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Image courtesy of Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
From adventurous beach resorts to serene lodges deep in the rainforest, the best all-inclusive Costa Rica family resorts treat guests to amazing experiences backdropped by the country’s impressive natural beauty.
We’re Fora, the modern travel agency. If you’re looking for family-friendly all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica, you’re in the right place. We’re covering seven of our choices, plus a couple extras that do not feature an all-inclusive package but still offer a lot of value for families (so you can compare your options).
If a particular resort catches your eye — or you need help deciding which best fits your preferences and budget — consider booking your Costa Rica travel with a Fora Advisor. They’ll help provide personalized recommendations, as well as unlock VIP perks and upgrades when you book with them. Connect with a Fora Advisor to start planning your trip today.
Is Costa Rica good for family vacations?
In short, yes! Costa Rica is a great destination for families of all ages and sizes. In fact, our co-founder Henley Vazquez spent much of the pandemic in Costa Rica with her three kids, and it’s still one of her favorite destinations to recommend for families.
“Costa Rica offers adventure, relaxation, incredible food and great hospitality,” she said. “There’s a ton of family-friendly activities for kids of all ages.”
Fora Advisor Angela Marini agrees.
“Costa Rica is a unique destination that’s perfect for those who want a bit of adventure and are tired of your typical Caribbean resort,” Angela said. “It’s next level, and for the right travelers, a game-changer.”
Lush tropical rainforests, dramatic vistas, abundant wildlife, white-sand beaches and a laidback vibe: there’s no question Costa Rica is a family-friendly vacation destination. This Central American country is teeming with opportunities for all-ages adventure and relaxation.
(P.S. if you’re wondering when to visit the country, our guide to the best time to visit Costa Rica breaks it down month by month.)
What’s the best part of Costa Rica to visit for families?
The luxurious Papagayo Peninsula is arguably the country’s most popular destination area. But you’ll find excellent, all-inclusive Costa Rica family resorts all over, including the interior and Caribbean coast. Our guide to the best places to stay in Costa Rica better answers this question (and really, there aren’t many areas in Costa Rica that don’t cater well to family vacations). You can also connect with a Fora Advisor for personalized support and recommendations.
What is considered an all-inclusive resort?
Generally, all-inclusive resorts group the cost of your room, food and drinks into one lump sum. Many resorts also include all or some activities and entertainment in the total, as well. The only major exceptions — at select resorts — is alcohol. Some resorts include common libations in the total, namely beer and wine. More luxurious resorts may include all or some top-shelf liquors and wines, though.
If you book your stay with a Fora Advisor, they’ll let you know exactly what is and isn’t included in your all-inclusive package.
How much does it cost to go stay at an all-inclusive Costa Rica resort?
The cost of all-inclusive Costa Rica family resorts vary widely. At top-tier choices, it’s normal to pay at least $500–$1,000 per night. However, there are options catering to all budgets, depending on where you look. The aforementioned Papagayo Peninsula is largely home to the most expensive (and again, luxurious) resorts.
But there’s greater variety among the resorts and lodges that dot Costa Rica’s interior and Caribbean coast, and it’s not uncommon to find all-inclusive resorts that cost closer to $200–$400 per night.
In 2023, our average nightly rate for hotels in Costa Rica was $667. Our Fora Advisors booked more than 1,000 nights in Costa Rica in 2023.
Related article: Top 5 Caribbean Costa Rica Resorts
7 of the best all-inclusive Costa Rica family resorts
Below we’ve gathered seven of our favorite all-inclusive Costa Rica family resorts. Keep in mind that these are hardly the only great choices, and you can always ask a Fora Advisor for more options (or more details on these resorts).
1. Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo: a high-end beach resort with both all-inclusive & non-inclusive options
Image courtesy of Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
Found on the Papagayo Peninsula, the 1,400-acre Andaz Resort offers everything from a full golf course to a variety of fine dining options — all just steps from the beach.
“The Andaz offers both inclusive and non-inclusive dining options for ultimate flexibility,” Fora Advisor Kaitlan Leonard said. “A major plus is their recently renovated, off-site beach club, which is also included in their dining package.”
Guests can choose from luxurious ocean- or forest-view rooms and suites, all of which are equipped with top-of-the-line amenities. And as this is an all-inclusive Costa Rica resort for families, children and adults alike can enjoy the resort's many curated activities. This includes hiking through the surrounding rainforest, snorkeling at one of three private beaches, ziplining adventures and more.
Andaz Costa Rica is one of our top-five most-booked hotels in Costa Rica. When you book your stay with a Fora Advisor, you’ll enjoy complimentary Hyatt Privé perks (note that some perks below only apply to travelers who choose the non-inclusive package).
Fora Perks at Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo:
$100 food & beverage credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade & early check-in whenever possible.
Sidenote: while Andaz Costa Rica caters to families, its many adult-centric areas also make it one of the best places to stay in Costa Rica for couples.
