pura vida passENES

Things to do in Central Pacific

96 places and 100 secret spots in Central Pacific, with start times, how long each takes, prices as published and practical tips.

Food & Coffee

  • Agua AzulFood & CoffeeOpen-air restaurant on the upper floor above Hotel Villas El Parque with a wide Pacific view, known for seafood and for sunsets over the water.
  • Ballena BistroFood & CoffeeA popular bistro on Highway 34 in Ballena, a little south of Uvita, inside the 'Goathouse' building, cooking the same reliable food for more than a decade: tuna poke bowls, mahi-mahi sandwiches, coconut-mango curry and homemade ice cream, with vegan and gluten-free choices.
  • Bar & Restaurante Los LaurelesFood & CoffeeA long-standing, family-run favorite on Calle Uvita (the inland road with the BCR bank on the corner), loved by locals and expats for chifrijo, patacones, fish tacos, nachos and burgers.
  • Barba RojaFood & CoffeeBar and restaurant on the Manuel Antonio road with a broad view down the coast; macaws often fly past at sunset.
  • Cafe Mono CongoFood & CoffeeRiverside cafe at Pueblo del Río in Dominical with strong coffee, an in-house bakery, breakfast quesadillas, paninis and smoothies, plenty of vegan and gluten-free options and a back deck facing the river.
  • Chicharronera y Marisquería ChepeFood & CoffeeFamily-run chicharronera and seafood spot on the Costanera in Parrita: whole fried fish, ceviche and chicharrón, and owners happy to give trip tips.
  • Chocolate Tour Manuel AntonioFood & Coffee · from $45A two-hour farm experience in a private jungle preserve about 15 minutes from Manuel Antonio: cacao from pod to chocolate, a coffee garden with a roaster, and an old sugar cane trapiche, with tastings and an optional lunch.
  • Citrus RestauranteFood & CoffeeChef-run creative cuisine in Plaza Tangara, Ojochal, with a modern dining room and a menu built around local seafood, crispy pork belly and house cocktails.
  • Club PocaresFood & CoffeeSimple local bar in the palm-plantation village of Pocares, between Parrita and Quepos, with a big reputation for ceviche made fresh to order.
  • Crustáceo ParriteñoFood & CoffeeFamily-friendly seafood restaurant in Parrita with a dedicated kids area, generous portions and fair prices.
  • Del Mar Taco ShopFood & CoffeeA super casual outdoor taco and burrito spot just off the main beach in Dominical, at the south end of town near the police station.
  • El AviónFood & CoffeeFamous hilltop restaurant built around a Fairchild C-123 cargo plane, with a bar in the fuselage and sunset views over the ocean and jungle, about 150 m above the beach.
  • El LagartoFood & CoffeeWood-fired grill house where meat and seafood are cooked over open flames in front of you, with sunset views from the dining room.
  • El Patio de Café MilagroFood & CoffeeGarden restaurant and bar from the Café Milagro roasters, in the middle of Manuel Antonio: breakfasts with their own coffee, fish tacos and ceviche for lunch, and live music most evenings.
  • El RanchitoFood & CoffeeRestaurant in El Cerro, on the road from Quepos up to Manuel Antonio, known for fresh catch of the day, friendly service and macaws that drop by.
  • Emilio's CafeFood & CoffeeHillside cafe at the turn-off to Hotel Parador with a top deck looking over the ocean: big breakfasts, Mediterranean and Indian-leaning plates, fresh fish and famous homemade cakes.
  • Five MaesFood & CoffeeA local-favorite burger and wings joint on the Costanera in Uvita's Plaza Pacific Pools building, just south of the Marino Ballena entrance road: custom burgers, wings, poutine and milkshakes, dine in or take away.
  • Fuego Brew Co.Food & CoffeeTreehouse-style craft brewery in Dominical where the Barú river meets the Pacific: house beers such as mango IPA, cocktails, coffee and a kitchen serving Baja tacos and ceviche, with parrots and iguanas around the open-air bar.
  • Gusto Italian Restaurant (Ranchos Remo)Food & CoffeeAuthentic Italian food high on the hill above Playa Hermosa, about five minutes north of Uvita, with a stunning ocean view: pizza, homemade pasta and gnocchi, beef tenderloin and grilled fish.
  • Heliconia RestauranteFood & CoffeeA jungle restaurant in Ojochal set on the bank of a small river, with trees growing right through the patio and capuchin monkeys sometimes watching the lunch crowd.
  • Indómitos Café & BarFood & CoffeeUvita's go-to for vegans and vegetarians, on Calle Uvita: veggie burgers, burritos with soy meat, tofu salads and seitan tacos, with house-made sauces and rolls — the garlic vegenaise on the Beyond Burger is the star.
  • Jiuberth'sFood & CoffeeLocal seafood house on the hill above Quepos with a jungle view, art on the walls and huge seafood platters; a favorite for ceviche.
  • La Choza de AlejoFood & CoffeeA big, airy Tex-Mex restaurant in Uvita, down the road from the Maxi Pali supermarket, with huge, nicely plated portions — tacos, burritos, chalupas, fajitas, enchiladas — and a 'museum bar' of tequilas and mezcals.
  • La Iguana Chocolate (bean-to-bar farm tour, Mastatal)Food & CoffeeA small family cacao farm in the mountains of Mastatal making organic bean-to-bar chocolate.
