Can you drink tap water in Costa Rica?

In Costa Rica, the tap water is safe and clean enough for everyday use.

Costa Rica has strong environmental regulations and well-maintained treatment systems. Tap water is regularly tested and considered reliable, especially in developed areas.

Quick Overview

Tap Water Concern:Our Advice
Tap Water Drinkable?✅ Yes, it’s safe to drink
Common Risks:Minimal — high quality standards
Brush Teeth?✅ Yes, no concerns
Wash Fruits/Vegetables?✅ Yes, safe to use tap water
Use Ice in Drinks?✅ Yes, generally safe in restaurants
Safe to Shower?✅ Yes
Filter Bottle Needed?❌ No, not necessary

Based on guidance from the CDC, WHO, and local water authorities in Costa Rica.

Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle

We’ve taken a close look at the most trusted travel filter bottles so you can avoid waterborne illnesses, cut down on single-use plastic, and skip the bottled water habit. These aren’t products we sell, just ones we genuinely recommend based on research and traveler experiences—you’ll find them listed below.

Water Filter Bottle – LifeStraw

Rating

★★★★★
A full view of a translucent gray LifeStraw Go water bottle standing upright on a smooth, light surface. The black lid features an integrated carry handle, making the bottle easy to clip onto a backpack or hold while traveling. Through the clear body, the internal filtration system is visible, including the long white membrane microfilter designed to remove bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and sediment. The LifeStraw logo appears vertically along the front of the bottle in white. The clean, minimal background keeps the focus on the durable, BPA-free bottle—made from 50% recycled plastic—and reinforces its purpose as a reliable, travel-ready filter bottle for safe, great-tasting water during trips, outdoor activities, and everyday use.
A disassembled LifeStraw Go water bottle laid out on a light-colored surface, showing all the key components of the two-stage filtration system. The translucent gray bottle stands in the background with the LifeStraw logo visible. In front of it, the long white membrane microfilter lies horizontally, displaying its vented design used to remove bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and sediment. Next to it are the smaller parts: the activated carbon filter pod that reduces chlorine and odors, the white connector piece that attaches the filters inside the bottle, and the black screw-on lid with its integrated drinking spout. The layout highlights how each part fits together, reinforcing the bottle’s functionality, easy maintenance, and purpose as a durable, BPA-free, travel-ready filtration system made from recycled plastic.
A straight-on view of a translucent gray LifeStraw Go water bottle standing upright on a light surface. The LifeStraw logo appears vertically in white along the front of the bottle. Through the clear plastic you can see the internal two-stage filtration system, including the long cylindrical microfilter that removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, as well as the lower section where the activated carbon filter fits to improve taste by reducing chlorine and odors. The black lid with the built-in sip spout sits securely on top. The clean, minimal background draws attention to the durable, BPA-free design made from 50% recycled plastic—highlighting the bottle’s purpose as a reliable, eco-friendly filter bottle for travel, everyday hydration, and safe drinking water on the go.
A close-up photo of a translucent gray LifeStraw Go water bottle showing the “MAX 0.65L” fill line printed in white on the side. Small droplets of water cling to the surface, suggesting the bottle was just rinsed or recently used. Through the clear plastic, the internal filtration system is visible—the upper cartridge that houses the two-stage filter combining a membrane microfilter for bacteria, parasites, microplastics, sediment, and cloudiness, and an activated carbon filter to reduce chlorine, odors, and aftertaste. The top portion of the lid with the built-in drinking spout appears at the edge of the frame. The image highlights the durable, BPA-free construction made from 50% recycled plastic. It supports product information about the LifeStraw Go series, which provides safer, better-tasting water for travel, outdoor use, and everyday hydration, while also contributing one year of clean drinking water to a child in need with every purchase.
Protection: Filters bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and dirt from unsafe water
Travel-Ready: Safe to use in countries with non-drinkable tap water
Better Taste: Carbon filter reduces chlorine, odors, and chemical flavor
Eco-Friendly: Replaces up to 8,000 single-use plastic bottles
Long-Lasting: Membrane filter lasts up to 1,000 gallons
Safe Materials: BPA-free, durable, and leak-proof design
Budget-Friendly: Cuts daily costs on bottled water
Convenient: Great for airports, hikes, hotels, and remote areas
Check Price on Amazon

Health Risks for Travelers

Even when tap water meets international safety standards, it can still take some adjustment for travelers. Differences in water chemistry, treatment methods, or piping systems may not affect locals but could lead to minor digestive issues for visitors.

Potential (but low-level) concerns include:

  • Changes in mineral content that your body isn’t used to
  • Older buildings with worn-out plumbing systems
  • Ice or raw produce that might have been rinsed with tap water in less consistent establishments
  • Regional variation — even within safe countries, rural areas may differ from urban centers
  • Travelers with sensitive stomachs may benefit from filtered water in the first days

These aren’t major health risks, but staying aware of how your body reacts can make your trip more comfortable.

If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Costa Rica, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.

More About Tap Water in Costa Rica

In urban areas like San José, tap water is treated with chlorine and reverse osmosis, resulting in “hard” water with a higher mineral content.

In rural areas—especially along the Caribbean coast and on the Osa Peninsula—communities often rely on well water or rainwater, which can lead to variations in water quality. Many locals drink the tap water without issue, but travelers with sensitive stomachs might want to carry a portable water filter or purification tablets, just in case.

In popular tourist destinations, refill stations are becoming more common. It’s a good idea to check with your hotel or host about local water quality and available purification methods. Using a refillable bottle helps cut down on plastic waste while keeping you hydrated.

FAQs About Tap Water in Costa Rica

Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?

Absolutely. The tap water in Costa Rica is safe enough for brushing, rinsing, and even drinking.

Can I use tap water to wash my face?

Definitely—it’s safe to wash your face with tap water in Costa Rica with no risk.

Is it safe to use ice in drinks?

Feel free to have drinks with ice here—it’s made with clean, safe water.

Can I shower safely with tap water?

No issues at all—feel free to shower just like you would at home.

If you’re picky about water quality—or just want to keep your hair from drying out on the road—a portable shower filter is a smart move. They’re super easy to use, as long as you can access the shower connection. Built-in setups won’t work. Here’s the top-rated shower filter travelers trust. See the current price here.

Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?

No problem at all. The tap water is clean and safe for washing food.

Is bottled water expensive in Costa Rica?

If you prefer bottled, it’s affordable—but totally unnecessary here.

Costa Rica is a major eco-tourism destination often visited with Nicaragua, Panama, or even Colombia. Tap water safety can vary, especially in rural vs. urban areas.

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