Bordered by the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica is as famed for its beaches as its rugged inland rainforests and volcanoes. This country is a nature lover’s paradise, where the protected jungles reveal exotic wildlife, immersive treks and cascading waterfalls.
Deciding where to stay in Costa Rica typically comes down to whether you’re seeking sand and ocean or national parks and hot springs. Fortunately, with more than 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve tracked down the very best of Costa Rica’s resorts on the beach and in the jungle. These holiday retreats do promise one thing in common: utter relaxation among Costa Rica’s verdant nature.
7 Incredible Costa Rica Beach Resorts
Secrets Papagayo All-Inclusive Resort
Discover a luxurious coastal hideaway at Secrets Papagayo All-Inclusive Resort, which offers exclusive access to the serene Arenillas Beach and promises “Unlimited-Luxury” with its inclusions. These inclusive perks range from international cuisine at four a la carte restaurants to wine tasting and snorkelling tours. Along with two sun-drenched pools, the resort has yoga classes, karaoke nights and tennis courts.
The opulent accommodations either overlook gardens or the Gulf of Papagayo from a furnished balcony or terrace. They also feature king-size beds, pillow menus, mini bars, Smart TVs and bathrobes. Certain upgraded suites also have private plunge pools and Preferred Club privileges, such as continental breakfast, dessert and liquor in the members’ lounge.
Why You Should Stay Here
- All-inclusive non-motorised water sports and cooking lessons.
- The well-equipped fitness centre with free weights and machines.
- Indulgent spa packages at the on-site day spa.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 287 – USD 1,086
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Playa Arenilla, Playa Panama, Costa Rica
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
The world-renowned standard of luxury and comfort of Four Seasons is on display at the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo. The sprawling resort has stylish suites and rooms overlooking the Pacific Ocean and dramatic cliffs. Perched on top of the jungle canopy, the Canopy Suite has a private balcony and separate living room. The three-bedroom Miramar Suite, meanwhile, has a private pool and expansive deck with sun loungers.
The resort has four pools with poolside service, including adults-only and freshwater pools, along with five tennis courts, yoga classes and an array of water sports. You can relax with a Volcanic Purification Ritual or traditional hammam at the on-site spa. On-site dining ranges from beach cocktails to Italian cuisine at Pesce and DJs and tapas at Anejo.
Why You Should Stay Here
- Space for 14 guests in the Casa Del Cielo Residence Estate with a heated infinity pool, personal butler and multiple terraces and lawns.
- Volunteer opportunities to help and interact with the local community.
- Offers direct access to the soft sands of Playa Virador and Playa Blanca.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 918 – USD 19,617
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: Papagayo Peninsula, Culebra, Costa Rica
Occidental Papagayo – Adults Only All-Inclusive
Soak up tranquil beach vibes at Occidental Papagayo – Adults Only All-Inclusive, an expansive resort nestled between Playa Bonita and Playa Buena. Choose from 163 rooms with king-size beds and private balconies. The Deluxe Bay View overlooks the ocean and has timber furnishings, while the Premium Level Luxury Room has a bigger bed and a meal table.
There are three restaurants and four bars on site, including an international buffet feast at L’Buffet, Japanese and Asian cuisine at D’Oriental and pasta dishes at The Italian. Visit U-Spa for various health and well-being treatments or to work out in the gym. You can kick back at the two pools or organise kayaking, snorkelling, tennis or archery with the resort.
Why You Should Stay Here
- Offers volcano and hot spring tours.
- The in-room breakfast and bottle of cava with strawberries in the Deluxe Romance Bay View.
- Two swimming pools, including one with in-pool loungers and a swim-up bar.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 166 – USD 446
Guest Rating: 7.9
Address: Playa Buena, P.O.Box 48-5000, Golfo del Papagayo, Playa Panama, Costa Rica
Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
One of the only resorts in Manuel Antonio right on the beach, Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort perfectly combines the allure of the beach and rainforest. You not only have access to two beaches, but also two pools with loungers, daybeds and hammocks. Playitas Beachfront Restaurant & Bar offers gourmet dining on the beach, along with beachside barbecues and street-food nights.
You can expect king-size beds, high-speed Wi-Fi, coffee makers, mini bars and rain showers in all the rooms and suites, most of which overlook the ocean. The Ocean View Premium Suite is particularly opulent with its kitchenette and covered balcony with a private hot tub.
Why You Should Stay Here
- You can organise beach balls, boogies boards and surf lessons.
- The outdoor terrace with kitchenette and forest setting in the Garden Room.
- Numerous activities for guests, including national park hikes, canopy zip-lining and stand-up paddleboarding.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 478 – USD 1,130
Guest Rating: 9.8
Address: Playa Playitas de Manuel Antonio, Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Occidental Tamarindo
All-inclusive holidays await at the alluring Occidental Tamarindo, which houses you near the beach in spacious rooms and suites. The Superior Room features plush bedding and a terrace overlooking Marino Las Baulas National Park, while the Master Suite Duplex is popular for its partial ocean views, hot tub, living room, king-size bed and private balcony.
