12 Costa Rica Hidden Gems So Beautiful, They Feel Like a Dream

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Costa Rica blew my mind in ways I never expected. After two weeks exploring beyond the usual tourist spots, I found myself waking up to howler monkeys in Nosara and watching sunset surfers from cliffside restaurants in Santa Teresa. The memories still feel like scenes from someone else’s vacation photos—except they’re all mine.

Trust me, the best places in Costa Rica deliver experiences that no Instagram filter can capture. I swam in waterfall pools so clear I could count pebbles ten feet down and hiked through cloud forests where the mist parted to reveal valleys that seemed to stretch forever. These 12 Costa Rican treasures changed how I think about travel, and I’m almost hesitant to share them with you (but too excited not to).

Top Must-See Destinations in Costa Rica

Looking to uncover Costa Rica’s hidden gems? From the geothermal wonders of Rincón de la Vieja to the serene beauty of Bajos del Toro, this Central American paradise offers a plethora of lesser-known destinations waiting to be explored.

Wander through the mystical cloud forests of Monteverde, marvel at the pristine beaches of Playa Grande, or stroll the charming streets of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Explore the untouched wilderness of the Osa Peninsula, the vibrant culture of San Gerardo de Dota, or the tranquil waters of Rio Celeste. Whether you’re into adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, here are 12 of Costa Rica’s most underrated destinations!

1. Rincon de la Vieja

• 📍 Location: Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica
• 🏆 Best For: 🌋 Volcano hikes, 💦 hot springs, 🐒 wildlife spotting
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Las Pailas Trail, soaking in natural thermal pools, ziplining at Buena Vista Lodge
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to April for dry trails and clearer volcano views ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hacienda Guachipelín – Eco-lodge with direct trail access and on-site hot springs

Rincon de la Vieja is one of the most overlooked volcano destinations in Costa Rica, and that’s exactly what makes it special. You won’t find big tour buses here, just raw geothermal energy, jungle trails, and wide-open space.

The Las Pailas sector is a must. Expect bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and a loop trail that shows off the volcano’s active side. It feels more like walking through a science experiment than a national park. Keep an eye out for howler monkeys in the canopy and bright blue morpho butterflies fluttering through the trees.

After hiking, nothing beats a dip in one of the nearby natural thermal pools. Many eco-lodges offer private hot springs fed straight from the volcano. For travelers who want to combine adrenaline, scenery, and some serious relaxation, Rincon de la Vieja hits the mark without the crowds.

2. Bajos del Toro

• 📍 Location: Alajuela Province, Costa Rica
• 🏆 Best For: 🌊 Waterfall views, 🐦 birdwatching, 🌿 peaceful hikes
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Catarata del Toro, soaking in hot springs at El Silencio Lodge, spotting quetzals along cloud forest trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to May for clear skies and active waterfalls 💧
• 🏨 Where to Stay: El Silencio Lodge – Secluded luxury eco-lodge with hot springs and forest trails

Bajos del Toro is one of Costa Rica’s most peaceful hidden escapes. Tucked in a lush valley between two national parks, this cloud forest town is all about waterfalls, wildlife, and winding trails with zero crowds.

The star attraction is Catarata del Toro, a 270-foot waterfall that crashes into the crater of an extinct volcano. A network of trails leads down to the base, and the views along the way are just as memorable. The nearby Rio Agrio adds even more cascades and chances to explore lesser-known trails.

Birdwatchers are in heaven here. Quetzals and hummingbirds frequent the area, especially in the early mornings. After hiking, unwind in the thermal pools at a forest lodge or sip coffee with mist drifting past your cabin windows. It’s quiet, cool, and full of nature at every turn, which is ideal for travelers who prefer calm over crowds.

3. Gandoca Manzanillo

• 📍 Location: Limón Province, Costa Rica
• 🏆 Best For: 🐢 Turtle nesting, 🐠 snorkeling, 🛶 mangrove paddling
• 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling at Manzanillo Beach, kayaking through mangroves, spotting wildlife at Jaguar Rescue Center
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to July for turtle nesting and calm waters 🐢
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Almonds and Corals Lodge – Unique jungle-glamping spot with beach access and wildlife all around

Gandoca Manzanillo feels like the Caribbean before it got discovered. Located at the southeastern tip of Costa Rica, this protected area blends dense rainforest with coral reefs and quiet beaches that often feel like your own.

