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Image courtesy of Nayara Tented Camp
Costa Rica has a great mix of both luxe and down-to-earth accommodations surrounded by nature, whether that be lush rainforest or a pristine beach. As such, when it comes to hotels in Costa Rica, there’s something for everyone.
“You can be as active or inactive as you want,” Fora Advisor Angela Marini said. “You can zipline or lay on the beach — it’s up to you.”
Below, we’ve rounded up 12 of the best hotels in Costa Rica, all recommended by Fora travel advisors — and all exerting a deep respect for their natural locales. These magical properties immerse you into Costa Rica’s unique way of life, where the pace slows and pressing obligations fade away.
Plan and book your trip with a Fora Advisor, who’ll matchmake you to a Costa Rica hotel that best fits your travel style and budget. And if you want help planning your trip beyond the resort, your advisor can build you a tailored itinerary.
Why travel to Costa Rica?
When you vacation to Costa Rica, you’re signing up for a slower, more intentional and joy-filled escape. (Pura vida, after all, is the country’s national motto.) And Costa Rica's world-class resorts make any vacation to this lush paradise even more special.
“I love Costa Rica for my clients who have been everywhere in the Caribbean and are looking for something different,” Angela said. “It is definitely just different and unique enough to make even the most loyal Caribbean clients very happy.”
Pro tip: Fora Advisor Sara Wilcox recommends combining a beach stay with a jungle stay to experience both sides of Costa Rica.
12 amazing Costa Rica hotels
Read on for a breakdown of the best hotels in Costa Rica, all recommended and vetted by Fora travel advisors.
Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection
Image courtesy of Hacienda AltaGarcia, Auberge Resorts Collection
Hacienda AltaGracia, an Auberge Resorts Collection property, features bird-song-filled acres of untamed tropical forest, a coffee farm, horse stables, organic chef’s gardens and a breathtaking wellbeing center. A dedication to holistic wellbeing permeates throughout. Plus, the staff are quite possibly some of the loveliest people you'll ever meet.
You’ll find this luxurious sanctuary in the serene Talamanca Mountains of Costa Rica, around 3.5 hours south of San José, the country’s capital. The property features 50 spacious casitas, which, given the property’s size, ensure plenty of privacy.
The trip begins as soon as you touch down at the airport. You’ll be greeted by a hotel representative and whisked away to a private lounge for expedited customs. From there, you’ll board a chartered plane and fly the approximately 45-minute (and very beautiful) route to AltaGracia’s on-site airstrip.
Fora Perks at Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection:
$100 hotel / resort credit & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo Guanacaste
Image Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo Guanacaste
Our guide to Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo Guanacaste — one of our most-booked hotels in Costa Rica — offers a comprehensive breakdown of this amazing property, but here are a few highlights.
“Four Seasons Costa Rica screams luxury, but in an unpretentious way that fits the environment,” Fora Advisor Michelle Cassidy shared after a recent Fora scouting trip that included nearly a dozen other advisors.
“The Four Seasons Papagayo is everything you would expect a Four Seasons to be and more,” Angela said: The property is among Costa Rica’s best luxury hotels. A sleek infinity pool overlooks the Pacific Coast. High-end dining options feature diverse menus. Adventurous nature-bound experiences include learning how to surf from experts at the resort's exclusive SurfX program, or embarking on a guided aerial trail expedition. Also on the table: a bevy of wellness-oriented activities and treatments curated by in-house nutritionists, trainers, chefs and healers.
“One of my favorite areas at the resort is the outside lobby bar,” Angela added. “It is really beautiful, and I made a point to stop for a drink every night before dinner. The steakhouse, which is on the golf course, is another win. We even got to see a panther in the street on the way back to the hotel.”
The property is set on the idyllic Papagayo Peninsula, a standout location in a country already known for its breathtaking beauty (and one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica for the first time).
“The beach is definitely the show stopper here,” Fora Advisor Anne Travous said. Anne noted that while the property is gorgeous, it’s also massive and hilly; she recommends using the resort’s golf carts to get around.
