San Francisco

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with San Francisco's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Arenal Volcano
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast in La Fortuna. Visit the Arenal Volcano National Park for breathtaking views and easy hiking trails.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local soda before exploring the La Fortuna Waterfall. Take a swim in the natural pool at the base of the falls.

evening
:

Indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Consider a soak in the nearby hot springs to unwind from the day's adventures.

day 2
Relaxing at Manuel Antonio
morning
:

After breakfast, head to Manuel Antonio National Park for guided wildlife tours. Keep an eye out for sloths and vibrant toucans.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a beachside café before enjoying the park's beautiful beaches. Spend the afternoon sunbathing or swimming in the ocean.

evening
:

Savor fresh seafood for dinner at a local restaurant with ocean views. Stroll along the beach to experience a picturesque sunset.

day 3
Monteverde Cloud Forest Adventure
morning
:

Start your journey to Monteverde with breakfast at your accommodation. Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, home to unique flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a café in town before experiencing the canopy walkways. Capture stunning views of the forest from high above.

evening
:

Try a local dish for dinner at a cozy restaurant. Take part in a night tour to discover the nocturnal wildlife of Monteverde.

day 4
Wildlife Spotting in Corcovado
morning
:

Rise early for breakfast before heading to Corcovado National Park. Join a guided tour to observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic for lunch within the park, surrounded by nature. Continue exploring trails and rivers, keeping an eye out for monkeys and jaguars.

evening
:

Return to town for dinner at a local eatery. Reflect on the day's experiences while enjoying a quieter evening.

day 5
Scenic Boquete
morning
:

Start your day with fresh coffee and breakfast in Boquete. Embark on a hike to the Baru Volcano summit for unrivaled views.

afternoon
:

Visit Bocas del Toro for scenic beach time, enjoying local cuisine during lunch. Spend your afternoon snorkeling or surfing at one of the beautiful beaches.

evening
:

Dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant will highlight fresh local ingredients. Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll through town.

day 6
Surfing in Tamarindo
morning
:

Kick off with a breakfast smoothie by the beach, then head to Tamarindo's surf schools for a lesson. Try to catch your first wave as you enjoy the sun.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a surf shack and explore the shops in the area. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or trying out more surfing.

evening
:

Consider a guided night tour to explore the area’s vibrant nightlife.

day 7
Birdwatching in Tortuguero
morning
:

Breakfast at your lodge, then set out by boat to explore the canals of Tortuguero National Park. Search for rare birds and wildlife in this protected area.

afternoon
:

After a guided tour, enjoy lunch back at your lodge. Spend the afternoon lounging or exploring the nearby village of Tortuguero.

evening
:

Have dinner with a view of the canals. Listen to the sounds of nature as you relax for the night.

day 8
Beach Time at Playa Guiones
morning
:

Fuel up with breakfast at a local café before spending your morning on the beach. Enjoy sunbathing or take a surf lesson in the gentle waves.

afternoon
:

Savor a beachside lunch and explore the nearby tide pools. Spend your afternoon lounging in a hammock or engaging in beach volleyball.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant with local cuisine. Join a bonfire gathering for an enjoyable evening under the stars.

day 9
Hiking the Osa Peninsula
morning
:

Early breakfast before heading to the Osa Peninsula for a day of adventure. Hike in the Piedras Blancas National Park to experience the stunning biodiversity.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch and find a scenic spot to relax. Continue exploring more trails or opt for a short boat ride to see the area from a different angle.

evening
:

Return to your lodge for a hearty dinner. Wind down with a nocturnal wildlife observation hike, spotting animals active at night.

Discover San Francisco

Read more in our San Francisco 2024 Travel Guide.

San Francisco Travel Guide