The beach at Manzanillo is perfect for snorkeling, with calm, clear waters and vibrant coral right offshore. March through July brings turtle nesting season, and if you’re lucky, you might witness leatherbacks crawling ashore under moonlight. For a closer look at rescued sloths and wild cats, stop by the Jaguar Rescue Center just outside town.

Paddle through mangrove channels where monkeys, caimans, and river otters are often spotted. After a day outdoors, local Afro-Caribbean restaurants serve up rondon stew and fried plantains with serious flavor. It’s laid-back, scenic, and a great choice if you want beach time with a side of true wilderness.

• Read next: Top Caribbean Experiences

4. Dominical Valley of the Waterfalls

• 📍 Location: Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
• 🏆 Best For: 💦 Waterfall swimming, 🐴 jungle tours, 🍫 cacao lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to Nauyaca Falls, visiting Diamante Verde, touring Sibu Chocolate
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to August for full waterfalls and fewer crowds 🌧️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Waterfall Villas – Private rainforest retreat with on-site waterfalls and wellness-focused amenities

Dominical Valley is a wild patch of jungle where waterfalls crash through the trees and locals still ride horses on narrow dirt roads. It’s close to Dominical’s surf scene but feels like a totally different world once you head inland.

Nauyaca Falls is the main draw, and it lives up to the hype. The twin cascades spill into a massive swimming hole you can hike or ride to. For something more off-grid, Diamante Verde offers hidden waterfalls and even cliff jumping for the brave.

This valley has its own rhythm. Between waterfall hikes, stop at a cacao farm for chocolate tours or visit Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary for a closer look at rescued animals. Wake up to mist over the jungle and fall asleep to distant rushing water. If you want a mix of wild adventure and local flavor, this is the spot.

5. Mal Pais

• 📍 Location: Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
• 🏆 Best For: 🏄‍♂️ Surf breaks, 🧘‍♀️ off-grid escapes, 🌊 tidepool exploring
• 📸 Top Experiences: Surfing at Playa Carmen, hiking Cabo Blanco Reserve, relaxing at Playa Hermosa
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for sunny surf days and dry trails 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Vista de Olas – Hillside boutique hotel with infinity pool and sunset ocean views

Mal Pais rewards travelers who don’t mind a bumpy road for a better view. It’s one of those beach towns that’s remained chill despite its growing popularity, thanks to its secluded location and surf-first culture.

Playa Carmen is the go-to spot for surfers, especially intermediate riders chasing smooth breaks. For a slower pace, Playa Hermosa’s tidepools and quiet stretches make it easy to lose track of time. Inland trails lead to Montezuma Falls, where you can cool off after a hike through the forest.

The nearby Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve offers some of the best coastal hiking on the peninsula. You’ll spot monkeys, coatis, and maybe even an armadillo if you’re lucky. Evenings here hit different with bonfires, fresh seafood, and the sound of waves instead of nightlife. Mal Pais stays low-key, making it perfect for travelers looking to disconnect.

6. San Gerardo de Dota

• 📍 Location: San José Province, Costa Rica
• 🏆 Best For: 🐦 Birdwatching, 🌫️ cloud forests, 🎣 trout fishing
• 📸 Top Experiences: Spotting quetzals at sunrise, hiking in Savegre Valley, dining at Miriam’s Quetzals
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February to July for clear skies and quetzal nesting season 🪶
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge – Hillside cabins with panoramic views and on-site nature trails

San Gerardo de Dota is a hidden cloud forest town that doesn’t show up on most Costa Rica itineraries. At 7,000 feet above sea level, this valley stays cool year-round, and the air smells like fresh pine and wood smoke.

Birdwatchers know it as one of the best places to see the resplendent quetzal in the wild. Local guides offer early-morning tours when the mist lifts and the forest comes alive with birdsong. Even if you’re not a birder, the scenery alone is worth the trip. Towering oaks, hidden waterfalls, and rushing creeks make every trail feel cinematic.

