can drink tap water in most parts of Costa Rica without a worry. There are, however, some exceptions. We have lived in towns where you want to avoid tap water.
Places where bottled or filtered water is recommended include Esterillos, Bejuco, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Cahuita, and parts of northern Guanacaste (e.g., Tamarindo, Playa Grande) during dry season (January-April) when water is scarce.
For more information, read our post, Costa Rica’s Tap Water: Safe to Drink or Buy Bottled?
5. There are lots of options for family-friendly hotels
Costa Rica has so many options for family-friendly destinations and accommodations. You’ll find unique treehouses and glamping, ecolodges with trails right on the property, farm stays, resorts with all the amenities, and everything in between.
Most nicer hotels have swimming pools, reliable WiFi, and TVs for downtime. Most properties are smaller and family-owned rather than large chain resorts.
The hot spring resorts in La Fortuna (like Arenal Springs Resort) are particularly great for families.
While large all-inclusive resorts are available, these don’t offer much for local culture. Since Costa Rica is safe, it’s better to stay at a regular hotel to experience what the country is all about.
For specific destinations that we recommend for families, see the FAQs section below.
6. You’ll have internet (almost) everywhere
Internet and phone in Costa Rica has greatly improved over the last 10 years so if you have teenagers with devices, you should be all set.
High-speed internet is available in all but the most remote areas. Most hotels and vacation rentals offer free Wifi. Speeds can vary so if you need it for work, be sure to ask the property directly.
Restaurants and cafes usually have Wifi, but not always.
Although there are some dead zones due to the country’s mountainous terrain, you’ll have a good signal most of the time when you’re on the road.
For phone and Internet, you can use your existing phone plan from your home country. Often there’s an additional daily fee. Or, if you have an unlocked phone, you could get a local SIM card. Here’s a link to our post on Getting a SIM Card for Costa Rica.
Important Considerations About Traveling to Costa Rica with Kids
7. Beaches differ a lot
Costa Rica’s beaches vary a lot as far as safety and swimming conditions so choosing the right ones is essential. While some have gentle water perfect for young swimmers, others have powerful waves better for surfers.
Guanacaste Province on the northern Pacific coast offers some of the most family-friendly swimming beaches.
Before planning your beach days, be sure to check our detailed guide to the Best Beaches for Families in Costa Rica.
8. There are mosquitoes and other bugs
Insects are part of life in the tropics. Mosquitoes can be found year-round, but especially during the rainy season (May through November). Usually they aren’t too bad, but it depends on when and where you’re visiting.
While mosquito-borne diseases like dengue do exist in Costa Rica, it’s not likely that you’ll contract anything during your short visit. Thankfully, no one in our family has gotten dengue or any other mosquito-borne disease in our 10+ years living in Costa Rica.
What we do to avoid bites is wear lightweight long pants for jungle hikes whenever possible and insect repellent if we wear shorts.
Here are some links to a few of our articles with more info:
Costa Rica and Mosquitoes: Tips to Prevent Zika, Dengue, and More
Bugs, Spiders, and Snakes in Costa Rica: What to Expect
9. You’ll need to be prepared for the sun
Sun protection is one of the most important things to keep in mind when visiting Costa Rica with kids. And it’s what we see parents most confused about.
Costa Rica is very close to the equator so the sun is intense year-round, even on cloudy days.
Pack rash guards (long-sleeved not short sleeved) for the ocean and pool, hats, and plenty of reef-safe sunscreen. These Coolibar hats are what we have been using for our kids for the pool/beach for years and we use these wide-brim hats for hiking.
Although you can buy sunscreen in Costa Rica, the options are more limited (especially for natural) and it’s more expensive. We love Think Baby for our family. See our Packing List for more tips.
More Specific Info & Local Tips
10. Most families rent a car (but you can also take shuttles)
Rental Car
For most families visiting Costa Rica, renting a car makes the most sense. It gives you the flexibility to stop when the kids need a bathroom break, feel carsick, or if you want to visit an attraction between destinations. You can pack all those extra things you need with kids and come and go at your own pace.
Many of our clients and readers find that having their own vehicle makes for a much more relaxed vacation.
If you’re planning to rent a car, be sure to check out our exclusive rental car discount. Our readers get 10% off plus free car seats.
Shuttles
If you’re nervous to drive, lots of families choose to take private shuttles. That way, they don’t have to worry about any driving logistics and can just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Shared and private shuttles are available, but most families opt for private shuttles because they’re more convenient. These go door to door from your accommodations or the airport at a time you choose and are for only your family.
