Best Hotels in Costa Rica: Your Ultimate Guide to Where to Stay
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Hey there, fellow wanderlusters!
If you’re reading this, chances are you’re planning an incredible adventure to Costa Rica—one of the most beautiful destinations on Earth. From lush rainforests and pristine beaches to stunning volcanoes, Costa Rica is a nature lover’s dream. But let’s face it, when you’re traveling to a country with so much to offer, finding the perfect place to stay can be overwhelming. With a range of hotels, from luxurious resorts to charming eco-lodges, Costa Rica has something for every traveler.
I’ve been lucky enough to visit Costa Rica a few times, and after exploring both the popular and hidden gems, I’m excited to share my favorite places to stay. So, whether you’re looking for a romantic beachfront retreat, an adventurous stay in the jungle, or a budget-friendly spot, I’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive into the best hotels in Costa Rica and find the perfect place for your next escape!
Introduction: Best Hotels in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has something for everyone—thrill-seekers chasing adventure, couples seeking romance, and families wanting beachside relaxation. With so many hotels across the country, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ve created this list of top stays, with options for every travel style and budget.
From luxury beachfront resorts to eco-lodges hidden in the rainforest, this guide makes finding the perfect stay easy. Whether you’re exploring the Pacific or Caribbean coast, hiking cloud forests, or soaking in hot springs, these hotels will elevate your Costa Rican getaway.
So, let’s get started—here are the best hotels in Costa Rica!
1. Nayara Springs (Arenal Volcano Area)
Best for: Luxury, Romance, and Relaxation
Hidden in the lush rainforest near Arenal Volcano, Nayara Springs is an adults-only retreat that blends luxury with nature. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic escape, offering private villas with plunge pools fed by natural hot springs for ultimate relaxation.
What sets Nayara Springs apart is its attention to detail. From personalized service to elegant design inspired by Costa Rican culture, every aspect creates an unforgettable experience. Surrounded by tropical gardens with breathtaking volcano views, the resort is also close to top adventure activities like ziplining, hiking, and wildlife tours.
Why you’ll love it: This secluded paradise offers unmatched privacy, natural hot spring plunge pools, gourmet dining, and an award-winning spa—all set in the heart of the rainforest.
2. Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
Best for: Families, Luxury, and Activities
The Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo is one of the best family-friendly resorts in the country. Nestled on the Pacific coast, this hotel is perfect for travelers who want a mix of relaxation and adventure. With its beachfront location and access to two beautiful beaches, guests can enjoy water activities like paddleboarding, snorkeling, and kayaking.
What’s great about the Andaz is that it offers something for every family member. Kids can have a blast at the Cambi Kids Club, while parents indulge in a spa treatment or lounge by the adults-only pool. The resort also offers several dining options, including fresh seafood and local cuisine, ensuring every palate is satisfied.
Why you’ll love it: Perfect for families, this resort offers a blend of fun and relaxation with activities and amenities for all ages. Enjoy stunning ocean views, private beaches, and kid-friendly programs, while adults can unwind in dedicated relaxation areas designed just for them.
3. Hotel Belmar (Monteverde Cloud Forest)
Best for: Nature Lovers, Sustainability, and Tranquility
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s natural beauty, Hotel Belmar in Monteverde is the perfect choice. Located in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, this eco-friendly boutique hotel is all about sustainability and connecting with nature. The hotel offers cozy wooden chalets that provide incredible views of the surrounding forest, making it one of the best eco-lodges in Costa Rica.
Staying at Hotel Belmar means you’re in close proximity to some of the country’s best wildlife and outdoor adventures, like the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and hanging bridge tours. They also have a focus on farm-to-table dining, offering organic meals sourced directly from their own farm.
Why you’ll love it: This eco-friendly retreat combines sustainable practices with breathtaking views of the cloud forest. Delight in organic farm-to-table dining, immersing yourself in a harmonious blend of nature and luxury.
4. Tulemar Resort (Manuel Antonio)
Best for: Families, Wildlife, and Beach Access
For a combination of luxury, convenience, and access to some of the best beaches in Costa Rica, Tulemar Resort in Manuel Antonio is hard to beat. This sprawling 33-acre resort offers a variety of accommodations, from private bungalows to luxury villas, making it ideal for both families and couples.
One of the highlights of Tulemar is its private beach, which is perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean. It’s also located near Manuel Antonio National Park, a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The resort grounds are home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and sloths, so keep your eyes peeled during your stay!
Why you’ll love it: With a private beach and its close proximity to Manuel Antonio National Park, this resort is perfect for both families and couples. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, explore lush gardens, and encounter on-site wildlife, all in a tropical paradise setting.
5. Kura Boutique Hotel (Uvita)
Best for: Honeymooners, Romance, and Unique Design
For a romantic getaway with jaw-dropping views, Kura Boutique Hotel is one of the best hotels in Costa Rica. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this adults-only retreat is a design lover’s dream. The minimalist architecture blends seamlessly with the lush jungle surroundings, and the infinity pool is the perfect place to watch the sunset over the ocean.
Kura is known for its personalized service and attention to detail, making it an ideal spot for honeymooners or couples celebrating a special occasion. The hotel also offers plenty of adventure, including whale watching, snorkeling, and hiking in nearby national parks.
Why you’ll love it: Experience stunning ocean views from an infinity pool, personalized service, and elegant, luxurious design. Perfect for couples and honeymooners, this resort offers an intimate and romantic escape.
6. Latitude 10 Resort (Santa Teresa)
Best for: Surfing, Seclusion, and Beachfront
If you’re looking for a more laid-back, beachy vibe, Latitude 10 Resort in Santa Teresa is a hidden gem that’s perfect for surfers and beach lovers. Located on one of the best beaches in Costa Rica for surfing, this boutique hotel offers private beachfront bungalows that let you fall asleep to the sound of the waves.
Latitude 10 has a strong focus on sustainability and is powered entirely by solar energy. The intimate atmosphere and natural surroundings make it a great place to unwind and enjoy Costa Rica’s famous sunsets.
Why you’ll love it: Latitude 10 offers stunning beachfront bungalows with direct ocean access, perfect for those who love waking up to the sound of the waves. Its prime location makes it ideal for surfers and beach lovers looking for a peaceful retreat. Plus, the resort is eco-friendly and solar-powered, ensuring a sustainable and environmentally conscious stay.
Conclusion: Best Hotels in Costa Rica
Finding the perfect hotel in Costa Rica depends on the experience you want. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxury retreat in the rainforest, a relaxing beach getaway with family, or an eco-friendly adventure in the mountains, there’s a place for you. Each hotel I’ve highlighted offers something special, from stunning views to top-notch service, making it easier to choose the right stay.
No matter where you go, Costa Rica’s natural beauty, warm hospitality, and incredible adventures will make your trip unforgettable. So, book your stay, pack your bags, and get ready to embrace pura vida!