Uncover Paradise: The Top 10 Hotels in Costa Rica for an Unforgettable Vacation
- Aurélise Leroux
- 3 days ago
- 6 min read
Welcome to paradise — literally. Costa Rica isn’t just a destination; it’s a whole vibe. Between the lush rainforests, misty volcanoes, and beaches that look straight out of a postcard, this little country has a way of stealing your heart (and never giving it back).
And if there’s one thing we’ve learned from our adventures around the country, where you stay can completely change your trip. From dreamy eco-lodges hidden in the jungle to luxury resorts right on the sand, Costa Rica has something for every type of traveler and budget.
So whether you’re here to surf, chase waterfalls, soak in hot springs, or simply enjoy a good piña colada by the pool — we’ve rounded up our favorite 10 hotels in Costa Rica that guarantee an unforgettable experience. Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Costa Rica for Your Vacation?
Costa Rica just gets it right. It’s one of those rare places where you can truly do it all — adventure one day, relax the next, and never feel rushed. You can wake up to the sounds of howler monkeys, spend your day exploring volcanoes or beaches, and fall asleep to the sound of rain in the jungle.
And the best part? Costa Rica is one of the world’s eco-leaders — meaning you can travel responsibly without sacrificing comfort. It’s safe, welcoming, and full of locals who live by the pura vida lifestyle — laid-back, happy, and always ready with a smile.
How to Choose Your Perfect Hotel in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is small but incredibly diverse — each region has its own magic. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
For beaches & surf: Head to Guanacaste, Santa Teresa, or Manuel Antonio.
For jungle & waterfalls: Try Arenal, Monteverde, or Bajos del Toro.
For off-the-grid nature: The Osa Peninsula is next-level.
Think about what kind of trip you want — romantic getaway, adventure-filled week, or a nature escape — and choose a hotel that fits your vibe. Now, let’s get to the fun part!
Our Top 10 Hotels in Costa Rica (for Every Style and Budget)
Nayara Springs – Arenal
General Location: Near Arenal Volcano National Park
Phone Number: +506 2479 1600
Email Address: reservations@nayarasprings.com
Type: Adults-only luxury boutique resort (private plunge-pool villas, high-end).
Typical price range: ~$600–$1,500+ / night (depending on villa type & season).
If luxury had a Costa Rican address, it would be Nayara Springs. Hidden in the jungle near Arenal Volcano, this adults-only boutique hotel is pure magic. Each villa has its own private plunge pool filled with natural hot spring water (yes, really). The service, food, and spa are all five-star perfection. It’s romantic, peaceful, and easily one of the best hotels in the country.
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa – Arenal
General Location: 13 km northwest of La Fortuna
Phone Number: +506 2479 2000
Email Address: sales@tabacon.com
Type: Luxury thermal-resort / spa (famous natural hot springs & rainforest setting).
Typical price range: ~$350 – $1,000+ / night (plus day-pass options for hot springs).
You can’t talk about Arenal without mentioning Tabacon. Famous for its natural hot springs that flow through lush tropical gardens, this resort is all about relaxation. After a day of hiking or ziplining, there’s nothing better than soaking in those warm volcanic waters. It’s luxurious, tranquil, and oh-so-iconic.
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica – Papagayo Peninsula
General Location: Peninsula Papagayo, Guanacaste
Phone: +506 2696 0000
Type: Ultra-luxury full-service resort (family & villa options).
Typical price range: ~$800 – $2,000+ / night (villas and higher categories drive top end)
If you’re ready to splurge, the Four Seasons Resort on the Papagayo Peninsula is the definition of barefoot luxury. Picture private beaches, ocean views from your room, a world-class spa, and an Arnold Palmer golf course. You can spend the day snorkeling, ziplining, or simply doing nothing at all. Either way, you’ll be in paradise.
Andaz Costa Rica Resort – Papagayo Peninsula
General Location: Peninsula Papagayo, Guanacaste
Phone: +506 8822-8944
Email: gscenter.papagayo@andaz.com
Type: Luxury/resort (stylish, family-friendly/modern resort with villas & suites).
Typical price range: ~$600–$ 1,200+/night (varies by villa vs. standard room & season).
Also on Papagayo, the Andaz Costa Rica Resort is where modern design meets pura vida charm. The architecture blends seamlessly into the jungle, and there are three gorgeous beaches right on the property. It’s great for couples and families alike — with amazing restaurants, friendly staff, and a super chill atmosphere.
