Contents
s your perfect spring break filled with sun, beach, and just enough adventure to keep things interesting? Then look no further—Costa Rica is the gift that keeps on giving. Forget cramped party cruises or overpriced dance clubs. Here areThe beaches are real, the jungles are real, and the fun is real and right around every corner (with Howler Monkeys as a soundtrack, sometimes).
Spring Break in Costa Rica: Where the Wild Meets Chill
Spring break in Costa Rica is a vibe. You can zipline, surf, and make s’mores on the beach all in one day! The ideal getaway for friends, lovers, or even solo. It has everything.
And the best part? It’s not only sun and beaches. It’s waterfalls and volcanoes and wildlife and food with taste.
Where to Go for Spring Break in Costa Rica
You’ve got your flight, you’ve packed your sunscreen, and now the question is—where should I stay? Despite not being the biggest country in Central America, Costa Rica has a diverse collection of vibes from party towns to secluded jungle hideaways. If you’re intending on a wild Spring Break—with the ability to either party all night or nap in a hammock all day (or both)—take a look at these places for your Spring Break in Costa Rica.
Tamarindo: The Party-Surf Paradise
Want bars, beach, and boards? Tamarindo is your spot. It’s one of the most popular spring break destinations in Costa Rica for a reason — great waves for beginners, hostels and boutique hotels, and plenty of spots to dance barefoot in the sand after dark.
Manuel Antonio: Nature + Nightlife
If you like your spring break with a side of sloths, Manuel Antonio balances epic nature with chill town vibes. Spend the day hiking in the national park or spotting toucans from your balcony — then head out for drinks and live music.
Puerto Viejo: Caribbean Cool
On the Caribbean side, Puerto Viejo is slower, groovier, and full of flavor. Think reggae, coconut rice, bike rentals, and snorkeling. If you want less mainstream and more character, this is your place.
Spring Break in Costa Rica – What to Do (Besides Party)
Sure, spring break can mean cocktails at sunset — but it’s also a chance to do stuff:
- Surfing lessons (no one cares if you fall)
- Snorkeling or scuba diving in warm Pacific waters
- Ziplining through cloud forest canopy
- Whitewater rafting on wild rivers
- Beach hopping in Guanacaste or Nicoya
- Hot springs soaking in Arenal after a volcano hike
And honestly? Some of the best memories come from renting a car and just driving, windows down, music up, no plan except “let’s see where this road goes.”
Spring Break Weather in Costa Rica
March and early April are part of the dry season on the Pacific coast — perfect for beach days, with little to no rain. That said, pack a light jacket if you’re headed into the highlands or cloud forests. Mornings are hot, evenings are breezy, and sunsets will wreck your camera roll (in the best way).
Spring Break, Costa Rica Style: Worth It?
100%. Whether you’re after beach lounging or jungle adventuring, spring break in Costa Rica hits that sweet spot between chill and thrill. It’s not the cheapest destination — but the value? Through the roof.
And if you plan a bit ahead (like, now), you can avoid tourist traps and find places that feel like hidden gems.
Need Help Planning the Perfect Spring Break?
You bring the flip-flops, we’ll bring the itinerary. Our custom trip planning service makes spring break easy, fun, and 100% Costa Rican. We’ll hook you up with cool places to stay, epic tours, and even quieter corners if you want a break from the break.
Don’t Miss the Free Stuff
Want to discover wild places most tourists skip? Download our free guide: “10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of.”
From secret beaches to jungle towns, these are the spots you’ll brag about for years.
