7 Genius Itinerary Swaps to Escape the Crowds in Costa Rica

Febuary 1, 2025

How to Experience Costa Rica Without the Crowds

If packed tourist spots aren’t your thing, you’re not alone. But when your travel dates fall during peak seasons—like spring break or summer vacation—finding peace and quiet can feel like a challenge.

Here’s the secret: you don’t have to avoid Costa Rica’s most famous destinations altogether—you just need to rethink how you explore them.

By swapping out the most crowded hotspots for equally breathtaking but lesser-known locations, you can enjoy the country’s beauty without the hustle and bustle. These smart itinerary adjustments let you experience the best of Costa Rica while keeping your trip relaxed, immersive, and stress-free.

Of course, the popular spots are famous for a reason, and we’re not saying you should skip them entirely. But if you’re open to a few off-the-beaten-path alternatives, you’ll find stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and authentic experiences, without feeling like you're stuck in a tourist rush.

Here’s your expert guide to escaping the crowds in Costa Rica—no matter when you visit.

Looking for a quiet escape? From secluded beaches to off-the-radar retreats, there are plenty of ways to experience Costa Rica’s beauty without the crowds—even during the busiest travel times. Here’s how to craft a serene and unforgettable adventure, no matter when you visit.

COSTA RICA TRAVEL HACKS:
HOW TO ESCAPE THE CROWDS DURING PEAK SEASON

1. Instead of Tamarindo → Try Playa Avellanas

Tamarindo is one of Costa Rica’s most famous beach towns, known for its buzzing nightlife, lively surf scene, and abundance of restaurants and shops. While it’s a great spot for those who love an energetic atmosphere, it can get crowded, touristy, and a bit hectic—especially during peak travel seasons like spring break and summer. If you’re looking for a quieter, more laid-back alternative without sacrificing great waves and stunning scenery, Playa Avellanas is the perfect swap.

Just a 30-minute drive south of Tamarindo, Playa Avellanas is a secluded paradise offering some of the best surf in the country, with waves for all skill levels. Unlike Tamarindo’s busier beaches, Avellanas is uncrowded, peaceful, and immersed in nature, giving visitors a chance to experience Costa Rica’s coastline in a more authentic and tranquil way.

What Makes Playa Avellanas Special?

Unspoiled Natural Beauty – Avellanas has a rugged, untouched feel, with wide stretches of golden sand, scattered tide pools, and picturesque driftwood, making it ideal for long walks and peaceful sunsets.
Less Touristy, More Local – While Tamarindo is packed with surf schools, bars, and souvenir shops, Avellanas feels like a hidden escape, with a more laid-back, local vibe. You’ll find friendly expats, longtime surfers, and locals who prefer a quieter beach experience.
Amazing Surf Without the Crowds – Avellanas is home to several world-class surf breaks, from beginner-friendly waves to powerful barrels. Unlike Tamarindo, where lineups can be packed, Avellanas offers more space to enjoy the surf without competing for every wave.
Lola’s Beachfront Restaurant – One of the highlights of Avellanas is Lola’s, a well-loved beachfront restaurant serving fresh, locally sourced dishes. It’s the perfect place to relax with your toes in the sand, sip on a cocktail, and enjoy some of the best seafood in the area. Plus, the beach’s famous resident pig, Lolita, often makes an appearance, adding to the charm of this hidden gem.

Why Choose Playa Avellanas Over Tamarindo?

If you want easy access to Tamarindo’s amenities but prefer a more peaceful and scenic retreat, Avellanas is an excellent choice. You’ll still be close enough to visit Tamarindo for a night out or a quick shopping trip, but at the end of the day, you can return to a quiet, uncrowded paradise where nature takes center stage.

Whether you’re a surfer, a nature lover, or just someone seeking a calmer, more authentic beach experience, Playa Avellanas is the perfect alternative to Tamarindo.

2. Instead of Nosara → Stay at Playa San Juanillo or Playa Azul

Playa San Juanillo

Playa Azul

Nosara is a popular eco-luxury destination, famous for its yoga retreats, surf culture, and wellness resorts. However, with its growing popularity, Nosara has become crowded, expensive, and increasingly commercialized—especially during peak seasons. If you’re looking for the same stunning beaches and natural beauty but with a more peaceful, authentic atmosphere, consider staying at Playa San Juanillo or Playa Azul.

Why Playa San Juanillo or Playa Azul?

Unspoiled Natural Beauty & Tranquility – Unlike Nosara’s bustling Playa Guiones, both Playa San Juanillo and Playa Azul offer pristine beaches with far fewer crowds. Their white sand, turquoise waters, and lush jungle surroundings create the perfect setting for a relaxing escape.
Better for Swimming & Snorkeling – Nosara’s beaches are known for their strong waves, making them great for surfing but less ideal for swimming. Playa San Juanillo, with its calm, crystal-clear waters and rocky coves, is one of the best snorkeling spots in Costa Rica.
Surf Without the Crowds – If you’re looking for waves, Playa Azul offers excellent surfing with fewer people competing for waves compared to Nosara’s packed lineups. It’s perfect for surfers who want a more relaxed, uncrowded session.
More Affordable & Less Touristy – Nosara’s popularity has driven up prices for accommodations and dining. Playa San Juanillo and Playa Azul offer boutique stays, local eateries, and a more budget-friendly experience while still delivering the beauty and adventure Costa Rica is known for.

