Costa Rica

Want to know about things to do in Costa Rica in October? Perfect, that’s exactly what I’m here to share with you.

While October is one of the rainest months in Costa Rica, the rainfall is significantly lighter on the country’s gorgeous Caribbean coast.

In fact, September and October are the perfect months to visit this region for the best weather and lightest crowds.

Costa Rica is known as one of the most eco friendly nations on the planet and has incredible natural beauty to prove it.

One could easily spend a month here and not run out of things to see. I encourage you to consider a 7 to 10 day Costa Rica itinerary.

This way you’ll have time to spend in each place without feeling rushed.

To help you plan your trip to Costa Rica in October, I’ve put together this list of my favorite things to do in Costa Rica on the Caribbean coast.

Weather in Costa Rica in October

October is part of the green season or rainy season for most of Costa Rica, so prices will be lower for both hotels and airfare this time of year.

However, Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is experiencing its dry season in October, which makes it the perfect time to visit as most days will be sunny and warm.

The country’s Pacific coast and South Pacific regions will typically experience more rainy days than sunny days this time of year.

Average temperatures for Costa Rica in October hover around 75 to 85 degrees for most of the country. The higher elevation areas near the capital of San José tend to be a bit cooler.

October weather in Costa Rica can also be unpredictable at times, so come prepared for both sunny and rainy days.

Things to Do in Costa Rica in October

1. See the sloths

Seeing sloths in the wild in Costa Rica is one of my favorite travel memories ever. I think they are just too cute for words and believe you’ll be just as excited as I was. 

Sloths are found in large numbers on the Caribbean side of the country, so you’ll have an excellent chance of seeing them during your visit.

Both Tortuguero and Puerto Viejo are especially good locations for spotting sloths. 

Sloths are solitary creatures so you will usually find them alone as they prefer to have their own tree.

Once you spot one, they are easy to observe since they don’t move very fast. You’ll usually find them munching on tree leaves or climbing around, albeit very slowly. 

People love to share when they spot one, so do the same for others if you see one first.

Sloth spotting seems to be a favorite activity among just about everybody in Costa Rica. Who can blame them? 

If you’re having trouble finding them on your own, head over to the Sloth Sanctuary near Limon.

The sanctuary is a rehabilitation and education center for sloths. The funds from admission go to support the important work they do for the animals. 

2. Explore the beaches

One of the things that surprised me most about Costa Rica during my visit was how beautiful the beaches were.

Since you’ll be visiting Costa Rica in October, you’ll find the dry season along the Caribbean coast to be the perfect time to visit the beach.

The beaches in Costa Rica are generally not overcrowded, so you don’t have to worry about finding space on the sand.

In fact, during my visit to Costa Rica, my friends and I were on the beaches by ourselves most of the time. 

Here is a list of a few of the beaches you should see when visiting Costa Rica:

• Playa Cocles: This is one of the most popular beaches in the area for both tourists and locals. It’s also popular with surfers, so you can watch them riding the waves if the time is right. There are cafes and bars along this beach if you get hungry or want a cocktail. You can also rent surfboards and bodyboards nearby. 
• Playa Negra: This is a black sand beach and one of the most popular in the area. There are lots of bars and restaurants near this beach, so this is the place to be if you want a livelier atmosphere. It’s also the perfect place to try out some surfing lessons if you’ve been wanting to learn. 
• Punta Uva: This is one of the nicest beaches for swimming because the water is extremely calm on most days. This makes Punta Uva a great spot for snorkeling or taking young kids if you’re on a Costa Rica family vacation.

Make sure you check out more than just one beach while you’re in Costa Rica. I promise it’ll be worth your time.

If you’re willing to put up with the rain and plan to visit beaches on the Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio beach and the Osa Peninsula are popular destinations.

3. Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center

If you’re going to be in Puerto Viejo during your visit to Costa Rica, try to make time for a visit to the Jaguar Rescue Center.

They provide care and rehabilitation to orphaned and injured animals from the surrounding rain forests. 

