Explore the national parks in Costa Rica best known for wildlife, beaches, and adventure. Costa Rica boasts some of the most stunning, ecologically rich national parks in the world. Whether you’re an adventurer, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Costa Rica’s national parks offer an experience like no other. In this guide, we’ll explore five of the best parks—Manuel Antonio, Carara, Marino Ballena, Rincón de la Vieja, and Poás Volcano—all easily accessible from The Castle of Oz.
5 Best National Parks in Costa Rica
1. Manuel Antonio National Park: A Perfect Blend of Rainforest and Beach
Manuel Antonio may be one of Costa Rica’s smaller parks, but it’s packed with natural beauty. Its 16 square kilometers encompass lush rainforests and pristine beaches, making it a favorite for both wildlife lovers and beachgoers.
Wildlife Highlights: Keep your eyes peeled for white-faced capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, and the rare squirrel monkeys, along with two- and three-toed sloths lounging in the trees. The birdlife is equally impressive, featuring colorful toucans, scarlet macaws, and a host of other tropical species. Iguanas and the occasional snake also make appearances, adding to the park’s rich biodiversity.
Beaches: The park is famous for its gorgeous beaches, particularly Playa Manuel Antonio, a quiet, secluded cove, and Playa Espadilla, a longer stretch of sand perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun.
Hiking Trails: Manuel Antonio’s trails offer scenic routes through the rainforest, leading to panoramic views and hidden beaches. The Sendero Punta Catedral is a popular choice, offering breathtaking coastal vistas.
Why It’s the Best: Manuel Antonio is a crowd-pleaser thanks to its blend of accessible wildlife, stunning beaches, and excellent hiking options. It’s ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a bit of everything.
Distance from The Castle of Oz: Just a 90-minute drive, making it perfect for a day trip.
2. Carara National Park: A Haven for Birdwatchers
Situated where Costa Rica’s dry northern forests meet the humid southern rainforests, Carara National Park offers a unique mix of ecosystems. It’s especially well-known among birdwatchers, with its thriving population of scarlet macaws being a key attraction.
Wildlife Highlights: Spot the vibrant scarlet macaws flying overhead, or look for crocodiles lounging along the banks of the Tarcoles River. The park is home to capuchin monkeys, sloths, and over 400 species of birds, including toucans and kingfishers.
Activities: Early morning birdwatching is the best way to experience Carara’s avian diversity. For something more adventurous, take a crocodile river tour on the Tarcoles and witness these powerful creatures up close.
Hiking Trails: Carara’s trails are well-maintained, with the Laguna Meandrica trail offering prime birdwatching, while the Araceas Trail takes you deep into the rainforest.
Why It’s the Best: If you love birdwatching or prefer a quieter park experience, Carara is a hidden gem. Its peaceful atmosphere and rich wildlife make it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Distance from The Castle of Oz: Only 30 minutes away, perfect for a half-day trip.
3. Marino Ballena National Park: A Marine Wildlife Paradise
On Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast lies Marino Ballena National Park, a marine sanctuary renowned for its seasonal whale migrations and stunning beachscapes. The park is named after its whale-tail-shaped sandbar and the humpback whales that grace its waters.
Wildlife Highlights: Whale-watching is the main event here, especially during migration seasons (August to October and December to April). The park is also home to playful dolphins, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs brimming with tropical fish and rays.
Activities: Take a whale-watching tour or dive into the crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and exploring the colorful underwater life. Don’t miss the unique experience of walking along the whale-tail sandbar at low tide on Playa Uvita.
Why It’s the Best: For those fascinated by marine life, Marino Ballena is a dream destination. Whether you’re whale watching, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the coastline, this park is unforgettable.
Distance from The Castle of Oz: Around 2 hours, making it an ideal full-day excursion.
4. Rincón de la Vieja National Park: The Ultimate Volcanic Adventure
In the Guanacaste region, Rincón de la Vieja National Park offers a thrilling mix of geothermal activity and lush forests. The park is named after the active Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, whose bubbling mud pots, hot springs, and steam vents create an otherworldly landscape.
Wildlife Highlights: The park’s volcanic setting doesn’t deter wildlife—look out for spider monkeys, elusive pumas, and an array of tropical birds like the emerald toucanet.
Geothermal Features: Las Pailas is a fascinating area where you can see bubbling mud pools and steam vents. After a hike, relax in the park’s natural hot springs.
Hiking Trails: For adventure seekers, hiking to the volcano’s summit offers incredible views. The trails also lead to beautiful waterfalls like La Cangreja, providing perfect spots to cool off.
Why It’s the Best: Rincón de la Vieja is perfect for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. The volcanic landscape, combined with its natural beauty, offers an experience that’s hard to beat.
Distance from The Castle of Oz: About 3.5 hours—ideal for a longer day trip or overnight stay.
5. Poás Volcano National Park: Breathtaking Crater Views
Poás Volcano National Park is home to one of the world’s largest volcanic craters, and it’s easily accessible, making it a popular destination. The park’s paved trails lead directly to viewing platforms, offering unparalleled views of the steaming acid lake within the crater.
Wildlife Highlights: While the volcano is the star, the surrounding cloud forests support a range of wildlife, including hummingbirds, tanagers, and small mammals like coyotes.
Activities: Marvel at the dramatic volcanic crater, then explore the nearby cloud forests on the park’s scenic hiking trails.
Why It’s the Best: Poás Volcano offers one of the most spectacular volcanic experiences in Costa Rica. Its ease of access and breathtaking views make it a must-see for anyone visiting the country.
Distance from The Castle of Oz: About 3 hours, making it a fantastic addition to your trip.
Stay at The Castle of Oz: Your Gateway to Costa Rica’s Best National Parks
Ready to explore Costa Rica’s national parks? Stay at The Castle of Oz, a luxury villa in Playa Hermosa, Puntarenas, perfectly located to access the country’s most stunning natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or celebrating a special occasion, we provide everything you need to make your stay unforgettable.
Reserve your stay today and dive into Costa Rica’s incredible wild beauty!