3. Instead of Staying in Manuel Antonio → Base Yourself in Jacó

Manuel Antonio is a top destination in Costa Rica, famous for its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and lush national park. However, with its popularity comes crowds, high prices, and a more touristy feel—especially during peak seasons. If you’re looking for a more vibrant, accessible, and budget-friendly alternative, consider staying in Jacó, just a short drive north.

Why Choose Jacó Over Manuel Antonio?

Closer & More Convenient – Located only 1.5 hours from San José, Jacó is much easier to reach than Manuel Antonio, which requires a longer drive from the capital.
Lively Beach Town Vibe – While Manuel Antonio is quieter and more nature-focused, Jacó offers a bustling beach town atmosphere, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and nightlife to enjoy after a day of exploring.
Surf-Friendly Beaches – Jacó Beach is one of Costa Rica’s best spots for beginner and intermediate surfers, offering fun, manageable waves. For more advanced surfers, Playa Hermosa is just a short drive away.
More Affordable Accommodations & Dining – Manuel Antonio is known for its higher-priced hotels and restaurants, while Jacó provides a wider range of budget-friendly options, from beachfront hostels to boutique hotels.
Plenty of Outdoor Adventures – Just like Manuel Antonio, Jacó offers easy access to outdoor activities, including waterfall hikes, ATV tours, zip-lining, and deep-sea fishing. Plus, the nearby Carara National Park is a great alternative to Manuel Antonio National Park, with fewer crowds but just as much wildlife.

If you love the beach-meets-rainforest experience of Manuel Antonio but prefer a livelier, more affordable, and easily accessible destination, Jacó is a great alternative. Plus, if you still want to visit Manuel Antonio’s national park, it’s just a short day trip away!

4. Instead of La Fortuna → Explore Río Celeste

Río Celeste

La Fortuna, home to the iconic Arenal Volcano, is one of Costa Rica’s most visited destinations, known for hot springs, waterfalls, and adventure activities. However, with its popularity comes crowds, higher prices, and a more developed tourist scene. If you’re looking for a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path alternative with equally stunning natural beauty, consider Río Celeste instead.

Why Choose Río Celeste Over La Fortuna?

A Stunning, Less Crowded Waterfall – While La Fortuna Waterfall is beautiful, it’s also one of the busiest attractions in Costa Rica. The Río Celeste Waterfall, with its vibrant turquoise waters created by volcanic minerals, is just as breathtaking but far less crowded.
A More Secluded, Immersive Rainforest Experience – La Fortuna can feel developed and busy, whereas Tenorio Volcano National Park (home of Río Celeste) offers a more tranquil, wild rainforest setting teeming with wildlife.
Unique Blue River & Natural Beauty – Río Celeste isn’t just about the waterfall—the entire bright blue river, bubbling hot springs, and natural thermal pools make it a magical, one-of-a-kind destination.
Fewer Tourists, More Serenity – Unlike La Fortuna, which has grown into a tourist hub with large resorts and commercialized activities, Río Celeste remains quiet, authentic, and perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.
Great Nearby Lodging Without the Crowds – Instead of large, high-traffic hotels, Río Celeste offers charming eco-lodges and boutique stays, allowing for a more intimate, nature-immersed experience.

If you’re looking for breathtaking waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and lush rainforest—without the crowds and commercial feel of La Fortuna—Río Celeste is an incredible alternative. And if you still want to visit La Fortuna’s hot springs or volcano, it’s just a short drive away!

5. Instead of Monteverde → Visit San Gerardo de Dota

Monteverde is famous for its misty cloud forests, hanging bridges, and incredible biodiversity. However, it has also become one of Costa Rica’s most visited destinations, meaning crowds, tour buses, and a more commercialized feel. If you’re looking for a more secluded cloud forest experience with equally stunning nature and wildlife, consider heading to San Gerardo de Dota instead.

Why Choose San Gerardo de Dota Over Monteverde?

Authentic Cloud Forest Experience Without the Crowds – While Monteverde is packed with visitors, San Gerardo de Dota offers a serene and untouched cloud forest, perfect for those looking to connect with nature in peace.
Unparalleled Birdwatching (Home of the Quetzal!) – Monteverde is known for its wildlife, but San Gerardo de Dota is one of the best places in Costa Rica to spot the resplendent quetzal, one of the world’s most beautiful birds.
Incredible Hiking & Waterfalls – Explore pristine trails through misty forests, hidden waterfalls, and untouched landscapes—all with a fraction of the foot traffic Monteverde sees.
Cool, Refreshing Climate – Just like Monteverde, San Gerardo de Dota sits at a high elevation, offering crisp mountain air and a comfortable escape from the tropical heat.
More Tranquility, Less Tourism – Unlike Monteverde, which has grown into a tourist hotspot with zip-lining parks and busy attractions, San Gerardo de Dota remains peaceful, with small family-run eco-lodges and a strong focus on conservation.