  • La Junta DominicalFood & CoffeeLaid-back bar and kitchen across from the soccer field in Dominical: organic and locally sourced food with tuna ceviche, birria tacos and burgers, craft beer, cocktails, live music and a few boutique cabinas.
  • La Langosta FelizFood & CoffeeRoadside seafood restaurant in Matapalo, on the Quepos-Dominical highway, popular with locals and travelers for shrimp ceviche, tuna steak and sushi, with a relaxed but tidy setting where kids are welcome.
  • La Panera PanaderíaFood & CoffeeLocal bakery-cafe in central Quepos that opens early (fishing crews stop here before heading out): fresh bread, empanadas, casados, fresh orange juice and good coffee.
  • La ParcelaFood & CoffeeA restaurant on a rocky point between Dominical and Dominicalito with the ocean on both sides — the view is the reason to come.
  • La Terraza Café Bar RestauranteFood & CoffeeTerrace restaurant next to Hotel La Arboleda with a wide Pacific view; best known as a sunset spot.
  • Mica Linda Bar & RestaurantFood & CoffeeA small open-air bar and restaurant at the water's edge next to the boat launch for Isla Garza, south of Ojochal.
  • Morpho Beach BarFood & CoffeeOpen-air beach bar and restaurant steps from Playa Espadilla near the park entrance, with live music and salsa nights; howler monkeys and birds in the trees around.
  • Panadería AguilarFood & CoffeeTraditional bakery in downtown Parrita, across from Banco de Costa Rica, for coffee, cakes with dulce de leche and sandwiches to go; opens at 5 am.
  • Phat NoodleFood & CoffeeA long-time Dominical favorite for Asian-inspired food in a quirky outdoor space where the kitchen sits inside an old school bus: pad thai, curry bowls, sesame tuna steak and lettuce wraps.
  • Que Tuanis CaféFood & CoffeeA laid-back café in the center of Bahía Ballena, across from the soccer field and run by local women: Costa Rican breakfasts and plates plus burritos, burgers and wraps, coffee and ice cream.
  • Rancho LeónFood & CoffeeRoadside rancho on the Costanera at Paquita, just north of Quepos, known for its ceviche and typical food; also rents rooms and hosts parties.
  • Restaurante ExóticaFood & CoffeeOpen-air fine dining under a thatched roof in the Ojochal jungle since 1998: French technique with Asian, Polynesian and Mediterranean touches, from sea bass carpaccio to duck breast and a chocolate dessert.
  • Restaurante La Cuchara de la RanaFood & CoffeeTiny family-run restaurant in central Quepos where chef Alex and Silvia cook casados, burritos and plates with house salsa at fair prices.
  • Restaurante Los PilonesFood & CoffeeLarge family restaurant in Parrita, on the way between Jacó and Quepos, with seafood, steaks, pizzas and cocktails.
  • Restaurante Marlin (Playa Espadilla)Food & CoffeeBeachfront restaurant facing Playa Espadilla, known for grilled calamari, octopus, whole fried fish and fish casados at fair prices, with cold beer and piña coladas and a relaxed family atmosphere.
  • Restaurante ScalaFood & CoffeeHilltop restaurant in Escaleras with a wide view over the coast, between Dominical and Ojochal; reviewers praise fresh ceviche, pizzas, risotto and whole fried red snapper, with vegan options and warm service.
  • Restaurante Su RazaFood & CoffeeFamily-run restaurant in the center of Dominical known for traditional Costa Rican food at reasonable prices: chicken casado and arroz con pollo are the usual orders.
  • Ronny's PlaceFood & CoffeeHilltop restaurant on a 90-acre farm above Manuel Antonio (open since 2003) with a huge open dining hall, sunset views over the coast, a seafood-focused menu and live music some evenings.
  • Sabromar MarisqueríaFood & CoffeeCasual seafood restaurant by the water in Boca Vieja, Quepos, praised for fresh fish at reasonable prices: ceviche, seafood pasta in white sauce and octopus.
  • Sibu Restaurant & Coffee StoreFood & CoffeeUvita restaurant and coffee shop on the main road with a polished menu of local fish ceviche, seared sesame tuna and burgers, plus cakes and desserts, with a view and attentive service.
  • Terraza by IssimoFood & CoffeeRomantic terrace restaurant at Issimo Suites on the Parador road, with a sunset view over the ocean, live music after 6 pm and carefully plated dishes.
  • The Bakery UvitaFood & CoffeeBakery and espresso bar in Uvita with croissants, sandwiches, cinnamon rolls and omelettes, an upstairs balcony and a patio; gluten-free and vegan options available.
  • Tiquicia DeliciasFood & CoffeeBusy Costa Rican restaurant in downtown Quepos near the bus station with big portions of local dishes, fresh fruit drinks and breakfasts.
  • TribuFood & CoffeeA tiny, creative restaurant on the road up to the Uvita Waterfall serving bowls of simple, fresh ingredients — a Korean-style chicken bowl, a vegan bowl with homemade lentil croquettes — and great smoothies.
  • Vista Dorada, Chicharronera y MiradorFood & CoffeeA small local spot up a rough side road near Ronny's Place, with sunset ocean views, generous chicharrón platters and a very Tico atmosphere, sometimes with karaoke or live music.

