The regions of Costa Rica offer an incredible diversity of experiences, from wildlife-rich rainforests and indigenous communities to pristine beaches, marine reserves and remote wetlands. Although Costa Rica is one of the smaller countries in Latin America, each destination has its own distinct character, making it possible to experience a remarkable variety of landscapes, cultures and wildlife within a single holiday.
Having travelled extensively throughout the country, Product Executive Oliver Pryse has explored some of the most rewarding regions of Costa Rica, uncovering memorable experiences, exceptional hotels and lesser-known destinations along the way. Here, he shares some of his personal highlights to help inspire your next Costa Rica adventure.
Manuel Antonio: Wildlife, rainforest and Pacific views
Among the most popular regions of Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio perfectly captures the country's appeal. Combining tropical rainforest, abundant wildlife and beautiful Pacific beaches, it is a destination that appeals to nature lovers, families and honeymooners alike.
One of Oliver's standout recommendations is a visit to Kids Saving the Rainforest, a respected wildlife sanctuary dedicated to protecting and rehabilitating native species from Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. Verified by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the sanctuary provides a fascinating opportunity to learn more about Costa Rica's wildlife and conservation efforts while supporting an important local initiative.
The wider Manuel Antonio area also offers excellent opportunities to spot monkeys, sloths, colourful birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat, often against a backdrop of lush rainforest and ocean views.
Where to stay
Parador Resort & Spa
Set on a promontory overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Parador Resort & Spa is surrounded by 12 acres of wildlife-rich rainforest. The property features its own monkey trails, extensive facilities and a wide range of accommodation options, making it an excellent choice for couples, families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Arenas del Mar
One of the few luxury beachfront resorts in Manuel Antonio, Arenas del Mar combines direct beach access with a rainforest setting. Guests can enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities while remaining close to Manuel Antonio National Park, making it an ideal choice for travellers looking to balance nature, relaxation and luxury.
Puerto Viejo: Caribbean culture and indigenous traditions
The Caribbean coast is one of the most distinctive regions of Costa Rica, offering a completely different atmosphere to the Pacific side of the country.
Puerto Viejo is known for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae influences, colourful communities and laid-back coastal lifestyle. It is also home to the Bribri people, Costa Rica's largest indigenous group.
Oliver recommends spending time learning about Bribri traditions and their deep connection to cacao. Within Bribri culture, cacao is considered a precious gift, closely linked to their spiritual beliefs and history. Visitors can gain valuable insight into traditional chocolate-making and discover more about the customs that continue to shape the community today.
Explore Cahuita National Park
Another highlight of the region is Cahuita National Park, home to Costa Rica's largest coral reef system. The park combines beautiful Caribbean beaches with rainforest trails that are often alive with monkeys, sloths, poison dart frogs and an array of tropical birdlife.
Where to stay
Hotel Aguas Claras
Nestled within lush tropical gardens, this ocean-side property combines traditional plantation-style architecture with contemporary design. Its intimate atmosphere and beach access make it a fantastic choice for couples and honeymooners.
aWa Beachfront Hotel
This boutique adults-only property sits where the jungle meets the ocean, creating a peaceful and stylish retreat along Costa Rica's Caribbean coast.
Uvita de Osa: Marine wildlife and spectacular coastline
For travellers interested in marine life and unspoilt scenery, Uvita is one of the most rewarding regions of Costa Rica.
Located on the southern Pacific coast, the area is best known for Marino Ballena National Park, one of Costa Rica's most distinctive coastal reserves. The park is named after the humpback whales that migrate through its waters each year and is famous for the whale-tail-shaped sandbar at Punta Uvita.
Depending on the time of year, visitors may have the opportunity to witness humpback whales breaching offshore, while Pacific spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles and numerous seabirds are also regularly seen.
During the dry season, excellent water visibility creates ideal conditions for snorkelling around Whale Island and the Whale Tail, where colourful reef fish and marine life can often be observed.