Treat your taste buds to fresh local produce at the buffet in Langosta Main Restaurant or the seafood at El Océano Restaurant. Unwind by the sun-drenched pool, which has a Jacuzzi and daily activities, or play on the tennis court or giant chessboard. You can also book indulgent body treatments at the on-site spa.
Why You Should Stay Here
- All-inclusive benefits, including cocktails, dance classes, archery, buffet dinners and a varied entertainment program.
- Offers Premium Level services, such as preferential check-in times and spa discounts.
- Various water sports, from kayaking and snorkelling to canoeing.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 204 – USD 580
Guest Rating: 7.9
Address: Playa Langosta, Playa Langosta, Costa Rica
Ylang Ylang Beach Resort
Embrace a true Costa Rica escape at the boutique Ylang Ylang Beach Resort in Montezuma. As you explore the resort, you’ll discover a freshwater pool, yoga studio, immaculate gardens and a white-sand beach just on the other side of palm trees. The on-site restaurant and bar is known for its fresh ingredients and happy hour, while the day spa offers restorative treatments.
Designed to blend harmoniously with the natural environment, accommodation here includes unique bungalows, such as Coco Joe’s Bungalow with sea views, an outdoor shower and private beach pathway. Those on a tighter budget can stay in the Standard Beach Room, which has an open-air sitting area and two queen-size beds.
Why You Should Stay Here
- The king-size bed, two queen-size beds and panoramic beach and jungle views in the Family Beach Suite.
- Organises various tours and activities, such as zip-lining, island day trips and ATV rentals.
- Sunset yoga classes in the beachfront studio.
Star Rating: 3.5*
Price: USD 218 – USD 344
Guest Rating: 9.3
Address: Montezuma, Costa Rica
Parador Resort and Spa
The eco-conscious Parador Resort and Spa is set slightly back from Playitas Beach and overlooks the glistening Pacific Ocean. HotelsCombined guests have been wooed by these ocean vistas, particularly while floating in one of the three pools. The on-site Pacifica Spa invites you to relax while getting a massage or facial.
Continue your holiday indulgence with the swim-up bar at El Galeón Pool Bar And Terrace Restaurant, the breakfast buffet at La Galeria or a cocktail at Bar Don Juan. The pampering continues in the 129 opulent rooms and suites, particularly the Vista Suite with its ocean views, king-size bed and Jacuzzi on the balcony.
Why You Should Stay Here
- The 360-degree national park and beach views, two Jacuzzis, two balconies, kitchen and living room in the Penthouse.
- Organises a range of tours, including hiking, zip-lining, catamaran cruises and white-water rafting.
- The restaurants serve meals crafted with eco-friendly microgreens.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 213 – USD 507
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Parador, Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Hotel Location
6 Incredible Costa Rica Jungle Resorts
Lost Iguana Resort & Spa
Lost Iguana Resort & Spa is located on the edge of Arenal Volcano National Park, home to walking trails through its lava fields and around its active volcano. This jungle retreat fits the bill with its lagoon-style pool and verdant gardens with an on-site maze. It also boasts a gym and serves a delicious buffet breakfast in its restaurant surrounded by rainforest.
If you choose a room at Lost Iguana Resort & Spa, opt for one with a private balcony overlooking the Arenal Volcano. These cosy holiday abodes also have coffee machines, upmarket toiletries and complimentary Wi-Fi. The resort also offers pampering treatments in its spa and is a short drive from zip-lining and hot springs.
Why You Should Stay Here
- Cosy rooms with timber furnishings, comfortable beds, baths and private balconies.
- Certain rooms have outdoor showers and views of Arenal Volcano National Park.
- About a 20-minute drive from the shops and restaurants in the town of La Fortuna.
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 125 – USD 339
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: Lake Arenal Dam, La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Blue River Resort & Hot Springs
Located in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Blue River Resort & Hot Springs treats you to a surrounding landscape of dramatic waterfalls, babbling rivers, natural hot springs and the formidable volcano, Rincón de la Vieja. The resort is also family-friendly with its freshwater pool and water slide. Dine at the Tiki Bar and Restaurant, take a mud bath or relax in one of four on-site hot springs.
You’ll stay in timber cabanas, which can be furnished with two queen-size beds or one king-size bed. All the cabanas have air conditioning, mini fridges, coffee makers and private patios overlooking the jungle, pools or volcano. The patios are furnished with hammocks and comfortable chairs.
Why You Should Stay Here
- Surrounded by multiple national parks with waterfalls, hiking trails and volcanoes.