Surf, Boats & Diving

  • Aguas Azules Parasailing (Playa Espadilla)Surf, Boats & Diving · from $40Parasailing from Playa Espadilla with 10-13 minute flights over the Manuel Antonio coast, plus jet ski rentals and tours, banana boat, snorkeling, surf lessons and a sunset cruise.
  • Brisa Elegante (wooden sailing ship)Surf, Boats & DivingDay cruises aboard a classic wooden sailboat from Marina Pez Vela, with swimming, paddleboards and kayaks, and food on board.
  • Catamaran Manuel AntonioSurf, Boats & DivingMorning and sunset catamaran cruises from Marina Pez Vela, with lunch or dinner, open drinks, a water slide and snorkeling gear on a four-hour trip along the Manuel Antonio coast.
  • Costa Rica Dive and SurfSurf, Boats & DivingDive and snorkel center in Uvita that also runs whale-watching trips; reviewers describe well-run boat days with manta rays, turtles and food served on board.
  • Costa Rica Surf Camp (Dominical)Surf, Boats & DivingSurf school and camp steps from Playa Dominical; reviewers praise patient instructors, small-group attention and a family-friendly, safety-first approach for all levels.
  • Dolphin Tours Costa RicaSurf, Boats & Diving · from $50Uvita boat operator with 20+ years of responsible sea tourism: whale and dolphin watching in Marino Ballena, Caño Island snorkeling days, Corcovado hiking trips and sport fishing.
  • Dominical Surf AdventuresSurf, Boats & Diving · from $67Local guides running white water rafting (Savegre, Guabo, Chorro, Coto Brus), surf lessons at Playa Dominical, river tubing and mangrove kayaking since 2005.
  • Sunset Sails ToursSurf, Boats & DivingCatamaran trips from Marina Pez Vela along the Manuel Antonio coast with snorkeling, swim stops, a meal and open bar; the sunset sail passes the cliffs at dusk.
  • Uvita Surf and TourSurf, Boats & Diving · from $70Surf school in Uvita with group, private and kids lessons and surf guiding; the site advertises 650+ Google reviews at 5.0.
  • Whale Watching UvitaSurf, Boats & Diving · from $45Family-run whale watching tour in Marino Ballena National Park, 3-4 hours by boat with a second scout boat to find the humpbacks; the site reports whales spotted daily this season and a 95% success rate in peak season.
  • White Water Rafting Manuel AntonioSurf, Boats & Diving · from $90Rafting company with certified bilingual guides running half-day trips on the Naranjo and El Chorro rivers and three-quarter or full-day trips on the Savegre River.

