8-Day Costa Rica Itinerary: Adventure and Family Fun
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When we were planning our eight-day trip to Costa Rica, I wanted something that combined adventure, nature, and some down time. After all, we were traveling with kids, and we wanted to see as much as we could without feeling rushed. If this is your first time heading to Central America, Costa Rica is a great place to start. It’s safe, family-friendly, and full of unforgettable experiences—from lush rainforests to stunning coastlines, curious howler monkeys, and that famous volcano you’ve seen in all the travel photos.
Below is our detailed 8-day Costa Rica itinerary, with plenty of tips, activities, and links to help you plan your own unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in San José
We landed at Juan Santamaría International Airport in the late afternoon after a smooth flight and breezed through customs faster than expected. From there, it was a quick 25-minute drive into San José, Costa Rica’s capital and the hub for most international arrivals and departures. We’d booked a small boutique hotel close to the city center—nothing fancy, but clean, welcoming, and just what we needed after a travel day.
Since it was the first day of our 8-day trip, we didn’t overplan. We took a short walk around the neighborhood to stretch our legs and get a first glimpse of Costa Rica’s vibe—lively streets, colorful murals, and plenty of parks for the kids to burn off some energy. We ended the day with a welcome dinner at a cozy local restaurant just around the corner. The staff were incredibly kind to our kids and recommended a few Costa Rican dishes we’d never heard of. (The arroz con pollo was a hit.)
If your arrival is earlier in the day or you’re staying a full night in San José, it’s worth checking out some of the city’s cultural spots. The National Museum, housed in a former military barracks, offers a great introduction to Costa Rica’s history. There's also the Jade Museum and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, both of which are surprisingly kid-friendly and not too overwhelming.
Travel tip: San José is a practical and smart starting point for most Costa Rica travel itineraries. If you’re planning to explore the country on your own, you can arrange private shuttles—but we opted to rent a car right from the airport. In our experience, having your own rental car is the best option for families. It gave us flexibility to stop when we wanted, visit more remote spots, and explore at our own pace.
Just be prepared: driving in Costa Rica isn’t quite like home. Some roads, especially in the mountains and rural areas, are narrow or unpaved. Dirt roads and unexpected potholes are part of the experience. But with a good GPS (and a bit of patience), the drives were totally manageable and even fun—plus, the scenic views more than make up for any bumps along the way.
➡️ Click here to check rental car rates in Costa Rica
➡️ Want to stay connected on the go? Grab an easy eSIM before you land
Day 2: Scenic Drive to La Fortuna
The next morning, after a hearty breakfast and some strong Costa Rican coffee, we loaded up the car and began the scenic drive to La Fortuna. It took us about three hours with a few roadside stops—there’s just something about driving past rolling hills, lush vegetation, and the occasional roadside fruit stand that makes you want to slow down and take it all in. The road is mostly paved and easy to follow, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself winding through foggy mountain passes or navigating around the occasional pothole.
As we approached La Fortuna, the iconic shape of Arenal Volcano came into view. It’s one of Costa Rica’s most famous volcanoes, and even though it’s currently in a resting phase, it still feels awe-inspiring. The town itself is lively but not chaotic, with a mix of backpackers, families, and nature lovers all buzzing around cafés and adventure tour offices. We stayed just outside of town at a comfortable eco-lodge with front-row views of the volcano right from our room’s hammock. Watching the clouds roll across its peak was a daily ritual we didn’t know we needed.
That afternoon, we headed to one of La Fortuna’s luxurious thermal spa resorts for a soak in the natural hot springs. This was hands-down one of the highlights of the entire trip. The hot springs are naturally heated by the geothermal energy from the volcano, and many resorts in the area have built serene pools of varying temperatures surrounded by gardens and flowing waterfalls. The kids loved the warm water and even found a couple of water slides tucked into the rock features, while we got to relax under the stars with a cocktail in hand. It was the perfect way to unwind after a travel-heavy day.
