
Costa Rica is one of the most popular South American countries to visit, in part because its jungles, rainforests, cloud forests, and gorgeous beaches are all rich with opportunities for adventure and exploration of the natural world. Costa Rica has a well-established network of national parks and reserves protecting around a quarter of the country, with a visitor infrastructure carefully designed to avoid endangering the incredible biospheres the park system is there to protect. So you’ll find some of our recommendations for the best places to stay in Costa Rica are right in amongst the most beautiful and protected regions: exceptional eco-hotels and lodges which bring money into the regions to feed back into conservation projects.
All this means that Costa Rica offers an unrivalled opportunity to experience the greatest density of plant and animal species in the world. For example it has around 1,500 different kinds of orchid! Its exotic animal life includes toucans and macaws, capuchins and howler monkeys, sloths, caimans and the beautiful Blue Morpho butterfly. Costa Rica is also renowned for its activities - watersports and hiking, surf schools, yoga retreats, epic zip lines, caves to explore and mountains and volcanoes to ascend, on two feet or two wheels. It's also at the cutting edge of sustainable tourism, with infrastructure favouring alternative power sources and blazing a trail in farm-to-table dining.
This fascinating country is so diverse that choosing the best places to stay in Costa Rica really depends on why you're planning to visit. Is it for the beaches? For the wildlife? Or for the volcanoes and rainforests? Use our guide to the best hotels, lodges and resorts below and start planning your trip.
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Puntarenas
An intimate jungle retreat about half an hour from Uvita. Four suites are beautifully designed with a fresh Mediterranean feel, and plenty of natural materials. The best offer a large roof terrace. There's a pool for all and restaurant championing the best local produce. Romantic and relaxing.
Puntarenas (Puntarenas)
A small boutique hotel tucked away in the forest yet just a stroll from Santa Teresa's beaches. A handful of bungalows are spacious and simply styled with exposed beams, private terraces, and hanging day beds. With surf and yoga at the forefront of this property, this is ideal for an active break.
Guanacaste (Santa Cruz)
An elegant ocean front club set in lush gardens. Light and airy white washed rooms benefit from lovely sea views. Feast on excellent cuisine in the Seaside Restaurant. Just steps from a white sandy beach and multiple tours are on offer to the surrounding nature reserves. A tropical paradise.
Guanacaste (Nicoya)
A contemporary eco ranch boasting a spectacular location on the plains of Tempisque River delta. Smart rooms are light and airy with floor to ceiling windows, crisp white linen and contemporary art. A glorious spa and tranquil pool provide utter rejuvenation after a day outdoors. Rural bliss.
Alajuela (San Isidro Peñas Blancas, San Ramon, )
An eco lodge and homely hide-away in the depths of the rain forest. With the property's emphasis strongly lying on conservation be assured of a learned stay; from organic farming to rain forest protection. Dining is a particular highlight with almost all of the produce coming from property. Superb.
Alajuela (1 km NE del abastecedor Diamante)
Be awoken to joyful colour in this tranquil retreat set amidst tropical gardens. Bright rooms feature splashes of vibrant hues, plenty of light and stunning views. Feast on Costa Rican specialities in the candle lit restaurant and unwind over a massage in the spoiling spa. A rejuvenating stay.
Limon Province (Correo Puerto Viejo)
A charming adult-only boutique hotel set in lush gardens on the coast. Boho-chic accommodatio vary in style from two-bed apartments to cosy studios; the best feature private pools. A laid-backed beach club serves up Caribbean delights. Banana Azul's a tranquil spot made for total relaxation.
Limon Province (Limon Province)
This laid-back resort sits right in front of Playa Cocles, offering a balance of beach vibes and tropical charm. The rooms, bungalows, and villas are surrounded by lush jungle, while the pools, spa, and beachfront restaurants set the stage for relaxation and adventure. A true escape into nature.
Uvita (Uvita de Osa)
A boutique collection of Balinese-style villas in the Costa Rican jungle overlooking the Pacific. Smart villas feature mosquito framed four-poster beds, plenty of glass and luxury bathrooms. An infinity pool boasts epic views and the spa is utterly spoiling. Adult-only and undeniably romantic.
Uvita
An adult-only hideaway set overlooking the famous Whale’s Tail Beach. Spacious suites, treehouses and villas connect with the abundance of nature all around. Beyond the hotel’s alluring tranquillity, find an endless array of activities on land or by sea. The perfect romantic getaway.
San Jose (Heredia Province)
Tucked away near San José, this boutique hacienda offers a quiet retreat just minutes from the airport. Inside, homely charm meets rustic elegance, with warm wood accents and inviting décor. Expect airy rooms, and a green ethos powered by solar energy. A relaxed, eco-conscious stay.
San Jose (Escazú)
Hotel Alta Las Palomas is situated in the city Santa Ana and offers splendid views of the San José area. The hotel's interiors are decorated in a contemporary style with plenty of colours being used whilst their La Luz restaurant serves up truly excellent cuisine! A wonderfully relaxing stay.
Heredia Province (Heredia Province)
Poas Volcano Lodge enjoys a mountainous location and offers spacious rooms with wonderful views. The exterior's modern architecture contrasts highly with the rustic use of stone and wood which create an incredibly cosy feel inside. Be sure to visit the delicious restaurant! A great country escape.
Heredia Province (Heredia Province)
A hidden retreat tucked in the Costa Rican rainforest near Braulio Carrillo. Hand-built casitas mix antique doors, timber beams and breezy screened windows for a rustic, refined rainforest feel. There’s a serene infinity pool, horseback riding, lush trails, a spa, plus organic fare and cocktails.