🌴 Costa Rica Spring Break 2025: A Perfect 9-Day Itinerary for Nature-Loving Adventurers
If you’re dreaming of lush rainforests, volcanic adventures, and turquoise beaches, Costa Rica offers the perfect playground. We just returned from an unforgettable 9-day spring break getaway through the heart of this Central American gem, and we’re here to share our complete itinerary—including tips, highlights, and can’t-miss experiences.
Whether you’re planning your first trip to Costa Rica or returning for another dose of pura vida, this itinerary balances nature, adventure, and relaxation—ideal for couples, families, and especially empty nesters seeking both comfort and discovery.
✈️ Day 1: Arrival in San José
- Arrive mid-day and headed straight to La Fortuna, home of the Arenal Volcano to begin our stay at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, located within the National Park and surrounded by rainforest and wildlife.
- Alternate option: Land late night and stay near the airport for a next-day start.
Tip: Pre-book a driver or rental car for the 3–4 hour journey to La Fortuna.
🌋 Day 2: La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano
- Take the day to relax, explore the many trails on the property, or book a spa treatment.
- Dinner and volcano views made for a peaceful start to the adventure.
Tip: Arenal Observatory Lodge and Trails is a birders haven. Wake up at sunrise to see all of the amazing birds feeding right in front of the restaurant deck. You will not be alone and it’s likely that someone will have a naturalist along to talk about the birds.
🌿 Day 3: Hiking & Waterfalls
- Morning hike on the 1968 Trail—the most highly recommended trail among locals with outstanding views. Hike on lava flows from the 1968 eruption, now lush with vegetation.
- Lunch with a volcano view, then visit to La Fortuna Waterfall for a refreshing swim.
- Finish the day with drinks and dinner at the hotel.
🌊 Day 4: Whitewater Rafting & Hot Springs
- Rafting Adventure: A morning thrill ride with a Class III-IV whitewater rafting tour. Many outfitters available, but we went with Arenal Rafting booked through Viator and had a great time. The fruit they cut up and served us was the best of the entire trip.
- Evening Relaxation: Soak at Baldi Hot Springs, complete with waterslides and cocktails.
☁️ Day 5: Scenic Drive to Monteverde + Night Hike
- Packed up and left Arenal, stopping at Lake Arenal Brewery for lunch, which was a great find with views of the Lake, pet pigs wandering around and very friendly staff. We would return for sure!
- Arrived at Casa Batsu BnB, a charming and locally owned retreat. Read about our awesome communal dinner with fellow guests and our host Carlos.
- Evening night hike at El Refugio—amazing wildlife spotting under the stars. Did you know birds sleep curled up on a branch and so do monkeys?
🦥 Day 6: Cloud Forest, Sloths & Ziplining
- Morning hike in Santa Elena Reserve—peaceful, moss-draped trails in the cloud forest.
- Afternoon thrills at Selvatura Park: ziplining, hanging bridges, and sloth sanctuary.
- Dinner back in town with great local cuisine.
🐒 Day 7: Drive to the Coast + National Park
- Crossed mountains to the Pacific Coast—destination: Manuel Antonio.
- Stopped at Jaco Beach for lunch, then arrived at Shana by the Beach resort.
- First sighting of Capuchin Monkeys!
🌊 Day 8: Wildlife, Waterfalls & Beach Bliss
- Early entry to Manuel Antonio National Park
- Afternoon trip to Nauyaca Waterfalls—a majestic jungle setting perfect for swimming.
- Celebrated an anniversary with dinner at the scenic Claro Que Si restaurant.
🛶 Day 9: Mangroves & Departure
- Kayak tour through the Damas Island Estuary—a peaceful paddle through mangroves with monkeys overhead. This kayak tour was the way to really see monkeys and other wildlife.
- Returned to San José by late afternoon for red-eye flights. Alternate – stay at a hotel by the airport and catch an early flight home.
Tip: Take a late night or early morning next day flight home to take full advantage of your final day.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica captured our hearts with its rich biodiversity, kind people, and easygoing vibe. This itinerary was perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy variety—mountains, rainforest, beaches, and wildlife—all in one trip.
Pura vida! 🇨🇷🌺