Don’t miss while in the La Fortuna area:
Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges: This was one of the most impressive guided tours we’ve done in Costa Rica. The trails are well maintained and cross multiple suspension bridges that float above the forest canopy, offering incredible views of the jungle below. Our guide pointed out everything from camouflaged tree frogs to howler monkeys swinging through the trees. It's perfect for all ages, though be prepared for a couple of short uphill climbs.
➡️ Book the Hanging Bridges tour hereLa Fortuna Waterfall: We visited first thing in the morning before the parking lot filled up, and I’m so glad we did. After paying the entrance fee, it’s a steep staircase descent through the rainforest—totally doable for kids who can handle a few hundred stairs. Once at the bottom, the reward is a roaring 70-meter waterfall crashing into a jade-green pool surrounded by rock and lush rainforest. You can wade in the shallows or just admire the natural beauty from the viewing platform.
➡️ See La Fortuna waterfall tour options
If you have more time in the area, there are plenty of additional adventures to choose from, including zip lines, canyoning, chocolate-making tours, and visits to Lake Arenal. The La Fortuna area is packed with things to do, and it’s easy to spend several full days here without getting bored.
Day 3: Full Day in Arenal
We had a full day to explore the La Fortuna area, and trust me—it wasn’t nearly enough. There’s just so much to do here for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. We booked a family-friendly guided tour that packed in several unforgettable adventures while keeping the pace manageable for kids.
Our morning kicked off with zip lines through the forest canopy. Now, I’ll admit, I was a little nervous watching my youngest step into a harness, but the guides were incredible—patient, reassuring, and clearly experienced with families. Soaring over the treetops with Arenal Volcano in the background was an unforgettable experience, and hearing the laughter (and squeals) echo through the trees is something I’ll never forget.
Next up was horseback riding along scenic trails that wound through open fields, rainforest patches, and hills with postcard-worthy views of Lake Arenal and the volcano. The horses were calm and well cared for, and the ride was gentle enough that even beginners felt comfortable. It was such a peaceful way to experience the area’s natural beauty.
By late morning, we entered Arenal Volcano National Park for a guided walk through the park’s trails. The landscape changes dramatically within just a few kilometers—from hardened lava fields left by past eruptions to dense jungle buzzing with birds, insects, and hidden wildlife. The guide helped the kids spot camouflaged lizards, colorful birds, and taught us about the volcano’s fascinating history as one of the most active in Costa Rica. The combination of nature, geology, and wildlife made it feel like a living science class in the best way possible.
Pro tip: After all that activity, we were starving, and our guide recommended a local restaurant just outside the park that served one of the best meals of the trip. We ordered casados—a traditional Costa Rican plate that usually includes rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a protein like chicken or beef. The kids surprised us by trying (and loving) everything, especially the sweet fried plantains and fresh fruit juice. It was hearty, simple, and full of flavor—exactly what we needed after a busy morning.
If you’re building your own Costa Rica travel itinerary, I’d say plan for at least two full days in the La Fortuna area. Between the thermal springs, suspension bridges, zip lines, wildlife tours, and epic views, it truly has something for every traveler—and every age group.
Day 4: Cloud Forest Magic in Monteverde
It was a bit of a long drive—about 3.5 hours—from La Fortuna to Monteverde, and much of it involved winding mountain roads and the kind of scenic views that make you want to pull over every 10 minutes. We passed rolling hills, lush rainforests, mist-covered valleys, and, yes, a few dirt roads that made us grateful for our rental car’s higher clearance. It wasn’t the fastest leg of our Costa Rica travel itinerary, but it was definitely one of the most beautiful.
As we climbed in elevation, the landscape changed dramatically. The warm tropical air gave way to cool mist, and the dense rainforests transitioned into the unique ecosystem of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. It honestly felt like we’d crossed into another country. The air was crisp, the trees were draped in moss and epiphytes, and everything seemed just a little quieter—except for the birds.
