Finding a good destination to indulge in water sports can be a little difficult. How do you narrow it down? What location has the best waves? The best beaches? Well, when it comes to narrowing it down, you don’t have to make sacrifices. There is one place that delivers on every front.
Costa Rica has long been recognised as one of the best countries for all areas of water sports. Not to mention it is a beautiful spot for family vacations, which means – if you are one of the few in your family who actually enjoy water activities – they’re not exactly going to be short on other activities to do!
So what are the best water sports to try out in Costa Rica and why? Here is a list of five that should get the adrenaline pumping and allow you to experience everything that makes Costa Rica so great:
Waterskiing
Ever wanted to waterski on glorious blue waters, surrounded by vivid green rainforests and shaded by an enormous volcano? Sounds like a dream, right? Well, at Lake Arenal, that dream can become a reality. This is the best spot for Costa Rica waterskiing, no matter whether you are a pro or a beginner, and it is good for wakeboarding and tubing too. If you like volcano trekking, this is also a great destination. Get out there, experience the volcano, and then cool off on a pair of skis. What could be better?
Fishing
Fishing? A water sport? Well, yes, technically. Although fishing isn’t exactly physically demanding (unless you are thinking of catching a whale), it is a sport that many enjoy, especially if they are doing it in a place like this. Although Lake Arenal is another popular fishing destination, other spots like Quepos and Tamarindo are just as good, especially if you are looking to catch some Marlin, Snapper or Roosterfish.
Diving
If you’re more into observing the fish rather than catching them, then scuba diving is a great way to do this. The southern part of Costa Rica is a protected biological reserve, which means the reefs are a great place for beginners who are looking to try it out. If you’re wondering when the best time of year to visit Costa Rica would be, July and August is the humpback whale and turtle season, meaning there will be plenty to see. If a great big tank on your back isn’t exactly your cup of tea, then there are a number of snorkelling instructors available who can give you just as fun an experience.
Paddle Boarding
Back to Lake Arenal. Another way to experience the beauty of the scenery here is through paddle boarding.
This is for those who love water activities and want to get out there but aren’t too keen on doing a few tricks on a wakeboard. With paddle boarding, you can explore the area at your own pace, with nothing but the sound of the birds and the lapping waves against your board for company. Serenity at its finest!
Whitewater Rafting
But who wants serenity? Of course, there are many ways to rejuvenate on vacation, but sometimes you can’t beat the buzz of adrenaline and the excitement of trying something new. Whitewater rafting is one of the best ways to do this. The Pacuare, Balsa and Sarapiqui Rivers are known for their fast-paced rapids and gorgeous rainforests, so this is a great spot to grab a couple of oars and try it out yourself!
