Costa Rica has gained more and more popularity in recent years, especially among those looking for exciting activities and a relaxing atmosphere on the beach.
Travel guides are full of destinations to go hiking, surfing, and experience the famous Pura Vida. Yet some amazing places are overlooked and waiting for you to discover them.
Read on to find out 7 Most Underrated Places in Costa Rica to Visit in 2024. Not only will you get the chance to immerse yourself in the authentic Costa Rican lifestyle, but you will also avoid crowds and promote sustainable tourism.
Poas Volcano
The Poas Volcano is another great destination for nature lovers that doesn’t get much attention but has a lot to offer. It is one of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica and gives visitors the chance to see several volcanic phenomena up close, including steam vents, fumaroles and bubbling sulfuric acid lakes.
It offers several hiking trails leading to viewpoints overlooking the crater through the cloud forest – a great way to explore the area’s unique flora and fauna. Moreover, it is easily accessible from San José. So even if you stay in the capital, you can have a wonderful day out.
Zarcero
Zarcero is a picturesque mountain town in Alajuela that offers a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty. It is home to the 1895 Church of San Rafael, which is a sight to behold from both the outside and the inside. In front of it you will find fascinating topiary gardens with trees beautifully trimmed in the shapes of animals and various geometric figures.
Another thing Zarcero is known for is artisanal cheese. You can buy the iconic so palmito in shops around the cobbled streets of the city. Or you can take a tour and taste it at a local dairy farm or cheese factory.
Playa Mina
Want to spend a day on a secluded beach that only locals know about? Playa Minaalso known as Playa Zapotillal, features soft sand, clear water and an abundance of wildlife, especially sea turtles. It is located in the province of Guanacaste, about 30 minutes away from Tamarindo.
However, getting there is not as easy as it sounds. You have to take an unmarked rocky road that requires an off-road friendly car. Maybe that’s why it’s such an underrated place in Costa Rica.
A visit to Playa Mina is a good idea all year round. But if you want to catch a glimpse of sea turtles hatching and strolling toward the ocean, the best time to come is between October and March.
Sarchi
If you are in Alajuela, you might as well visit Sarchí. This cute town is known for its traditional Costa Rican crafts. It includes around 200 craft shops and markets, where you can find everything from wooden furniture and leather goods to ceramics and textiles. If you travel with large luggage, they make great souvenirs.
Moreover, it features enchanting colonial architecture. In the center of the city you will find numerous lively buildings and a beautiful church decorated with beautiful woodwork. And also the largest ox cart in the world. The colorfully painted ox carts were once used to transport coffee beans and are a symbol of Costa Rica.
Mal Pais
Located on the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, Mal Pais is a small fishing village with incredible nature and an enchanting coastline, ideal for surfing. Thanks to consistent surf breaks, it is suitable for all levels. And the tranquility of the area attracts surfers from all over the world.
Suppose that’s not enough adventure for you. In that case you can go on a zipline through the jungle, go horseback riding or walk in the area Absolute nature reserve Cabo Blanco or Montezuma Falls.
Rincon de la Vieja
Those who visit Costa Rica to explore its diverse nature should not miss this Rincon de la Vieja. Located in the northwest of Costa Rica, this national park extends over 14,000 hectares and is home to fantastic hiking trails, waterfalls, mud pots, geysers, hot springs and the enormous Rincon de la Vieja volcano.
It is also a perfect place to get your adrenaline flowing. You can zipline through the jungle canopy, rappel down a series of waterfalls or enjoy whitewater rafting on the Rio Colorado. Afterwards, you can refuel and enjoy authentic dishes from the region in one of the local restaurants.
Tortuga Island
If you want to spend a fun day at the beach, head to Tortuga Island. Located in the Gulf of Nicoya, this hidden gem is a popular spot for a day trip to enjoy all the delights a beach has to offer.
Reaching Tortuga Island requires a scenic boat ride. Relax on the deck, soak up the sun and view the mountainous landscape from a distance. Once you arrive on the island, you can enjoy a range of water sports, from kayaking and paddle boarding to jet skiing and banana rides. The waters are also teeming with marine life. Snorkel or dive and discover colorful fish, rays and sea turtles.
If you prefer to stay on the ground, you can play volleyball, frisbee or just laze around.
