Top 10 Hotels in Costa Rica: Luxury Resorts, Eco-Lodges & Beachfront Retreats (2026)

Costa Rica is Central America's crown jewel for sustainable luxury travel. With 5% of the world's biodiversity packed into a country smaller than West Virginia, you can wake up in a rainforest lodge listening to howler monkeys and end the day watching the sunset from a beachfront infinity pool.

Whether you're seeking an exclusive eco-lodge near Arenal Volcano, a luxury all-inclusive resort in Guanacaste, or a boutique hotel overlooking Manuel Antonio's beaches and jungle, this guide covers the 10 best hotels in Costa Rica for 2026.

We selected these hotels based on location, sustainability practices, service quality, amenities, value, and verified guest reviews.

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Quick Comparison: Top 5 Hotels in Costa Rica

Hotel	Location	Stars	Price Range	Best For
Nayara Tented Camp	Arenal	5	$$$$	Honeymoons & nature
Four Seasons Papagayo	Guanacaste	5	$$$$	Beach luxury
Andaz Costa Rica	Papagayo	5	$$$$	Modern design
Arenas del Mar	Manuel Antonio	5	$$$	Wildlife & beach
Pacuare Lodge	Turrialba	5	$$$$	Adventure & eco

Price range: $ = under $150/night | $$ = $150-$300 | $$$ = $300-$500 | $$$$ = over $500/night

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Arenal & Northern Highlands: Volcano Views and Hot Springs

The Arenal region is Costa Rica's adventure capital. The iconic cone of Arenal Volcano (dormant since 2010) provides a dramatic backdrop for some of the country's most spectacular resorts. Natural hot springs, hanging bridges, and world-class birdwatching await.

1. Nayara Tented Camp

The ultimate glamping experience in Central America. Nayara Tented Camp offers 29 luxury safari-style tents perched on platforms overlooking the rainforest and Arenal Volcano. Each tent features a private plunge pool, outdoor shower, and panoramic views that make you feel suspended in nature.

• Stars: 5
• Price: $$$$ (from $950/night)
• Key amenities: Private plunge pools, spa, gourmet restaurant, hot springs access, wildlife trails, butler service
• Best for: Honeymoons, luxury travelers, nature photography

Pros:

• Once-in-a-lifetime glamping experience with volcano views
• Adults-only atmosphere ensures tranquility
• Access to Nayara Springs' hot springs and facilities
• Exceptional dining with farm-to-table ingredients
• Sustainability-focused operations with minimal environmental impact

Cons:

• Premium pricing (one of the most expensive in Costa Rica)
• Limited availability—only 29 tents
• Remote location requires planned transportation
• No air conditioning (designed for natural airflow)

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2. Nayara Springs

Sister property to the Tented Camp, Nayara Springs offers villa-style luxury with private hot spring pools fed by natural volcanic waters. It's the perfect blend of wellness, privacy, and rainforest immersion.

• Stars: 5
• Price: $$$$ (from $750/night)
• Key amenities: Private hot spring villas, world-class spa, farm-to-table dining, yoga pavilion, infinity pool
• Best for: Couples, wellness retreats, romantics

Pros:

• Every villa has its own private hot spring pool
• Voted #1 Hotel in Central America multiple times
• Exceptional spa with volcanic mud treatments
• Adults-only policy maintains serene environment
• Bird and wildlife watching from your villa

Cons:

• High price point even for luxury category
• Adults-only excludes families with children
• 3-hour drive from San José airport
• WiFi can be spotty in some villas

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3. Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

The original hot springs resort at Arenal and still one of the best. Tabacón features over 20 natural hot spring pools cascading through lush gardens, with volcano views from every corner. It's more accessible than ultra-luxury options while delivering an authentic thermal experience.

• Stars: 4.5
• Price: $$$ (from $350/night)
• Key amenities: Extensive hot springs, full-service spa, 5 restaurants, swim-up bar, rainforest trails
• Best for: Families, hot springs enthusiasts, first-time visitors

Pros:

• Most extensive hot springs system in the Arenal area
• Multiple dining options on-site
• Day-pass available for non-guests (can be busy)
• More affordable than ultra-luxury competitors
• Central location with easy access to activities

Cons:

• Day visitors can make pools crowded
• Rooms closer to the river can be noisy
• Some facilities showing age
• Not as private as villa-style resorts

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Guanacaste & Peninsula Papagayo: Pacific Beach Luxury

Costa Rica's "Gold Coast" offers the country's most consistent weather, pristine beaches, and world-class resort development. Peninsula Papagayo is home to two of Latin America's most celebrated beach resorts.

4. Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo

The benchmark for luxury beach resorts in Central America. Four Seasons Papagayo sprawls across 1,400 acres with two beaches, an Arnold Palmer golf course, and a spa inspired by Costa Rica's four elements. Service is impeccable, and the wildlife encounters—from howler monkeys to scarlet macaws—are unforgettable.

• Stars: 5
• Price: $$$$ (from $900/night)
• Key amenities: Two private beaches, 18-hole golf course, world-class spa, 5 restaurants, kids club, water sports center
• Best for: Families, golf enthusiasts, multi-generational travel

Pros:

• Two pristine beaches with calm waters
• Exceptional kids program allows parents to relax
• Arnold Palmer golf course with ocean views
• Wildlife encounters on property (monkeys, toucans, coatis)
• Extensive water sports and excursion options

Cons:

• Very high prices across all categories
• Resort is vast—golf cart transport necessary
• Some restaurants require reservations days ahead
• 30-minute drive from Liberia airport

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5. Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo

Hyatt's lifestyle brand brings contemporary design to the Costa Rican jungle. Andaz Papagayo features clean lines, local art, and a more laid-back vibe than its Four Seasons neighbor. The beachfront infinity pool and rooftop cocktail bar are Instagram favorites.

• Stars: 5
• Price: $$$$ (from $650/night)
• Key amenities: Infinity pool, ONDA spa, 4 restaurants, beach club, golf access, Rio Bhongo water sanctuary
• Best for: Design lovers, couples, young professionals

Pros:

• Modern design aesthetic with local artistic touches
• Rio Bhongo natural water pools for wildlife encounters
• More casual atmosphere than traditional luxury resorts
• Excellent cocktail program and foodie-focused dining
• World of Hyatt loyalty benefits

Cons:

• Main beach is small and can feel crowded
• Design may feel cold to those seeking tropical warmth
• Premium pricing for the Andaz brand
• Some rooms lack ocean views

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6. JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa

The largest luxury resort in Costa Rica, JW Marriott Guanacaste delivers grand-scale hospitality on Mansita Beach. With 310 rooms, multiple pools, and Costa Rica's largest spa, it's ideal for those who want resort amenities without sacrificing beach time.

• Stars: 5
• Price: $$$ (from $450/night)
• Key amenities: 5 pools, 24,000 sq ft spa, 9-hole golf course, 5 restaurants, turtle sanctuary, kids club
• Best for: Families, Marriott loyalists, business retreats

Pros:

• Massive pool complex with something for everyone
• Turtle conservation program during nesting season
• Direct beach access with calm swimming conditions
• Marriott Bonvoy elite benefits apply
• Extensive kids and teens programs

Cons:

• Scale can feel impersonal compared to boutique options
• Beach can have strong currents
• Far from other restaurants and attractions
• Some rooms are far from the beach

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Manuel Antonio & Central Pacific: Where Rainforest Meets Beach

Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica's most-visited park, where white-faced monkeys swing through trees just yards from pristine beaches. The surrounding area offers some of the country's best boutique hotels.

7. Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort

The only luxury resort with direct access to both the beach and the rainforest canopy. Arenas del Mar owns 11 acres that include two private beaches and primary rainforest home to sloths, toucans, and all four monkey species found in Costa Rica.

• Stars: 5
• Price: $$$ (from $420/night)
• Key amenities: 2 private beaches, infinity pools, nature trails, spa, 2 restaurants, wildlife tours
• Best for: Wildlife lovers, beach enthusiasts, eco-travelers

Pros:

• Only resort with private beach access in Manuel Antonio
• All four Costa Rican monkey species on property
• Strong sustainability commitment (CST 5 Leaves)
• Trails lead directly into Manuel Antonio National Park
• Adults-only and family sections available

Cons:

• Steep terrain—many stairs to navigate
• Limited room inventory means frequent sellouts
• 25-minute drive from Quepos town
• Premium pricing for Manuel Antonio area

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8. Hotel Parador Resort & Spa

Perched 300 feet above the Pacific on a private peninsula, Parador offers spectacular sunset views and a tranquil alternative to Manuel Antonio's busier properties. The infinity pool seemingly merges with the ocean horizon.