Parks & Wildlife

  • Alturas Wildlife SanctuaryParks & Wildlife · from $5Alturas is a non-profit wildlife rescue center on a jungle hilltop between Dominical and Uvita, the only one covering this stretch of the southern Pacific.
  • Birding Spots Manuel AntonioParks & WildlifeLocal birding guides based in Villa Nueva who run early-morning bird walks with a typical breakfast, plus night walks; they help you photograph through their scopes.
  • Campesinos Lodge & AdventuresParks & WildlifeRural eco-lodge in the mountains east of Quepos, reached by a rugged road: a long suspension bridge, jungle trails to waterfalls and good home cooking.
  • Kids Saving the RainforestParks & Wildlife · from $45GFAS-verified wildlife sanctuary and rescue center near Quepos.
  • Monkey Mangrove Tour ChinoParks & Wildlife · from $55Mangrove boat and kayak tours on the Damas estuary, where white-faced monkeys, caimans, iguanas and birds come close to the boat.
  • Nauyaca Waterfalls (Cataratas Nauyaca, Don Lulo family)Parks & Wildlife · from $10Private entrance to the multi-tiered Nauyaca waterfalls above Dominical, run by the family of Don Lulo.
  • Parque ReptilandiaParks & WildlifeSmall reptile park near Dominical with crocodiles, caimans, snakes and frogs in spacious glass enclosures; no booking needed, and reviewers praise the owner for his hands-on explanations.
  • Rainmaker Conservation ParkParks & WildlifeA 1,500-acre private reserve about 20 minutes from Manuel Antonio, with a canopy bridge walk, waterfalls and swimming holes along the river and a guided night tour for frogs and reptiles.
  • Rancho La MercedParks & Wildlife · from $65Working cattle ranch inside a national wildlife refuge by Playa Hermosa.
  • Reserva Playa Tortuga (sea turtle hatcheries and releases)Parks & WildlifeA local non-profit that protects sea-turtle nests on the beaches around Ojochal and Uvita from July to December, moving eggs to hatcheries.
  • Sukia ParkParks & WildlifeFamily eco-park on the Manuel Antonio road with a zip line canopy tour, day and night jungle walks and a butterfly garden with rescued reptiles, a few minutes from the big hotels.
  • Villa Vanilla Spice Farm (Rainforest Spices)Parks & WildlifeOrganic spice farm in the hills of Villa Nueva: guided tours through vanilla, cinnamon, cacao and other spices, ending with tastings of homemade treats and ice cream on a patio with valley views.

Stays

  • Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest ResortStaysSustainable luxury resort set in 11 acres of rainforest next to Manuel Antonio, with direct access to two beaches.
  • Gaia Hotel & ReserveStaysBoutique hotel on the road to Manuel Antonio beside its own private nature reserve, with a spa, pools and ocean-view dining.
  • Hotel Cristal BallenaStaysHilltop boutique hotel south of Uvita with ocean views over Marino Ballena National Park, a large pool and a spa.
  • Kurà Boutique HotelStaysAdults-only design hotel with eight suites high in the hills above Uvita, looking out over the Pacific and Marino Ballena National Park.
  • Makanda by the SeaStays · takes 7 h · from $45Adults-only hideaway of suites and private-pool villas in the jungle above Manuel Antonio, with a path down to a quiet beach.
  • Si Como No Resort & Wildlife RefugeStaysEco-minded resort on the Manuel Antonio hillside with its own wildlife refuge.

Tours & Adventure

  • Canopy SafariTours & Adventure · from $30The original zip line operator in Quepos (since 1997): 11 lines, a Superman line, Tarzan swing and hanging bridge, plus a serpent house, butterfly garden and crocodile pond.
  • Canopy Tours Santa Juana Los SueñosTours & AdventureZip-line tour in the mountain village of Santa Juana, inland from Quepos, with wide views and a meal after the ride.
  • Costa CanyoningTours & AdventureGuided waterfall canyoning near Uvita: a gradual progression from small drops to taller rappels, with safety-first guides, photos and a meal at the end.
  • Iguana ToursTours & Adventure · takes 4 h · from $65Established Quepos tour operator, in Manuel Antonio since 1985, running nature walks, boat and kayak trips, rafting and canopy tours.
  • Jungle ATV ToursTours & Adventure · from $120Four-to-five-hour ATV and side-by-side tours from the center of Uvita, over mountain tracks with ocean views, a coffee-farm tasting stop, stream crossings and a waterfall swim.
  • Manuel Antonio Bee FarmTours & AdventureSmall family bee farm in Naranjito where owner Miguel explains beekeeping, opens the hives with you and serves a homemade lunch; honey for sale.
  • MidWorld Costa RicaTours & AdventureAdventure park in the forested hills north of Quepos with a 3,000-foot "Superman" zip line, ATV tours with waterfall stops and a typical lunch.
  • Real AdventuresTours & AdventureSmall-group ATV tours starting deep in the oil-palm plantations near Parrita, through rivers and up to mountain views and waterfall swims, ending with a Tico meal.
  • Titi Canopy TourTours & Adventure · from $90Zip line tour near Quepos and Manuel Antonio: nine lines through the forest, rappelling, a Tarzan swing and a hanging bridge, about 2.5 hours with free parking or hotel pickup.
  • Tucanes ToursTours & Adventure · from $75Family-owned operator since 1992 offering Manuel Antonio park walks, ocean kayaking, catamaran, rafting, horseback and chocolate tours, with free hotel pickup and certified bilingual guides.
  • Uvita Paradise AdventuresTours & Adventure · from $90Zip line and waterfall day by the Uvita falls: zip lines, a guided rope drop, a natural waterfall slide and a swimming pool with a jump platform, with lunch at the end.
  • Villas Mastatal Eco Lodge (guides, breakfast & lunch for hikers)Tours & AdventureA small organic farm lodge in the Puriscal mountains that works as the base for hikes to the Las Gemelas waterfalls and Cerro Yarcazú: they line up local guides and serve home-cooked breakfast and lunch to day hikers, with a shower after the walk.