The food is simple and fresh, often featuring local trout caught that morning. It’s quiet here, perfect for journaling, reading, or sipping coffee while clouds move slowly through the trees. If you need a break from the heat and hustle, this valley offers the reset you didn’t know you needed.

7. Ojochal

• 📍 Location: Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
• 🏆 Best For: 🍽️ Foodies, 🏝️ beach-hopping, 🛶 mangrove tours
• 📸 Top Experiences: Dining at Citrus, kayaking near Tortuga Beach, exploring Térraba-Sierpe wetlands
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to March for sunny weather and fresh seafood 🐟
• 🏨 Where to Stay: El Castillo – Intimate clifftop hotel with ocean views and gourmet dining

Ojochal is not your average beach village. Tucked between jungle-covered hills and the Pacific Ocean, it’s where world-class cuisine meets off-grid living. You’ll find French chefs, wood-fired pizzas, and Indonesian curries all within a five-minute drive.

The beaches nearby are quiet and wild. Tortuga Beach offers calm water for swimming, while the mangrove estuary nearby is perfect for kayaking at sunrise. Boat tours in the Térraba-Sierpe wetlands bring you close to dolphins, birds, and sometimes even crocodiles.

When you’re not exploring, the food scene steals the show. Places like Exotica and Citrus feel like they belong in a big city, but they’re hidden beneath palm trees instead. It’s a destination for travelers who like the jungle but still want a strong espresso and a plate of homemade ravioli at the end of the day.

8. Cahuita National Park

• 📍 Location: Limón Province, Costa Rica
• 🏆 Best For: 🐒 Wildlife watching, 🐠 reef snorkeling, 🌴 coastal hikes
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the Playa Blanca trail, snorkeling Puerto Vargas reef, eating at Miss Edith’s
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February to April for dry trails and calm snorkeling conditions 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Playa Negra Guesthouse – Colorful beachfront retreat surrounded by tropical gardens

Cahuita National Park is one of the easiest places in Costa Rica to spot wildlife without needing a guide. The trail hugs the coastline, so you’ll walk between jungle and beach while monkeys, sloths, and iguanas hang out in the trees overhead.

Snorkeling just offshore reveals coral gardens and plenty of marine life. Puerto Vargas is the best entry point if you want a quieter beach and fewer people in the water. Entry to the park is by donation, which matches the laid-back, community-focused vibe of the area.

After your hike, stop by Miss Edith’s for Afro-Caribbean dishes like coconut rice and jerk chicken. The town itself is low-key, with local shops and reggae tunes filling the air. If you’re looking for a chill base with nature literally outside your window, Cahuita is an easy win.

9. Uvita

• 📍 Location: Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
• 🏆 Best For: 🐋 Whale watching, 🌴 coastal hikes, 💦 waterfall swims
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Whale’s Tail at low tide, spotting humpbacks in Marino Ballena, swimming at Cascada Verde
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to October for whale season and green landscapes 🐋
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Flutterby House – Rustic jungle hostel with a treehouse vibe and walkable beach access

Uvita blends quiet jungle living with one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural sights. The Whale’s Tail, a sandbar that looks like a whale from above, stretches into the ocean and becomes fully walkable at low tide. It’s the highlight of Marino Ballena National Park and best experienced barefoot.

From July to October, humpback whales migrate to this coast. Local tour companies offer respectful boat trips that give you a chance to see these giants up close. Inland, Cascada Verde is a perfect afternoon stop, especially if you want a cool dip and a shady place to hang out.

Uvita has a creative side too. Smoothie bars, yoga studios, and eco-lodges pop up between dirt roads and palm trees. It’s the kind of place where surfers, backpackers, and families all feel at home, and where beach sunsets never get old.

• Read next: Epic Uvita Adventures

10. Turrialba

• 📍 Location: Cartago Province, Costa Rica
• 🏆 Best For: 🌋 Volcano views, 🛶 white-water rafting, 🏛️ history buffs
• 📸 Top Experiences: Rafting the Pacuare River, hiking Turrialba Volcano, visiting Guayabo National Monument
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to May for dry conditions and clear volcano views ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Villa Florencia – Peaceful countryside hotel with volcano views and lush garden surroundings

Turrialba is where Costa Rica’s adventure and culture come together without the crowds. It’s often skipped over by travelers heading to the Caribbean coast, but those who stop here discover a landscape shaped by volcanoes, rivers, and history.