Where to stay
La Cusinga Lodge
Located within a private reserve, La Cusinga Lodge combines rainforest surroundings with panoramic ocean views. Guests can enjoy access to sandy beaches, natural pools and outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities.
Hotel Three Sixty
Built within a 58-acre rainforest reserve overlooking the Pacific coastline, this adults-only retreat offers privacy, luxury and spectacular views across rainforest and ocean. Its elevated position creates a peaceful setting while remaining within easy reach of Marino Ballena National Park and the wider Uvita area.
Tamarindo: Surf, beaches and family-friendly escapes
Located on Costa Rica's north Pacific coast, Tamarindo remains one of the most popular regions of Costa Rica for beach lovers and active travellers.
The town offers a lively atmosphere, beautiful coastline and a fantastic range of outdoor activities. For those new to surfing, Tamarindo is one of the country's best places to learn. Consistent waves and experienced local instructors make it ideal for first-time surfers looking to experience one of Costa Rica's most popular pastimes.
Explore Las Baulas National Park
Just north of town lies Las Baulas National Park, a protected area renowned for its leatherback turtles, mangrove ecosystems and quieter stretches of coastline. It provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the region's natural beauty away from the town's bustling beaches.
Where to stay
The Westin Reserva Conchal
This extensive all-inclusive resort offers a wide range of accommodation, dining and activity options, making it particularly well suited to families seeking convenience alongside beautiful coastal surroundings.
Capitán Suizo
Family-owned and operated, Capitán Suizo enjoys a prime location directly on Tamarindo Beach, one of Costa Rica's best beaches for swimming and surfing. Guests can easily walk into town to enjoy Tamarindo's restaurants and shops while still benefiting from a peaceful beachfront setting.
Caño Negro: A hidden haven for wildlife
Some of the lesser-known regions of Costa Rica often provide the most memorable wildlife encounters, and Caño Negro is a perfect example.
Located in the northern lowlands near the Nicaraguan border, this remote wetland region feels a world away from Costa Rica's more established tourist destinations. At its heart lies the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, centred around the Río Frío and a vast seasonal lagoon.
The changing landscape creates ideal conditions for an astonishing variety of wildlife. Birdwatchers may spot herons, roseate spoonbills, kingfishers, anhingas and the impressive jabiru stork, while caimans, turtles, monkeys and sloths can often be seen along the riverbanks.
Where to stay
Tocu Tent Camp
Located within Hacienda Caño Negro Natural Reserve, Tocu Tent Camp offers an immersive nature experience alongside luxury accommodation. Guests can explore private forest trails, discover the area's biodiversity and learn more about the sustainable farming and ranching practices that form part of life at the reserve.
Isla Jesusita: An island escape in the Gulf of Nicoya
Among the most unique regions of Costa Rica featured in Oliver's recommendations is Isla Jesusita, a tiny island located within the Gulf of Nicoya.
This peaceful island retreat offers a different perspective on Costa Rica, where visitors can slow down and connect with nature while enjoying a variety of land and sea-based experiences. Activities include birdwatching, snorkelling, island hopping, forest bathing hikes and even bioluminescence excursions after dark.
Where to stay
Isla Chiquita Glamping Hotel
Perched on Isla Jesusita, this distinctive property combines comfort with adventure. Surrounded by the calm waters of the Gulf of Nicoya, it provides a memorable base for exploring one of Costa Rica's most unusual and rewarding destinations.
Discovering the regions of Costa Rica
What makes the regions of Costa Rica so rewarding is their remarkable diversity. From the wildlife-rich rainforests of Manuel Antonio and the Caribbean culture of Puerto Viejo to the marine wonders of Uvita, the surf beaches of Tamarindo and the remote wetlands of Caño Negro, each destination offers a completely different experience.
Exploring multiple regions of Costa Rica allows travellers to appreciate the country's extraordinary biodiversity, varied landscapes and welcoming culture. Whether you're seeking wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, relaxation or adventure, these destinations showcase why Costa Rica continues to be one of Latin America's most captivating travel destinations.
