Exploring Costa Rica: From the Arenal Volcano to Playa del Coco
Nestled in the northern lowlands of Costa Rica, Arenal Volcano is one of the country’s most iconic sights. Towering at over 5,000 feet, this near-perfect conical volcano is surrounded by lush rainforest, natural hot springs, and a wide variety of outdoor adventures.
Top things to do in the Arenal Volcano area:
Visit the Hot Springs:
After a day of hiking, nothing beats soaking in natural hot springs heated by the geothermal activity of Arenal. Popular options include Tabacón, Baldi Hot Springs, and the beautiful EcoTermales. Many of these resorts offer day passes and include access to a range of pools at varying temperatures.Explore Arenal Volcano National Park:
The park offers accessible hiking trails where you can walk over old lava flows, through secondary rainforest, and enjoy spectacular views of the volcano and Lake Arenal. Trails like Las Coladas and Los Tucanes are relatively easy and great for spotting wildlife.La Fortuna Waterfall:
A short drive from the town of La Fortuna, this 230-foot waterfall is a must-see. You’ll hike down a steep staircase to reach the base where you can swim in the cool, refreshing pool below.Zip-lining and Hanging Bridges:
For thrill-seekers, Arenal is one of the best places in Costa Rica to zip-line through the treetops or walk among them on hanging bridges. Sky Adventures Arenal Park is one of the most popular operators offering both experiences with spectacular views.Lake Arenal:
If you love water activities, Lake Arenal is perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or taking a scenic boat tour. It's also a fantastic spot for windsurfing thanks to the steady breezes.
Playa del Coco: Beach Town Vibes and Pacific Sunsets
After a few days of volcano adventures, head west to Playa del Coco on the Pacific coast to slow things down. Coco Beach is one of the oldest beach communities in Costa Rica, popular with both locals and tourists, and it’s known for its chill atmosphere, lively nightlife, and easy access to marine adventures.
Top things to do in Playa del Coco:
Relax on Coco Beach:
The beach itself has calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. It’s not the whitest sand you'll find in Costa Rica, but the sunsets here are absolutely magical.Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving:
The Gulf of Papagayo is home to incredible underwater life. Join a snorkel or scuba diving tour and explore coral reefs, volcanic rock formations, and spot turtles, rays, and colorful fish. Companies like Rich Coast Diving offer great options for beginners and experienced divers alike.Sport Fishing:
Playa del Coco is a hub for deep-sea fishing charters. Half-day and full-day trips can take you after marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, and tuna.Day Trips to Nearby Beaches:
Coco is a great base to explore other beaches like Playa Ocotal (a short drive south) or Playa Hermosa and Playa Panama. Each offers a slightly different vibe, from quiet retreats to family-friendly swimming spots.Sunset Sailing:
One of the most popular activities is taking a catamaran cruise in the late afternoon. Enjoy an open bar, snorkeling stops, and a glorious sunset over the Pacific Ocean.Explore Town Life:
While Playa del Coco is relatively small, the main street (leading down to the beach) is lined with restaurants, bars, souvenir shops, and tour operators. It's the perfect place to grab a casual dinner of fresh seafood or enjoy live music at night.
Bonus Tip: Getting Between Arenal and Coco
The drive from Arenal to Playa del Coco takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. It’s a scenic journey passing through mountains, rural towns, and eventually leading you to the golden coastline of Guanacaste Province. If you prefer, private shuttles and domestic flights are available too.
Combining the misty rainforests and hot springs of Arenal Volcano with the sun-soaked beaches of Playa del Coco gives you the best of Costa Rica in one trip. Whether you're zip-lining past howler monkeys, soaking in thermal waters, diving beneath turquoise waves, or just lounging with a cold drink in hand, you’ll experience the country's famous pura vida spirit every step of the way.
