Costa Rica travel guide · Beaches, wildlife & adventures
Best Things to Do in Costa Rica Besides Surfing
Costa Rica is famous for its waves, but your best travel memories might happen away from the surfboard. Think rainforest walks, wildlife encounters, waterfalls, volcanic landscapes and quiet beach afternoons. Here are worthwhile ways to explore the country between surf sessions—or on a trip where surfing is only part of the plan.
If you're building a surf-focused itinerary, start with our Costa Rica surf and travel guide. Then use the ideas below to make room for the rest of the country.
1. Explore Costa Rica's Beaches Beyond the Surf Breaks
Not every beach day needs to revolve around the swell forecast. Costa Rica's Pacific and Caribbean coasts offer places to walk, watch sunsets, photograph wildlife and simply enjoy the landscape. Conditions vary significantly from beach to beach, so don't assume that a beautiful shoreline is safe for swimming.
Slow down on the Nicoya Peninsula
If you're staying around Nosara, a beach walk can be an easy way to enjoy the coast without adding a long drive. Playa Guiones is known for its expansive sandy shoreline, while nearby coastal areas offer a different pace and scenery. Respect local wildlife, stay clear of nesting areas and avoid disturbing protected habitats.
Make time for a different coastline
Travelers with more time can compare the Pacific's surf-oriented beach towns with the Caribbean's distinct culture and scenery. The drive between regions is substantial, though, so this works better on a longer trip than as a spontaneous day trip.
Water safety: Rip currents and changing wave conditions can affect beaches even when the ocean looks calm. Ask locally about swimming conditions and follow posted warnings.
2. Look for Wildlife in Its Natural Habitat
Wildlife is one of Costa Rica's biggest attractions. Depending on where you travel, you may encounter howler monkeys, iguanas, colorful birds and other species in forests, wetlands and coastal habitats. Sightings are never guaranteed, which is part of what makes a quiet walk rewarding.
Choose a guided nature walk
A knowledgeable local guide can help identify animals you might otherwise miss and explain the ecosystems around them. Early morning is often a practical time for a walk because temperatures are generally cooler and many animals are active.
Keep encounters ethical
Give animals space, never feed them and avoid tours that encourage touching or handling wildlife for photographs. In national parks and reserves, stay on designated trails and follow ranger instructions.
3. Visit a Waterfall—But Choose One That Fits Your Route
A waterfall visit is a refreshing contrast to beach time, especially if you enjoy hiking and rainforest scenery. Costa Rica has everything from easily accessible viewpoints to cascades reached by steep, muddy trails. The right choice depends on where you're staying, the weather and your comfort level.
Popular waterfall regions to consider
- La Fortuna: The Arenal area is a well-known base for rainforest activities and a visit to La Fortuna Waterfall.
- Tenorio Volcano National Park: Famous for the striking blue waters of Río Celeste; access and trail conditions can change with weather.
- South Pacific: The Uvita and Dominical area has waterfall outings that can pair with a longer coastal road trip.
These are not all quick excursions from Nosara. Check driving times before adding a waterfall to your surf itinerary, and avoid packing a long road journey into a day when you also plan to surf.
Safety tip: Never enter pools near a waterfall without reliable local guidance. Strong currents, submerged rocks and sudden changes in water flow can make swimming dangerous, particularly after heavy rain.
4. Discover Volcano Landscapes and Hot Springs
Costa Rica's volcanic geography gives travelers a completely different landscape from the coast. The Arenal region is especially popular for views, trails and thermal-water experiences. If you want a mix of hiking, relaxation and inland scenery, consider spending at least a night in the area rather than trying to squeeze it into a beach-based day trip.
What to expect around Arenal
On clear days you may see the distinctive outline of Arenal Volcano. Visitors can explore designated trails, look for birds and choose from a range of hot-spring experiences. Visibility depends on cloud cover, and volcano access is subject to park regulations—never venture into restricted areas.