With a visit here you’ll be able to see some of the local wildlife up close. They typically have jaguars, sloths, monkeys, birds, and snakes in their care along with plenty of other animals. 

Tours are available most mornings and are an excellent way to learn more about the animals you’ll see in Costa Rica.

Plus you’ll get the opportunity to interact with the monkeys if you’re lucky!

The tours are about 90 minutes long and offered Tuesday through Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. The center is closed on Sundays. Tours will cost $20 (USD) per person. 

4. Go Snorkeling

This Costa Rica travel itinerary would not be complete without some snorkeling time.

One of the best spots for snorkeling in Costa Rica is at the Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge found about 8 miles south of Puerto Viejo. 

Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is a protected area that includes a reef full of marine life just offshore.

Those swimming and snorkeling near the reef can see lobsters, anemones, urchins, crabs, sea cucumbers, shrimp, sponges, and even green turtles. 

Other areas along the Caribbean coast that are good for snorkeling are Punta Uva, Puerto Viejo, and Cahuita National Park. 

Snorkel gear can be rented along many of the beaches if you’d like to go snorkeling on your own.

Tours can also be booked from your hotel and hostel if you’d prefer to go with a guide. Most guided tours will last between four to six hours and include multiple snorkeling spots.

5. Visit Tortuguero National Park

One of the most unique things to do in Costa Rica in October is to visit Tortuguero National Park.

The park sits on a sandbar on the country’s northern Caribbean coast. It’s covered in rainforest and considered a major nesting site for green turtles. 

The Sea Turtle Conservancy is also found here and runs a research station and several exhibits.

The exhibits provide information about the conservancy’s work along with tons of information about the turtles that are native to the area. 

The best time to see Green Sea Turtles at Tortuguero is July to mid-October. The best time to see Leatherback Sea Turtles if from February to June. 

Even if your visit to Costa Rica is planned outside of the various turtle nesting times, Tortuguero is still a fantastic place to visit.

Aside from turtles, you’ll get to experience lots of other wildlife when visiting Tortuguero National Park.

The area is also home to jaguars, tapirs, sloths, birds, snakes, and many other creatures.

6. Go hiking

There are many great destinations for hiking in Costa Rica in October.

Some of the most popular hiking destinations are the Arenal and La Fortuna area, Monteverde, and Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park. 

These destinations are in the central and Pacific coast region of the country, meaning you will likely experience rain while hiking in these areas.

It is recommended you bring waterproof hiking boots and a rain jacket for hiking in these areas of Costa Rica in October. 

If you prefer a drier hiking experience in Costa Rica in October, head over to the rainforests near Tortuguero National Park or Cahuita National Park.

Both areas are packed with local wildlife from sloths to jaguars, to howler monkeys.  Be sure to stick to the trails and make sure somebody knows where you’re headed.

As always, be respectful when encountering local wildlife and view from a distance. 

If you encounter injured animals during your visit to Costa Rica please contact one of the country’s many rescue centers and sanctuaries for assistance. 

7. Take surf lessons

The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is a very popular destination for surfers from around the world.

The famous Salsa Brava surf break is located near Puerto Viejo and is said to be one of the best surf spots in all of Central America.

I am told Salsa Brava is only recommended for experienced surfers, so if you’re just learning you’ll want to avoid this surf break. 

For beginners or those still sharpening their skills, you can head over to Playa Cocles which is a short walk from the center of Puerto Viejo.

This beach is excellent for beginners and those looking to take lessons. 

If you’re looking for information on local surf schools, here are a few options near Puerto Viejo:

• Surf the Jungle
• Caribbean Surf School
• La Costa De Papito

Prices vary between the shops but seem to average between $40 to $60 per day. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can always just rent a board and teach yourself.

8. Go diving

Costa Rica is a wonderful diving destination in Central America for both beginners and those with more experience.

For the more experienced divers, you may wish to consider heading to the country’s Pacific coast to see Bull Sharks near Bat Islands, Hammerheads at Cocos Islands or go cave diving at Catalina Islands.

