DESTINATION
WHERE TO STAY IN COSTA RICA
It can be said that once you visit Costa Rica, you will never be the same. Very few places on the planet leave visitors as breathless as this incredibly diverse Central American nation. Costa Rica covers just 0.03% of the earth’s surface but is home to nearly 6% of the world’s biodiversity, something you feel immediately once you arrive. Designing the right itinerary here is everything, and we focus on pairing the right regions and hotels, so you experience the country at its best.
The options for how to spend your time here are endless, from waterfalls and wildlife to ziplining, surfing, and time in the hot springs. In many ways, your hardest decision may simply be choosing what to do each day.
Costa Rica’s geography changes dramatically as you move through the country, and understanding this upfront is key. Without planning a split stay, many travelers miss out on the full experience. We always encourage time in the interior, where volcanoes, rainforests, and some of the most luxurious mountain retreats in the region create an unforgettable setting. Waking up to fog rolling through lush valleys with a cup of local coffee is one of those moments that stays with you long after you leave.
From there, the coast offers a completely different rhythm, with beach time and ocean-focused experiences rounding out the trip.
We’ll work closely with you to map out the right combination of regions and hotels so your Costa Rica itinerary feels seamless from start to finish. For deeper insight, explore two of the best hotels in Costa Rica with our hotel reviews of Tabacon near Arenal and Four Seasons Papagayo on the beach.
COSTA RICA
Luxury Hotels
Start with the Costa Rica Travel Tips & Insider Insight below, and contact us to begin mapping out a trip that captures the full range of what Costa Rica has to offer.
ANDAZ PAPAGAYO PENINSULA RESORT
VIBE
modern, stylish, escape
PERFECT FOR
adventure seekers, families, exploring locally
WHY WE LOVE IT
Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo offers a fresh, modern take on luxury in Costa Rica, with a design that feels deeply connected to the surrounding landscape. Set across a hillside overlooking the Gulf of Papagayo, the layout creates a sense of movement and discovery, with multiple beaches, pools, and gathering spaces that each feel distinct. The atmosphere is relaxed but stylish, with a strong sense of place woven into everything from the architecture to the dining. It’s a great fit for travelers who want a more contemporary resort experience that still feels rooted in Costa Rica.
WELLNESS
Onda Spa offers an extensive spa menu of treatments, beautifications, and customized programs. Indulge in full-body wellness with various massages, body scrubs and wraps, facial therapies, manicures, pedicures, and waxing. The 11,000 square foot Onda Spa houses nine lavish treatment rooms. Let the sound of birdsongs and ocean waves soothe you in one of our three outdoor treatment rooms.
VIBE
chill, eco-friendly, retreat
PERFECT FOR
adventure seekers, views for days, wellness weekends
WHY WE LOVE IT
Arenas del Mar offers a rare combination in Costa Rica, a beachfront setting paired with direct access to rainforest and wildlife. Set just outside Manuel Antonio National Park, the property feels immersive and close to nature, with sloths, monkeys, and birds often seen right on site. The experience strikes a thoughtful balance between eco-conscious design and comfort, making it a great fit for travelers who want to be in the middle of Costa Rica’s natural beauty without giving up a polished, full-service stay.
WELLNESS
Wellness is at the heart of everything we do. Yes, you’ll eat only the freshest ingredients. You’ll feel connected to nature and to our community. You’ll go on the most unique tours and have experiences that will transform you.
VIBE
eco-friendly, chic, retreat
PERFECT FOR
best honeymoon resorts in Caribbean & romance seekers, wellness weekends, active travelers
WHY WE LOVE IT
Cala Luna offers a quieter, boutique take on Costa Rica’s beach scene, set just outside Tamarindo with a strong focus on sustainability and a relaxed, residential feel. The villas and rooms are spread throughout lush gardens, creating a sense of privacy and space, while the beach is just a short walk away. It’s a great fit for travelers who want a more low-key, wellness-oriented stay that still keeps them close to the energy and dining of Tamarindo when they want it.
WELLNESS
Breathe in the fresh air, the sounds of nature, the illuminated sky as the sun sets over the Pacific ocean, just steps away. Exhale your worries, your stress, the pressures you left so far behind. This is the home of purity, of serenity, of reconnecting your body to your mind and your inner peace.
VIBE
modern, eco-friendly, barefoot luxury
PERFECT FOR
Caribbean beach resorts for couples, privacy, exploring locally
WHY WE LOVE IT
El Silencio Lodge offers a completely different kind of luxury experience, set high in Costa Rica’s cloud forest where the focus shifts to nature, privacy, and a deep sense of calm. The suites are thoughtfully spaced throughout the property, creating a feeling of seclusion while still being connected to the lodge. With waterfalls, hiking trails, and open-air spaces, the setting encourages you to slow down and fully take in the surroundings. It’s a great fit for travelers looking to disconnect and experience something immersive and restorative beyond the beach.
