Not a fan of crowds? You’re not alone. But when peak travel times like spring break or summer vacation are the only windows that fit your schedule, avoiding the hustle can feel tricky.
Here’s the good news: While Costa Rica’s popular destinations may be bustling during peak travel dates, it’s still possible to find your own picture-perfect pocket of tranquility.
The secret? A few smart swaps. By trading some of the well-trodden hotspots for lesser-known gems, you can sidestep the crowds in Costa Rica without sacrificing any of the magic.
Of course, Costa Rica’s most popular spots are beloved for a reason (and we’re not suggesting avoiding them entirely). But if you’re open to alternatives, you might find equally stunning destinations that fit your Costa Rica itinerary while offering you a bit more solitude.
Here’s our guide to exploring Costa Rica without the hustle and bustle. Whether you’re traveling during spring break, summer, or any busy season, these are our expert swaps to consider for a quieter, more relaxed adventure.
How to Avoid Crowds in Costa Rica During Peak Travel Dates
From peaceful beaches to secluded retreats, here are some ideas to craft a tranquil and unforgettable vacation—even during popular travel times.
1. Instead of Tamarindo → Try Playa Langosta
Tamarindo is Costa Rica’s go-to destination for surfing, nightlife, and vibrant beach energy. But if you’re seeking a quieter retreat just minutes away, Playa Langosta offers the perfect escape—peaceful, serene, and still minutes from all that Tamarindo has to offer.
With golden sand bordered by mangroves, Langosta sets a more relaxed pace. The beach is ideal for peaceful walks or unwinding by the shore, and surfers will appreciate the reliable left and right breaks. If surfing’s not your thing, volcanic tide pools along the beach reveal fascinating marine life.
Beyond the shore, Langosta connects you to nature in meaningful ways. Las Baulas Marine National Park, just minutes away, offers eco-tours and the chance to see nesting sea turtles during the season. And if you’re craving a night out, Tamarindo’s restaurants and shops are always within easy reach.
2. Instead of Nosara → Stay at Azul Ocean Club Hotel near Playa Azul
Nosara’s bohemian charm and wellness culture have earned it a devoted following, but head just a little further south, and you’ll discover the enchanting Playa Azul. Located just five kilometers from Marbella, this hidden gem offers pristine beaches, lush jungle surroundings, and a sense of serenity that’s hard to match.
Base yourself at the Azul Ocean Club Hotel, a boutique retreat that feels like your own private hideaway. With modern, eco-friendly accommodations and personalized service, it’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge. The uncrowded beaches invite long walks, lazy afternoons, and uninterrupted ocean views. If you’re feeling adventurous, nearby jungle trails and calm waters offer great opportunities for exploring or paddleboarding.
3. Instead of Staying in Manuel Antonio → Base Yourself in Uvita
Manuel Antonio’s national park is a highlight on many Costa Rica itineraries, and it’s definitely worth a day trip to explore its stunning beaches and wildlife-filled trails. However, staying in town often means navigating traffic on the single road in and out, along with the crowds that can detract from the area’s natural beauty. Just an hour south, Uvita offers a peaceful base that’s close enough for a visit to Manuel Antonio, while immersing you in a calmer, more authentic experience.
Uvita is a gateway to Marino Ballena National Park, home to the famous Whale Tail sandbar—a natural wonder best explored at low tide. You can swim, snorkel, or join a whale-watching tour during migration season, when humpback whales are a regular sight. The town itself exudes a laid-back charm, with family-run eateries, yoga studios, and boutique stays surrounded by lush jungle.
Beyond the beach, Uvita has much to explore. Take a quick hike and refreshing dip at the Uvita Waterfall, or embark on a bigger adventure to the Nauyaca Waterfalls. Ventanas Beach, nearby, reveals fascinating sea caves at low tide, and the Sierpe River mangroves offer a chance to immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity.
4. Instead of La Fortuna → Explore Rio Celeste
While La Fortuna’s volcano views and adrenaline-filled adventures are undeniably epic, nearby Rio Celeste offers a tranquil escape with its own unique charm. Nestled in Tenorio Volcano National Park, this lesser-known destination is home to a striking turquoise river, created by a natural chemical reaction where two streams converge.
The park’s trails wind through lush rainforest to the Rio Celeste waterfall, where vivid blue waters cascade into a serene pool. Along the way, you’ll encounter bubbling hot springs, quiet lagoons, and abundant wildlife, from curious monkeys to vibrant toucans. Rio Celeste offers a refreshing change of pace, trading La Fortuna’s high-energy buzz for peaceful moments immersed in nature. Nearby eco-lodges provide a comfortable base, blending thoughtful amenities with the area’s wild, untouched beauty.
5. Instead of Monteverde → Head to Bajos del Toro
While Monteverde’s appeal lies in its misty treetop adventures, Bajos del Toro immerses you in a valley of towering waterfalls and pristine rainforest trails, providing a completely different perspective on Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
In Bajos del Toro, you’ll trade hanging bridges for the awe-inspiring Catarata del Toro, a 270-foot waterfall plunging into a volcanic crater. The area’s Blue Falls offer another stunning highlight, with vibrant turquoise cascades surrounded by untouched jungle. Unlike Monteverde, where cloud forest exploration often happens high above the ground, Bajos del Toro invites you to explore at eye level, with trails leading to hidden streams, vibrant wildflowers, and up-close wildlife encounters.
6. Instead of Corcovado → Discover Piedras Blancas
Corcovado National Park is renowned as one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions, often considered a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. We absolutely love Corcovado National Park and highly recommend it. However, for a fresh perspective on the country’s incredible ecosystems, Piedras Blancas National Park offers an undeniably unique experience.
One of our favorite ways to explore this hidden gem—and the glistening waters of Golfo Dulce—is with a stay at Playa Cativo Lodge, a luxurious retreat nestled within the rainforest and accessible only by boat.
Set on a 1,000-acre private nature reserve, Playa Cativo Lodge provides unparalleled access to Piedras Blancas National Park. Your days here can be as relaxing or adventurous as you choose: hike through secluded trails teeming with wildlife, kayak the emerald waters of Golfo Dulce, or discover hidden waterfalls. The lodge can also arrange visits to Corcovado National Park so you can get the best of both worlds!
7. Instead of Surfing in Santa Teresa → Surf Pavones
Santa Teresa has long been a favorite for surfers, known for its world-class waves and vibrant beach vibes. But if you’re seeking a quieter spot to catch some of Costa Rica’s best breaks, head south to Pavones. Famous for its legendary left-hand point break—one of the longest in the world—Pavones offers a surfer’s paradise without the crowds.
This small coastal town is all about the waves. When the conditions align, you can ride a single wave for over a minute, a rare treat even for seasoned surfers. The laid-back atmosphere makes it the perfect place to unwind between sessions, whether you’re lounging in a hammock or exploring the pristine beaches.
Ready to Customize Your Costa Rica Adventure?
Whether you’re seeking hidden gems away from the crowds or exploring Costa Rica’s iconic spots that are famous for a reason, we’ll craft an unforgettable trip just for you. You’ll pay the same (or less) than booking it yourself—plus enjoy exclusive perks and insider access.
Get in touch today and let’s start planning your dream Costa Rica vacation.
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