Yoga & Wellness

  • Eco Termales Quepos (Aguas Termales de Dos Bocas)Yoga & WellnessRustic, family-run natural hot springs in the hills behind Hatillo, between Quepos and Dominical: an upper pool split by low stone walls looking over the forest, a lower pool steps from a cool river with shallow swimming spots and a natural rock slide.

Sodas & Local Food

  • Soda Come Bien (Quepos market)Sodas & Local FoodNo-frills soda in the corner of the Quepos municipal market: daily casados with rice, beans, salad and plantain at some of the lowest prices on the coast.
  • Soda El AngelSodas & Local FoodSmall local soda on the road to Manuel Antonio, across from the ocean and the forest, serving fish and chicken casados and vegetarian burritos at everyday prices; parakeets and falcons often pass by.
  • Soda Ranchito Doña MaríaSodas & Local FoodFamily-run soda in Uvita just off the main road: arroz con pollo, gallo pinto, casados and fresh smoothies served by hosts who treat guests like family.
  • Soda SánchezSodas & Local FoodPopular Quepos soda for Tico breakfasts, seafood soup and fish tacos at fair prices, with fresh juices (ask for less sugar).
  • Soda y Restaurante El Rincón de DomiSodas & Local FoodFamily restaurant that has been running for about 37 years in Dominical, serving fish, casados, soups, empanadas and smoothies in a calm setting at local prices.