• Stars: 4
• Price: $$ (from $220/night)
• Key amenities: 3 pools, spa, 3 restaurants, beach shuttle, nature trails, wedding venue
• Best for: Budget-conscious luxury seekers, weddings, sunset lovers

Pros:

• Unmatched sunset views from the infinity pool
• Significantly more affordable than competitors
• Large room inventory with ocean-view options
• Multiple dining options including sushi
• Regular shuttle to Manuel Antonio beach

Cons:

• Not beachfront—requires shuttle or drive
• Property shows some age in places
• Steep access roads can be challenging
• Service inconsistency reported at times

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Osa Peninsula & South Pacific: Untouched Wilderness

The Osa Peninsula is "the most biologically intense place on Earth" according to National Geographic. Lodges here trade pools and golf courses for wildlife encounters you won't find anywhere else.

9. Lapa Rios Rainforest Lodge

A pioneer of eco-luxury in Costa Rica since 1993, Lapa Rios protects 1,000 acres of primary rainforest on the Osa Peninsula. The 17 bungalows are open-air masterpieces designed to immerse guests in the sights and sounds of the jungle.

• Stars: 5 (Eco)
• Price: $$$$ (from $600/night all-inclusive)
• Key amenities: All-inclusive, private bungalows, infinity pool, nature guides, wildlife tours, farm-to-table dining
• Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts, eco-travelers, nature photographers

Pros:

• Premier wildlife watching in Costa Rica (scarlet macaws, tapirs, all 4 monkey species)
• All-inclusive pricing includes meals, tours, and guides
• Pioneering conservation model supports local community
• Open-air bungalows provide total rainforest immersion
• Expert naturalist guides included

Cons:

• Remote location requires small plane or long drive
• Open-air design means insects are part of the experience
• Limited connectivity by design
• Not ideal for those seeking beach resort amenities

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Caribbean Coast: Afro-Caribbean Culture and Pristine Nature

Costa Rica's Caribbean coast offers a completely different experience: reggae rhythms, spicy Caribbean cuisine, and some of the country's most pristine beaches and jungle.

10. Pacuare Lodge

Accessible only by whitewater raft or 4x4, Pacuare Lodge is the ultimate adventure-luxury experience. Perched above the legendary Pacuare River, the lodge combines adrenaline activities with surprisingly refined accommodations.

• Stars: 5 (Adventure)
• Price: $$$$ (from $650/night all-inclusive)
• Key amenities: All-inclusive, river rafting, canopy tours, spa, indigenous village visits, gourmet dining
• Best for: Adventure seekers, rafting enthusiasts, unique experiences

Pros:

• Arriving by whitewater raft is unforgettable
• Pacuare River is consistently rated world's top 5 rafting
• Luxurious suites despite remote jungle location
• All activities and gourmet meals included
• Strong commitment to indigenous community support

Cons:

• Minimum 2-night stay required
• Access is challenging (raft or rough 4x4 only)
• Limited to ~40 guests at a time
• No WiFi or TV by design

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Best Hotels by Region: Quick Guide

Arenal & Northern Highlands (3 hotels)

Hotel	Stars	Price	Best Feature
Nayara Tented Camp	5	$$$$	Glamping & volcano
Nayara Springs	5	$$$$	Private hot springs
Tabacón Thermal Resort	4.5	$$$	Hot springs complex

Guanacaste & Papagayo (3 hotels)

Hotel	Stars	Price	Best Feature
Four Seasons Papagayo	5	$$$$	Beach & golf
Andaz Papagayo	5	$$$$	Design & cocktails
JW Marriott Guanacaste	5	$$$	Scale & value

Manuel Antonio (2 hotels)

Hotel	Stars	Price	Best Feature
Arenas del Mar	5	$$$	Wildlife & beaches
Hotel Parador	4	$$	Sunsets & value

Osa & Caribbean (2 hotels)

Hotel	Stars	Price	Best Feature
Lapa Rios Lodge	5	$$$$	Eco-luxury
Pacuare Lodge	5	$$$$	Adventure

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Choose Based on Your Travel Style

Romantic trip or honeymoon: Nayara Tented Camp or Nayara Springs in Arenal offer the ultimate intimate experience. Private plunge pools, volcano views, and adults-only policies ensure uninterrupted romance.

