things to do
Costa Rica Water Activities
From adrenaline-pumping adventures, such as white-water rafting and surfing, to laid-back activites like whale watching and sailing, Costa Rica provides no shortage of water activities for the whole family.
Don't forget to book your vacation rentals with us
Experience
Dive in and Experience Costa Rica's Extraordinary Water Adventures
With its premier location between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea and its lush, tropical climate, Costa Rica is perfectly suited for all types of water tours and activities.
From high-seas adventures off the coast, such as sailing, whale watching, and scuba diving, to inland adventures on the rivers and lakes tucked within the dense jungles, like kayaking or white-water rafting, you’re bound to find a water adventure (or two!) you can’t miss out on in Costa Rica.
Activities
Costa Rica Water Activities
tours
Discover Water-Based Tours & Private Experiences
Guided tours are the easiest and most convenient way to embark on water activites in Costa Rica. Most tours include round-trip transportation to and from your vacation rental, access to hidden local spots with the help of a knowledgeable guide, and all the necessary equipment you need — such as snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and safety supplies — for a memorable water adventure.
From surfing lessons on stunning white-sand beaches, diving excursions with cool wildlife encounters, sunset cruises on the ocean, and rafting trips on thrilling river rapids, we offer tours that depart directly from your vacation rental — and return you to your front door right after the tour! Special Places of Costa Rica offers a range of guided tours, all varying in length, price, and thrill level, making it easy to choose a water adventure that matches your budget and interests during your trip to Costa Rica.
Explore
Top Costa Rica Attractions to Pair with Water Activities
Beaches
Beaches
Costa Rica's 300+ beaches on both the Caribbean Coast and the Pacific Coast are a huge part of what makes Costa Rica such an unforgettable destination for water activites! With a diverse mix of calm coves, powerful surf breaks, and vibrant reefs, you'll never be far from a beach in Costa Rica that matches the atmosphere you need for your desired water adventure.
View More
National Parks
National Parks
From the colorful coral reefs and marine life in Cahuita National Park on the Caribbean Coast to the stunning beaches and calm waters in Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific Ocean, many of Costa Rica's most popular national parks are filled with oceans, rivers, lakes, and waterfalls — setting the scene for dozens of memorable water adventures.
View More
Waterfalls
Waterfalls
Costa Rica's cascading waterfalls, like La Fortuna Waterfall, pair well with several of the country's most popular water activites — whether you're admiring the beautiful falls as you zoom past on powerful river rapids or taking a dip in the refreshing swimming holes at the base of the falls after a day spent kayaking on a nearby lake.
View More
Rivers
Rivers
From rushing rivers that provide the perfect conditions for world-class white-water rafting trips to slow-paced rivers that are ideal for laid-back wildlife-watching activites like safari floats, Costa Rica's rivers provide a backdrop for water adventures of all kinds.
Lakes
Lakes
Costa Rica's lakes — most notably Lake Arenal, situated at the base of Arenal Volcano — are a premier destination to appreciate the region’s flora and fauna and try your hand at water sports, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and windsurfing.
Coastal Towns
Coastal Towns
Just off the coast of Costa Rica's stunning beaches, Costa Rica's charming beach towns are the perfect place to explore after a day of water thrills. Sit down for a bite at a local restaurant, grab a drink at a local brewery or beach bar, or shop for souvenirs to bring home from local stores or boutiques.
View More
Blog
Visit Costa Rica: Travel Inspiration, Local Guides & Travel Tips
Planning a trip to Costa Rica? Discover all the details about the top water activites on Costa Rica’s oceans, lakes, and rivers from our latest posts.
Playa Flamingo, a fishing haven on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, offers unparalleled inshore and offshore fishing adventures amidst vibrant marine biodiversity, making it a paradise for anglers of all levels.
/
Playa Flamingo in Costa Rica offers an ideal surfing experience for both beginners and seasoned surfers, with gentle waves, challenging nearby breaks, and a warm, welcoming surf community.
/
Playa Flamingo in Costa Rica's Guanacaste province is a top snorkeling destination with clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, attracting snorkelers of all levels.
/
Costa Rica, known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity, is a top destination for nature lovers and adventure-seekers, particularly for its world-class white water rafting experiences suitable for all skill levels.
/
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
About Costa Rica Water Adventures
While Costa Rica offers endless water adventures that cater to all skill levels and interests, some of the most popular include white-water rafting on the Pacure River, surfing on the Pacific Coast, setting sail on a catamaran or sailboat at sunset, and snorkeling or scuba diving on both coasts.
While Costa Rica’s beaches are generally considered safe for swimming, it is important to use caution as strong riptides can pose a drowning risk. Ask about local swimming conditions before entering the water. Swimming in Costa Rica’s rivers is not recommended because the presence of crocodiles poses a safety risk. Instead, opt for white-water rafting or kayaking tours to experience Costa Rica’s rivers.
The best season for water activites in Costa Rica (especially ocean adventures!) is during the dry season from December to April. However, some water sports, like surfing and white-water rafting, are better experienced during the green season because of the heavier rainfall and larger ocean swells.
It’s recommended to book water tours in advance, especially during Costa Rica’s peak season (December to April) or for in-demand activites, such as white-water rafting on the Pacure River, snorkeling in Cahuita National Park, or diving at Cocos Island National Park.
Several water activites in Costa Rica, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and surfing, are suitable for beginners, making them great family-friendly activities during a trip to Costa Rica. Keep in mind that some tours, like white-water rafting or scuba diving, may have a minimum age requirement to participate.
Different water activites in Costa Rica require different gear and attire. For example, snorkeling tours usually require a swimsuit and snorkeling gear, while rafting trips require quick-drying clothing and safety gear, like helmets. Before heading out, reach out to your tour provider to ensure you come prepared for your adventure.