Monteverde is known as one of the world’s best bird-watching destinations, and even our kids, who are usually more into monkeys than macaws, were fascinated by what we saw. With over 400 species of birds in the region, including the elusive resplendent quetzal, this is a wildlife reserve where binoculars are a must.
We stayed in a small eco-lodge just outside of town, surrounded by lush vegetation and the sounds of nature. It was rustic but cozy, and waking up to the cloud forest mist curling around our windows felt downright magical.
What we loved:
The suspension bridges through the forest canopy. These hanging walkways gave us a totally new perspective on the cloud forest. It’s one thing to hike among the trees—it’s another to walk above them and see toucans and butterflies gliding just below your feet. The bridges were safe and sturdy, and we took our time crossing each one, soaking up the views and peering down at the dense greenery.
Spotting colorful birds and learning about the biological reserve. We joined a daytime guided tour through the reserve, and our guide was incredibly passionate (and patient). He helped the kids spot hummingbirds, learned the difference between a sloth’s slow movements and a coati’s scurry, and explained how Monteverde’s unique location between the Caribbean coast and Pacific Ocean creates one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world.
Our guided night walk—super cool for nature lovers. This might have been our favorite part of the Monteverde experience. Equipped with flashlights and led by a local expert, we ventured into the forest after dark. The kids were a little nervous at first, but that quickly turned to excitement as we spotted glowing fungi, tarantulas, sleeping birds, and a kinkajou up in the trees. It felt like stepping into a different world.
➡️ Check out Monteverde night tour options
If you’re planning an 8-day tour of Costa Rica, definitely carve out time for Monteverde. It’s cooler, quieter, and completely different from the beach towns or hot springs—and that contrast is part of what makes it so special. For families, it’s also a great chance to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty and delicate ecosystems that make Costa Rica such a great place to explore.
Day 5: Pacific Coast Bound – Playa Hermosa
After our nature-packed adventures in Monteverde, we were ready for a little downtime. We continued our journey toward the Pacific Ocean, making our way to Playa Hermosa, a peaceful beach town tucked into a cove along Costa Rica’s Gold Coast. Once a small fishing village, it’s now a hidden gem with a reputation for being quieter than some of the more developed neighboring beaches—ideal for families like ours looking to unwind.
We arrived in the late afternoon, just in time to catch the sun beginning its descent. The kids made a beeline for the hotel pool, which, to their delight, featured not just one but multiple water slides. After days filled with hikes and long drives, letting them burn off energy in the pool while we kicked back with a cold drink was exactly what we needed.
Later, we strolled down to the beach. Playa Hermosa lives up to its name—calm waves, soft sand, and a postcard-worthy view of the sun setting over the Pacific coast. The beach never felt crowded, and the atmosphere was relaxed in that wonderfully Costa Rican way: hammocks strung between palm trees, friendly locals fishing from the rocks, and the occasional iguana meandering by.
Day 6: A Full Beach Day + Optional Adventures
We decided to spend another day in Playa Hermosa to rest and recharge mid-way through our eight-day trip. For those who need to move, there are guided tours that leave from the area for snorkeling, sailing, jet skiing, or even scuba diving at nearby dive sites. But we kept it low-key with a leisurely morning on the beach and a long lunch at a local restaurant serving up fresh seafood and smoothies.
For a fun family-friendly outing, we joined a sunset catamaran cruise that afternoon—complete with snorkeling stops, open water swimming, and the chance to see dolphins or sea turtles if you’re lucky. Watching the sky turn fiery orange as we drifted along the coast was pure magic.
➡️ Check Playa Hermosa boat tour options
Day 7: Wildlife Encounters in Manuel Antonio
Refreshed and beach-happy, we continued down the Pacific coast to Manuel Antonio, a vibrant beach town nestled next to one of Costa Rica’s most iconic parks. The drive took us about 4.5 hours with a break or two, and while it was a bit of a long drive, the views and roadside fruit stands made it enjoyable.