WELLNESS
Esencia Spa is a unique wellness sanctuary that lets you enjoy the best of Costa Rica’s natural healing ingredients in an enchanting hotel destination. The sound of flowing water, whispering breezes, nourishing earth, and the primal flicker of candles converge in harmony for relaxing massages and nourishing body wraps.
VIBE
exclusive, high-style design, escape
PERFECT FOR
views for days, adventure seekers, families & friends
WHY WE LOVE IT
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo offers one of the most complete luxury experiences in the region, set on a dramatic peninsula with beaches on both sides and sweeping ocean views throughout. The setting feels expansive and well designed, with a layout that allows you to move easily between the beach, pools, dining, and activities without ever feeling crowded. It works equally well for couples and families, with a strong balance of relaxation and things to do. For a deeper look at the experience, take a look at our Four Seasons Costa Rica hotel review.
WELLNESS
Inspired by Costa Rica’s biodiversity, the restorative powers of nature elevate these treatments. From Yoga to meditation to HIIT, we offer daily classes to help you find mindfulness and balance in your life by centering your breath and body, aligning your physical and mental practice.
VIBE
exclusive, laid-back luxury, sophisticated
PERFECT FOR
wellness weekends, active travelers, privacy seekers
WHY WE LOVE IT
Hacienda AltaGracia offers a deeply immersive experience set in the lush mountains of Costa Rica, where the focus is on space, nature, and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. It’s one of those rare places where wellness, adventure, and culture all come together seamlessly, and for a closer look at how to plan your stay, we recommend reading our guide to Hacienda AltaGracia. The casitas are thoughtfully designed and spread across the property, creating a sense of privacy while still feeling connected to the experience.
WELLNESS
Wellness at Hacienda AltaGracia is centered around Casa de Agua, a spa experience designed to guide you through a series of restorative thermal and water-based rituals. The approach is immersive and intentional, combining hydrotherapy, movement, and holistic treatments in a setting that feels deeply connected to the surrounding landscape. Experiences are tailored and layered, encouraging you to slow down, reset, and move through the space at your own pace.
VIBE
adults-only, modern, high-style design
PERFECT FOR
honeymoons & romance seekers, views for days, exploring locally
WHY WE LOVE IT
Kura Boutique Hotel offers a sleek, adults-only retreat set high above Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast, with sweeping ocean views that immediately set the tone. The design is modern and minimal, allowing the landscape to take center stage, while the smaller scale keeps the experience quiet and personal. It’s a great fit for couples looking for something intimate, design-forward, and fully focused on slowing down and taking in the setting.
WELLNESS
In creating Kura, the owners brought to life a seductive, luxurious hotel design that seamlessly incorporates a system of sustainability. Spa Sha at Kura is an open-air sanctuary designed to purify, nourish, and rejuvenate.
VIBE
eco-friendly, chic, retreat
PERFECT FOR
honeymoons & romance seekers, wellness weekends, active travelers
WHY WE LOVE IT
Nantipa offers one of the most authentic beachfront experiences in Costa Rica, set along the laid-back shores of Santa Teresa with a strong connection to the local community and culture. The bungalows feel private and thoughtfully designed, blending indoor and outdoor living in a way that reflects the setting. It’s relaxed but elevated, making it a great fit for travelers who want barefoot luxury with a sense of place. For a closer look at the experience, take a moment to read our Nantipa hotel review.
WELLNESS
Escape to an exclusive and enchanting oasis to find peace in paradise and also within yourself. Let the load of everyday life lighten as you delve into a distinct wellness experience designed to help you rediscover the strength and resilience that resides within you.
VIBE
laid-back luxury, cultural, stylish
PERFECT FOR
adventure seekers, families & friends, exploring locally
WHY WE LOVE IT
Nayara Springs offers one of the most intimate and refined experiences in Costa Rica, set within the rainforest near Arenal Volcano. The villas are designed for privacy, each with its own plunge pool fed by natural mineral hot springs, creating a setting that feels both luxurious and deeply connected to nature. The atmosphere is quiet and romantic, with exceptional service and a strong focus on detail, making it a standout for couples looking to unwind in a lush, immersive environment.
WELLNESS
The Nayara Spa is a place of beauty and relaxation where body and mind achieve perfect harmony with nature. Experience the sights, sounds, and scents of the rainforest by choosing a unique treatment or massage in one of our outdoor spa bungalows.
VIBE
adults only, exclusive, barefoot luxury
PERFECT FOR
honeymoons & hopeless romantics, active travelers, privacy
WHY WE LOVE IT
Nayara Springs offers one of the most intimate and refined experiences in Costa Rica, set within the rainforest near Arenal Volcano. Read about how much we loved our stay here! The villas are designed for privacy, each with its own private plunge pool fed by natural mineral hot springs, creating a setting that feels both luxurious and deeply connected to nature. The atmosphere is quiet and romantic, with exceptional service and a strong focus on detail, making it a standout for couples looking to unwind in a lush, immersive environment.