We book shuttle transfers all around Costa Rica through a small network of reliable companies that we have been working with for many years. Contact us through our Private Shuttle Booking page if you’d like any help. Learn more about our travel agency.
11. Family-friendly accommodation and dining are readily available
Most hotels and restaurants throughout Costa Rica are well-equipped for kids.
Hotels
Most hotels have portable cribs if you’re traveling with a baby or toddler. Just be sure to request one in advance.
Almost all hotels include a good breakfast, which is really convenient for parents.
Restaurants and Food
Restaurants usually have highchairs for young children. They’re often super cute wooden chairs that are handcrafted in Costa Rica.
Most restaurants in tourist areas have kid-friendly menu options, though they’re usually simpler than what you might be used to back home.
Standard kids’ offerings include chicken or fish fingers with fries, plain pasta, rice and beans, and quesadillas. Traditional Costa Rican dishes like casados (rice, beans, plantains, and a protein) work well for many kids. Sometimes we have just gotten our kids a side of rice and beans with platanos (sweet fried plantains) when they were young.
In more remote areas, dedicated kids’ menus are less common, but restaurants are almost always happy to accommodate.
Make sure your kids try a fresh fruit smoothie (batido). Costa Rica has so many amazing tropical fruits like pineapple, papaya, mango, and even soursop (guanabana). Our kids love these while waiting for food.
12. Vacation rentals can give you extra space and comfort
If you prefer some space from the kids, vacation rentals can be a great option. Hotels with 2-bedroom suites are hard to find here, but luckily, Costa Rica has tons of options for full houses on sites like Airbnb and VRBO.
Our family stays in vacation rentals regularly when traveling – having a living room where adults can hang out after the kids go to bed is a huge plus!
Check out our post on Vacation Rentals for more advice and some important safety tips.
13. Kids usually get a discount on tours
Here’s something that makes family travel in Costa Rica more affordable – most tour companies offer decent discounts for kids!
Children ages 5-11 usually get around 30-50% off the adult rate (it varies by tour company). Kids under 5 are typically free. A few tours offer special student rates for teenagers as well. These discounts can add up when you’re doing multiple activities during your trip.
14. Car seats are not provided for tours
Although car seats are required by law in Costa Rica (see the FAQs below), they are not necessary for tour transfers, so tour companies usually don’t provide them.
If you’d like to use a car seat, you can bring your own and install it in the van (this is what we do). Sometimes it’s easier to just meet the tour guide at the starting location to avoid the issue altogether. If you rent a car with the discount mentioned above, you can get free car seats.
15. Traveling with a baby in Costa Rica is totally possible
Traveling with babies or toddlers in Costa Rica requires some extra planning, but it’s definitely manageable. We traveled a lot with both of our kids when they were babies—doing hikes and tours even at three months old!
Here is a sample of some of the many options for things to do with babies:
Wildlife viewing: Costa Rica has lots of easy nature walks and many lodges have wildlife right on the property so you can enjoy nature without a big excursion.
Beach days: Beaches with calm water like Playa Samara or Playa Hermosa are perfect for introducing babies to the ocean. Morning visits avoid the mid-day heat.
Hot springs: In La Fortuna, many hot spring resorts have shallow, cooler pools where babies can splash around.
Short guided walks: With a good baby carrier, you can enjoy guided nature walks where you’ll spot wildlife (private tours are best so the guide can accommodate your pace).
Chocolate and coffee tours: These tours are very hand-on and casual. They’re also shorter so work well with babies.
For more information on baby travel, read our complete post, Traveling with a Baby in Costa Rica.
Also be sure to check out our Baby Packing List for Costa Rica.
Conclusion
Costa Rica offers families a great mix of nature, adventure, and relaxation. From spotting wildlife to exploring beaches and rainforests, there are plenty of opportunities for kids to experience nature. The country’s family-friendly culture, strong safety record, and variety of accommodations make it ideal for travelers with kids of all ages. Whether this is your first international trip with kids or you’re experienced travelers, Costa Rica has something special to offer your family.
Some of the links in this post are connected to affiliate programs we have joined. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
FAQs About Traveling to Costa Rica with Kids
Is the Caribbean or Pacific coast better for families?
Both coasts have gorgeous beaches and abundant wildlife, but the Pacific coast is generally our recommendation for families, especially for a first-time visit. The Pacific side has more developed tourism infrastructure, a wider range of family-friendly accommodations, and overall lower crime rates.
