Top Parks in Costa Rica

There are some awesome trails with beautiful views, but don’t miss the beach! I spent way too long on the trails and had limited beach time. Balance it out!

Don’t forget sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy. I ended up with a sunburn after thinking I was safe with the shade of the trees. Better safe than sorry!

Wear sturdy shoes! I thought flip-flops would be fine, but trust me, the trails can be a bit tricky, and you'll want to be comfortable

Arrive early, like around 7:00 AM, to beat the crowds and maybe even catch some critters waking up. I loved spotting sloths and monkeys before the park filled up.

My advice is to bring a picnic. There are plenty of spots to chill out and enjoy your food. Buying snacks inside can be a bit pricy!

I think taking the time to check out the small art pieces scattered around the park is totally worth it. I almost missed them but they add a nice touch to the whole vibe!

I recommend wear comfortable shoes since you might end up walking more than you expect. The paths are nice, but sometimes you might want to explore a bit off them.

I suggest visiting early in the morning, around 7 AM. It's much quieter then, and you can get some nice pics without crowds. Plus, the park is really peaceful at that hour.

Check out the little food stalls nearby for some tasty local snacks. I had a delicious empanada that didn’t break the bank!

Consider bringing a book or some games. I saw families just enjoying the day together, and it added to the chill atmosphere.

Don’t skip the people-watching! Grab a bench around 2 PM when the locals come out for their afternoon breaks - it’s a lively time

Check out the National Theater while you’re there. It’s just a stone's throw away and totally worth the 1,500 colones for a guided tour. I loved the stunning architecture and history.

The best time to visit Plaza de La Cultura is around 4 PM. That way you can grab a coffee from a nearby café and catch that golden hour light for amazing photos - trust me, it's worth it!

I highly recommend stopping by the cafes around the plaza for lunch. You can find delicious local food for a fraction of the price you’d pay in more touristy spots.

My advice is to bring comfy shoes. You’ll end up walking around more than you expect, especially if you want to explore the area. I didn’t and my feet were killing me!

Check out the hummingbird garden! I skipped it and now I regret it because it's supposed to be amazing. Don't make the same mistake I did!

Bring a reusable water bottle! I filled mine at the park and saved a few bucks instead of buying bottled water all day.

Don’t rush it. The wildlife is often elusive, so take your time walking the trails. I saw way more animals when I wasn’t hurrying through.

Wear sturdy shoes. The trails can be muddy and slippery, and I definitely regretted wearing flip-flops. You'll want comfortable footwear for the hike!

Consider bringing your snorkeling gear. The underwater life at the nearby playa is fantastic and it's a great way to make the most of your visit!

Bring cash for the entrance fee, as they don’t accept credit cards. I learned this the hard way and had to find an ATM later!

Skipping the buffet at the park's restaurant could save you some bucks. There’s a local food stall just outside that serves amazing food for way less. I ate there both days!

Watch out for the weather! Mornings can be great but I had a downpour in the afternoon. Bring a poncho just in case; it’ll save you from getting soaked!

Consider bringing binoculars for birdwatching. I missed some cool sightings because I didn’t have mine, and I regretted it!

Wear comfy shoes because some parts can get slippery, and the trails are longer than you'd expect. Trust me, flip-flops won't cut it.

Try to get there around 8 AM when the park opens. The morning fog adds a magical touch and you'll avoid the crowds.

Don't skip the interpretation center before entering the trails. It gives great insights about the flora and fauna - so worth it!

Bring a portable charger! I spent too much time taking pics and my phone died before I could capture everything. There’s nice seating, perfect for a little break, and maybe even some street performers

I think it's worth wandering around the periphery of the park, where you might find some unique local artwork for sale. I almost missed it but snagged a great piece at a good price!

If you're planning to visit the café at the Mirador, I'd recommend getting there around 3 PM. The views are stunning before sunset, and the coffee is top-notch without the huge crowds you'll see earlier.

Check for updates on the weather before your visit. I got caught in a drizzle that limited my enjoyment, but the scenery was still lovely once the sun peeked out!

Be sure to wear comfy shoes! The paths can be uneven and I saw a few folks struggling. You're there for the views so make sure you can walk around easily.

I suggest bringing some snacks or a picnic. While there's a café, it's nice to enjoy a meal with that gorgeous view without breaking the bank on food.