Best Places to Workation in Costa Rica

Travel guide designed for digital nomads

Why you should definitely go workation in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a paradise for remote workers, offering a stunning blend of lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and a commitment to sustainability. Imagine working from a hammock overlooking the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean in Manuel Antonio, or at a mountain lodge surrounded by vibrant wildlife in Monteverde. With its reliable internet connectivity and a growing number of coworking spaces, Costa Rica ensures that you can maintain your productivity while immersing yourself in its natural beauty.

From the lively surf towns of Tamarindo and Santa Teresa to the serene landscapes of Arenal Volcano and the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica provides diverse environments for your workation. Explore the rich biodiversity of national parks, indulge in fresh tropical fruits, and experience the friendly "pura vida" lifestyle that emphasizes happiness and well-being. Whether you're seeking adventure through zip-lining and hiking or relaxation on stunning beaches, Costa Rica offers an unforgettable experience that harmonizes work and leisure. Below you'll find our top 5 favorite destinations in Costa Rica for a workation.

Top 5 Destinations for a Workation in Costa Rica

San José Image

SAN JOSÉ

Costa Rica

#1 destination

💵 Cost of Living $300 to $500 per week (excl. flight)

🛜 Internet Speed Very Fast 90 Mb/s

🚶 Getting Around Good (walkable)

❤️ You'll Love 🌳 nature | 🚵‍♀️ adventure | 🍔 food & drink

San José, Costa Rica, offers a blend of work and leisure. After a productive day in a cozy café, explore the historic Barrio Amón, savor local cuisine at Mercado Central, or stroll through La Sabana Park. Evenings can be spent enjoying live music at El Steinvorth or sampling craft beers at local breweries.
COST OF LIVING
$392/wk
PLACES TO WORK FROM
Good
THINGS TO DO
Good
COMMUNITY
Good
Tamarindo Image

TAMARINDO

Costa Rica

#2 destination

💵 Cost of Living $700 to $800 per week (excl. flight)

🛜 Internet Speed Very Fast 78 Mb/s

🚶 Getting Around Okay (less walkable)

❤️ You'll Love 🚵‍♀️ adventure | 🏖️ beach | 🌄 nature

Tamarindo lets you work from beachfront cafes and surf during breaks. Visit the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge or take a sunset cruise. Enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants and shop at the weekly farmers' market. Essential amenities include coworking spaces, reliable internet, and convenient grocery stores.
COST OF LIVING
$395/wk
PLACES TO WORK FROM
Okay
THINGS TO DO
Great
COMMUNITY
Good
Nosara Image

NOSARA

Costa Rica

#3 destination

💵 Cost of Living $400 to $600 per week (excl. flight)

🛜 Internet Speed Very Fast 78 Mb/s

🚶 Getting Around Good (walkable)

❤️ You'll Love 🏖️ beach | 🌳 nature | 🚵‍♀️ adventure

Nosara balances work and leisure perfectly for digital nomads. Work from coworking spaces like Bodhi Tree or Selina, and take breaks at beachside cafes. After work, surf at Playa Guiones or join a yoga class. The town’s laid-back vibe and community events make it easy to connect with fellow remote workers.
COST OF LIVING
$510/wk
PLACES TO WORK FROM
Good
THINGS TO DO
Great
COMMUNITY
Good
Monteverde Image

MONTEVERDE

Costa Rica

#4 destination

💵 Cost of Living $350 to $500 per week (excl. flight)

🛜 Internet Speed Very Fast 78 Mb/s

🚶 Getting Around Okay (less walkable)

❤️ You'll Love 🌄 mountains | 😌 wellness | 🚼 child-friendly

In Monteverde, start your day at a café with views of the cloud forest. After work, hike through the Monteverde Reserve or visit the Butterfly Garden. On weekends, explore zip-lining adventures or unwind at the local coffee plantations. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants are conveniently located.
COST OF LIVING
$424/wk
PLACES TO WORK FROM
Good
THINGS TO DO
Good
COMMUNITY
Good
Puerto Viejo Image

PUERTO VIEJO

Costa Rica

#5 destination

💵 Cost of Living $400 to $600 per week (excl. flight)

🛜 Internet Speed Very Fast 78 Mb/s

🚶 Getting Around Good (walkable)

❤️ You'll Love 🏖️ beach | 🎨 culture | 🍸 nightlife

In Puerto Viejo, start your day working from a café with ocean views. After work, relax on the Caribbean beaches or explore the nearby jungle trails. On weekends, visit the Jaguar Rescue Center or enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Local amenities, including grocery stores and restaurants, are conveniently located.
COST OF LIVING
$432/wk
PLACES TO WORK FROM
Good
THINGS TO DO
Good
COMMUNITY
Good

Want to see more? Discover other great destinations


Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect from a workation in Costa Rica?

In Costa Rica, remote workers can enjoy a variety of coworking spaces, fast internet, and a friendly community of digital nomads. For more information, explore our destination guides for Costa Rica and other popular digital nomad destinations.

Why should I consider Costa Rica for my next workation destination?

Costa Rica offers a unique blend of breathtaking nature, rich biodiversity, and a laid-back lifestyle. With its affordable cost of living, excellent infrastructure, and a strong focus on sustainability, Costa Rica is an ideal choice for remote workers looking to balance productivity and relaxation. Discover the best places in Costa Rica for you with the help of our detailed destination guides for digital nomads.

What are the visa requirements for a workation in Costa Rica?

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to stay in Costa Rica for an extended period. Citizens from many countries can enter Costa Rica as tourists without a visa for up to 90 days. For longer stays, you may need to apply for a temporary residency or work visa. For detailed visa requirements, do the free online visa check.

How do I apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Costa Rica?

To apply for Costa Rica’s Digital Nomad Visa, you need to meet the following requirements:

  • Have a valid passport.
  • Work remotely for a company outside of Costa Rica or be a freelancer with clients primarily outside Costa Rica.
  • Earn at least $3,000 per month (or $4,000 if accompanied by dependents).
  • Provide proof of income through contracts or bank statements.
  • Have a clean criminal record for the past five years.
  • Obtain International Health Insurance that covers your stay in Costa Rica.

Detailed application procedures can be found on the Costa Rican Immigration website.

What is the cost of living in Costa Rica while working remotely?

The cost of living in Costa Rica can vary significantly based on location, but it is generally affordable compared to many Western countries. Expect to budget between $800 and $2,000 per month depending on your lifestyle and location. For more detailed information, check out our free online travel budget calculator.

What healthcare options are available for remote workers in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica provides high-quality healthcare services, both public and private. Digital nomads should have travel insurance or international health insurance that covers medical expenses in Costa Rica. For more information, visit the Costa Rican Ministry of Health website.

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