- Organises guest tours, such as zip-lining, white-water rafting, horseback riding and snorkelling.
- Has an on-site butterfly garden and day spa.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 115 – USD 128
Guest Rating: 8.7
Address: Rincon de la Vieja, Aguas Claras, Costa Rica
Jaco Hotel DoceLunas
About 25 minutes’ walk from the beach, Jaco Hotel DoceLunas offers the best of both worlds with its jungle setting. You’ll be surrounded by Costa Rica’s wildlife while staying in spacious and budget-friendly rooms. These all have complimentary Wi-Fi, large baths, hardwood furnishings and stocked mini bars. Upgrade to a Luxury Suite for a king-size bed, reading nook and private patio.
Ideal for yogis, the resort offers a variety of yoga retreats and classes in its large studio surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest. You can also tuck into local and international meals crafted using locally-sourced ingredients at Eclipse, which also uses fresh herbs and vegetables from the on-site aquaponic garden.
Why You Should Stay Here
- Complimentary breakfast for all guests.
- About 1.3 kilometres from the Jaco Ropes zip-lines and high-ropes courses.
- Hosts week-long yoga retreats, including teacher training courses.
Star Rating: 3.5*
Price: USD 120 – USD 255
Guest Rating: 8.7
Address: Costanera, Jaco, Costa Rica
Borinquen Mountain Resort & Spa
Borinquen Mountain Resort & Spa blends effortlessly with its natural environment of towering trees and undulating mountains to deliver a retreat for relaxation and adventure. This inviting mountainside hamlet features on-site thermal springs fed into pools, a volcanic mud bath and natural steam room. There are also multiple restaurants and bars serving local meats, fruits and vegetables.
Couples will love the Junior Suite, which has a private balcony, separate living room, king-size bed and spa bath overlooking the valleys. Want to feel closer to nature? Opt for the Bungalow Superior and treat yourself to a covered balcony with a hammock surrounded by trees. Don’t forget to book a massage or body treatment at Anahuac Spa.
Why You Should Stay Here
- The two full-size beds, private deck and mini bar in the budget-friendly Villa.
- Hosts numerous adventure activities, including waterfall treks, canopy zip-lining and white-water rafting.
- The live music and casual dining at Rancho El Yugo.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 104 – USD 245
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: Rincon de la Vieja National Park 5000, Canas Dulces, Costa Rica
Rio Perdido Hotel & Thermal River
HotelsCombined visitors rave about the fantastic on-site dining at Rio Perdido Hotel & Thermal River, particularly the private dining experience on a floating platform suspended over the river confluence. The “Thermal River” (Rio Perdido) has eight hot springs with dozens of soothing pools. There’s also a pool with a swim-up bar and a day spa offering volcanic mud therapies.
The environmentally-sustainable forest bungalows are accessed by elevated pathways through the trees. The East Bungalows have king-size beds, daybeds and private balconies, while the Center Bungalows either have king or queen-size beds, as well as lounge seating and terraces with hammocks.
Why You Should Stay Here
- Part of a sprawling nature reserve with thermal hot springs along the Rio Perdido.
- The Deep Tissue and Classic Relax Rio Perdido treatments at the day spa.
- Freshly-squeezed juices and cocktails at the swim-up bar.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 279 – USD 384
Guest Rating: 9.9
Address: San Bernardo de Bagaces, Fortuna, Costa Rica
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
Luxury and nature converge at the 5-star Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa. The newly-furnished rooms feature locally-made artwork and furnishings, along with rainforest showers, comfortable sitting areas and king-size beds. Couples will love the four-poster bed, two-person Jacuzzi and private balcony in the Honeymoon Suite, while the Rainforest Room captures the music of the jungle from its balcony.
Overindulgence awaits at The Spa at Tabacon, where you can enjoy a range of rejuvenating treatments in bungalows. Take a gastronomic journey with the regional cuisine served at Ave del Paraiso or with a poolside dinner or breakfast at Los Tucanes Restaurant. The resort also has on-site hot springs fed from Arenal Volcano by the Tabacon River.
Why You Should Stay Here
- The hot spring-fed bath and open-air treatment bungalows at The Spa at Tabacon.
- All guests have complimentary access to the thermal pools.
- The separate living and dining room, Jacuzzi and rainforest views in the two-bedroom Senator Suite.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 328 – USD 587
Guest Rating: 9.3
Address: La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Hotel Location
Beach vs Jungle: Which Will You Choose?
We’re not sure if this article has made your decision any easier, as Costa Rica’s jungle and coastal environments both offer alluring experiences and natural surrounds. If you have time, why not spend a few days by the ocean and a few more transported to a rainforest wonderland? At least you’ll always be able to find a luxe resort with on-site dining, pampering spa treatments and glamorous suites.
Where do you want to stay in Costa Rica? Let us know in the comments below.
