Costa Rica is the land of beautiful beaches… but it has so much more to offer! Why sit at the beach all day when you can go on an adventurous day trip? These magical spots are only an hour or two away from Playa del Coco!
Day Trip to Cortez Waterfall
Just 1 hour away from Playa del Coco is the Llanos de Cortez waterfall. This truly magnificent waterfall is located in Bagaces. Affordable and very well
maintained, this is an ideal spot to bring the family. There are restrooms and showers. The walk down to the falls is manageable for most visitors in decent physical shape. When you arrive at the base of the falls, you will be enchanted. A sunny sandy beach hugs the shore of the falls where you can take a refreshing swim. You can even swim beneath the waterfall! Interested in other waterfalls? Check out my previous blog about Costa Rica waterfalls.
Day trip to the Mud Baths
Do you love being slathered in mud? Well I have some great news about another day trip! Both the Rincon de la Vieja and Miravalles volcanoes are surrounded by bubbling mud pits. These hot bubbling mud pits are rich in minerals and have plenty of therapeutic as well as rejuvenating properties. There are numerous locations, all within a two hour or less drive from Coco, that offer this muddy spa experience. A few great options are Hacienda Guachipelin, Borinquen Mountain Resort, or Las Hornillas.
Day Trip to Rincón De La Vieja
After being coated with mud and feeling 20 years younger, you can go for a hike at Rincón de la Vieja. Rincón de la Vieja is a national park located only an hour 
and 20 minutes away from Playa del Coco. This national park is over 31,000 acres and has a plethora of incredible walking trails. Within this park are also many beautiful waterfalls. You will come across endless wildlife and breathtaking landscapes as you hike throughout the park. Rincón de la Vieja is a must see destination and is great for all ages. For more information, check out my previous blog about Rincon de la Vieja.
Day Trip to Palo Verde Boat Tour
Crocs, monkeys, birds, oh my! A Palo Verde Boat day tour will captivate you for hours. Palo Verde National Park surrounds the Tempisque Conservation area. This conservation area is especially important because it is one of the most endangered ecosystems in all of Central America. This boat tour will teach you about all the migratory birds that depend on this area for mating and raising their young. You will see 6ft long crocodiles and playful capuchin monkeys as you gently cruise down the river. A great experience for birders or families!
Whitewater Rafting Day Trip
Lastly, this one is for the real thrill seekers! An hour away, just outside of Canas, you will find RCR Rafting. This whitewater rafting tour company will take you down the Tenorio River to
experience Class III-IV rapids! Whitewater rafting is perfect for those looking for a wild adrenaline rush while still taking in the beauty of Costa Rica! An experienced guide takes you through the rapids and teaches you a few things along the way. For those who are a little less adventurous… RCR also offers a slow moving tour of the Corobici River.
No matter what Costa Rica day trip adventure you choose, it is bound to be a great experience. Costa Rica is definitely so much more than just a beautiful rich coast!
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- Frequently asked questions about Costa Rica
- Costa Rica property listings