Our favorite places we visited in Costa Rica this year

The Tico Times is based in San José, but we love to experience the rest of Costa Rica firsthand.

With 2019 coming to a close, we’re reflecting on our favorite places we visited across Costa Rica this year. This is by no means an exhaustive list, and it’s in no particular order. But we won’t forget these destinations anytime soon.

5. Caño Island (Isla del Caño)

The ranger station at Caño Island Biological Reserve off the Osa Peninsula. Alejandro Zúñiga / The Tico Times

Located about 10 miles from mainland Costa Rica, Caño Island offers incredible snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. Take a day trip from Uvita, Sierpe or Drake Bay and prepare to come face-to-face with all kinds of marine wildlife — everything from sea turtles to sharks.

• Read: Face-to-face with a sea turtle at Caño Island

4. Nauyaca Waterfalls

Nauyaca Waterfalls are an inexpensive and memorable outdoors experience. Alejandro Zúñiga / The Tico Times

Visit Nauyaca Waterfalls, located near the Puntarenas town of Dominical, during the dry season. During the drier months, the waterfall cascades into a tranquil pool that’s perfect for wading, swimming and admiring the two-stepped waterfall in front of you.

• Read: The stunning Nauyaca Waterfalls

3. Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste

Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste. Photo courtesy Mike Poynton.

It’s called Playa Hermosa for a reason. The hills near this small Guanacaste town provide excellent views of the beach and bay. Playa Hermosa is also an easy drive to a multitude of popular Nicoya Peninsula destinations.

• Read: Guanacaste’s beautiful beaches

2. Prusia Sector, Irazú Volcano National Park

Hiking Irazú Volcano is like a trip to the Pacific Northwest. Alejandro Zúñiga / The Tico Times

Want an easy day trip from San José? Look no further than Irazú Volocano National Park’s Prusia Sector. With 10 miles of hiking trails, you’ll appreciate the quiet, fresh air and excellent views over the Central Valley.

• Read: One-day getaways from San José

1. Bijagua, Alajuela

Waterfall at the spectacularly blue Celeste River at Tenorio Volcano National Park in northern Costa Rica. Florian Kuster

Bijagua is the gateway to Tenorio Volcano National Park. It’s also a wonderful standalone destination with excellent flora and fauna, and the allure of a rural Costa Rican town.

• Read: Visiting Tenorio Volcano National Park