WELLNESS
Wellness at Nayara Springs is centered around the natural thermal springs that flow through the property, creating a deeply relaxing, mineral-rich experience right within each villa. Treatments are rooted in the surrounding environment, with a focus on healing, restoration, and balance. The spa offers a range of therapies designed to complement the setting, while yoga, movement, and time spent in the rainforest naturally encourage a slower, more restorative pace.
VIBE
eco-friendly, unique, retreat
PERFECT FOR
active travelers, exploring locally, privacy
WHY WE LOVE IT
Nayara Tented Camp offers one of the most unique stays in Costa Rica, blending a safari-style experience with the lush setting of the Arenal rainforest. The tents are elevated and spacious, with private plunge pools fed by thermal waters and sweeping views toward the volcano. The design feels both adventurous and refined, creating a strong connection to nature without sacrificing comfort. It’s a standout for travelers looking for something memorable and immersive, with a sense of place that feels completely different from a traditional hotel.
WELLNESS
The spa at Nayara Springs is a sanctuary of serenity, beauty, and indulgence perched above the majestic rainforest. Our goal was to create a beautiful retreat where body, mind, and nature join together in perfect harmony and peace. Private open-air treatment pavilions look to the rainforest and come with Jacuzzis and outdoor showers.
VIBE
exclusive, nature immersion, high style design
PERFECT FOR
privacy, couples, once in a lifetime getaway
WHY WE LOVE IT
Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve brings a highly elevated, design-forward experience to Peninsula Papagayo, with a setting that feels both dramatic and deeply connected to the surrounding landscape. The architecture is striking but intentional, blending into the terrain while maximizing views and privacy. The overall experience feels quiet, curated, and highly personalized, making it a standout for travelers looking for something refined, immersive, and a bit more off the radar.
WELLNESS
A strong focus is placed on holistic well-being, with treatments, movement, and experiences designed to connect you to the surrounding landscape. The spa feels immersive and intentional, complemented by ocean views, fresh air, and a slower pace that naturally encourages you to reset and recharge.
TABACON SPA RESORT IN COSTA RICA
VIBE
chic, eco-friendly, barefoot luxury
PERFECT FOR
wellness weekends, honeymoons & hopeless romantics, adventure seekers
WHY WE LOVE IT
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa offers one of the most iconic hot spring experiences in Costa Rica, set within a lush rainforest at the base of Arenal Volcano. The natural thermal river winds through the property, creating a series of pools and waterfalls that feel immersive and completely unique. The setting is vibrant and alive, with a strong connection to nature that defines the stay. It’s a great fit for travelers who want a more experiential, nature-driven escape with easy access to the region’s highlights. Read our full hotel review of Tabacon.
WELLNESS
Wellness at Tabacón is built around its natural thermal river, where mineral-rich waters flow through a series of pools and cascades set within the rainforest. The experience is immersive and unstructured, allowing you to move between different temperatures and settings at your own pace. Spa treatments draw from local ingredients and traditions, complementing the restorative effects of the springs, while the surrounding nature enhances the overall sense of relaxation and renewal.
VIBE
modern, elevated, coastal luxury
PERFECT FOR
couples, active-families, nature immersion
WHY WE LOVE IT
Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique brings a fresh, contemporary luxury experience to the Papagayo region, set on a dramatic hillside overlooking the ocean. The design is clean and architectural, with a strong emphasis on indoor-outdoor living and connection to the landscape. It feels polished and intentional, offering a balance of relaxation, dining, and access to the surrounding area, making it a great fit for travelers who want a refined home base with a sense of place.
WELLNESS
A thoughtful approach to well-being is woven into the experience, with spa treatments, movement, and outdoor activities designed to complement the natural setting. Ocean views, fresh air, and open space create an environment that encourages you to slow down and reset, while still offering structure for those who want it.
Costa Rica Travel Tips & Insider Insight
Costa Rica is a destination where geography shapes your entire experience, and planning your route thoughtfully is key to getting the most out of your time.
- Most travelers fly into San José or Liberia, and transfers between regions can take longer than expected, so timing and logistics matter.
- Arenal Volcano is a must-visit. The surrounding area offers a mix of hiking, hot springs, and rainforest experiences that define the country.
- Costa Rica is best experienced as a split stay, combining the interior, think rainforest, volcano, and wellness-focused lodges, with time along the coast for beaches and ocean activities.
- Activities are often guided, and working with the right local partners makes a meaningful difference in how seamless and immersive the experience feels.
We are experts in planning Costa Rica itineraries and will help you map out the right combination of regions, hotels, and experiences while handling every detail along the way.