2. The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal: a Costa Rica family resort below Arenal Volcano
Image courtesy of The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
Perched 1,000 feet above the Arenal Valley (one of Costa Rica’s most famous landmarks), The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal is a world-class luxury resort that offers a top-notch experience with extensive amenities and exceptional service.
“It’s is a luxurious oasis within 20 minutes of La Fortuna. Perfect for families, the resort includes natural hot and cold springs and a wide range of family activities thanks to their Club Rio Adventure Center,” Fora Advisor Celine Mahdavi said.
The Springs Resort promises beautiful scenery, fantastic amenities and a family-friendly atmosphere. Here, there are several day packages to choose from, which include activities, dining options and more.
There’s no shortage of adventure in northern Costa Rica, where the resort is located, particularly when it comes to hiking up volcanoes or rafting along the Arenal River. However, The Springs Resort’s ultimate goal is relaxation. A 14,000-square-foot spa allows adults to destress, while children can enjoy the resort’s water slide, game room and Adventure Center, which organizes kid-friendly excursions.
“For wellness seekers, the Sanctuary Spa at the Springs is tucked within lush rainforest bringing all of the surrounding natural elements into your spa experience,” Celine said.
Fora Perks at The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal:
$125 spa credit, one complimentary Club Rio Tour for two, breakfast daily, upgrade & early check-in whenever possible.
4. Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection: a world-class, all-inclusive Costa Rica family resort that prioritizes wellness
Image courtesy of Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection
An Auberge Resorts Collection property, Hacienda AltaGarcia is an incredible, all-inclusive Costa Rica resort for families or anyone who wants to indulge in elite amenities in a serene corner of the country. Hacienda AltaGarcia features dozens of one- and two-bedroom casitas surrounded by rainforest.
The resort’s all-inclusive package is arguably one of the most, well, inclusive, too. All stays feature a complimentary domestic charter flight (for example: from San Juan International Airport, where most flights arrive in Costa Rica), all meals and non-alcoholic drinks, daily wellness activities, access to the resort’s extensive hiking trails and a dedicated attendant who will help you manage your stay.
Hacienda AltaGracia provides amenities specifically for children, such as kids' clubs, swimming pools and play areas. They also offer farm tours and wildlife exploration that are both fun and informative for children and adults alike.
Hacienda AltaGarcia is also a Fora Reserve property (one of our preferred partners), so guests who book with an advisor can look forward to exclusive perks like early or late check-in/out (when available) and a property credit that can be put toward experiences like special spa treatments.
Fora Perks at Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection:
$100 hotel / resort credit, extended check-in/out whenever possible.
4. Surf Synergy: a down-to-earth yet exciting all-inclusive Costa Rica family resort (especially for surfers)
Surf Synergy, first and foremost, is a surfing resort. The property is set in beautiful Jacó, where the beaches are perfect for beginners and experts alike. In fact, the resort hosts a surfing school for all experience levels. But just because surfing is the main allure doesn’t mean that’s all there is to do here. In addition to surfing, there are various activities that families can enjoy together, such as beach games, yoga sessions and eco-tours.
Notably, the vibe here is a little more down-to-earth than most of the luxury resorts on this list. However, the accommodations are still fantastic, with a fun, beachy theme and rooms and suites for groups of all sizes.
5. Origins Luxury Lodge: a beautiful ecolodge with excellent dining options
Okay: Origins Luxury Lodge isn’t strictly an all-inclusive resort. But it does offer a meal plan package that also includes onsite activities. Translation: it’s essentially all-inclusive.
Origins offers plenty of onsite activities and amenities, but Fora Advisors who have visited the property often highlight the gastronomy above all. There’s only one restaurant, El Salto, which resides on a raised platform that offers amazing views of the jungle. Authenticity and sustainability were driving forces in creating the eatery’s menu, which exclusively features local ingredients and elevated takes on Costa Rican favorites. There are kid-friendly menu options available.
Beyond the gastronomy, Origins offers luxe accommodations and an adventurous slate of onsite activities that include horseback riding through the jungle, whitewater rafting and wildlife tours.
They offer spacious villas and bungalows that can accommodate families, providing privacy and comfort for both parents and children. They also offer childcare services.
Fora Perks at Origins Luxury Lodge:
Complimentary air & concierge services.
6. Lapa Rios Lodge: a family resort deep in the rainforest
Image courtesy of Lapa Rios Lodge
If you’re eager to leave urban life behind for a spell, a nature escape to the Osa Peninsula may offer the respite your family needs.
For those craving an off-the-beaten-path experience in Costa Rica, The Lapa Rios Lodge is easily one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica for families that want to reconnect with nature from the safety of a five-star wilderness resort. Hundreds, if not thousands of tropical species can be observed from the boardwalks that connect each villa and common space. Birds, treefrogs, lizards and even the occasional large cat — like pumas, ocelots or margays — are routinely spotted. In fact, the peninsula is one of the most biodiverse and remote areas in Costa Rica.
