Taking your family to Costa Rica is an unforgettable vacation that will provide incredible experiences for everyone. While it may seem daunting, with the right planning and travel partners, bringing your family to Costa Rica will be carefree and relaxing. Follow our guide below to streamline as much as possible when planning your vacation. 

Why Choose Costa Rica for Your Family

We may be biased, but we consider Costa Rica the ultimate family destination. It truly has something travelers of all ages. Adults and older children will find a number of high adventure activities to enjoy while younger kids or those with limited activity levels will love relaxing on the beach, at a resort, and more.

Involve Your Family in the Planning

We have found that the best way to get your family excited about their trip to Costa Rica is to include them in the vacation planning. Any adults traveling with you will want to plan some free time for themselves. Children will be more excited about the trip if they know what they are looking forward to. Some of the top activities we book for families include:

Family Activities

• Playa Manuel Antonio
• Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges
• Wildlife Viewing

Adult Activities

• Whitewater Rafting & Stand Up Paddling
• Ziplines and Tarzan Swings
• Catamaran Cruises and Sea Life Viewing

Kid Activities

• Beaches, Beaches, & More Beaches
• Wildlife Viewing and Rehab Centers

Packing for Costa Rica

Much of what you pack is determined by activities and time of year of your trip. We have put together a packing list to help make sure you have everything you need on your trip. We have also found that regardless of when you travel and what your activities are, you will want to bring the following items:

• Swimsuit
• Rain coat
• Sandals
• More socks than you think you need

Prepare Your Family for Traveling to Costa Rica

Depending on where you are traveling from, you might end up with a several hours long flight, layovers, and more. As if these aren’t stressful enough, adding children to the mix can make traveling unbearable. We have found that making sure your kids have plenty to do on the flight and at the airport will help. If you have layovers, find out what each airport has that can entertain travelers. Many airports have play areas and other points of interest that can make a layover seem to go faster. 

Getting Around in Costa Rica 

You can take taxis, you can rent a car, you can try public transportation, but we always recommend getting a driver to take you around. For about the cost of a rental car, you’ll have a local that knows the roads, traffic, and country making sure you get to all your destinations and activities. A local driver knows how to avoid traffic, potential trouble areas, and more that a GPS can’t show you and that a taxi driver uses to charge you more.

Also, if you’re a little more adventurous, you can have your driver take you to their favorite local spots for food, sites, etc. We can schedule much of this into your itinerary, but a driver that can show you on the road is invaluable.

Where to Stay With Your Family in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a number of hotels and resorts perfect for your family. Depending on the ages of travelers, activity level, etc., you’ll find all inclusive resorts, base camp style hotels perfect as a place to crash, and more to meet your families needs. Choosing the right hotel is important to your family’s comfort, and we can help make sure you get the right places to stay.

Start Planning Your Family Trip with a FREE Travel Itinerary

Enjoy a stress and worry free vacation with your family to one of the most stunning places on earth. We can help you get started with a free travel itinerary from one of our vacation experts. We’ll learn what you want from your trip, your budget, travelers, and more and put together a vacation itinerary that meets your requirements. Contact us today to get started.