One thing to keep in mind: Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica favors luxury over immersion. As Fora Advisor Lisa Roah explained, the property is an excellent choice for anyone wanting a luxe, relaxing getaway among beautiful surroundings. If you want to really dive into Costa Rica’s culture, a Fora Advisor can recommend alternatives.
Fora Perks Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo:
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.
Related article: Fora Favorites: The Ultimate Guanacaste, Costa Rica Travel Guide
Nayara Tented Camp, Nayara Springs & Nayara Gardens
Image courtesy of Nayara Springs
Deep in the jungle surrounding Mount Arenal, one of Costa Rica’s most famous landmarks, you’ll find a collection of three nature-oriented resorts operating under the Nayara banner.
“The location of Nayara is amazing, and a major draw,” Fora advisor Ronit Margolis said. Nayara Tented Camp is “embedded in the rainforest with straight-on volcano views.” She added that, “the resort is really beautiful and well cared for, blending the feel of the jungle with high-end touches.”
Fora Advisor Renée Olson noted that each Nayara property hosts about 30 rooms, split between two categories. The vibe is different at each resort, but all feature complementary activities throughout the week, such as guided yoga or sloth tracking.
Opt for the spectacular Nayara Tented Camp for safari-style tents. Nayara Springs is a rainforest escape with luxe private villas. For a slightly lower-key experience (that Fora Advisors on the scouting trip agreed was perfect for families), enjoy the spacious bungalows and villas of Nayara Gardens. Regardless of your choice, expect private plunge pools fed by mineral hot springs, outdoor showers and breathtaking views of the country’s incredibly diverse flora and fauna.
“Nayara Tented Camp is one the best hotels we have been to as a family,” Ronit said. “It exceeded our expectations, and everyone on site went out of their way to make our stay memorable.”
Fora Advisor Melanie Pink agreed, noting that her family loved the larger tents at Nayara Tented Camp. While rustic, they still offer contemporary amenities and plenty of space for families or groups.
“These are the types of rooms that are a destination on their own,” Fora Advisor Michelle Cassidy said. She praised the resort’s giant soaking tubs and canopied beds, adding that Tented Camp feels secluded and private, and perfect for couples trips and honeymooners.
Nayara Springs, however, is adults-only — in fact, it’s one of the best places to stay in Costa Rica for couples, especially those seeking an upscale nature escape.
Pro tip: The Fora Advisor team that toured Nayara recommend taking advantage of the resorts’ golf cart service to avoid getting lost (and for convenience, of course — at least at the start of your stay).
Fora Perks at Nayara Tented Camp & Nayara Gardens:
$100 food & beverage credit, breakfast daily, complimentary air and concierge services, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Nayara Springs:
$100 food & beverage credit, breakfast daily complimentary air and concierge services & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Related article: 6 of Our Favorite Tented Camps for the Ultimate Glamping Vacation
Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
Andaz Costa Rica is another luxe resort on the Papagayo Peninsula. It earned top marks from the Fora Advisors who visited the property during our recent scouting trip.
“As someone who doesn't like big resorts or big brand hotels, I was shocked at how much I loved the Andaz,” Fora Advisor Kimberly Sessions noted. “It felt very cool and hip.”
Andaz has three beaches, a golf course, four swimming pools, a 24-hour fitness center, a kids’ club and a wide array of nature adventures, including snorkeling.
“[The resort] has a relaxed, upscale feel, and the rooms were really comfortable,” Fora Advisor Lisa Roah said. “Kids would love it here, but it is a great fit for couples and families, as well.”
Fora Advisor Alex Sallis had a similar take: “The resort has a cool, adult vibe, but it is definitely family friendly,” she said. Some of the resort’s kid-friendly amenities include its pools, karaoke, surfing, cooking classes and more.
Andaz Costa Rica has 152 guest rooms, including 22 suites, all of which feature expansive balconies with views of either the bay or the property’s gardens. The resort also features a solid array of dining options, such as the open-air Rio Bhongo restaurant, the seafood-centric Ostra and Chao Pescao, which serves small plates accompanied by live music. But the big draw was Andaz’s private beach club, located less than 10 minutes away by shuttle or water taxi. (If you take the latter option, you may even spot dolphins en route.)
