Things To Do
in San Francisco

Costa Rica’s staple breakfast of rice and black beans sautéed with onions and cilantro; often served with eggs, plantains and coffee. Found at every soda and breakfast spot.

Must-Try!

A typical lunch plate—rice, beans, salad, plantains, a protein (chicken, fish or beef) and sometimes tortillas. The best place to try it is at local family-run sodas and comedores.

Fresh seafood cured in lime with onions, cilantro and peppers. Seek ceviche at coastal stands or inland restaurants that source fish daily.

Flavorful chicken and rice, often cooked with vegetables and annatto for color; commonly served at local gatherings and restaurants.

Greet people with a polite 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' and a handshake; use polite forms and a friendly tone—Costa Ricans value courtesy.

Be respectful of private property, farms and livestock; ask permission before entering finca land and avoid disturbing work in progress.

Dress casually but modestly in town; bathing suits are for the beach only. Loud or boisterous behavior is frowned upon in small communities.

Trying basic Spanish phrases is appreciated; learning a few words like 'por favor' and 'gracias' goes a long way.

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small towns—10% at restaurants is common if service is good, and small tips for guides and drivers are customary (a few dollars). In sodas and informal places, round up or leave a small tip; tip porters and hotel staff modestly for assistance.

Cash (US dollars and Costa Rican colóns) is widely used in rural areas; many small businesses and sodas are cash-only. Credit cards are accepted at larger restaurants, lodges and tourist services but network reliability can be spotty—carry enough local currency for daily expenses. ATMs may be located in the nearest regional town rather than in San Francisco itself.

Short trail leading through secondary forest to a scenic waterfall—good for swimming on drier days; watch for slippery sections after rain.

Guided walk around a working coffee farm explaining cultivation and processing, with opportunities for landscape and macro photography.

Unmarked rural roads and trails offering panoramic views of pastures, hills and distant mountains—ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.

A coastal walk through mangrove or estuary habitat near the Pacific—good for birdwatching, especially in the early morning.

Main international airport near San José; most international flights arrive here. From San Francisco it’s a multi-hour drive—arrange a shuttle, rental car or domestic connection.

Smaller airport near San José serving domestic flights and some regional charters; useful for quick domestic connections and private flights.

Regional airport in the southern Pacific area with small domestic flights; closer to southern towns and useful for faster access to the region when available.

Small regional airport serving the southern Pacific; seasonal or charter flights may operate—check schedules in advance.

Predominantly mestizo families engaged in agriculture, cattle raising and small business; strong local ties and multi-generational households are common.

A significant portion of the population is involved in coffee cultivation, dairy and crop production—seasonal labor patterns can shape local rhythms.

A modest number of foreign residents and retirees live in the region, often drawn to the peaceful lifestyle and lower cost of living; English may be more common around expat households.

Depending on the wider region, there may be nearby indigenous or Afro-descendant communities with distinct cultural traditions and histories—respect local heritage and customs.

The most popular sport nationwide; pickup games are common and local matches draw community interest.

Popular on nearby Pacific beaches—beginner lessons and surf tourism are found at coastal towns within driving distance.

Both recreational and small-scale commercial fishing are common along the Pacific coast; sport fishing excursions operate from nearby ports.

A traditional rural activity and a popular way to explore farms and trails around the region.

Vegetarians can find rice and bean-based options like casado without meat, fried plantains, salads and egg dishes. Informal sodas may have limited protein-free substitutions, so ask for 'sin carne' and bring snacks for longer excursions.

Vegan options are more limited outside tourist centers; focus on rice, beans, plantains, fresh fruit and vegetable stews, and confirm no dairy or eggs in preparation.

Most traditional Costa Rican dishes are naturally gluten-free (rice, beans, plantains); however, watch for wheat in breads, empanadas and some sauces—ask when in doubt.

Be explicit about allergies—Spanish phrases like 'soy alérgico/a a...' will help. Smaller kitchens may lack formal allergy protocols, so exercise caution.