These diving destinations along the Pacific coast are said to be best for experienced divers due to the strong currents in this area. 

For new divers, the Caribbean coast makes an excellent choice. The protected reefs make for safe diving conditions with tons of beautiful marine life. 

For those looking to try diving for the first time or get their certification, Punta Uva Dive Center offers both introductory courses and full certification. Prices are very reasonable. 

If you’re not sure diving is for you, they offer a one day course that gets you in the water and familiar with the equipment for about $85.

9. Try Ziplining

Costa Rica is a popular place for ziplining, especially since the country is covered in rainforests.

Viewing the forests from the treetops is an incredible experience and one you won’t soon forget.

If you’re adventurous and not afraid of heights, I recommend trying a ziplining tour while you’re here. 

There are two main ziplining tours available along the Caribbean coast area near Puerto Viejo. 

The first is Terraventuras. Their tour lasts about 4 hours and includes pick up from your hotel or hostel in Puerto Viejo. The cost of the trip is about $59 per person. 

The second ziplining tour in the area is called Gecko Trail.

Their tour also includes pick up and drop off from your hotel or hostel in Puerto Viejo and will last about 4 hours. The cost is the same as above at $59 per person.

Both of these ziplining tours get excellent reviews. You can check out their websites via the links above to see which you’d like to try. 

If you’ll be exploring any other parts of the country during your visit, ask your hotel for recommendations for ziplining tours.

They are available all over the country so you should have no problem finding one no matter where you happen to be.

10. Visit Arenal Volcano National Park

If you’re willing to brave the rain, a visit to Arenal Volcano National Park must be on your list of things to do in Costa Rica in October.

Arenal makes a great stop either just before or just after you make your way over to the Caribbean coast.

While Arenal volcano is one of the most popular things to do in Costa Rica, crowds will be significantly lighter if you’re visiting in October.

I recommend spending at least two nights near Arenal so you have time to explore the different sections of the park.

Visitors can hike around the volcano, explore the surrounding rain forest, swim in the natural springs, visit the country’s largest lake, and view some impressive waterfalls. 

Arenal is the perfect area to experience the country’s rainforests during the green season.

The trees and plants will be bright green and full of wildlife unique to the region. Plus, you’ll get to see one of the country’s many volcanoes up close.

You can get to Arenal volcano in about 4 hours from San Jose. There are several shuttle services operating in Costa Rica. Most will charge about $55 (USD) one way and include pickup from your hotel or hostel in San Jose.

Lodging on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast

There are some really unique and beautiful eco lodging accommodations in Costa Rica.

If you’ll be traveling along the Caribbean coast I recommend booking your hotel near Puerto Viejo if possible. This is where I stayed during my visit and really loved the area.

Here are a few ideas for hotels and lodges in the area:

• Hotel Banana Azul: This is the hotel I wish I had stayed at but didn’t. This is a beautiful property surrounded by rainforest and right on the beach. Their restaurant serves delicious food as well.
• Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel: This hotel has a beautiful pool and bar area with well-appointed rooms. It’s located right next to Playa Cocles.
• Samasati Yoga and Wellness Retreat: If you’re looking for a nice place that includes yoga and meditation, this is your place.
• Tree House Lodge: If you’re looking for unique and eco-friendly accommodations check out the Tree House Lodge. They are a 10-acre oceanfront ecolodge with six different houses available for rent including a treehouse and a school bus.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to the Top 10 Things to Do in Costa Rica in October and that you’ve found it useful in planning your trip.

If you have more time to spend in Central America consider heading from Puerto Viejo to Bocas del Toro for even more beautiful and affordable Caribbean beaches.

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One of the best decisions I made when visiting Costa Rica on my first ever solo trip was to stay at Costa Rica Backpacker’s Hostel in San José.

If you are traveling solo or are on a budget, I recommend booking your first night in San Jose at this hostel.

When I stayed here I met so many fun people in the short time I was there. I even met two girls to travel with for the majority of my trip. 