“The beach club was so vibey. I would spend all day there,” Fora Advisor Anne Travous said.
Fora Perks at Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo:
$100 food & beverage credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Río Perdido
Image courtesy of Rio Perdido
Río Perdido is a spa-like sanctuary in the canopy of the Guanacaste region known for its access to a thermal river. The property sits on a 1,500-acre nature reserve with several natural hot springs. Relaxation is a major theme at Rio Perdido, but this Costa Rica hotel doesn’t lack adventure. You can zip-line through the jungle, tube down the river, bike along challenging trails or do yoga in cliffside pods.
You’ll stay in a sustainably designed, sleek bungalow with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the jungly s natural surroundings. Entry-tier units are great for solo travelers and couples, while larger king- and queen-size bungalows are fit for families or small groups.
Fora Perks at Río Perdido:
$50 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Related guide: Why Costa Rica Is Great for a Family Vacation
Pacuare Lodge
Image courtesy of Pacuare Lodge
Pacuare Lodge, one of our favorite Costa Rica jungle resorts, sits along the banks of its namesake river in Limón, near the country’s Caribbean coast. The property features indigenous, Cabécar-inspired architecture, access to a lush rainforest and farm-to-table cuisine.
Guests can arrive via a white-water rafting adventure before settling into one of 20 secluded villas. Most have views of the river, while others have equally beautiful views of the jungle. Plus, each unit has a spring-fed, private plunge pool and terrace.
Book your stay with a Fora Advisor to unlock complimentary Virtuoso perks, which include a private, candlelight dinner along the Pacuare river.
Fora Perks at Pacuare Lodge:
Candlelit dinner by the riverbank, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hotel Nantipa - A Tico Beach Experience
Image Courtesy of Hotel Nantipa - A Tico Beach Experience
Hotel Nantipa is a laid-back beachfront getaway in Santa Teresa, a small surfing town on the Nicoya Peninsula, which is itself a Blue Zone, a special designation signifying the uniquely long and healthy lives of an area's local population. And Nantipa embodies this approach to life: . The resort favors a sustainable ethos and hires locally.
“Nantipa is the Indigenous word for ‘blue,’ representing the ocean and the fact that it sits in a Blue Zone!” Fora Advisor Carol Johnston noted.
The property is particularly proud of their water treatment facilities, recycling efforts and solar-powered water heaters — Nantipa even uses recycled surfboards as room number signs.
Santa Teresa is one of Fora Advisor Nancy Deane’s favorite spots, home to “the fabulous boutique hotel, Nantipa,” she said. “After visiting myself last year, this quickly rose to one of my go-to's for clients when they are looking to live the Pura Vida lifestyle.”
Nancy noted that the hotel offers a solid balance of family-friendly rooms and romantic beachfront casitas. She also praised the knowledgeable and attentive staff, plus the expert-led surfing lessons and yoga classes offered on the resort grounds. To refuel, head to the beachfront Manzú Restaurant, which sources ingredients from local farmers and fishermen.
The vibe is laid-back and bohemian, with an emphasis on nature.
“Nantipa is for a very specific type of clientele: those seeking to be at one with nature or those looking for wellness journeys and yoga opportunities,” Fora Advisor Anne Travous said. She added that the sunsets here were “unreal,” and loved the lounging tables where you can take in the view.
Fora Perks at Hotel Nantipa - A Tico Beach Experience:
$100 food & beverage credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
For more intel, check out Fora Advisor Katie Gooding’s stay at Hotel Nantipa in Santa Teresa.
Origins Luxury Lodge
Image courtesy of Origins Luxury Lodge
Origins Luxury Lodge is a five-star Costa Rica hotel perched in the mountainous rainforest of the country’s north. Stay in one of seven luxury lodges, each offering stellar views of the surrounding forested valley and Tenorio Volcano in the distance (the lodge is designed to blend in with its environment).
