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Costa Rica's rich marine life also means excellent  sport fishing. Along the Pacific Coast, from the Gulf of Papagayo all the way to Golfito, anglers find some of the best blue water and inshore fishing in the world. Annual catch &release billfish tournaments raise record numbers of sailfish and marlin. Roosterfish, Mahi-mahi, Yellow-fin Tuna, Grouper and Wahoo are among the other common game fish. The Tortuguero Canals, Cano Negro and the area around Barra del Colorado, both on Costa Rica's northeast coast, have long been famous for fishing tarpon and snook. Lake Arenal is the place  to take a boat out on quiet waters and hoop the local "rainbow bass" There's also great trout fishing in Costa Rica's mountain streams.

Day Crises to Tortuga Island, on the Gulf of Nicoya, are a highlight of many of Costa Rica vacation. Nature trips on lowland rivers are a relaxing way to see the forest and view wildlife.

Even the most active adventurer or nature lover will want to smooth on an extra layer of SFP 15 (Solar Protection Factor 15) and spend some time on the beautiful beaches along Costa Rica's more 621 miles of shoreline. Each has a beauty and character all its own, in every hue and texture. Many beaches are wild and undeveloped. At other, you'll find cabins to rent or small hotels. For anyone preferring a resort atmosphere, there's even a few of those, although in typical Costa Rican style, they are mostly small scale. 

With it mountainous terrain and thousands of miles of highways, byways and forest trails, Costa Rica is the ideal spot for mountain biking many hotels have equipment for rent and some local travel agencies offer organized tours. 

Horseback riding in Costa Rica can take you along beaches, at the edge of country roads, though pastures and long forest trails. Riding is great fun-once you get used to the different saddle, stirrups and neck- rein steering. Although not strictly necessary, a little equestrian experience will stand you in good stead since ranch horses are usually rounded us for trail duty. Lessons on how to control your mount and special assistance should be requested before setting out on any trail ride. 

Costa Rica's National Parks are ideal for trekking,  although you definitely need a guide if you plan to venture away from well-marked trails. It's all too easy to get lost in the rainforest, where everything looks the same. Overnight treks can be arranged though local outfitters and a climb up Mount Chirripo is highly recommended for those in good physical condition.

Ballooning is also gaining popularity - a great way to se the rainforest canopy. Or you can take a ride on a cable car though the treetops. You can also go up an experience the tree canopy by doing a canopy tour as you will go up over 80 feet in the tree tops and hang by harness.  More adventuresome souls can sign up for tropical bungee jumping!