San Jose is the nation’s capital and a great place to use as a home base. Its a mix of rich history and culture with a newer, hip vibe. Museums, restaurants, shops and art galleries abound. Or head to a coffee plantation, a quick 20 minutes out of town, for a tour and tasting.
Tabacon Hot Springs: You can visit the hot springs and see Arenal in one day, but if you have the time, stay overnight. Tabacon is a series of thermal hot springs and pools, set amongst the rainforest. Situated at the base of Mount Arenal, the views are breathtaking and the waters divine. You can stay at the Tabacon Resort or purchase a day pass for the waters.
Arenal: A 2.5 hour trip from San Jose, with tourist stops along the way, Arenal is a majestic sight to see. Arenal is considered one of the most active volcanos in the Western Hemisphere. You’ll hike around the base and walk over lava from the last big eruption of 1968.