Costa Rica’s 7 Most Beautiful Waterfalls to Visit
Explore Costa Rica’s top 7 waterfalls — including La Fortuna, Rio Celeste, and Nauyaca Falls. Hiking, swimming pools, and iconic views await.
Costa Rica is a waterfall wonderland — from plunging mountain cascades to hidden riverside gems. These are the 7 most beautiful waterfalls where you can hike, swim, marvel, and soak in pure tropical magic. Let’s dive in!
La Fortuna Waterfall
Just outside the town of La Fortuna, this 70‑75 m drop waterfall tumbles into an emerald pool framed by rainforest. It’s one of Costa Rica’s most iconic falls.
You’ll hike past lush jungle down ~500 stairs, and many visitors cool off in the fresh waters below — there are lifeguards, showers, and a restaurant on-site.
Highlights
- Massive height with 500-stair trail through rainforest
- Lifeguard-supervised swimming pool
- Facilities at top and bottom — bathrooms and refreshments
- Family-friendly with guided tour options
- Epic photo ops at viewpoint and base pool
Rio Celeste Waterfall
Located within Tenorio Volcano National Park, this waterfall is legendary for its turquoise hue—a natural effect caused by mineral-rich volcanic flow.
You can’t swim here, but the wooden trails and lookout platforms make it an unforgettable experience.
Highlights
- Rare blue water phenomenon — volcanic chalk meets sun
- Short hike with stunning nature surrounds
- Observation decks with clear river views
- Easy access at park’s main trailhead
- Part of a charming loop trail including thermal springs
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La Paz Waterfall
Just an hour north of San José, La Paz Waterfall plunges 37 m beside Route 126. It’s part of the La Paz Waterfall Gardens eco-park, which includes animal exhibits alongside a series of photo-ready cascades.
Highlights
- Cascade series with easy walking required
- Close to wildlife displays — birds, butterflies, frogs
- Photo-friendly paths and safety railings
- Park amenities included — restaurants, gift shop
- Accessible with minimal hiking effort
Llanos de Cortés
Just 30 minutes from Liberia (Guanacaste), this waterfall is a fan-shaped cascade over 40 m wide, ideal for swimming. A sandy pool at the bottom makes it feel like a river oasis.
Highlights
- Large swim-friendly pool and beach area
- Bronze water curtain over natural ledge
- Short 5-minute walk from parking area
- Low entry fee, with lifeguards during weekends
- Family-friendly, calm current environment
Nauyaca Waterfalls
Located near Dominical on the South Pacific coast, the Nauyaca Falls are a dramatic two-tiered set plunging ~60 m then ~40 m into large pools.
Visitors can reach them by hike, horseback, or 4x4 — and the pools are ideal for swimming.
Highlights
- Two-tiered cascade with large swimming pools
- Reachable via moderate hike, horseback, or truck
- Wild jungle canyon setting
- Local guides and picnic access
- Dramatic photo frame of jungle + waterfall
Bajos del Toro Waterfall (a.k.a. Blue Falls region)
Hidden in a cloud forest near Alajuela, Bojos del Toro Waterfall drops ~90 m into a volcanic canyon. The pools below have that signature cobalt hue — known as the Blue Falls of Costa Rica.
Highlights
- Tall waterfall in a lush crater-like canyon
- Stunning blue pools, safe for swimming
- Moderate 400-step trail through vibrant forest
- Secluded, less crowded than popular tourist spots
- Perfect for nature lovers and photographers
Montezuma Falls
Tucked away on the Nicoya Peninsula near Montezuma, these falls cascade in two large drops—around 50 m total—through jungle. The hike, which also crosses hanging bridges and hidden caves, is half the fun.
Highlights
- Step-lined jungle trail with scenic bridges
- Two-tier waterfall with deep plunge pool
- Less developed — raw and adventurous vibe
- Opportunities for cliff jumping (seasonal)
- 3–4 km round-trip hike through forest