Whether you’re taking your first solo trip or just looking for a fun hostel on your first night in Costa Rica, consider reserving a bunk bed at Costa Rica Backpacker’s Hostel. 

Here are my top 10 Reasons to Stay at Costa Rica Backpacker’s Hostel.

1. Location

Costa Rica Backpacker’s Hostel is located in the capital San Jose, which is found pretty much right in the center of the country.

This location makes it a great place to stay as a base for exploring the rest of the country.

There are dozens of day trips or short two or three day trips you can arrange right at the hostel if you’d like to visit La Fortuna, the cloud forest, go ziplining, see Monteverde, Manuel Antonio Beach, etc.

During my own visit, I arranged for a shuttle to Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean side of the country.

The hostel is also located in the downtown area of San Jose for those that would like to explore the capital city before moving on to the rest of the country.

The National Museum of Costa Rica is a short 7 minute walk from the hostel.

2. The Airport Shuttle

I’m not sure about you, but after a long flight I don’t really want to deal with figuring out how to get to my accommodations.

I’d much rather have my transportation figured out or arranged before I land.

Once you reserve your bed at Costa Rica Backpackers Hostel, you can schedule a shuttle to pick you up from the airport.

Send them an email with your flight information including the date, airline and arrival time.

When you exit the airport after going through the passport line, you will see your driver holding a sign that says Costa Rica Backpackers.

The shuttle will cost $26 USD or 14,205 CRC. You can also schedule a shuttle back to the airport for the same price. 

3. The People

Costa Rica Backpacker’s Hostel is the first stop for many travelers when they first arrive in Costa Rica.

For that reason, many of the guests are either on the first or last night of their trip. 

This makes for an exciting place to be and a great place to meet fellow travelers.

It’s also a great opportunity to meet a new travel partner, or to just get destination ideas from people returning to San Jose from other parts of the country.

This hostel is perfectly set up with lots of community space to hang out and mingle as well.

If you’re on the shy side,  just find a spot in the common areas and look approachable. It won’t take long for someone to strike up a conversation.

When I first arrived and checked in, I had barely put my things down before I was approached by two girls asking me where I was from.

We ended up spending the next three days traveling along the Caribbean coast together. Backpackers are a friendly bunch, so don’t be shy. 

4. The Bar and Happy Hour

The bar at Costa Rica Backpacker’s Hostel gets busy just about every night.

There are some good drink and shot specials, so you shouldn’t have to spend a lot of money to have a great time.

I believe I was getting bottled local beers for the equivalent of about a dollar during my visit, but don’t quote me on that.

They also make a few mixed drinks and frozen margaritas, but cocktail options may vary depending on what they have in stock on any given day.

That being said, the real reason you want to hit up the bar for happy hour is to meet other travelers.

You’re pretty much guaranteed to meet people from all over the world while you’re here, and may even make some new friends. 

Be mindful of how many drinks you have while you’re here. Don’t forget you probably have a long travel day the following morning, so don’t set yourself up for a bad day.

Have fun, but pace yourself. 

5. The Swimming Pool

There is a swimming pool in the main courtyard of the hostel right next to the bar.

During my first night here, the pool wasn’t very busy because most people were at the bar.

However, on my last night in San Jose, the pool was the place to be. It was a lot like a Spring Break party, lots of beer, bikinis, and splashing.

If you’re at all familiar with the climate of Costa Rica, you’ll understand why the pool is such a big attraction.

The weather here can get hot, so it’s nice to have a fun way to cool off. 

So, put on your best bikini, grab a beer from the bar, and join the party. 

If there’s enough people around, you can probably start a game of water volleyball. This is a great way to make some new friends.

6. The Kitchen

The hostel has a full kitchen next to the bar area if you’d like to make yourself something to eat on a budget.

Many guests leave behind their leftovers, so there’s almost always something to eat. 

During my visit, someone had left behind milk, cereal, and bananas, so everybody was enjoying a free breakfast. 

Aside from providing a budget-friendly meal option, the kitchen is also a great place to get to know the other guests.

