Should you spend longer than 5 days in Costa Rica? Definitely. But we live in the real word where most of us are hampered by our PTO days. Fortunately for those coming from the U.S., 5 days is totally doable. This itinerary balances nature, adventure, and downtime. It’s perfect for variety without feeling rushed.

Day 1: Arrival + Hot Springs in La Fortuna

• Land at San José International Airport (SJO)
• Drive or take a shuttle to La Fortuna (~3 hours)
• Check into your hotel (Tabacón, Nayara, Arenal Springs, or a cozy local lodge)
• Spend the evening soaking in natural hot springs
• Dinner in town (Don Rufino and Tierra Mía are local favorites)

Day 2: Volcano Adventures + Waterfalls

• Morning: Hike through Arenal Volcano National Park
• Midday options:
  • Ziplining over the canopy
  • Canyoning (waterfall rappelling)
  • Swimming at La Fortuna Waterfall
• Optional: Visit a chocolate or coffee farm
• Evening: One more hot spring soak or sunset dinner

Day 3: Journey to the Coast

• Optional morning activity in La Fortuna:
  • Hanging bridges at Mistico Park
  • Guided sloth or wildlife tour
• Drive to the Pacific coast, heading toward Manuel Antonio (~4 hours)
• Check in to a beachfront or hillside hotel (Parador, Hotel Costa Verde, Arenas del Mar)
• Watch the sunset from Playa Espadilla
• Dinner with ocean views (El Avión or Emilio’s Café)

Day 4: Manuel Antonio National Park + Beach Time

• Arrive early at Manuel Antonio National Park (opens at 7 AM)
  • Walk shaded trails with views of sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds
  • Swim at hidden beaches inside the park
• Afternoon options:
  • Kayaking or paddleboarding
  • Relaxing on Playa Biesanz
  • Massage or spa treatment
• Dinner at Café Milagro or Ronny’s Place

Day 5: Morning by the Sea + Travel Day

• Enjoy one last beach walk or a leisurely breakfast
• Shop for souvenirs or grab a smoothie at a local café
• Drive back to San José (~3 hours) for your flight
  • Tip: Book a late afternoon or evening flight if possible
• Optional: Stay overnight near the airport if your flight is early the next day

Final Thoughts

If you only have five days, this itinerary is proof that you don’t have to choose between adventure and relaxation. Of course, Costa Rica deserves more time. But five days is enough to fall in love with its rhythms, its people, and that ever-present pura vida spirit.