Secret spots in Central Pacific

  • El Avión Restaurant (C-123 plane)Landmark · hidden gemBar built around the sister plane of the C-123 shot down in the Iran-Contra affair; sunset views.
  • Manuel Antonio National ParkTrail · about $18Costa Rica's most famous small park: easy jungle trails full of sloths, capuchin and squirrel monkeys, ending at white-sand coves like Playa Manuel Antonio, plus the Punta Catedral loop with ocean lookouts.
  • Whale's Tail (Punta Uvita)Nature spot · about $6In Marino Ballena National Park a sand-and-rock spit runs out to sea in the shape of a whale's tail.
  • 727 Fuselage Home (Costa Verde)Landmark · hidden gemBoeing 727 converted into a jungle hotel suite.
  • El Mirador trail lookout (Mirador Punta Serrucho trail), Manuel AntonioViewpoint · about $18The highest trail in Manuel Antonio National Park climbs about 1 km of concrete paths and wooden stairs (around 360 steps) to a platform with a sweeping view of the sea, Punta Serrucho and the park's islands.
  • Marina Pez Vela boardwalkLandmark · FreeQuepos' modern marina: a seaside promenade, a lawn of Adirondack chairs facing hundreds of sportfishing boats and an illuminated marlin sculpture.
  • Marino Ballena National Park (Uvita entrance)Park · about $6Costa Rica's whale-watching marine park: a long palm-backed beach, a sandbar shaped like a whale's tail and mountains behind, entered at the Uvita ranger station.
  • Mirador El ValleViewpointA viewpoint near Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica.
  • Mirador Los ChorrosViewpointA viewpoint near Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica.
  • Nauyaca WaterfallsWaterfall · about $10A two-tier waterfall dropping about 45 m and then 20 m into a big swimmable pool in the hills above Dominical, one of the most spectacular falls in the country.
  • Playa DominicalBeach · FreeThe laid-back surf town's main beach: powerful, consistent waves, a palm-shaded street of craft stalls along the sand, and the Río Barú meeting the sea at the north end.
  • Playa EspadillaBeach · FreeThe long public beach right outside Manuel Antonio park, with jungle hills on both ends, surf lessons, beach chairs and some of the best sunsets on the coast.
  • Playa Manuel Antonio (inside the national park)Swimming spot · about $18The park's calm, turquoise swimming beach, tied by a sand bar to Punta Catedral.
  • Playa UvitaBeach · about $6The long palm-lined main beach of Marino Ballena National Park at Uvita, with warm water, shade and mountain views; at low tide the sandbar to Punta Uvita appears.
  • Playa VentanasBeach · about $4A palm-fringed beach near Ojochal famous for two big sea caves at its north end, carved by the waves; the larger one tunnels right through to the ocean side.
  • Canopy lookout tower between Playa Manuel Antonio and Espadilla SurViewpoint · about $18A multi-level wooden tower on the isthmus between the two main park beaches.
  • Cascada El PavónWaterfall · FreeA free, family-friendly waterfall near Ojochal with a huge boulder wedged right at the top of the falls and a pool below for a dip.
  • Catarata ElysianaWaterfall · hidden gemFall with trails and pools on the 'Ruta del Agua'.
  • Catarata Rana RojaWaterfall · hidden gemFall 1.5 km from Platanillo on Ruta del Agua.
  • Catarata San GabrielWaterfall · hidden gemFinal fall of Ruta del Agua; needs permission.
  • Cocos Island National Park (Isla del Coco)Nature spotA remote UNESCO World Heritage island far out in the Pacific, famed for hammerhead sharks, waterfalls that fall into the sea and cloud forest.
  • Damas Island Mangrove EstuaryNature spot · about $60A network of tidal mangrove channels beside Quepos, explored by boat or kayak.
  • Festival de la Mula (Mule Festival), Campo Ferial de ParritaLandmarkEvery February since 1989 Parrita throws a party for the humble mule: a parade of mules dressed up in flowers, ribbons and bells, mule races at the fairgrounds, marimba music and food stalls with tamales, gallo pinto and casados.
  • Hacienda Barú Wildlife RefugeNature spot · about $18A private wildlife refuge just north of Dominical with about 8 km of mostly flat, self-guided trails through rainforest, wetland and mangrove down to a wild beach.
  • Mangrove lagoon of Manuel Antonio National ParkNature spot · about $18About 18 hectares of red and other mangroves line the trails that run behind Playa Manuel Antonio and Espadilla Sur.
  • Mirador La FarallaViewpointA viewpoint near Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica.
  • Parque NahomíPark · FreeA small seaside park at the south end of Quepos, a short walk from Marina Pez Vela, popular for watching the sun go down over the bay.
  • Playa Ballena (Marino Ballena National Park)Beach · about $6A long, wide beach inside Marino Ballena National Park, just south of Playa Arco, with palms behind the sand and rock shelves at low tide.
  • Playa BiesanzSwimming spot · FreeA small, calm cove hidden below the Manuel Antonio hillside and reached by a short forest trail, with gentle water and decent snorkeling around the rocks.
  • Playa ColoniaBeach · about $6 · hidden gemThe quieter southern stretch of Marino Ballena's beach, backed by shade trees and a park station, less busy than the main Uvita entrance.