5. Walk Through a Rainforest or Cloud Forest
A forest walk reveals a side of Costa Rica you won't experience from the beach. Dense vegetation, changing light, bird calls and small details along the trail can make even a short hike memorable.
Rainforest or cloud forest?
Rainforests are generally warm and humid, while cloud forests occur at higher elevations and are often cooler and mistier. Monteverde is a well-known cloud-forest destination, but it requires dedicated travel time from most surf towns.
Wear shoes with reliable grip, carry drinking water and a rain layer, and use established trails. If you're traveling during wetter months, allow extra time for slower roads and muddy conditions.
6. Try Other Outdoor Activities
If your group includes non-surfers—or you simply want a rest day—Costa Rica offers plenty of alternatives. Availability, suitability and environmental rules differ by region.
| Activity | Why try it? | Before you book |
|---|---|---|
| Kayaking | Explore calmer waterways and coastal scenery | Check tides, currents and guide qualifications |
| Snorkeling | See marine life where conditions allow | Visibility and safety vary with season and location |
| Zip-lining | Experience forest scenery from a different perspective | Choose operators with appropriate safety standards |
| Birdwatching | Enjoy wildlife without a strenuous adventure | Bring binoculars or book a local guide |
| Cooking class | Learn more about Costa Rican food and ingredients | Look for small, locally run experiences |
| Yoga or wellness session | Make room for recovery between active days | Choose a class suited to your experience |
7. How to Plan Non-Surf Days Around a Surf Trip
The biggest mistake is treating Costa Rica like a small island where every attraction is an easy day trip. Mountain roads, rain, traffic and winding routes can turn modest map distances into long drives. Choose activities close to your base whenever possible.
If you're based in Nosara
Build your days around local beaches, guided wildlife outings, food and wellness experiences. If surfing is your priority, keep the schedule flexible so you can take advantage of suitable conditions rather than committing every morning to a distant excursion.
If you have 10–14 days
Consider dividing the trip between a surf destination and one inland region, such as Arenal or Monteverde. This gives you more variety without spending every other day packing and driving.
Match the season to your plans
Costa Rica's Pacific dry season generally runs from roughly December through April, while wetter conditions are more common from May through November. Weather varies by region and year, and the Caribbean coast follows different patterns. For a closer look at wave conditions, read our month-by-month guide to surfing in Nosara.
A simple three-day balance
- Day 1: Morning surf session, relaxed beach walk and sunset.
- Day 2: Guided nature outing or another local activity, followed by a quiet afternoon.
- Day 3: Surf if conditions suit you, or take a rest day with food, yoga and exploring town.
This is a flexible example, not a fixed itinerary. Adjust for tides, weather, transport and your experience.
Practical Tips Before You Go
- Protect your time: Group nearby activities together instead of zigzagging across the country.
- Prepare for rain: A light waterproof layer and a dry bag are useful even outside the wettest months.
- Carry cash when useful: Some smaller local businesses may have limited payment options.
- Respect protected areas: Check official park rules, opening hours and reservation requirements before leaving.
- Leave no trace: Pack out litter, keep your distance from animals and avoid damaging coastal vegetation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Costa Rica worth visiting if you don't surf?
Yes. Beaches, wildlife, rainforest trails, volcano scenery, food and outdoor activities make Costa Rica appealing even if you never step on a surfboard.
What can you do in Nosara besides surfing?
Options include beach walks, guided nature outings, yoga, local dining and relaxing by the coast. Choose activities that fit your location and the day's weather.
Can you visit Arenal or Monteverde on a day trip from Nosara?
They are generally better treated as separate overnight destinations because road journeys can be long and conditions vary. Check current routes and travel times before planning.
What is a good rainy-day activity in Costa Rica?
Depending on your location, consider a cooking class, a wellness session or a relaxed café visit. Avoid exposed hikes and swimming near waterfalls during heavy rain or thunderstorms.
Do you need a rental car to explore Costa Rica?
Not always. Shuttles, local transport and organized tours can work well, especially when you stay in one area. A car offers flexibility, but road conditions and parking vary by destination.