Off the Beaten Path: Our Favorite Secret Tours & the Best Waterfalls in Costa Rica
There’s a side of Costa Rica that doesn’t show up in glossy brochures. Sure, Tamarindo’s got the surf, the sunshine, and the scene, but go just a little further, and you’ll discover a whole other world. Our little corner of paradise hides waterfalls deep in the jungle, quiet bays only reachable by boat, and local-run adventures that give you a real taste of Guanacaste life.
At Iguana Surf Shop & Camp, we don’t just live here, we explore here. And over the years, our crew has uncovered some incredible off the beaten path Costa Rica experiences we now love sharing with guests. These are the trips that stick with you. The ones you’ll talk about long after your tan fades.
Here’s our handpicked list of the most unforgettable tours and hidden gems in the area.
Llanos de Cortés Waterfall
Ask Mauricio, one of our longest-standing surf instructors, where he takes friends visiting from out of town, and he’ll tell you: Llanos de Cortés, one of the very best waterfalls in Costa Rica. “You feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard,” he says.
Just outside Bagaces, this wide, dramatic cascade is tucked behind a line of trees many travelers drive straight past. A short trail leads to a cool natural pool surrounded by golden sand and shady trees. Early mornings are best, when the birds are chirping, and you’ve got the whole place to yourself. Pack a picnic, bring a towel, and settle in for a perfect unplugged afternoon.
Oropendola Waterfall
This one’s a favorite of Luis, who grew up near Rincón de la Vieja. “You’ve got volcanoes, forests, and this bright blue waterfall all in one spot,” he says. “It doesn’t get more off the beaten path Costa Rica than that.”
The hike to Oropendola is short but stunning, over hanging bridges and through a dry tropical forest. The waterfall plunges into a turquoise canyon pool where you can swim and relax. Add a mud bath or a bit of ziplining to your waterfall tour, and you’ve got a whole day of fun.
La Leona Waterfall
La Leona is for the explorers. “This one’s not just a walk in the park nut a real jungle mission with river crossings, boulders to scramble over, and narrow caves to pass through”, Stephen says. But what waits at the end is so worth it: a stunning blue waterfall crashing into a canyon pool. Our intrepid guide says this is her favorite day trip for adventurous guests. “You’ll feel like Indiana Jones,” she laughs, “but we’ll bring better snacks.”
If you’re after something active and a little off-grid, ask us about organizing a guided tour. Just don’t forget your water shoes!
Check out our Insta page for more waterfalls inspiration and insider tips!
Secret Beach & Snorkel Tour
“Some of the best beaches aren’t on any map,” says Karla, who’s been leading our snorkel tours for years. “That’s why we love taking guests to our hidden spots.”
Our crew leads you to remote coves only accessible by boat or by foot. Once there, you’ll find calm water, vibrant marine life, and no crowds. Karla swears she’s seen everything from turtles to rays to dancing schools of fish in these hidden bays, and she always has a story to share between stops.
Río Celeste Waterfall Hike
OK, this one’s not exactly a secret, but we’d be doing you a disservice not to include it. Located in Tenorio Volcano National Park, Río Celeste is famous for its electric blue water, the result of a rare natural phenomenon.
The hike to the waterfall is about 3 miles roundtrip, moderately challenging, and winds through rainforest teeming with life. Travel with a local guide, and you’ll learn about the park’s science and wildlife while avoiding the usual crowds. Tip from guide Sofia: “Go on a weekday, and go early!”
Celeste might be famous and known as one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica, and there’s a very good reason for that! This place is pure magic.
Hidden Jungle Hot Springs
Forget the cookie-cutter resort spas, crowds, and chlorine, and ask us about the lesser-known hot springs tucked into the hills. Come explore with us, and what you’ll find are just natural volcanic waters and jungle sounds. These rustic gems are often family-run and offer a more down-to-earth soak after a long day of exploring. This isn’t about saving money, necessarily, but mostly about enjoying a much more organic and authentic experience. Those looking for an off-the-beaten-path Costa Rica experience want to avoid the over-commercialized tourist traps, right?
Well, here is where you’ll do just that!
A genius tip from Diego? “Now, add a mud bath, a traditional casado meal, and maybe a cold Imperial beer, and you’ve got a pretty perfect Costa Rica chill session.”
Combo Tours: Create Your Own Adventure
Too many fun things to do and not enough time? We hear you! If you can’t possibly decide between ziplining, tubing, horseback riding, and waterfall hunting, there’s good news. You don’t have to. At Iguana, we run fantastic combo tours that let you mix and match for the kind of day that makes you feel like you’ve seen a dozen different sides of Costa Rica all in one go.
We keep group sizes small, routes flexible, and vibes super friendly. It’s one of the best ways to experience off the beaten path Costa Rica without the stress of figuring it out alone.
Turtle Watching in Playa Grande
Here’s one of the most unique and hidden treasures you’ll find near our neck of the jungle. From October to March, something magical happens just north of Tamarindo. Under the cover of night, giant sea turtles make their way onto Playa Grande to lay their eggs. It’s part of the protected Las Baulas National Marine Park and one of the most incredible natural events you can witness, anywhere on earth.
Every time I guide one of these tours, I’m reminded how lucky we are,” says Lucia, who’s part of our Iguana team.
Tours are guided and immensely respectful of the environment. The experience is humbling, quiet, and unforgettable. Ask us at the shop if you’re here in nesting season, and we’ll help you time it just right.
Want a preview? Check out this turtle tour video on our YouTube channel!
Hidden Surf Trip (for Experienced Riders)
Looking for waves without the crowds? We’ve got a few secret spots up our sleeves: untouched surf breaks where the only footprints in the sand might be your own. These surf missions are ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers who want to ride waves in raw, beautiful settings far from the main lineup.
Ask at the shop about joining a trip with Fifo or Kurt. They’ve been surfing these hidden beaches since they were groms and know exactly when the swell hits just right. We won’t drop beach names here (some secrets are too good to publish), but we’ll show you in person.
E-Foil Surfing
And, now, if you’re after something seriously different, there’s E-foiling, one of the most exciting new ways to ride the water. Using an electric hydrofoil board, you literally hover above the ocean’s surface. Great for flat days or surf junkies wanting to try something new, this activity is the closest thing you’ll get to flying.
“It’s like surfing and flying had a baby,” jokes Luis, one of our instructors.
Come by, and we’ll help you give it a go!
More Than Surf: Iguana Add-Ons You’ll Love
Yes, we’re surf-obsessed. But we also know that Tamarindo has a lot more to offer. That’s why we’ve got a few extras for travelers who want to dive deeper on Surf Camps:
- Spanish lessons (brush up while you chill)
- Yoga and wellness sessions
- Guided nature walks and reiki healing
- Climbing and strength sessions
- Tips on how to make your surf trip more sustainable
Ask about adding one to your stay, and we’ll be happy to help you build the perfect itinerary.
Let’s Go Somewhere New Together!
What we love most about going off the beaten path in Costa Rica is that no two days ever look the same. One morning you’re climbing through a canyon to a hidden waterfall, the next you’re floating downriver with monkeys in the trees and parrots overhead.
Come say hi at Iguana Surf Shop & Camp when you’re in Tamarindo. We’ll point you in the right direction—or better yet, we’ll come along for the ride.
