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Budget Travel in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has a reputation for being expensive — and the resort towns justify it. But the country has a parallel infrastructure of public beaches, free admission days, local sodas, and areas the tourist trail hasn't reached. The cheapest experiences here are often the best ones.
🏊 Swimming
Tabacón Thermal Region
Volcanic-heated rivers on the flank of Arenal — the free access is at the public river bend
La Fortuna
👨👩👧 Family Friendly
Territorio de Zaguates
An inspiring animal sanctuary, spend the day surrounded by hundreds of happy, rescued dogs roaming freely across rolling green hills.
Carrizal
🌅 Sunset Spots
Las Catalinas
Purpose-built car-free beach town on the Guanacaste coast — walkable by design, unusual for the region
Santa Cruz
🔭 Viewpoints
Mirador Cerro Plano
One of Monteverde's best free viewpoints and a favorite spot for sunset watching with views of the Pacific, colorful sunsets, and dramatic mountain scenery.
Monteverde
🏊 Swimming
Río Tabacón free hot springs
A volcanic river running warm through the jungle, free to anyone who wades in