Manuel Antonio National Park was, without a doubt, one of the highlights of our 8-day Costa Rica itinerary. Known for its abundant wildlife and lush rainforests, it’s a dream for families and nature lovers alike. We arrived first thing in the morning—smart move, because the parking lot and park entrance fill up fast, especially in high season.
We booked a guided tour, which turned out to be one of the best decisions of the entire trip. Our guide brought along a spotting scope and pointed out everything from tiny bats tucked under leaves to howler monkeys, three-toed sloths, toucans, and even a basilisk lizard (aka the Jesus Christ lizard—because it runs on water!). Without the guide, we probably would’ve missed 90% of it.
After the walk, we spent the rest of the morning relaxing on the park’s internal beach, which has calm waves, warm water, and the surreal experience of swimming with monkeys watching from the trees behind you.
➡️ Book a guided Manuel Antonio Park tour
Day 8: Beach Time + End of the Tour
For our final full day, we stayed local and made the most of Manuel Antonio’s beaches. We returned to the public beach just outside the park entrance—lively, beautiful, and lined with little restaurants and vendors selling cold drinks, boogie boards, and souvenirs. The kids spent hours in the waves, while we soaked up the last of the sun under rented umbrellas.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can opt for a horseback riding tour through the nearby hills or a zip line canopy tour through the surrounding rainforest. There’s also a charming wildlife reserve nearby that focuses on animal rescue and rehabilitation, offering a more intimate look at Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity.
Travel tip: Since this was the end of the tour, we made sure to confirm our drive time back to San José for our return flight out of San Jose International Airport. Depending on traffic, it can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours, so plan accordingly—and maybe book a hotel near the airport for your final night if you have an early flight.
And a final reminder: don’t forget travel insurance. From zip lines to boat rides to a bout of traveler’s tummy, it gave us real peace of mind knowing we were covered—especially with kids in tow.
➡️ Get a quote for family-friendly travel insurance here
End of the Tour: Back to San José
We wrapped up the trip with a relaxed drive back to San José. If you have extra time before flying out of San Jose International Airport, consider visiting a local market or stopping for one last Costa Rican coffee.
Final Costa Rica Travel Tips
Rent a Car: Having a rental car in Costa Rica is a game-changer. I always use Discover Cars—they make it simple to find great rates and reliable vehicles, giving my family the flexibility to explore more freely.
Stay Connected with an E-Sim: Staying connected while exploring Costa Rica is crucial, especially for maps and reservations. My go-to solution is HolaFly E-Sim. It’s easy to set up and ensures you have internet access wherever your adventures take you.
Don’t Skip Travel Insurance: Costa Rica is very safe, but I always recommend getting travel insurance for peace of mind. SafetyWing offers affordable coverage ideal for adventurous families, ensuring you're protected from unexpected situations.
Book Some Tours: Having an experienced guide to point out wildlife and help you navigate the best spots really elevates the experience. I use Get Your Guide for all my tour bookings.
Best time to visit: The dry season (December to April) is popular, but we went during the rainy season and loved how green everything was.
Group size: We traveled as a family of four, but this itinerary would also work for small groups or extended families.
8-day Costa Rica tours vs. DIY: There are some fantastic 8-day tours available if you prefer not to drive. But for us, the flexibility of having our own rental car made all the difference.
First time in Costa Rica? Expect dirt roads, a laid-back vibe, and abundant wildlife everywhere you look.
This 8-day Costa Rica itinerary was the perfect mix of unforgettable adventures and chill family time. You can also check out our 10-Day Costa Rica Itinerary. From the forest canopy of Monteverde to the coral reefs of Cahuita, every day brought something new. Whether you’re into zip lines, sea turtles, or just a beautiful beach, Costa Rica is the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.
