Las Catalinas Through Your Kids' Eyes: A Family Adventure Awaits

Imagine a place where kids can roam free, exploring winding car-free streets, playing in the waves, and discovering hidden trails, all without the usual distractions of cars and screens. This place is Las Catalinas, a Costa Rican paradise designed for families, where nature, adventure, and play take center stage.

Las Catalinas’ Doorway is the expert in town for kids. From sandy toes to hiking trails, let’s dive into what makes this town feel like a giant playground through the eyes of a child.

The Beach: A Kid’s Dream Come True

For kids, the beach is so much more than a place to relax —  it’s a world of endless possibilities. At Playa Danta, little adventurers can splash in the gentle waves, dig massive sandcastles, or hunt for the smoothest seashells. Parents can relax knowing the waves are usually calm, making it a perfect spot for young swimmers.

Older kids might grab a paddle board or boogie board, body surf, or swim out to the floating dock, while younger ones might find joy in simply chasing the tide as it rushes in and out or exploring tide pools. When the sun gets too warm, grabbing lunch at the nearby restaurants or a quick dip in the shade of a beachside tree becomes its own little adventure.

The Magic of the Trails

If your kids love climbing, running, and spotting wildlife, Las Catalinas' hiking and biking trails are like stepping into a real-life jungle storybook. The trails weave through the hills, offering secret lookout points where you can spot birds, monkeys, and even deer if you're lucky.

Imagine their excitement when they find a hidden wooden bench at the top of a hill, perfect for a snack break and a little rest before heading back down. If your family prefers two wheels over two feet, renting bikes and exploring the trails together adds extra fun and challenge (we recommend the trails for slightly more experienced bike riders). 

Where Play is Everywhere

Las Catalinas isn’t just about structured activities—play is woven into the very fabric of the town. Kids wandering through town will discover hidden courtyards, secret alleyways, and fountains that feel like something out of a fairytale, and without cars to interrupt, parents can rest assured knowing the kids can run free. 

The steps of Plaza Mercado make the perfect stage for an impromptu game of hide-and-seek, and Town’s green spaces offer plenty of space for a family soccer match or a quiet picnic.

Walking around naturally encourages social interaction, making it easy for children to meet others their age and jump into games, activities, or new friendships.

Cool Spots Just for Kids (and Grown-Ups too)

There’s no shortage of places in town that cater to both the playful spirit of children and the need for relaxation for parents:

• Pura Vida Ride – If your little explorer wants to try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking, this is the go-to spot for renting gear and hitting the water.
  
  
• The Club – The beach is great, but sometimes kids just want to splash in a pool. For the most comfort and convenience, we recommend choosing a vacation home that includes access to the Beach Club—where you’ll find family-friendly pools, shaded loungers, and incredible ocean views. If your stay doesn’t include Beach Club access, you can still enjoy it by purchasing a day pass 
• Coquelicot – What’s better than an ice-cold treat after a morning of playing? This local gelato and waffle spot is a must-visit for a refreshing sweet treat.
• Finca La Estancia -Just a short trip from town, La Estancia farm is a magical place where kids can meet friendly goats, see bees making honey, and pick up eggs from happy hens! It’s a fun and educational adventure for the whole family.
• While you're out there, you can also enjoy horseback riding tours through scenic trails, or stay active back in town with a friendly game of pickleball or basketball at the courts. There’s always something to discover

Freedom to Explore, Freedom to Be Kids

One of the most beautiful things about Las Catalinas is the sense of freedom it gives kids. In a world where screens often steal their attention, this town offers a different kind of entertainment, one that encourages curiosity, adventure, and connection with nature. 

Since there are no cars, kids can run, bike, or scoot through the charming streets, without worrying their parents. They can climb trees, collect leaves, build forts, and just be kids. This means that parents also get more freedom to enjoy, slow down, and be present for these moments, which is why so many families come back to Las Catalinas year after year!

Family Adventures Await with Las Catalinas Doorway

Las Catalinas is a vacation destination where kids can truly be kids, families can reconnect, and every corner holds a new adventure. Enjoy splashing in the waves, hiking scenic trails, or exploring hidden gems in town, while you create lifelong memories for your family.

If you’re ready to join us in town, Las Catalinas Doorway help you plan the perfect stay, with expert tour guides ready to craft unforgettable family-friendly adventures. From the best activities to must-see spots, we’re here to make your trip effortless and full of fun. So pack your swimsuits, sneakers, and sense of adventure because Las Catalinas is waiting for you.