Although the trees may be losing their leaves and the nights are turning chilly all across the United States and Canada, in Costa Rica, the weather remains fabulous with long, warm days filled with golden sunshine.

Often described as the world’s biggest “outdoor classroom,” Costa Rica is famous for its diversity of wildlife, including more than 1,000 different bird species. Brimming with exotic animals and delicate flowering plants, Costa Rica is a peaceful, stable democracy, making it a top international travel destination for families.

Just a few hours’ flying time from the United States and Canada, Costa Rica is the only country in the region with no military. Disbanded in 1948, Costa Rica has instead focused its efforts on infrastructure and environmental conservation, making it one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world. In Costa Rica, you can be surfing on the beach during the morning and hiking along the rim of an active volcano in the afternoon. Vast cloud forests, fertile lowlands, and national parks give families a chance to learn about the wonderful diversity of life found on this planet.

One of the most popular destinations for families in Costa Rica is the Manuel Antonio region on the country’s Pacific Coast. Just a three-hour drive from San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio is home to some of the best surfing spots in the country. And the Manuel Antonio National Park, although one of the smallest national parks in Costa Rica, is a pristine wilderness that is home to unforgettable vistas, gorgeous hiking trails, waterfalls, and more than 100 species of mammals. The edge of the park meets the Pacific Ocean where visitors can observe marine life such as dolphins as well as occasional pods of migrating whales.

Another great family friendly activity to enjoy in Costa Rica is surfing. Beginners and experts alike can benefit from the warm waters, beautifully pristine setting, and consistent swells that make Costa Rica such a popular surfing destination. The Manuel Antonio Surf School and Camp (MASS) and their team of professional local surfing experts specialize in teaching surfing to families using advanced wave motion techniques and video capture to deliver a personalized surfing experience.

MASS also organizes tours to the surrounding countryside, including horseback riding, bird watching, white water rafting, stand up paddling, and other fun adventures. MASS can also arrange for lodging and other amenities such as Spanish language lessons to give families the chance to experience an authentic Costa Rica experience.