Things to do in Costa Rica

4 destinations in Costa Rica, when to visit each, and what a trip actually costs.

Places to visit in Costa Rica

When flights to each destination are cheapest.

Jaco: The cheapest flights to SJO fall in May, June, and late September through early November (green/rainy season), when fares can run 25-40% below December-January peak. Flying mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) saves an additional 10-15% versus weekend departures.
La Fortuna: Flying into SJO is cheapest during the green (rainy) season shoulder months of May, June, and late October-November, with fares running 20-35% below December-January peak; Tuesday and Wednesday departures consistently yield the lowest prices year-round.
San Jose: Flying to San Jose in January through early March or in September offers the lowest fares, often 25-40% cheaper than summer peak travel in June and July. Mid-week departures (Tuesday/Wednesday) on Southwest or Alaska can shave an additional $40-80 off round-trip prices compared to Friday or Sunday flights.
Tamarindo: Flying into Liberia (LIR) during the green/rainy season shoulder months of May and early June or late October to early November can save 25-40% versus peak dry-season fares (December-April). Midweek departures on Tuesday or Wednesday consistently undercut weekend pricing by another 10-15%.

A day on the ground for one person travelling alone, before flights: somewhere to sleep, food, something to do and getting around.

Set your dates, budget and home airport on any destination below for a total that includes flights.

Jaco: Sunset Walk on Jaco Beach The wide beach is public, uncrowded at dusk, and the sunsets over the Pacific are spectacular.
Jaco: Crocodile Bridge at Río Tárcoles Pull off the highway and peer over the railing at enormous wild crocodiles below-no entrance fee.
La Fortuna: Stroll La Fortuna Town Square Watch locals, visit the church, and soak up the laid-back Tico atmosphere at no cost.
La Fortuna: Baldi Hot Springs Free River Soak Find natural thermal channels near the resort area where warm volcanic water flows freely into the river.
San Jose: Guadalupe River Trail A scenic urban trail running through downtown, perfect for jogging, cycling, or a peaceful riverside walk
San Jose: Plaza de César Chávez San Jose's central park hosts free concerts, farmers markets, and festivals throughout the year

Soda Garabito in Jaco, Casado with chicken (rice, beans, salad, plantains) Plates $4-7
El Barco de Mariscos in Jaco, Ceviche and whole fried fish Plates $6-10
Soda Viquez in La Fortuna, Casado (rice, beans, plantains, meat) Plates $5-8
Rancho La Cascada in La Fortuna, Gallo pinto with eggs and natilla cream Plates $4-7
Pho Tau Bay in San Jose, Large bowl of beef pho with all the fixings Plates $10-14
La Victoria Taqueria in San Jose, Super burrito smothered in their legendary orange sauce Plates $8-13