  • Playa Espadilla SurBeach · about $18The first white-sand beach inside Manuel Antonio National Park, with shade right behind the sand and views of rocky islets.
  • Playa PiñuelasBeach · FreeA broad, quiet beach near Ojochal with a forested headland at one end and plenty of room to walk; far less visited than the Uvita beaches.
  • Poza AzulSwimming spot · FreeA free jungle swimming hole above Dominicalito: a small waterfall pouring into a clear blue pool, with a rope swing for the brave.
  • Quepos MalecónLandmark · FreeQuepos' seaside promenade: a breezy walk along the bay with fishing boats, pelicans and the Marina Pez Vela at its south end, where locals gather to watch the sun drop behind the headland.
  • Seasonal waterfall, Manuel Antonio National Park (Sendero Catarata)Waterfall · about $18A small forest waterfall on the Catarata trail near the park entrance.
  • TopolandiaLandmark · hidden gem500 m of hand-dug tunnels with rooms, springs and sculptures—16 years of work with hand tools.
  • Uvita Waterfall (Catarata Uvita)Waterfall · about $4A jungle waterfall just above Uvita town where the water has polished the rock into a natural slide that drops you into a cool swimming pool.
  • Cascada El Salto (Quepos)Waterfall · Free · hidden gemA demanding jungle hike above Quepos to a tall waterfall.
  • Cascada VerdeWaterfall · about $3A small waterfall in the forest a few minutes above Uvita, falling into a deep green pool that's great for a cool dip after the beach.
  • Catarata El Indio (Río Turbio, Mastatal)Waterfall · about $24 · hidden gemOne of the tallest waterfalls in the Puriscal hills: the Río Turbio glides across a rock shelf and disappears over the edge in a drop of more than 200 m.
  • Cataratas Las Gemelas (Jucó reserve, Mastatal)Waterfall · about $8 · hidden gemTwo pairs of tall waterfalls hidden in the forest of the small Jucó reserve below Mastatal, in the little-visited hills between Puriscal and Parrita.
  • Diamante Waterfall and Cave (Las Tumbas)Waterfall · hidden gemA set of about ten waterfalls in old-growth forest above the village of Las Tumbas, near Tinamaste.
  • Dinosaurs of Plaza VentanasLandmark · FreeA roadside plaza on the Costanera near Playa Ventanas guarded by life-size dinosaur sculptures — a towering T-Rex next to the restaurant and a Triceratops at the far end — a playful nod to Jurassic Park's Costa Rican setting.
  • Eco Chontales WaterfallWaterfall · about $9 · hidden gemA roughly 63-meter (210 ft) waterfall in the hills between Dominical and San Isidro, on a local family's farm.
  • Eco Feria DominicalLocal shop · FreeA small weekly eco market in Dominical with organic produce, local food and handmade goods, held on the town's main street.
  • La Trampa — pre-Columbian fish trap (Playa Manuel Antonio)Landmark · about $18 · hidden gemAt the right-hand end of Playa Manuel Antonio, beside Punta Catedral, a semicircle of stones appears at low tide: an ancient trap that Indigenous people used to catch fish and turtles as the water drained out.
  • Mercado Bahía Ballena (Uvita)Local shop · FreeA small market in Uvita with farm stalls for fruit and vegetables plus local craft vendors, handy for beach snacks.
  • Mirador Isla Olocuita (Punta Catedral trail)Viewpoint · about $18A lookout on the Punta Catedral loop with views of the Olocuita and Gemelas islets scattered across the bay.
  • Mirador Pérez ZeledónViewpointA viewpoint near Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica.
  • Parroquia Inmaculada Concepción de María (Quepos)Landmark · FreeQuepos' parish church, a modern building with pointed arches and a freestanding bell tower that visitors praise for its original architectural details.
  • Playa ArcoBeach · about $6 · hidden gemA secret-feeling beach in Marino Ballena National Park, reachable only at low tide, with a sea cave, a rock arch and a little waterfall spilling onto the sand.
  • Playa DominicalitoBeach · Free · hidden gemA small cove just south of Dominical, more sheltered and quieter than its big-wave neighbor, with rocks and tide pools to poke around at low tide and local fishing boats bobbing offshore.
  • Playa GemelasBeach · about $18 · hidden gemA quiet pair of small sandy coves on the eastern side of Manuel Antonio National Park, framed by black rocks and reached by a forest trail.
  • Playa Hermosa (Uvita)Beach · Free · hidden gemA long, wide stretch of golden-brown sand just north of Uvita, with plenty of room to yourself even in high season and calmer water at its northern end.
  • Playa La MachaBeach · Free · hidden gemA small hidden beach below Manuel Antonio with a sea stack offshore.
  • Playa La VacaBeach · Free · hidden gemA small, rocky cove tucked below the Manuel Antonio hillside between Playa La Macha and Tulemar.
  • Playa Linda (Matapalo)Beach · FreeA palm-fringed stretch of the Matapalo coast with natural shade and rolling surf, far from the crowds of Manuel Antonio.
  • Playa MatapaloBeach · Free · hidden gemA seemingly endless, mostly deserted beach between Quepos and Dominical, where the main draw is space, quiet and a few beach bars under the palms.
  • Playa Palo SecoBeach · Free · hidden gemA huge, palm-lined and usually empty beach near Parrita, backed by mangrove estuaries rich in birds.
