Playa Esterillos Este, Central Pacific, Costa Rica, courtesy David Thompson

Rice Field in Quepos, Costa Rica, courtesy David Thompson

Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica

Playa Herradura, Central Pacific, Costa Rica, courtesy David Thompson

My First View of Costa Rica, courtesy David Thompson

Playa Dominical, South Pacific, Costa Rica, courtesy David Thompson

Rainforest Meets Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica, courtesy Casa Ramon

Attractions & Activities - Costa Rica

Time with friends-Merritt Brown - Attractions & Activities

Periodic surveys in Costa Rica consistently ranks the top five most popular tourist activities, according to participation level, as Sun and Beaches (54.5%), Flora and Fauna Observation (43.5%), Volcano Visits (42.9%), Hiking (40.7%) and Birdwatching (30.1%). With 635 miles of coastline on the Pacific coast and another 132 miles on the Atlantic side, Costa Rica offers infinite enjoyment for surfers, divers, game fishermen and spectators of whales, dolphins and turtles. Costa Rica’s coastal treasures include party beaches, surfing beaches, deserted beaches, swimming beaches and offshore beaches popular for picnics and snorkeling. Inland, with more than 50 national parks, scores of wildlife sanctuaries and biological reserves, Costa Rica is deservedly one the most revered destinations for naturalists, birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. There are 5 active volcanoes in Costa Rica, three of which offer hiking opportunities; Arenal Volcano, the most picturesque and the source of numerous hot springs is also a windsurfers’ hotspot.