Costa Rica’s Best-Kept Secrets: Hidden Gems That Will Give You a Reason to Move

Costa Rica’s world-class beaches, lush jungles, and welcoming people have made it a top destination for those seeking a laid-back lifestyle. While tourist hotspots like Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo receive much attention, it is the country’s lesser-known treasures that captivate travelers seeking a more authentic experience. 

From secluded mountain retreats to untouched beaches and vibrant local towns, these off-the-radar spots offer a unique charm beyond the usual tourist path. Read about these undiscovered spots below and who knows, you might find your reason to move to Costa Rica.

Discover Costa Rica’s Hidden Gems Off the Tourist Track

Beyond its renowned tourist destinations, Costa Rica offers a wealth of hidden surprises. Its diverse landscape is home to vibrant wildlife reserves, tranquil mountain retreats, stunning beaches, spectacular waterfalls, and charming villages rich in cultural heritage. A few of these hidden gems are:

#1

Calm Beaches Off the Beaten Track

Costa Rica’s off-the-beaten-path beaches offer an escape from the crowded tourist hubs, presenting a more peaceful and authentic coastal experience.

Playa San Juanillo

Playa San Juanillo, a spotless, deserted beach that epitomizes peace, is situated in the southern tip of Guanacaste province. For those looking for a relaxed seaside lifestyle, this place is a refuge with its silky white dunes, glistening waves, and serene ambiance. For foreigners wishing to settle down and enjoy a more leisurely pace of life by the sea, this place is perfect because of its tranquil surroundings that promote relaxation.

Playa Zancudo

Located in the southern zone of Costa Rica, Playa Zancudo is a remote and untouched beach that boasts natural beauty and a relaxed, carefree vibe. Its long stretches of dark sand, framed by lush greenery, make it a haven for nature lovers. The beach is renowned for its excellent surfing and fishing conditions, attracting adventure enthusiasts who want to enjoy the ocean in a serene, less commercialized setting. Those looking to immerse themselves in a low-key lifestyle will find Playa Zancudo’s charm hard to resist.

#2

Secret Mountain Getaways

For those seeking a serene haven in the middle of a quiet forest, Costa Rica’s secret mountain getaways provide a calm respite.

San Gerardo de Dota

This quaint village tucked away in the Talamanca Mountains is a perfect location for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Known for its cool climate and serene atmosphere, the village is famous for being one of the best places to spot the elusive Resplendent Quetzal, one of the most stunning birds in Central America. With its quiet charm and breathtaking natural beauty, San Gerardo de Dota offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in nature’s wonders.

Bijagua de Upala

Bijagua de Upala is a lesser-known gem nestled near the Tenorio Volcano National Park entrance. Surrounded by lush rainforests and teeming with wildlife, this small town is a nature lover’s paradise. Bijagua is particularly known for its proximity to the awe-inspiring Rio Celeste waterfall, where the water’s brilliant blue hue draws visitors from all over. The area is also home to various species of wildlife, making it a perfect spot for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica’s northern zone.

#3

Protected Wilderness Havens

Unspoiled wildlife reserves in Costa Rica provide excellent opportunities for those who like the outdoors to take in the grandeur of the country’s natural surroundings away from the masses.

Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve

Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, Costa Rica’s first nature reserve, provides a peaceful sanctuary among verdant, pristine surroundings. Peaceful walks through lush woods, a wide variety of animal sightings, natural hot springs, and isolated beaches that maintain their purity and tranquility are all available to visitors. The reserve is a great place for anyone looking for a peaceful and immersed experience in nature because of its serene surroundings. You can find this beautiful reserve at the southern end of the Nicoya peninsula.

Refugio de Vida Silvestre Ostional

In a different corner of Costa Rica, specifically in Ostional Beach (Guanacaste province) Refugio de Vida Silvestre Ostional stands out as a marvelous place, particularly for sea turtle enthusiasts. This lesser-known area provides a rare opportunity to observe sea turtles in their natural habitat without the intrusion of large tourist groups. Fewer people visit the private reserve, making it possible to get up close and personal with the natural processes taking place on its borders. For those who love nature, Ostional provides a distinctive and fulfilling experience with its focus on conservation and the preservation of marine life.

Whether exploring the serene trails of the Cabo Blanco nature reserve or witnessing the majestic sea turtles at Ostional, these reserves offer unparalleled opportunities for a deep and personal engagement with Costa Rica’s remarkable wildlife and landscapes.

#4

Quaint Countryside Towns Brimming with Unique Heritage

The cultural environment of Costa Rica is enhanced by the variety of its rural communities, each providing a unique window into the country’s origins.

Boruca Indigenous Reserve

Located around 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) from the Panamanian border and tucked away in the Talamanca Mountains, the Boruca Indigenous Reserve is a magnificent example of cultural legacy. This little yet lively town is well-known for its yearly cultural festivities and its well-produced traditional masks. Their intricate masks, often crafted with colorful designs and symbolic meanings, play a significant role in the community’s cultural identity. Visitors can learn about Costa Rica’s indigenous history and art by visiting Boruca and experiencing the Boruca people’s rich culture.

Orosi Valley

The picturesque Orosi Valley, a true hidden gem, offers visitors a rich blend of colonial history and local traditions. Its charming towns, steeped in historical significance, provide a distinctive cultural and historical experience. While eco-tourists explore the region’s coffee production, local artisans showcase their craft. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and vibrant culture make the Orosi Valley an ideal destination for those seeking a more authentic Costa Rican experience.

#5

Flourishing Expat Communities in Relaxed Environments

Those preferring a slower pace of life will enjoy Costa Rica’s flourishing expat communities’ calm, scenic locations and contemporary comfort.

Atenas

Atenas, a tiny hamlet in Alajuela’s province, attracts expatriates seeking quiet and convenience. Known for its mild temperature, this beautiful rural town provides a suitable living environment for individuals seeking to avoid bigger cities. The town’s significant expat population creates a pleasant ambiance that offers peace and quick access to basic services. This balanced combination makes Atenas appealing to individuals seeking a serene, connected existence.

Perez Zeledon

Perez Zeledon, located 136 km (84.5 miles) from San Jose, offers a peaceful, agricultural setting that is becoming increasingly popular with expatriates. Its appeal lies in the slower pace of life, opportunities for agrarian involvement, and access to beautiful natural landscapes. The town’s calm ambiance and expanding expat community create a welcoming environment for those seeking to embrace Costa Rica’s rural lifestyle.

Costa Rica’s hidden gems provide a refreshing alternative to the country’s more popular tourist spots with its natural beauty, cultural variety, and peaceful atmosphere. 

From the idyllic beaches of Playa San Juanillo and Playa Zancudo to the peaceful mountain retreats of San Gerardo de Dota and Bijagua de Upala, every destination invites you to experience the country’s diverse geography and rich cultural heritage. In scenic Atenas and Perez Zeledon, expat communities are growing, while Boruca and the Orosi Valley immerse visitors in Costa Rican culture. These lesser-known destinations provide a distinct, intriguing experience for adventurers, leisure travelers, and cultural explorers. It may inspire your future move to this tropical paradise.

Learn More About Costa Rica

Discover Special Places of Costa Rica’s exceptional rental properties, real estate opportunities, unforgettable tours, and comprehensive resources to help you plan your trip or relocation to this enchanting country. You can seamlessly transition to your new adventure or home with personalized property listings and trusted local expertise.