The Pacuare River is one of the best places in the country for white-water rafting. You’ll paddle through rainforest canyons, spot toucans above the trees, and end the day with sore arms and a huge smile. On land, the Turrialba Volcano recently reopened for hiking, offering panoramic views on clear days.

Don’t miss Guayabo National Monument, an ancient site with preserved aqueducts and stone roads that date back over 2,500 years. The town itself feels relaxed, and nearby farms supply everything from homemade cheese to tropical fruit. Turrialba is a solid pick for travelers who like their adventure with a little bit of history.

11. Los Campesinos Ecolodge

• 📍 Location: Quebrada Arroyo, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
• 🏆 Best For: 🌉 Suspension bridges, 🌄 rural tourism, 🥘 local cuisine
• 📸 Top Experiences: Crossing the canyon bridge, swimming in El Salto del Angel pools, night hikes for wildlife
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to March for clearer skies and easier road access 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Los Campesinos Ecolodge – Community-run cabins with waterfall access and panoramic views

Los Campesinos Ecolodge is not just a place to stay, it’s a community project built by local farmers who wanted to share their land in a sustainable way. Set deep in the hills above Quepos, the ecolodge offers quiet forest trails, canyon views, and a genuine local welcome.

The suspension bridge is the standout here. It stretches about 400 feet across a lush ravine with views of the El Salto del Angel waterfall below. From there, follow jungle paths down to natural swimming holes that are usually empty except for toucans and frogs.

You’ll eat home-cooked meals made from ingredients grown on-site, and at night, guided hikes give you a rare look at nocturnal wildlife. Reaching the lodge requires a steep drive, but that journey is part of what makes it feel so remote and peaceful. It’s perfect for slow travel and meaningful connection.

• Read next: 8 Best Coliving Spaces in the World

12. Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge

• 📍 Location: Limón Province, Costa Rica
• 🏆 Best For: 🐠 Snorkeling, 🐢 sea turtle nesting, 🌿 rainforest hikes
• 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling at Punta Uva, kayaking through mangroves, hiking to Manzanillo Point
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for turtle nesting and best water visibility 🐢
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Faith Glamping Dome Costa Rica – Eco domes on the beach with ocean sounds and jungle views

Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is one of the last untouched corners of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. Located near the Panama border, this stretch of coast combines protected reefs, tropical forest, and miles of near-empty beaches.

Punta Uva is the top snorkeling spot here. The coral is close to shore, and you’ll often swim with parrotfish, rays, and maybe even a sea turtle. Inland, paddle a kayak through mangrove tunnels where herons, sloths, and caimans might make an appearance.

The jungle hikes offer up views of the coastline from rocky points and lead to secret coves where you can spend hours undisturbed. Local food spots serve coconut-heavy Caribbean dishes that feel homemade in the best way. Because it’s farther out, Gandoca-Manzanillo gets fewer visitors, making it one of the best places in the country for slow mornings and wild, unfiltered nature.

• Read next: 12 Coolest Places in Central America in 2025

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hidden Gems in Costa Rica

Are you searching for more content about where to go in Costa Rica? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about the most underrated places in Costa Rica.

Where should I go in Costa Rica to avoid tourists?

If you’re looking to escape the crowds, consider heading to places like Los Campesinos Ecolodge or the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. These are some of the best hidden gems in Costa Rica that offer a more authentic and tranquil experience. Additionally, the town of Uvita and its surrounding areas remain less frequented bytourists, allowing you to enjoy the country’s natural beauty in peace.

What are the real treasures of Costa Rica?

Beyond the well-known attractions, the real treasures of Costa Rica lie in its underrated destinations and hidden gems. From the biodiverse rainforests of Turrialba to the culinary delights of Ojochal, there’s a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered. Not to mention, the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Tico people make every visit truly special.

What is the coolest thing in Costa Rica?

One of the coolest places to go in Costa Rica is the cloud forests of San Gerardo de Dota. Here, you can witness the vibrant resplendent quetzal in its natural habitat. Additionally, the unique Whale’s Tail formation at Uvita’s Marino Ballena National Park is a must-see natural phenomenon.

