While Costa Rica can be extremely beautiful and romantic for private get away vacations with your significant other; that is not what Costa Rica is all about. Costa Rica is actually a great family vacation as well. There is just so much to do there.
Obviously, first and foremost the most attractive thing about Costa Rica for younger kids is the wildlife of the country. Most kids are used to seeing dogs and cats, and maybe some animals at the zoo, but how about seeing monkeys, sloths, and caiman up close in their natural habitat? The good news is that you don’t have to drag them through trails and up hills to see these types of things during your vacations either. In fact, the Puerto Viejo Wildlife “Paseo en Bote” or Boat Ride in Sarapiqui is one of the more popular family destinations. This is a boat ride going through the rainforest and the driver will point out many of the animals that you will likely see as you go through the river. There are no size requirements. It is fit for all ages. I would recommend however that your bring juice boxes for in between times you see the animals. As this is a natural ride through the rural Costa Rica, you aren’t guaranteed constant visualizations as you go through it. However, all of it is very unique and beautiful.
I would also recommend the Caribbean Coast to just about anyone. It is fun for a romantic get away because it so secluded and there are not very many people. However, this is great for your kids too. You can allow them to play on the beach, and be kids because you know that they won’t be bothering anyone else. The beaches are absolutely breath taking so it is a good opportunity for mom and dad to sit back and watch the scenery while the kids play.
The Natural Volcanic Hot Springs in Baldi are also a lot of fun for family vacations. Whenever there is clear sky, you’ll be able to get a clear view of the Arenal Volcano while swimming. There are actually two pools and are a little bit cooler for kids. You should be aware that other tourists will visit this destination later in the evenings and there are bars in the area. Therefore, I would recommend that you visit this destination earlier in the morning and afternoon before the crowd gets there. They do have a slide, but some people considered the look of it to be unsafe or unfit for children and therefore, you should be wary of that and make your own parental decision when you see it. Still, our kids had a lot of fun playing in the warm water.