Kayak the Rio Niño, hike alongside waterfalls, soak in a fire-heated hot tub on a private terrace and indulge in the property’s fantastic restaurant, which serves elevated dishes celebrating local ingredients, many of which are grown in the on-site organic garden.
If you’re interested in booking Origins Luxury Lodge, we recommend booking your stay sooner than later. Since there are only seven units, space fills up quickly. Plus, when you reserve your stay with a Fora Advisor, they can unlock complimentary VIP perks.
Fora Perks at Origins Luxury Lodge:
$100 hotel / resort credit, welcome treat in room on arrival, upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.
The Springs Resort & Spa Arenal
Image courtesy of The Springs Resort & Spa Arenal
The family-friendly Springs Resort & Spa differs from many Costa Rica jungle resorts in that it’s structured like a traditional hotel; you won’t stay in stand-alone tents or casitas (aside from two private villas). Jungle vegetation accents much of the hotel’s lower levels, while its massive pool blends in with spectacular hilltop springs. And each “pool” is set to a different temperature.
“The Springs is the ultimate family resort,” Fora Advisor Renée Olson shared. “The grounds are massive and there are a ton of activities.” Some of her recommended activities to book at the resort’s kids’ club, Camp Rio, include river rafting, horseback riding and rock climbing.
Fora Advisor Sherrill French endearingly described the resort’s vibe as “five-star summer camp.”
There are around 100 rooms in the main structure of the resort, many of which have private balconies with hammocks and marble bathrooms with jacuzzi tubs. However, as Fora Advisor Kimberly Sessions pointed out, the property feels blissfully uncrowded, even at full occupancy; the hotel was built for 2,500 guests, but it only allows a small fraction of that at a time.
Fora Advisor Anne Travous highlighted The Springs’ golf cart service as essential for navigating the extensive grounds.
Enjoy a variety of dining experiences, from casual poolside snacks to gourmet meals, across the resort's five unique restaurants. A massive, full-service spa and fitness center provides a range of treatments using local botanical ingredients. And as Renée mentioned, the family-oriented Club Rio Adventure Center facilitates family-friendly activities , like access to an animal sanctuary.
“I would recommend The Springs for an adventurous family with kids who enjoy a lot of different activities,” Fora Advisor Michelle Cassidy said. “[It’s] definitely a great location for families who like to travel together.”
Fora Perks at The Springs Resort & Spa Arenal:
$125 spa credit, one complimentary Club Rio Tour, breakfast daily, complimentary air and concierge services, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Related guide: A Family-Friendly Adventure to Costa Rica
Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa
Image courtesy of Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa
Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa is a quiet retreat at the base of Arenal Volcano, near the town (?) of La Fortuna. The property is enveloped by lush rainforest. But the standout feature is its thermal springs about 10 minutes from the lodging (there’s a free shuttle), where mineral-rich waters heated by volcanic activity create a series of cascading pools and waterfalls.
All of the Fora Advisors who attended our scouting trip praised the resort grounds.
“The most striking thing about Tabacon is the effort that was put into the landscaping,” Michelle said. “Everywhere you turn on this property, there’s a new tree or flower to behold. Local animals love it too, and it’s easy to spot unique birds in the trees.”
Fora Advisor Sherrill French agreed: “Tabacon is a lush, manicured, rainforest paradise with beautiful flowers, greenery and landscaping!” she began. “[It’s] absolutely stunning, and it is designed so thoughtfully with easy-to-maneuver, lighted pathways.”
The springs themselves are equally inviting.
“The Tabacon springs are like no other I have experienced before,” Fora Advisor Melanie Pink said. “This stunning oasis is a truly unique experience. You will not want to leave.”
As for accommodations, choose from approachable Orchid Rooms to sprawling Senator Suites, which feature multiple bedrooms, separate living areas and private terraces. Most advisors recommended the Rainforest rooms, however, which have large bathtubs, decks with swings and plenty of space.
Rounding up the resort’s offerings, Tabacon’s spa offers a range of therapeutic treatments and massages inspired by traditional Costa Rican wellness practices. For dining, there are two on-site restaurants that serve a variety of international and local cuisine.