  • Playa PlayitasBeach · FreeA wide, quiet public beach below the Manuel Antonio road, reached by a steep cobbled track.
  • Playa Savegre (Playa El Rey)Beach · Free · hidden gemAbout 11 km of wild beach between the Naranjo and Savegre river mouths, south of Quepos and Manuel Antonio, backed by mangroves and oil-palm plantations.
  • Quepos Market & Weekend FeriaLocal shop · FreeDowntown Quepos' municipal market, with fruit stalls, fishmongers and cheap sodas, plus the weekend farmers' feria nearby selling seasonal fruit, spices, plants and handmade goods.
  • Reto MAE coastal trail (Quepos → Manuel Antonio hidden coves)Trail · Free · hidden gemA rugged, unofficial coastal trail from Quepos to Manuel Antonio over the forested headlands, dropping to a string of small turquoise coves — Playa La Macha, Carlos López, Tulemar, Karolas — before coming out at Playa Biesanz.
  • The Waterfall of Ojochal (Cascada de Ojochal)Waterfall · about $6A privately maintained waterfall near Ojochal with a short staircase down to the pool.
  • Aguas termales de Dos Bocas, SavegreSwimming spot · hidden gemA hot spring near Savegre, Puntarenas province.
  • Cascada BejucoWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Bahía Ballena, Puntarenas province.
  • Cascada La BombaWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Copey, San José province.
  • Catarata de Santa Juana, PlatanilloWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Platanillo, San José province.
  • Catarata Las GemelasWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Brunka, Puntarenas province.
  • Catarata NamúWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Pejibaye, San José province.
  • Catarata Número 7 de UvitaWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Uvita, Puntarenas province.
  • Catarata Pandún 2Waterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near San Pedro, San José province.
  • Catarata Salto la MonaWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Río Nuevo, San José province.
  • Cataratas don LuisWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near San Pedro, San José province.
  • Catartas PandunWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near San Pedro, San José province.
  • Catartas Roca VerdeWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near San Pedro, San José province.
  • Cerro Yarcazú (summit hike above Mastatal)Viewpoint · about $10 · hidden gemA 1,083 m forested summit on the edge of La Cangreja National Park.
  • Cueva de Piedras BlancasNature spot · hidden gemA cave near Río Nuevo, San José province.
  • Estero Palo Seco (mangrove estuary)Nature spot · Free · hidden gemA quiet mangrove estuary behind Playa Palo Seco, part of the channel system that runs toward Isla Damas, with birds and, with luck, monkeys along the banks.
  • Finca la Catarata de LichoWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near El General, San José province.
  • Mirador Playa Gemelas / Punta SerruchoViewpoint · about $18A lookout above Playa Gemelas on the Punta Serrucho side of Manuel Antonio National Park, with views over the coves and open ocean.
  • Muelle de Quepos (Quepos pier)Landmark · FreeThe historic pier of Quepos' working port, a short stop for views over the bay and the fishing boats.
  • Parque Central de ParritaPark · FreeParrita's central plaza, a tree-shaded square where locals gather in the evening and an easy stretch-your-legs stop on the coastal highway.
  • Parque Nacional Marino Ballena - Sector MarinoParkA protected area in the Central Pacific.
  • Parque Nacional Marino Ballena - Sector TerrestreParkA protected area in the Central Pacific.
  • Playa BarúBeachA beach in the Central Pacific.
  • Playa Garza (Isla Garza)Beach · about $12 · hidden gemKilometers of nearly empty beach on Isla Garza, a shifting sandbar island at the mouth of the Térraba river, a 10-minute boat hop from the mainland south of Ojochal.
  • Playa GuápilBeachA beach in the Central Pacific.
  • Playa HatilloBeachA beach in the Central Pacific.
  • Playa Palma (Parrita)Beach · Free · hidden gemA long, quiet dark-sand Pacific beach near Parrita, known more to locals than tourists and good for a sunset walk without crowds.
  • Playa ParáBeachA beach in the Central Pacific.
  • Playa Puerto EscondidoBeach · about $18 · hidden gemA remote, jungle-backed cove on the far side of Manuel Antonio National Park, rarely busy and reached on foot along the Puerto Escondido trail.
  • Playa Tortuga NorteBeach · Free · hidden gemA little-visited beach and short walking area north of the Playa Tortuga reserve near Ojochal; expect empty sand and a few rocks.
  • Playa Tortuga SurBeachA beach in the Central Pacific.
  • Playa TulemarBeachA beach in the Central Pacific.
  • Playones del Río PaquitaSwimming spot · Free · hidden gemWide gravel banks (playones) along the Río Paquita in the farm country north of Quepos, a riverside stop recommended by hikers and cyclists on komoot.
  • Poza de UvitaWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Uvita, Puntarenas province.
  • Sendero del MonoTrail · hidden gemA trail near Quepos, Puntarenas province.
  • Torre Piedra AmarillaViewpoint · hidden gemA viewpoint near Savegre, Puntarenas province.
  • Tres Pozas de UvitaWaterfall · hidden gemA waterfall near Uvita, Puntarenas province.