There’s almost always someone in there cooking or eating, so feel free to join them if you’re hungry.

If you really want to make some friends, offer to share your food. You’ll be very popular in no time at all.

If you’re on a tight budget and plan to do some cooking during your stay, there is a convenience store nearby selling groceries.

Consider picking up some pasta or sandwich ingredients.

Pasta and sandwiches are great for sharing, but also fill you up so you can stretch your budget if you have to.

7. Clean Rooms

Costa Rica Backpacker’s Hostel has clean rooms with a variety of options.

During my visit I stayed in a female only four person dormitory room. The hostel also also offers male only or mixed bed dorms of 6 or 8 beds.

Private rooms are also available. All beds include sheets, blankets, a pillow, and a locker.

All room options can be booked in advance online with just a 5% deposit. The remaining balance is paid when you arrive.

In addition to the clean rooms, you’ll also find plenty of bathrooms and showers. I found shared shower and bathroom facilities to be clean as well.

There are multiple areas where you can find bathrooms and showers throughout the property.

If you have plans early in the morning, be sure to wake up early so you can beat the crowds to the showers.

Once 9 or 10 rolls around, the shower and bathroom areas will be quite crowded.

Get in and out before 7:00 a.m. and you’ll have the place to yourself. The facilities will also be freshly cleaned during this time.

The restaurant, bar, and common areas were neat and tidy as well during my visit. It appears they have cleaning staff there throughout the day.

Here’s a short video shared by Costa Rica Backpacker’s Hostel. The video shows some of the local landmarks you can find near the property along with some of the hostel’s facilities.

8. Free Wifi

Once you check into your room (or bed) at Costa Rica Backpacker’s Hostel, you wil be given the code for the free wifi.

The free wifi is immensely helpful if you need to be in contact with friends or family back home. Or, if you are researching things to do in Costa Rica during your visit.

It’s honestly not the fastest wifi you’ll ever use, but it’s pretty good nonetheless.

Plus, having access to free wifi helps so you don’t have to get a sim card or calling plan while you’re on your trip. Well, as long as all your hostels include free wifi. You should be able to get along just fine.

You can also use the free wifi to download movies or audio books. I recommend doing this if you’ll be taking a shuttle to other parts of the country.

Some of the drives can be long, so you’ll want to have some entertainment while you’re on the road.

9. The On Site Restaurant

One of my favorite things about Costa Rica Backpacker’s Hostel was the on site restaurant.

The restuarant was open the majority of the day and you could get breakfast, lunch, and dinner there.

There were quite a few options, with plenty of local dishes to try.

If you’ve never had it before, order the Gallos Pinto, it’s delicious.

Prices at the restaurant are also incredibly affordable. I never paid more than a few dollars for a meal.

To be honest, one of the primary reasons I loved this restaurant so much was becasue I could get something to eat without leaving the hostel.

As I mentioned before, I stayed here during my first ever solo trip, so I was a bit nervous about venturing out on my own.

While things have certainly changed for me on that front, I appreciated having that option at the time.

10. The Staff

The staff at Costa Rica Backpacker’s Hostel are all super friendly.

They are happy to answer any questions about the hostel or make recommendations on places to go or where to find dinner or drinks in the neighborhood.

The staff are also really helpful when assisting you with making reservations for transportation or accomodations in other parts of the country.

They can also help translate for you if you need to make a phone call or get information about a tour or activity.

Just let them know you need assistance and they can help you with your call.

When talking with other travelers during my visit, they all had similarly nice things to say and gave this hostel rave reviews.

To this day, it remains one of my favorite hostels I’ve ever stayed at.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my top 10 Reasons to Stay at Costa Rica Backpacker’s Hostel. I also hope I’ve convinced you to book your stay, I think you’ll be glad that you did. If you enjoyed this article, please consider sharing it. It really helps me a lot. Thanks for reading.

If you’re headed to Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast after your stop in San Jose, be sure not to miss Puerto Viejo.  The beaches there are incredible.

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