Fora Perks at Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Casa Chameleon Las Catalinas
Image courtesy of Casa Chameleon Las Catalinas
Las Catalinas’ Casa Chameleon is a luxurious retreat perched on a hillside in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province. This intimate resort — a favorite among the Fora Advisors who visited — has 21 villas, each boasting a private saltwater plunge pool (which are especially ideal for watching the sunrise and sunset). The villas are meticulously designed and, as several advisors noted, cater specifically to couples and adults. In fact, children are not allowed at Casa Chameleon.
“This is such a special place. I was in love the second we walked in,” Fora Advisor Anne Travous said. “The welcome area is beautiful, and the staff were so lovely. You could tell they were really proud to represent such a special place.”
Upon arrival, guests are greeted with coconut water, cooling towels and a level of service that sets the tone for the entire experience.
“Fluffy towels, incredible views, the friendliest service — you’ll find all of these and so much more at Casa Chameleon,” Fora Advisor Michelle Cassidy added. “From the moment you arrive, you’re catapulted into excellent hospitality.”
Fora Advisor Sherrill French echoed the thought: “The vibe is: I woke up in heaven.”
The property does not have a spa or gym yet, though a spa is slated for completion in 2025. In the meantime, in-room massages can be arranged.
Casa Chameleon’s location in Las Catalinas offers a secluded atmosphere, perfect for a short, tranquil getaway. While the nearby town is small and charming, several advisors noted that it’s only best suited for a brief afternoon visit. You likely won’t want to leave, however. And the resort offers a variety of activities, such as catamaran cruises and ATV tours.
One last highlight: Virtually every advisor on the scouting trip praised Casa Chameleon’s turndown service.
“I cannot say it enough: The turndown service was next-level fabulous and I will forever be spoiled by it,” Fora Advisor Anne Travous said. “The bar is high for every property I ever stay at again in my life. It was a whole experience.”
Fora Perks at Casa Chameleon Las Catalinas:
Discounted food / beverage, welcome amenities, upgrade whenever possible.
Book your Costa Rica hotel with a Fora Advisor
Image courtesy of Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa
Costa Rica is brimming with opportunities for relaxation and adventure amidst incredible natural scenery. The best hotels in Costa Rica embody that spirit, treating guests to an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful places in the world.
To get the most out of your trip, book your stay with a Fora Advisor. They’ll take the guesswork out of the planning process and ensure you get the accommodations you want. Plus, if you book a property operated by one of our travel partners, you’ll get complimentary VIP perks like room upgrades, spa credits and more. Reach out to an advisor to get started.
Costa Rica hotel & travel FAQs
You’ll find answers to common questions our Fora Advisors are asked. As always, feel free to chat with an advisor for personalized answers.
What’s the average nightly cost of a hotel in Costa Rica?
Including luxury and more approachable resorts, the average daily booking value of Costa Rica hotels was $797 for non-all-inclusive resorts, and $847 for all-inclusives resorts. When you book your trip with a Fora Advisor, they’ll matchmake you to a property that fits your budget and style.
How far in advance should you book Costa Rica hotels? When’s the best time to go?
Generally, the sooner you book your Costa Rica hotel, the better. This is especially true if you’re planning on visiting in the high season, which lasts from December to April. To ensure you get the hotel and room you want, we recommend booking your reservation at least three to six months in advance. This doesn’t mean you can’t book an impromptu trip to Costa Rica, though. Your Fora Advisor may still be able to find you accommodations. But again: The farther in advance you book, the more options (and better prices) you’ll have.
When’s the best time to stay in Costa Rica?
“Costa Rica has year-round warm weather and a tropical climate,” Fora Advisor Ronit Margolis shared, noting that travel to Costa Rica is great virtually any time of year. However, travelers should be aware of the dry and rainy seasons, which we break down in our guide to the best time to go to Costa Rica.
For travelers concerned about safety issues, Ronit also highlighted how Costa Rica is considered one of the safest countries in Central America.
More Costa Rica travel inspiration
Check out the guides below for more Costa Rica travel inspiration:
