Planning an eight-day trip to Costa Rica can feel overwhelming at first. This small Central American country packs an astonishing amount of biodiversity, landscapes, and experiences into a compact area. Volcanoes, rain forests, cloud forests, waterfalls, beaches, wildlife, adventure sports, and laid-back coastal towns all compete for your attention. The big question becomes: how do you choose where to go when you only have eight days?
After years of traveling throughout Costa Rica and helping visitors plan memorable itineraries, I can confidently say that less is more. Instead of trying to see everything, the best approach is to focus on two main regions that showcase Costa Rica’s incredible diversity without exhausting you with constant packing and long drives.
This article outlines two ideal eight-day itineraries—one for travelers flying into Liberia International Airport (LIR) and one for those flying into San José International Airport (SJO). Both options combine lush rain forest and volcano country with sun-soaked Pacific beaches, giving you the very best of Costa Rica.
Option One: Flying into Liberia International Airport (LIR)
If you can choose your arrival airport, Liberia International Airport in northern Guanacaste is an excellent option. It is smaller, easier to navigate, and places you closer to some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful Pacific beaches.
Day 1: Arrival in Liberia and Drive to the Northwest Pacific Coast
Upon landing in Liberia, rent a car directly at the airport. Car rental agencies here are well-organized, and the roads in this region are generally in good condition.
From Liberia Airport, it’s about a 45-minute drive to many of the popular Northwest Pacific beaches, such as Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, Playa Conchal, Playa Grande, or Playa Hermosa. The drive is straightforward, scenic, and stress-free—perfect after a flight.
Check into your beach hotel, enjoy a casual dinner, and let the warm Pacific breeze remind you that your vacation has officially begun.
Days 2–4: Northwest Pacific Beaches (4 Nights Total)
Spending four nights on the Northwest Pacific coast allows you to fully relax while still enjoying plenty of activities.
What Makes This Region Special?
- Dry, sunny climate most of the year
- Calm turquoise waters and long sandy beaches
- Excellent infrastructure for tourists
- A wide range of accommodations—from luxury resorts to boutique hotels
Things to Do on the Northwest Pacific Coast
1. Beach Time and Swimming
The Pacific waters here range from deep blue to emerald green. Some beaches are perfect for swimming, while others are ideal for long walks, shell collecting, or simply lounging with a good book.
2. Surfing
This region is world-famous for surfing. Tamarindo and Playa Grande are especially popular, offering surf schools for beginners and excellent breaks for experienced surfers.
3. Fresh Seafood and Dining
Enjoy freshly caught fish, shrimp, lobster, and ceviche at beachside restaurants. Dining here is relaxed, often with ocean views and spectacular sunsets.
4. Sailing and Snorkeling
Catamaran tours offer snorkeling, swimming, and sunset sailing—perfect for couples or families.
5. Deep-Sea Fishing
Guanacaste waters are known for excellent sport fishing, including marlin, sailfish, tuna, and mahi-mahi.
Most importantly, this part of your trip is about slowing down. Wake up without an alarm, enjoy leisurely breakfasts, soak up the sun, and truly relax.
Day 5: Drive from the Pacific Coast to Arenal Volcano / La Fortuna
On the morning of Day 5, you’ll begin your journey inland to one of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations: Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna.
The drive takes approximately four hours and is one of the most scenic routes in the country. Expect rolling hills, cattle ranches, small towns, tropical forests, and dramatic mountain views.
Arrive in La Fortuna in the afternoon or early evening. As you approach town, you may catch your first glimpse of the perfectly cone-shaped Arenal Volcano, often shrouded in clouds but unforgettable when visible.
Days 5–7: Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna (3 Nights Total)
Three nights in the Arenal area are ideal for enjoying its many activities without feeling rushed.
Why Arenal Is a Must-Visit
- One of Costa Rica’s most famous volcanoes
- Lush rain forest and abundant wildlife
- Adventure activities for all ages
- Natural hot springs
Things to Do Around Arenal
1. Arenal Volcano National Park
Hike well-maintained trails over old lava flows from the massive 1968 eruption. Along the way, you may spot howler monkeys, coatis, iguanas, toucans, and colorful tropical birds.
2. Zip Line (Canopy Tour)
Soar high above the rain forest canopy on zip lines, often with views of the volcano and Lake Arenal. This is one of the most thrilling and popular activities in Costa Rica.
3. Hanging Bridges
Walk across a series of suspended bridges high above the jungle. This is one of the best ways to observe wildlife and birds at eye level with the forest canopy.
4. Hot Springs
After a day of adventure, relax in naturally heated mineral waters. The hot springs are fed by underground volcanic activity and surrounded by lush tropical vegetation—pure bliss.
5. Wildlife Watching
Guided nature walks reveal frogs, sloths, monkeys, and exotic insects you might otherwise miss.
At night, if skies are clear, you may see Arenal glowing or rumbling, a reminder of the powerful natural forces beneath your feet.
Day 8: Return to Liberia (or Stay Near the Airport)
Depending on your return flight time, you may either:
- Drive back to Liberia Airport early in the morning, or
- Stay your final night near the airport for convenience
Either option ensures a relaxed departure without rushing.
Option Two: Flying into San José International Airport (SJO)
If your flight arrives in San José, don’t worry—you can still enjoy a fantastic eight-day itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival and Drive to Arenal Volcano
Rent a car at San José International Airport and drive to La Fortuna via the San Ramón route. This drive takes about 3.5 hours and features good roads and beautiful scenery.
Spend three nights in the Arenal area, following the same activity suggestions listed above.
Days 4–6: Drive to the Northwest Pacific Beaches
From Arenal, drive approximately four hours to the Northwest Pacific coast. This route is scenic and passes Lake Arenal, rolling countryside, and small towns.
Spend three nights enjoying beach life, relaxation, and ocean activities.
Day 7: Return to San José
Drive back to the San José area (about four hours) and stay near the airport for your final night.
Why This Itinerary Works So Well
This eight-day plan strikes the perfect balance:
- Adventure + relaxation
- Rain forest + beaches
- Wildlife + comfort
- Volcanoes + ocean
Yes, there is some driving involved, but Costa Rica’s scenery makes the journey part of the experience. Roads on these routes are generally good, and having a rental car gives you flexibility and freedom.
Final Thoughts
If you only have eight days in Costa Rica, resist the temptation to do too much. By choosing two iconic regions, you’ll experience the country’s essence without feeling exhausted.
You’ll return home having:
- Walked through rain forests
- Seen monkeys and tropical birds
- Relaxed in hot springs
- Swum in warm Pacific waters
- Enjoyed fresh seafood
- Witnessed unforgettable sunsets
Costa Rica may be small, but it leaves a big impression—and this itinerary ensures you’ll want to come back for more.
I would love to hear from my readers. Have you traveled to Costa Rica, or are you planning your first trip?
Click “Comment” at the end of this post or “Contact Us” at the very top of the page and share your thoughts or questions.