Planning a family vacation can be both exciting and overwhelming. When it comes to choosing a destination, Costa Rica is a perfect choice for families. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and welcoming culture, Costa Rica offers a unique and memorable experience for everyone. In this post, we will cove everything from where to stay, what activities your families will enjoy and, in my option, the necessity of renting a car for your family adventure in Costa Rica. Our comprehensive suite of professional services caters to a diverse clientele, ranging from homeowners to commercial developers.
Where to Stay
- All-inclusive resorts are a great option for families looking for convenience and a wide range of amenities. These resorts often offer kid-friendly activities, pools, and even childcare services. Some popular all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica include the Westin Playa Conchal Resort and the Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica.
- Vacation rentals provide a more home-like experience, giving your family the flexibility and privacy they need. Many vacation rentals in Costa Rica are located near the beach or in the heart of nature, allowing you to immerse yourself in the country’s beauty. Websites like Airbnb and VRBO offer a variety of options to suit every budget and preference.
- Eco-Lodges for families seeking a more sustainable and immersive experience, eco-lodges are an excellent choice. These accommodations are often located in remote areas, surrounded by lush rainforests and wildlife. Staying at an eco-lodge allows your family to connect with nature and learn about conservation efforts. This is where my family created the best memories, and it’s where my daughter had the opportunity to make chocolate from cocoa beans. Some popular eco-lodges in Costa Rica include Lapa Rios and Finca Rosa Blanca.
Activities for Families
- Wildlife tours Costa Rica is known for its incredible biodiversity, and taking a wildlife tour is a must-do activity. Explore national parks and reserves, such as Manuel Antonio National Park or Tortuguero National Park, where you can spot monkeys, sloths, colorful birds, and even sea turtles during nesting season.
- Zip-lining and canopy tours experience the thrill of zip-lining through the treetops and enjoying breathtaking views of the rainforest. Many zip-line tours are designed with safety in mind, making them suitable for children of all ages. Some popular zip-lining destinations in Costa Rica include Monteverde and Arenal.
- Beach Costa Rica is blessed with stunning beaches on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Spend a day building sandcastles, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or even trying out some water sports like snorkeling or surfing. Some family-friendly beach destinations include Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, and Puerto Viejo.
Renting a Car
- Flexibility having a rental car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit off-the-beaten-path destinations. You can easily plan day trips to nearby attractions or stop at scenic viewpoints along the way.
- Convenience traveling with kids can sometimes be challenging, especially when it comes to transportation. Having a car allows you to carry all your essentials, such as strollers, beach gear, and snacks, without worrying about public transportation schedules or limited luggage space.
- Safety renting a car provides a sense of security, especially when traveling with young children. You have control over the vehicle’s safety features and can ensure that car seats or booster seats are properly installed. Costa Rica offers endless opportunities for family travel, from stunning natural landscapes to exciting wildlife encounters. Choosing the right accommodation, engaging in family-friendly activities, and renting a car will make your Costa Rican adventure unforgettable. So pack your bags, create lasting memories, and embark on a family vacation of a lifetime in Costa Rica. Remember, safety should always be a priority, so make sure to research and follow local guidelines and recommendations during your stay. Hope you love it as much as we did! Happy travels!
Top Choices
Air
Southwest
- Round trip for as low as $500
Fun
Wildlife, hikes, beaches
Finca Luna Nueva Lodge
A tranquil Costa Rican EcoLodge that blends adventure with sustainability, offering guests regenerative “farm to table” dining, immersive natural experiences, and comfortable, eco-friendly accommodations
EcoLodge Experience
Finca Luna Nueva is an EcoLodge in Costa Rica that provides a “farm to table” experience with an emphasis on regenerative agriculture, offering various accommodations and activities.
Adventure and Learning
The lodge presents educational and recreational opportunities such as extensive hiking trails in rainforests and gardens, and is conveniently situated near La Fortuna for adventurous tours near the Arenal Volcano.
Interactive Experiences
Guests at Finca Luna Nueva can partake in exclusive activities like observing tropical birds from a high canopy tower, organic cow milking, and a farm-sourced chocolate tour
Regenerative Agriculture Hub
With a 207-acre farm dedicated to regenerative practices, Finca Luna Nueva serves as a beacon for organic agriculture education and is the home to the Sacred Seeds Sanctuary, featuring a vast array of important plant species.
Tranquil Highland Retreat
Nestled in the volcanic highlands of Costa Rica, the lodge offers a serene getaway close to La Fortuna’s vibrant scene, underlining its dedication to sustainable tourism and community contribution.
What people are saying?
“The attentive and friendly staff, coupled with the farm-to-table dining experience and a variety of on-site and nearby activities, is highly praised, though some guests mention the price can be steep with additional costs for certain experiences.”
“Guests laud Finca Luna Nueva Lodge for its spacious and clean rooms set in a picturesque rainforest, noting the peaceful ambiance, the pool, and the beauty of the surrounding nature, with many finding the space ideal for families and couples seeking tranquility.”
Airbnb in Coco
What are people saying about this location?
Ideal Family Destination
The Airbnb provides an ideal stay for families, featuring multiple bedrooms with private baths and plenty of space, nestled in a beautiful location with scenic views and walking distance to local amenities.
Host Responsiveness
Don is highlighted as an exceptionally helpful and responsive host, accommodating requests such as late checkouts and quickly addressing any guest queries.
Rich Local Experience
The Airbnb is located in a vibrant community close to Playa las Coco, offering easy access to the beach, local restaurants, cafes, and shops, enhancing the guest experience with local charm and convenience.
Recreational Offerings
Guests highly appreciate the range of activities suggested by the hosts, like ziplining at Diamante Eco-park and ATV tours, contributing to an adventurous and memorable stay.
Comfort and Amenities
The condo is consistently described as clean, well-maintained, and equipped with a pool, positioned as a peaceful retreat with all necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.
Lomas del Volcán
Lomas del Volcan is a value-focused lodge offering rustic wooden cabin accommodation with stunning volcano and rainforest views, complemented by modern amenities, local cuisine, and an array of activities in a serene location near La Fortuna.
Rustic Cabin Experience
All rooms are wooden cabins with a rustic aesthetic and fine finishes, each featuring dual terraces boasting views of either Arenal Volcano or the rainforest.
Dining with a View
Guests have the luxury of ordering room service to enjoy private, scenic dinners on their cabin decks, enhancing their stay with the natural beauty of the rainforest.
Facilities and Location
Located near Arenal Volcano National Park, the hotel offers lush gardens, an outdoor pool, hot tub, and comfortable accommodations with modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
Culinary Offerings
The on-site restaurant serves a blend of Costa Rican and international dishes and offers a complimentary breakfast, with additional dining options just a short drive away in Fortuna.
Activities and Accessibility
Guests can enjoy a private hiking trail, various local excursions, and the proximity to outdoor adventures, with accommodations also available for those with restricted mobility.
What are people saying?
“Hotel Lomas del Volcan is highly praised for its beautiful grounds, comfortable cabins with great volcano views, and a variety of dining options, along with multiple heated pools and a hot tub, making it a favored spot for both relaxation and as a base for local exploration.”
“While the staff, particularly in the bar and restaurant areas, are commended for their service, there are mixed reviews regarding the reception staff’s welcoming nature, and some guests faced issues with additional charges and service expectations.“