The Caribbean has its own unique charm and cultural vibe, but the Pacific offers more reliable weather patterns and easier access to other popular destinations.
What are some family-friendly destinations in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica has several destinations that are particularly good for families. These have a nice balance of activities and family-friendly accommodations and are fairly easy to access. Here are our top recommendations:
- La Fortuna: One of the best spots for families. Lush rainforest, abundant wildlife, and attractions like Arenal Volcano, hot springs, and many activities good for kids and teens.
- Manuel Antonio: Easy wildlife viewing in the national park and all around town, plus beautiful beaches for swimming.
- Monteverde: The cloud forest is magical for children, with misty hanging bridges and wildlife exhibits like butterfly gardens and sloth sanctuaries.
- Samara: A relaxed beach town with smaller waves and just enough to do with kids.
- Tamarindo: Livelier destination that’s better for families with teens; great surfing and tons of restaurants.
Are there itinerary options that don’t require a lot of driving?
Yes! Costa Rica’s mountainous terrain can make for some longer drives between destinations, which isn’t always ideal with kids. We recommend focusing on just two destinations for a 7-day trip and choosing locations that are closer together.
Our post on 2 Itineraries that Limit Drive Time gives you options that minimize time in the car while still allowing you to experience the best of Costa Rica.
What is the best Costa Rica itinerary with kids?
There are so many good options!
For a sample family itinerary, read our post, Costa Rica with Kids: A 10-Day Itinerary.
For more general tips on choosing an airport, destinations, and hotels, check out our post, Costa Rica with Kids: Essential Planning Tips.
If you’d like personalized help with your family’s planning, feel free to reach out through our Video Chat Service to schedule a call. We can help you with an itinerary and recommend specific hotels and activities.
What is the best time of year to visit Costa Rica?
For families, the dry season (December through April) offers the most reliable weather, though it’s also the busiest and most expensive time.
Early rainy season (May through end of July) is a great time to visit, with lower prices, fewer crowds, and typically just afternoon/evening showers that won’t disrupt most of your activities.
What are Costa Rica’s car seat requirements?
Car seats are required in Costa Rica for children, though enforcement really varies throughout the country.
By law in Costa Rica, car seats or booster seats are mandatory for kids 12 and under, up to a certain size. For the specific requirements, see our Car Seats in Costa Rica post.
Do I need a notarized letter to travel with a child to Costa Rica?
There are no specific requirements on this, but if only one parent is traveling with a child, it’s a good idea to get a notarized letter of consent from the other parent. This can help avoid potential questions or delays at immigration. While many families travel without issues, having this documentation provides peace of mind.
Have a question about traveling to Costa Rica with kids? Ask us below!
Travel Planning Resources
Entry Requirements
For entry into Costa Rica, you’ll need a passport valid for at least six months past your travel dates. Most visitors from North America and Europe don’t need a visa for stays under 180 days. You should have proof of onward travel (i.e., a return ticket).
For complete details on entry requirements, vaccines, and other essentials, see our comprehensive guide, Traveling to Costa Rica: The Basics.
Driving in Costa Rica
You can drive in Costa Rica on your regular driver’s license from home – no international permit is required.
Roads vary from well-maintained, paved highways to rough dirt so it helps to be prepared. Here are some links to posts with lots more information:
Driving in Costa Rica: General tips about local customs and what to watch out for.
Renting a Car in Costa Rica: Clearing Up the Confusion – Answers common questions about insurance, rates, etc.
Rainy Season Driving in Costa Rica: Tips for visiting from May-November.
Road Conditions of Specific Routes in Costa Rica: Can help you plan your driving itinerary.
Money/Currency
The local currency is the colón, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most businesses. For more information, see our detailed Money Matters post.
Seasons and Weather
Costa Rica has two main seasons: dry season (December through April) and rainy (or “green”) season (May through November). The weather varies by region – the Caribbean coast has its own patterns distinct from the Pacific side. Temperatures stay relatively constant year-round, but rainfall amounts change dramatically.
For lots more guidance, check out our Weather in Costa Rica post. For rainy season conditions, our guide Costa Rica in Rainy Season: How Wet Is It? This gives a month by month breakdown of what you can expect.
Speaking Spanish
While learning some basic Spanish phrases is always appreciated, most visitors don’t speak Spanish and it isn’t a problem. Most people working in tourism speak at least basic English.
For some key phrases, check out our Simple Spanish for Visiting Costa Rica guide.