What gems is Costa Rica known for?

Costa Rica is renowned for its natural beauty and biodiversity rather than gemstones. However, when speaking of “gems,” if we’re referring to the country’s treasures in terms of attractions and unique features, Costa Rica boasts numerous “gems” that attract tourists from all over the world. Some of these include:

• Rainforests and National Parks: Costa Rica is home to several national parks and reserves that protect its rich biodiversity. These areas are a haven for nature enthusiasts and offer opportunities to spot unique wildlife.
• Volcanoes: The country has several active and dormant volcanoes, with Arenal, Poás, and Irazú being among the most famous.
• Beaches: Costa Rica’s coasts, both on the Pacific and Caribbean sides, offer stunning beaches. Popular ones include Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, and Puerto Viejo.
• Wildlife: The country is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a vast array of animals like sloths, monkeys, toucans, and the resplendent quetzal.
• Eco-tourism: Costa Rica is a pioneer in eco-tourism, with many lodges and tours focusing on sustainable travel practices.
• Adventure Activities: From zip-lining to white-water rafting, Costa Rica offers a plethora of adventure activities for thrill-seekers.

In terms of actual gemstones, Costa Rica isn’t particularly known for any specific gems. However, like many countries, it has places where enthusiasts can find quartz and other common minerals.

What is Costa Rica most famous for?

Costa Rica is globally renowned for its rich biodiversity, stunning beaches, and commitment to sustainability. It’s a country where you can find everything from active volcanoes, like Arenal, to serene beaches like those in Manuel Antonio. Moreover, Costa Rica is a pioneer in ecotourism, drawing travelers keen on exploring its diverse ecosystems.

What part of Costa Rica has the prettiest beaches?

Costa Rica is a haven for beach lovers, with its extensive coastline offering a diverse range of sandy retreats. If you’re searching for the best beaches in Costa Rica, here’s a list that promises sun, surf, and spectacular views:

1. Mal Pais (Nicoya Peninsula): A surfer’s paradise, Mal Pais boasts rugged beauty with its rocky outcrops and stretches of golden sand. The sunsets here are truly magical.
2. Santa Teresa (Nicoya Peninsula): Adjacent to Mal Pais, Santa Teresa offers a more laid-back vibe with its palm-fringed coastline and consistent waves, making it a favorite among surfers and yogis.
3. Cahuita Beach (Caribbean Coast): Located within the Cahuita National Park, this beach offers a unique blend of golden sands and lush rainforest backdrop, perfect for those looking to combine beach relaxation with nature walks.
4. Manuel Antonio Beach (Central Pacific Coast): Nestled within the Manuel Antonio National Park, this beach is famous for its clear blue waters, diverse marine life, and proximity to the rainforest. This is where you will find capuchin monkeys and sloths.
5. Playa Avellana (Guanacaste Region): Often referred to as “Little Hawaii,” Playa Avellana offers powerful surf breaks and long stretches of sandy shores. The beach’s tidal pools also offer a tranquil spot for relaxation.

Where is the bluest water in Costa Rica?

For crystal-clear blue waters, head to the beaches of the Guanacaste region, particularly Conchal Beach, where the water is known for its striking turquoise hue. Another spot with pristine blue waters is the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge on the Caribbean coast, perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Wrapping Up Costa Rica’s Hidden Gems

Costa Rica, often celebrated for its lush rainforests and vibrant wildlife, holds so much more for the intrepid traveler. Beyond the well-trodden paths and popular tourist hubs lie hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From the serene beauty of Uvita’s Whale’s Tail Beach to the cultural immersion at Los Campesinos Ecolodge, there’s a world of underrated destinations in Costa Rica that beckon with open arms.

Dive into the pristine waters of Gandoca-Manzanillo or walk amidst the ancient ruins of Turrialba. Every corner of this nation offers a fresh adventure. And while the famous spots have their charm, it’s these lesser-known locales that truly capture the heart and soul of Costa Rica.

The next time you’re planning a trip, remember to venture off the beaten path in Costa Rica. You’ll be rewarded with experiences that are as authentic as they are unforgettable. After all, the real magic often lies in the unexpected, in those secret spots that transform a trip into a journey of a lifetime.