If you love the cloud forest experience but want to avoid the commercialization and crowds of Monteverde, San Gerardo de Dota offers all the beauty, wildlife, and misty landscapes—without the noise. Plus, it’s still within a reasonable driving distance from San José, making it an excellent alternative for nature lovers!

6. Instead of Corcovado → Explore Golfo Dulce & Piedras Blancas National Park

Corcovado National Park is often called “the most biologically intense place on Earth”, making it one of Costa Rica’s top destinations for wildlife lovers. However, its remoteness, challenging accessibility, and high visitor demand can make planning a trip there complicated and expensive. If you’re looking for a similarly rich rainforest experience with fewer logistical hurdles and fewer crowds, consider exploring Golfo Dulce and Piedras Blancas National Park instead.

Equally Diverse Wildlife Without the Restrictions – Corcovado’s strict visitor limits and required guides make exploring difficult. Piedras Blancas offers the same dense rainforest, incredible biodiversity, and the chance to see jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws—without the hassle.
More Accessible Yet Still Wild – Corcovado often requires long boat rides, multiple connections, and challenging treks, whereas Piedras Blancas is easier to reach from Golfito or Puerto Jiménez while still offering an untouched wilderness experience.
Secluded Beaches & Marine Life – Set along Golfo Dulce, Piedras Blancas blends rainforest adventures with pristine, hidden beaches where you can spot dolphins, whales, and even bioluminescence at night.
Less Crowded & More Affordable – Corcovado’s increasing popularity means high entrance fees and booked-out lodges, while Piedras Blancas and the surrounding Golfo Dulce area offer lower costs and a more peaceful experience.
Amazing Eco-Lodges & Kayaking – Stay at off-the-grid eco-lodges tucked deep in the rainforest, or kayak through mangroves and hidden inlets, experiencing Costa Rica’s wilderness at its purest.

If you want the same raw, untouched nature that Corcovado offers—but with fewer crowds, fewer restrictions, and easier access—Piedras Blancas and Golfo Dulce provide the perfect alternative for an immersive jungle and wildlife experience.

7. Instead of Surfing in Santa Teresa → Surf in Playa Hermosa de Cobano

Santa Teresa is one of Costa Rica’s most popular surf destinations, known for its consistent waves, bohemian vibe, and lively beachfront scene. However, with its rise in popularity, it has also become crowded, pricey, and increasingly developed—especially during peak surf seasons. If you’re looking for world-class waves with fewer crowds but still want to stay on the Nicoya Peninsula, head to Playa Hermosa de Cobano, just 15 minutes north of Santa Teresa.

Same Great Surf, Fewer Crowds – Playa Hermosa offers long, clean waves ideal for all levels, just like Santa Teresa, but without the crowded lineups and heavy tourist traffic.
More Space, Less Hustle – Unlike Santa Teresa, which can feel packed with surf schools and beachgoers, Playa Hermosa has a wide, open shoreline, making it easier to find your own wave.
Quieter & More Relaxed Vibe – While Santa Teresa has an active nightlife scene, Playa Hermosa is a peaceful escape, perfect for those looking to surf and unwind.
Just as Accessible – Staying in Playa Hermosa still puts you within easy reach of Santa Teresa’s restaurants, yoga retreats, and amenities, but gives you a calmer, more secluded home base.
Stunning Natural Beauty – With its golden sands, lush jungle backdrop, and epic sunsets, Playa Hermosa feels like a hidden paradise, without the growing development of Santa Teresa.

If you love Santa Teresa’s waves but want a quieter, more spacious, and equally stunning alternative, Playa Hermosa is a perfect choice. You’ll still be close enough to visit Santa Teresa when you want, but with more freedom to surf without the crowds.

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Relax and Unwind on Costa Rica’s Stunning Beaches

Spend quality family time on Costa Rica’s pristine beaches, where soft sands and crystal-clear waters await. Whether you're building sandcastles with the kids, taking a dip in the ocean, or enjoying a peaceful sunset, our beach days offer the perfect blend of relaxation and fun for everyone.

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Thrilling Family Adventures in Costa Rica’s Great Outdoors

Get ready for excitement with Costa Rica’s endless outdoor adventures! From ziplining through lush rainforests to riding ATVs along rugged trails, our family-friendly adventures are designed to thrill and delight all ages. With safety as a top priority, everyone in your family can enjoy a day full of adrenaline and unforgettable memories.

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Adventure for All Ages:

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Spend relaxing days on Jaco’s beautiful beaches or dive into exciting water activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, or boat tours along the stunning Pacific coastline.

Wildlife & Nature Tours:

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Every family is unique, so we customize each vacation to match your family’s preferences. Whether you’re looking for adventure-filled days or more laid-back activities, we’ll design the perfect itinerary for your family.

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At Moscoa VIP Tours, we specialize in creating stress-free family vacations that cater to your unique needs and preferences. Our expert planning and local insight ensure that every detail is taken care of, allowing you to relax and enjoy quality time with your loved ones, worry-free.

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