Signature Family Holiday: Coast to Volcano

Celebrate the holidays in Costa Rica with this immersive family itinerary combining Manuel Antonio and Arenal. Begin your journey along the Pacific coast with four nights at Hotel Si Como No, where rainforest meets ocean views. Explore Manuel Antonio National Park with a naturalist guide, cruise the coastline at sunset aboard the Brisa Elegante, and discover hidden waterfalls, jungle trails, and secluded beaches on a full-day adventure.

Continue to Arenal for four nights at The Springs Resort & Spa, set against the iconic volcano. Enjoy natural hot springs, zip-lining through the rainforest canopy, and river tubing along the scenic Arenal River. With a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and wildlife encounters, this curated itinerary offers an unforgettable Costa Rica experience for families during the festive season.

Travel Dates: December 22, 2026 December 30, 2026 *

* Our holiday itineraries have specific travel dates. Please contact a Costa Rica Expert if your dates are different.


$27,399

TOTAL for 4 passengers

See more pricing details

Land Package (international flights not included)

*Price valid until: January 4, 2027.

$30,590

TOTAL for 6 passengers

See more pricing details

Land Package (international flights not included)

*Price valid until: January 4, 2027.

$35,000

TOTAL for 8 passengers

See more pricing details

Land Package (international flights not included)

*Price valid until: January 4, 2027.

9 days

8 nights

Trip Overview:

Daily Itinerary

Dec 22

Transfer to Si Como No Hotel (Manuel Antonio)

Upon your morning or afternoon arrival in San Jose, meet your driver for a transfer by ground, approximately 3 hours to the Manuel Antonio area.

Arrive at Hotel Si Como No for an overnight stay. This award-winning boutique hotel blends environmentalism-focused hospitality and design in a tropical rainforest overlooking the ocean. Guests enjoy two on-site restaurants, two pools, and amazing Pacific sunsets! Take the complimentary shuttle down to the beach, check the Family Movie Night schedule, or unwind at the spa after a day of adventure. Add restaurant reservations, taxi services, and additional tours with the hotel concierge. *Note: Si Como No is set on a hillside with beautiful views, so some stair climbing and mild “hiking” may be a part of your stay.

Dec 23

PRIVATE Manuel Antonio National Park Hike

Costa Rica’s favorite national park is Manuel Antonio, featuring three of the country’s most beautiful white sand beaches bordered by dense rainforest and trails abundant in wildlife. Follow a naturalist guide for a moderate walk through the park to explore this diverse natural habitat, with over 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds. Bring a bathing suit and a towel to enjoy the beaches after the tour. Overnight Hotel Si Como No.

Dec 24

Sunset Cruise on the Brisa Elegante (shared)

Take in spectacular views of Manuel Antonio aboard the Brisa Elegante, a 100-foot gulet unlike any other in Central America. With two expansive teak decks and multiple open-air lounge spaces, it offers a comfortable and scenic way to explore the coastline.

As you cruise along Manuel Antonio National Park, enjoy a welcome cocktail and fresh fruit, with additional beverages available for purchase. Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays, and other marine life along the way.

Weather permitting, the ship will anchor in the bay where you can enjoy optional self-guided snorkeling and water activities. Afterward, savor a freshly prepared dinner on board before heading back to the marina, arriving just in time to catch a stunning Pacific sunset.

Overnight at Hotel Si Como No.

Dec 25

Full-Day Waterfalls Tour (shared)

Experience Costa Rica like a local on this full-day, off-the-beaten-path adventure. Discover the perfect blend of ocean, jungle, beaches, waterfalls, and hidden swimming holes as you explore three unique waterfalls, each with its own refreshing pool. One even features a natural 20-foot waterslide for an extra dose of fun.

Weather permitting, you’ll also visit one of the area’s best-kept-secret beaches, framed by caves and swaying palm trees. Overnight Hotel Si Como No.

Dec 26

Transfer to The Springs Resort & Spa (Arenal Volcano)

This morning, meet your driver for a ground transfer, approximately 5–5.5 hours, to the Arenal Volcano area. Your driver can recommend the best stops for bathroom breaks, snacks, and souvenirs along the way.

Arrive at The Springs Resort & Spa for an overnight stay. Set against stunning views of Arenal Volcano, the resort features natural hot and cold springs, four distinctive dining options, and a luxurious full-service spa for the ultimate relaxation experience.

Don’t miss a visit to the Club Rio Outdoor Center, located along the Arenal River. This expansive area offers activities such as kayaking, tubing, horseback riding, and access to a wildlife sanctuary (activities and sanctuary access available at an additional cost).

Dec 27

Arenal Sky Walk, Tram, & Trek Canopy Zipline + Suspension Bridges (shared)

Your day begins with a self-guided walk along the Sky Walk trail, a 2.5-mile journey through lush rainforest. Along the way, cross two suspension bridges for up-close views of the forest canopy while navigating varied terrain and elevation changes that add a touch of adventure to your exploration.

Next, ride the Sky Tram cable car, taking in sweeping views of the volcano and Lake Arenal as you ascend to the treetops. At the top, pause at a spacious observation platform perfect for photos with the volcano as your backdrop.

Then, get ready for Sky Trek, an exhilarating zip line experience through the Arenal Rainforest Reserve. Guided by experienced professionals, you’ll glide across eight cables high above the forest, reaching heights of up to 660 feet for an unforgettable adventure.

Overnight at The Springs Resort & Spa. *Height and weight restrictions apply. Inquire for details..

Dec 28

River Tubing at Club Rio

Get ready for an exciting tubing adventure on the scenic Arenal River, featuring Class I and II rapids, gentle currents, and calm blue pools. You’ll ride specially designed tubes with handles and protective bottoms, perfect for navigating smaller rivers. The full course stretches about 800 meters, with the option to enjoy a shorter, easier 180-meter section.

All safety gear, including helmets and life jackets, is provided. Be sure to bring water shoes with a secure heel strap and a long-sleeve rash guard to protect your arms. Water shoes are available to rent if needed. Overnight at The Springs Resort & Spa.

Dec 29

Free Day at The Springs Resort, Arenal

Enjoy the hot springs, schedule activities at Club Rio, or book guided excursions to local attractions. Add restaurant reservations, spa treatments, taxi services, and tours with the hotel concierge. Overnight at The Springs Resort & Spa.

Dec 30

Morning Transfer to San Jose for Departure

This morning, you will transfer by ground approximately 3 hours to the international airport in San Jose for your afternoon or evening departure.

Pricing is valid through the date listed for each itinerary (all pricing is subject to change until booked and confirmed). Holiday season supplements apply for Christmas, New Year’s, Presidents’ Day, and Easter travel dates. Green season specials and/or lower rates may apply for May to November travel dates.

All itineraries are land only, and international airfare is quoted separately. Itinerary adjustments may be necessary depending on your international flight schedule. For example, a late arrival will usually require a night near the airport in San Jose.

Please call one of our experts at 800-827-9046 to discuss your travel details.


Book this vacation

Our custom vacation packages include accommodations, in-country transportation, and day tours to make your vacation hassle-free. Due to high demand, we are not offering individual day tours at this time. All vacation packages require a 7-day minimum.

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