El Silencio Lodge & Spa - Bajos del Toro
General location: Provincia de Alajuela, Bajos del Toro, 20101
Phone: +506-4070-1100
Type: Luxury eco-lodge / mountain cloud-forest resort (wellness focus).
Typical price range: ~$350 – $1,400+ / night (standard suites up to multi-bed villas)
Tucked away in the cloud forest, El Silencio Lodge & Spa is the place to disconnect and recharge. The property is surrounded by waterfalls and lush green hills, and the suites are cozy, private, and full of natural light. If you’re into wellness, hiking, or just listening to the rain with a cup of coffee, this is your kind of paradise.
Hotel Nya - Montezuma
General location: Montezuma town
WhatsApp: +506 8609 3999
Email: reservations@nyahotel.cr
Type: Boutique design hotel / eco-conscious stay in tropical gardens near the beach
Typical price range: ~$125 – $400+ / night (depends on room).
Set in the lush jungle garden of Montezuma on the Nicoya Peninsula, the hotel offers minimalist, stylish rooms, a calm atmosphere with monkeys and tropical birds, and easy access to both the beach and village life. Its boutique size and attention to nature, design and wellness make it a refreshing choice for travelers who value both comfort and the Costa Rican back-to-nature vibe.
Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort - Manuel Antonio
Email Address: reservations@arenasdelmar.com
Phone Number: +506 4040 0422
Location: Manuel Antonio, Central Pacific Coast
Type: Luxury beachfront resort (small, eco-conscious, rainforest + beach access).
Typical price range: ~$620 – $1,700+ / night (room category & high season affect rates)
Arenas del Mar gives you the best of both worlds — rainforest and beach. You can wake up to monkeys outside your window and end the day with your toes in the sand. It’s eco-friendly, luxurious, and only minutes from Manuel Antonio National Park. Perfect for travelers who want comfort, nature, and wildlife all in one place.
Villas Jacquelina – Quepos
Email Address: info@villasjacquelina.com
WhatsApp: +506 8345 1516
Location: C. 2, Provincia de Puntarenas, Quepos, 60601, Costa Rica
Type: Small family-run owned boutique hotel / villa-style lodging (B&B / mid-range).
Typical price range: ~$60 – $220 / night (budget to mid-range; depends on room).
Traveling on a budget but still want style and great vibes? Villas Jacquelina is our local favorite in Quepos (maybe because it's ours...), just a few minutes from Manuel Antonio National Park. It’s eco-friendly, cozy, and has a super-friendly community feel. The views are amazing, the staff are legends, and it’s a perfect base for exploring the area without breaking the bank.
Kura Design Villas Boutique Hotel - Uvita
General Location: Uvita, near Marino Ballena National Park
Phone: +1 844-783-4507 / +506 4040 - 0417
Type: Adults-only boutique luxury hotel (exclusive, design-forward property).
Typical price range: ~$450–$ 1,200+/night (small property; suites & packages affect price).
We’re obsessed with Kura Boutique Hotel — an adults-only hideaway perched above Uvita with some of the best ocean views in Costa Rica. It’s sleek, minimalist, and incredibly romantic. The infinity pool and rooftop spa are next-level, and the staff make you feel like family. This is the kind of place that makes you want to stay forever.
Lapa Rios Lodge – Osa Peninsula
General Location:
Phone: +506 4070 0420 / Whatsapp: +506 8455 0705
Email: info@boena.com
Type: High-end eco-lodge / rainforest reserve (boutique eco-luxury bungalows).
Typical price range: ~$600–$ 1,400+/night (often sold as packages; includes many eco-activities).
If you’re looking to experience wild, untouched Costa Rica, Lapa Rios Lodge is your spot. Located in the heart of the Osa Peninsula (one of the most biodiverse places on Earth), this award-winning eco-lodge offers open-air bungalows overlooking the rainforest. You can hike, birdwatch, or go on a night safari — and you’ll never forget the sounds of nature all around you.
Final Thoughts: Where to Stay in Costa Rica
Costa Rica really does have it all — adventure, relaxation, nature, and heart. Whether you’re sipping coffee in the cloud forest, spotting sloths in the trees, or watching the sun dip below the Pacific, this country will leave you speechless (and probably planning your next trip before you even go).
From luxury resorts to jungle lodges, these are our top 10 Costa Rica hotels that we know you’ll love. Wherever you decide to stay, one thing’s for sure — paradise is calling, and it’s time to answer.
Pura vida, amigos!
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