The New York Times has included Costa Rica in a list of five spring break destinations aimed at families looking for warm weather and outdoor activities.
The piece, frames Costa Rica as a practical option for groups split between beach time and rainforest adventures, arguing the country’s small size makes it possible to do both on a single trip.
Thomas suggests starting in Alajuela Province, northwest of San José, with Arenal Volcano as a base for hiking, hot springs, zip-lining, hanging bridges, rafting, and horseback riding. From there, she recommends driving toward the central Pacific coast, including a stop at the Tárcoles Bridge to view crocodiles, and continuing to Manuel Antonio National Park, where visitors may spot sloths and squirrel monkeys and can book surf lessons. She also highlights Marino Ballena National Park near Uvita, known for its whale-tail-shaped sandbar at low tide.
The New York Times mention lands as Costa Rica’s tourism business tracks another high-volume year. Industry data reported by CAPA shows the country welcomed about 2.9 million tourist arrivals in 2025.
Tour operators in Guanacaste and the central Pacific say family itineraries have increasingly leaned toward activity-based packages, combining beginner surf lessons with wildlife tours and short hikes. In Manuel Antonio, guides report steady demand for trips built around wildlife viewing and the park’s trail system, which often appeals to families traveling with teenagers.
Air routes continue to shape spring travel decisions. Southwest Airlines has announced a new seasonal nonstop route from Nashville to San José starting March 7, adding to U.S.–Costa Rica connectivity as carriers compete for leisure travelers. Frontier has also listed new route growth that includes service to San José from Orlando.
Tourism officials and conservation groups continue to push visitors toward certified operators, particularly for wildlife-focused outings. Costa Rica’s protected areas remain a key draw for travelers, but authorities regularly warn that unmanaged tourism can stress habitats and animals, especially in popular parks during peak weeks.
Costa Rica has appeared repeatedly in New York Times travel coverage in recent months. In January, we reported that the Osa Peninsula ranked fourth on the Times’ annual “52 places” list for 2026, pointing to the region’s biodiversity and lower crowds compared with more heavily visited destinations.
Spring break travel typically overlaps with Costa Rica’s dry-season months on the Pacific side, when beach towns and inland hubs like La Fortuna see heavier demand. Therefore, Hotels and tour companies encourage travelers to book park tickets, tours, and lodging early for March and April dates. (https://ticotimes.net/2026/03/02/new-york-times-picks-costa-rica-as-prime-spring-break-spot)