But this Costa Rica jungle resort provides more than an off-the-grid trip to the Osa Peninsula: the resort’s included gourmet dining options source local ingredients for an authentic Costa Rican gastronomic experience, while a variety of excursions, like surfing adventures and zipline tours, can be booked right from the resort.
A stay at Lapa Rios includes lodging, housekeeping twice a day, three gourmet meals per day plus non-alcoholic and non-mixed drinks, arrival and departure transfers from the Puerto Jimenez airport, on-site guided tours (such as early and sunset bird tours, a local medicine hike, night walk and more).
7. The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort and Spa: a solid choice for families
Image courtesy of The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort and Spa
Our top-booked property in Costa Rica, The Westin Reserva Concha is a beachside retreat in Guanacaste that’s perfect for families. A massive property, the resort boasts over 4000 well-appointed rooms and suites, all of which offer modern amenities and comfortable accommodations. Guests can enjoy a wide range of facilities including an 18-hole golf course, multiple swimming pools, a rejuvenating spa and numerous international dining options.
The all-inclusive package covers meals, beverages and access to fun activities such as tennis, (non-motorized) watersports and a fitness center. In that vein, The Westin’s location on Playa Conchal makes it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.
Fora Perks at The Westin Reserva Conchal, An All-Inclusive Gold Resort and Spa:
Welcome amenity, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Bonus: 2 family-friendly Costa Rica resorts that are not all-inclusive
If you’re not married to the idea of staying at an all-inclusive Costa Rica resort, we have two more family-friendly choices worthy of consideration. Notably, both are great options whether you’re looking to relax exclusively within the bounds of the resort or explore beyond.
Don’t hesitate to contact a Fora Advisor if you can’t decide between a non-inclusive or all-inclusive resort. Both options have their pros and cons. Your advisor can help you figure out where you’ll enjoy the most value.
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo Guanacaste: one of the most luxurious family resorts in Costa Rica
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica Peninsula Papagayo Guanacaste
Our hotel spotlight on Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica breaks down all there is to know about the property, but here are a couple highlights.
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica, another one of our top-booked resorts, offers a mix of lavish private villas — all of which have ocean views — and spacious rooms and suites. The former are where the resort really shines: there are around a dozen villas and private residences lining the very tip of the Papagayo Peninsula. Each features a unique set of amenities ranging from private chef-led dining to in-home fitness centers and more. Several villas feature exclusive beaches on either side of their grounds. The villas are a great option for families who want a little extra space in their accommodations.
Four Seasons is also well-known for being family-friendly. They have a Kids For All Seasons Program which is a complimentary program that provides a variety of activities for children ages 4 to 12, including arts and crafts, nature exploration and cultural activities. The resort also offers numerous activities that families can enjoy together, such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, tennis and nature hikes. These activities cater to all age groups and skill levels.
The resort provides a variety of dining options with kid-friendly menus and the ability to accommodate special dietary needs, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters are satisfied.
“The Four Seasons is set on the most stunning beaches in Papagayo, and the dining options are endless — I'm talking eight on-site bars and restaurants!” Fora Advisor Kaitlan Leonard said.
Fora Perks at Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo Guanacaste:
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
(One more reason to love Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica: the property hosts its own surfing school. Fora Advisor Arlette Diedricks named the property one of the world’s most luxurious surfing destinations in her guide.)
Nayara Tented Camp: a fun resort that encourages guests to get in touch with nature
Image courtesy of Nayara Tented Camp
Nayara Tented Camp takes a common concept among high-end luxury resorts in Costa Rica — lodgings surrounded by rainforest — one step further. Each “tent” is more like an open-air suite that’s built on stilts right in the middle of the Costa Rican rainforest. From the comfort of your thoughtfully-designed room, you can observe the country’s near-unparalleled biodiversity: tropical birds, rare butterflies, sloths (the property doubles as a sloth sanctuary) and plenty more.
Nayara has Family Tents that are perfect for families or small groups. Your stay includes an a-la-carte breakfast served on your terrace, as well as complimentary yoga sessions, bird watching and more.
The result is a rare opportunity to get intimately close with nature without sacrificing the comforts of a luxury resort. Plus, what kid doesn’t want to be able to witness wildlife from their window?
In addition, babysitting services are available, allowing parents to enjoy some adult time while their children are taken care of in a safe and fun environment.
Fora Perks at Nayara Tented Camp:
$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, complimentary air & concierge services, extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Maximize your stay at the best all-inclusive Costa Rica resorts with Fora
Costa Rica’s best family-friendly all-inclusive resorts capitalize on the country’s stunning natural beauty and endless opportunities for excitement and relaxation. When you book your trip with a Fora Advisor, they’ll make sure you enjoy an experience tailored to your family, with complimentary VIP extras. Your Fora Advisor will help you find the resort and room or suite that best suits your travel preferences while sharing insider intel to further enhance your stay.
More Fora travel guides: the Caribbean & Central America
Costa Rica is just one of many amazing destinations throughout Central America and the Caribbean. Check out guides to more great vacation spots:
