The best family holidays in the US

Beyond the literal translation of ‘pura vida’ is a saying that has deeper significance; it’s about appreciating the present, letting go, and slowing down to take in the people and places around you. It’s a way of living that Costa Ricans, who put family, fun, and laughter first, really embrace. And it’s a philosophy that we can really get behind.

In this ultimate guide to Costa Rica family holidays we’ll be sharing the places and experiences we’ve discovered over decades trying out all the most family-friendly activities in Costa Rica. The unique journeys we’ve stitched together for you as family and luxury travel experts are the culmination of conversations with friends on the ground, hours on the road, and days in the ocean – and every single one puts that pura vida philosophy at its heart. These are family trips full of meaningful memories you’ll think back on for years to come – conversations and moments surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and smells.

Costa Rica is a playground for the most adventurous souls. Let’s dive right in.

osta Rica family holidays can be as action-packed or laid-back as you wish. Perhaps your journey here will blend a little bit of both. It’s the perfect setting for hard-core and soft adventure: with ocean, rainforest, villages, and volcanic lava fields waiting to be explored.

It’s a place that will encourage you to try new things – where your kids will see you in a whole new light as you catch wave after wave in the Pacific, take on the thundering rapids of the Sarapiqui river, or overcome your fear of heights to zipline over a jungle canopy in Arenal Volcano National Park. Together you’ll connect over sloth sightings in the rainforest and the chance to watch turtles nest by moonlight. And after that mighty adrenaline rush, you can retreat to the ocean, carving out some precious quiet time together on the laid-back Pacific coast, which is peppered with luxury boutique hotels, and sand-in-your-toes beach bars.

Every Black Tomato family trip to Costa Rica is designed to combine buzzy regions with some of the country’s most remote corners, free from distractions and full of time to relish the important stuff: your closest clan.