Amazing Costa Rica Cheap Travel: Best Under Priced Destinations 🇨🇷

How to Save Money While Traveling in Costa Rica

Want to experience Costa Rica without spending a fortune? Here are three essential hacks to save money while still enjoying an unforgettable adventure! Read this entire blog post on Costa Rica cheap travel to discover how.

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the links in this post. They are provided solely for informational purposes to help you plan your trip.

1. Travel During the Green Season 🌿

✅ Flights and accommodations are significantly cheaper from May to November.
✅ Fewer tourists, meaning a more authentic experience.

2. Use Public Buses 🚌

✅ Costa Rica has an extensive and affordable bus network.
✅ Long-distance routes cost a fraction of private shuttles.

3. Eat Where the Locals Eat 🍛

✅ Visit sodas (small local restaurants) for cheap and delicious meals.
✅ Buy fresh fruit and snacks from markets instead of tourist restaurants.

Now lets dive into the best Costa Rica cheap travel destinations.

San José

A Budget-Friendly Capital Experience

Why you should visit:

✅ One of the cheapest capital cities in Central America
✅ Rich history, museums, and colorful markets
✅ Affordable local food and vibrant nightlife

San José is often overlooked, but if you’re on a budget, it’s a great place to start.

Visit Mercado Central, a lively market where you can get cheap, authentic food and experience the real Costa Rica. If you’re into history, check out Museo Nacional de Costa Rica, where you can dive into the country’s fascinating past for as little as $11 USD (in 2025).

For affordable accommodation, consider Selina San José, where a night costs just $66 USD

Puerto Viejo

Relaxed Caribbean Vibes on a Budget

Why you should visit:

✅ Stunning beaches with crystal-clear water
✅ Laid-back Caribbean culture and reggae vibes
✅ Many free or low-cost activities

If you dream of relaxing on the beach with a mojito, Puerto Viejo is for you!

Explore the area on a bike rental for just a few dollars a day and visit two of Costa Rica’s top beaches—Playa Cocles and Playa Punta Uva—both completely free.

For cheap and delicious meals, try Soda Lidia’s Place, known for its authentic Caribbean cuisine at budget-friendly prices.

Monteverde

A Cloud Forest Adventure for Less

Why you should visit:

✅ One of the world’s most famous cloud forests
✅ Incredible wildlife and adventure activities
✅ Budget-friendly eco-lodges and hostels

Monteverde is home to the breathtaking Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where entrance fees are under $25 USD. If you plan to visit, set aside most of the day—it takes at least two hours to see even 60% of the forest.

For adventure seekers, try hanging bridges or night wildlife tours, which are often cheaper than zip-lining.

For a budget-friendly stay, check out Cabinas Vista Al Golfo, where you can book a night for as low as $49 USD.

La Fortuna

A Budget-Friendly Hot Springs Paradise

Why you should visit:

✅ Home to Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s top attractions
✅ Natural hot springs, some of which are completely free
✅ Affordable outdoor activities like hiking and waterfalls

If you’re doing Costa Rica cheap travel, La Fortuna is a must!

You might think hot springs are expensive, but El Choyin Hot Springs is a completely free natural river with warm, volcanic water.

For another budget-friendly experience, visit La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can swim in refreshing waters for only $18 USD (adults) and $5 USD (children).

Manuel Antonio

Affordable National Park Adventures

Why you should visit:

✅ One of the best national parks in the world
✅ White-sand beaches and diverse wildlife
✅ Budget-friendly accommodations nearby

Manuel Antonio National Park is a must-visit, and at just $18 USD for entrance, it’s an affordable way to see sloths, monkeys, and exotic birds.

Pro tip: Bring your own food and water! The park’s vendors are overpriced, but it’s still well worth the visit.

For budget-friendly accommodations, check out hostels or Airbnbs in Quepos, just outside the park.

Tamarindo

A Surfer’s Paradise on a Budget

Why you should visit:

✅ Cheap surf lessons and board rentals
✅ Beautiful sunsets and vibrant nightlife
✅ Affordable hostels and backpacker-friendly restaurants

Tamarindo is a dream destination for both beginner and experienced surfers. Board rentals start at just $10 per day, and the waves are perfect for all levels.

If you enjoy nightlife, the local bars offer free entry, and you’ll likely find a happy hour deal (half price on drinks).

Before heading out, grab a meal at La Oveja Negra, a local favorite with budget-friendly meals. Today’s special is $12 USD, and you can add drinks for just $2 USD.

👉 Click HERE to see the full menu with prices.

Final Thoughts

Costa Rica is often seen as an expensive destination, but with the right planning, Costa Rica cheap travel is absolutely possible!

Thanks for reading this blog post about Costa Rica cheap travel. If you want more budget travel tips, check out my guide on the best cheap travel destinations in the world.

Have an amazing trip! 🌴✈️