Family-Friendly Adventures in , Costa Rica!

Jaco Beach

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Jaco Beach, Costa Rica

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time

- Morning: Fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport and rent a car or catch a shuttle for the 1.5-hour drive to Jaco, a vibrant town on the Pacific coast known for its surf culture and breathtaking sunsets.

- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and head straight to Jaco Beach. The southern part of the beach is perfect for families with gentler waves. Enjoy building sandcastles or take a beginner surf lesson.

- Evening: Dine at one of the local restaurants offering fresh seafood and traditional Costa Rican dishes. The night market is a great place for souvenirs.

Day 2: Adventure Day in Herradura

- Morning: Drive 10 minutes north to Herradura Beach and embark on a canopy tour. Zip-lining through the rainforest offers a thrilling view of Costa Rica’s diverse ecology and wildlife.

- Afternoon: Lunch at Herradura, then visit the nearby Adventure Park for horseback riding or ATV tours. These guided tours provide a safe and exciting way to explore the scenic landscapes.

- Evening: Return to Jaco for a relaxed evening by the sea.

Day 3: Nature Exploration

- Morning: Take a 20-minute trip to Carara National Park, renowned for its population of Scarlet Macaws. A guided walking tour helps spot various wildlife and learn about the rainforest ecosystem.

- Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, followed by a visit to the Tarcoles River, known for its large crocodiles. Opt for a guided river safari for a close (and safe) look at these impressive creatures.

- Evening: Enjoy your last sunset at Jaco Beach, maybe with a beachside BBQ or dinner at a restaurant with a view.

Departure Day

- After breakfast, take one last stroll along the beach before heading back to the airport. Jaco’s friendly atmosphere and rich biodiversity are sure to leave lasting memories for the entire family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Carara National Park (Parque Nacional Carara)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Carara National Park, Costa Rica

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

- Morning: Begin your adventure from San José, taking the scenic 90-minute drive west towards the Pacific coast. Aim to arrive early to enjoy cooler temperatures for wildlife spotting.

- Park Entrance: Access the park from Route 34, easily spotted thanks to clear signage. Remember to pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

- Visitor Center: Start at the Visitor Center, where you can grab a map and learn about the park’s biodiversity through informative displays. It"s a great introduction for kids to understand the importance of the area’s conservation.

- Universal Access Trail: Perfect for families, this 1 km trail is wheelchair accessible and offers chances to see scarlet macaws, monkeys, and unique insects. Keep your binoculars handy!

Day 2: Deep Dive into Nature

- Morning: Head on the Araceas Nature Trail early to beat the heat and crowds. This 4.5 km loop is more challenging but offers immersive rainforest experience and the chance to spot diverse wildlife, from toucans to anteaters.

- Tarcoles River Bridge: Post hike, drive to the nearby Tarcoles River Bridge, famous for viewing large American crocodiles safely from above. It’s an exhilarating sight for all ages!

- Lunch: Enjoy a local meal at one of the roadside "sodas" (small restaurants) serving typical Costa Rican dishes like casado or gallo pinto.

Interesting Facts

- Carara is a birdwatcher"s paradise, home to over 400 bird species.

- The park is a critical habitat for the endangered scarlet macaw.

- Its name, “Carara,” comes from the Huetar indigenous word for "crocodile."

This itinerary offers a perfect blend of education, adventure, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable visit for the whole family in the stunning setting of Carara National Park.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure early by driving or taking a guided tour to Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls, located near Jaco, Costa Rica. The route is scenic and well-marked, accessible by most vehicles. Aim to arrive by 9 AM to make the most of the cooler morning temperatures.

Explore the Gardens

Begin your visit with a stroll through the stunning botanical gardens. Pura Vida Gardens boast an extensive collection of native and exotic plants. Kids will love spotting colorful butterflies and birds, including the vibrant toucans and parrots. The gardens are designed with picturesque pathways that are easy for families to navigate.

Educational Walk

Continue your journey with an educational walk led by one of the knowledgeable local guides available on-site. They provide fascinating insights into the local flora and fauna, making the experience both fun and informative for kids. Be sure to ask about the unique species found only in this part of Costa Rica.

Picnic Lunch

Around noon, enjoy a family picnic with a view. There are designated areas where you can relax and enjoy your packed lunches or purchase local snacks from the on-site café, where you can try some Costa Rican delicacies.

Waterfall Adventure

After lunch, head to the majestic waterfalls. The walk is a gentle descent with handrails, suitable for children. The main attraction, the waterfall, is a breathtaking sight - cascading water surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a perfect spot for memorable family photos.

Relax and Reflect

Before heading back, take a moment to relax by the hummingbird feeders, where kids can learn about different species of hummingbirds. It’s a quiet spot to reflect on the day’s adventures.

Departure

Plan to leave by 4 PM, giving your family ample time to return, relax, and perhaps explore more of the local area in the evening.

Interesting Fact

Did you know that the gardens are also a sanctuary for rescued wildlife? This educational aspect adds a meaningful layer to your visit, teaching kids about conservation efforts in Costa Rica.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.