Beach vacation: Four Seasons Papagayo delivers the complete beach resort experience with two beaches, world-class pools, and endless water sports. JW Marriott is a more affordable alternative with similar beach access.

Wildlife and eco-travel: Lapa Rios on the Osa Peninsula and Arenas del Mar in Manuel Antonio put you in direct contact with Costa Rica's incredible biodiversity. Expect monkey wake-up calls and sloth sightings.

Adventure travel: Pacuare Lodge combines luxury with adrenaline—arriving by whitewater raft is just the beginning. Zip-lines, jungle treks, and indigenous village visits fill the days.

Family travel: Four Seasons Papagayo and JW Marriott Guanacaste have exceptional kids programs and family-friendly facilities. Tabacón is great for multigenerational groups who want the hot springs experience.

Wellness retreat: Nayara Springs' volcanic hot spring villas and spa treatments create the ultimate relaxation experience. Every property on this list offers spa services, but Nayara is purpose-built for wellness.

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Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

Costa Rica has two distinct seasons that affect different regions differently:

• Dry season (December to April): The "verano" brings clear skies and warm temperatures to most of the country. Guanacaste and the Pacific coast are at their best. This is high season—book 3-6 months in advance for top properties.

• Green season (May to November): Lower prices, fewer crowds, and lusher landscapes. Rain typically falls in the afternoon, leaving mornings clear for activities. The Caribbean coast has its driest weather in September-October.

• Shoulder seasons (May and November): The best balance of good weather, lower prices, and availability. November especially offers great conditions as the rains taper off.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best hotel in Costa Rica?

It depends on your priorities. For pure luxury and service, Four Seasons Papagayo sets the standard. For eco-luxury and wildlife, Lapa Rios is unmatched. For hot springs and volcano views, Nayara Tented Camp offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

How much does a luxury hotel cost in Costa Rica?

Expect to pay $300-$500/night for upscale properties and $500-$1,000+/night for ultra-luxury resorts. Costa Rica's top hotels rival Caribbean and European prices but deliver unique experiences you won't find elsewhere.

Is Costa Rica expensive compared to other Central American countries?

Yes. Costa Rica is the most expensive country in Central America for tourism. However, the infrastructure, safety, sustainability standards, and service quality justify the premium for many travelers.

Do I need to rent a car in Costa Rica?

It depends on your hotel. Resorts like Four Seasons and Andaz offer extensive on-site activities. Properties like Lapa Rios and Pacuare include transfers. For multi-destination trips, a 4x4 rental is recommended as many roads are unpaved.

What is the best area to stay in Costa Rica?

• Arenal for volcanoes, hot springs, and adventure activities
• Guanacaste/Papagayo for beaches, golf, and classic resort experiences
• Manuel Antonio for the perfect blend of beach and wildlife
• Osa Peninsula for serious wildlife watching and eco-immersion
• Caribbean coast for culture, cuisine, and off-the-beaten-path exploration

Is Costa Rica safe for tourists?

Costa Rica is generally the safest country in Central America for tourists. The hotels on this list are in secure areas with private security. Use standard precautions: don't flash valuables, use hotel safes, and arrange transport through your hotel.

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Conclusion

Costa Rica delivers on its reputation as Central America's premier eco-luxury destination. From glamping under volcano views at Nayara Tented Camp to rafting into Pacuare Lodge, these hotels offer experiences that simply don't exist elsewhere.

Our recommendation for first-time visitors: spend 3 nights in Arenal for hot springs and adventure, then 3-4 nights on the Pacific coast (Papagayo for beaches, Manuel Antonio for wildlife). If you have more time, the Osa Peninsula rewards the extra effort with unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Pura vida—the pure life awaits.