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Costa Rica is an incredible destination that I completely fell in love with, thanks to its impressive natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and dreamy beaches. If you’re thinking of traveling to Costa Rica to see all its attractions firsthand, this guide will tell you about the best hotels in Costa Rica.
Fortunately, there are many types of accommodation around the country for all budgets. This means you’ll find everything from simple hostels and family-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. In other words, you’ll have no problem finding a hotel in Costa Rica that fits your tastes and budget and is close to the important sites you want to visit.
So, if you’re still deciding where to stay in Costa Rica, this guide is here to help with a curated selection of the best hotels and resorts in the country:
- Urban Green Hotel & Suites – San José
- Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio – Manuel Antonio National Park
- Selina Monteverde – Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve
- Wyndham Tamarindo – Tamarindo
- Umami Hotel – Cahuita National Park
- Selina La Fortuna – La Fortuna
- Mawamba Lodge – Tortuguero
- Best Western Jaco Beach – Jacó
- Río Celeste Hideaway Hotel – Tenorio Volcano National Park
- Makanda by The Sea – Manuel Antonio National Park
- Grand Hotel Costa Rica – San José
- Occidental Papagayo – Golfo de Papagayo
- Capitan Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel – Tamarindo
- Canaima Chill House – Santa Teresa
- Hampton By Hilton San Jose Airport – Juan Santamaría International Airport
1. Urban Green Hotel & Suites, a hotel in Costa Rica with a perfect location
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | San José | From $90/night
The Urban Green Hotel & Suites is one of the best hotels in Costa Rica, thanks to its excellent location in the heart of the capital. It’s just a short distance from the National Theater, one of the best places to visit in San José.
For me, it’s the best hotel in Costa Rica because of its amazing facilities. The resort offers a variety of room types, but they’re all comfortable and spacious with modern decor. In addition, they all have air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a television. You can even have breakfast delivered to your room if you want to pamper yourself.
1. Urban Green Hotel & Suites, a hotel in Costa Rica with a perfect location
Additionally, some of the upgraded rooms have separate living rooms and city views. The Premium Suite also has a private terrace and a hot tub, making it the best option if you’re celebrating a special occasion.
Without a doubt, this is a great hotel in Costa Rica, with a friendly staff that’s available to assist you 24 hours a day.
2. Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio, the best hotel in Costa Rica
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Manuel Antonio National Park | From $180/night
Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio is the best hotel in Costa Rica for those who are craving a beach vacation, as it’s located next to Playa Playitas and very close to Playa Biesanz. Moreover, this resort is the perfect accommodation if you plan to visit Manuel Antonio National Park since it’s just a short distance away.
2. Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio, the best hotel in Costa Rica
What we liked most about this hotel was that it made us feel right at home. Despite having 54 rooms, the atmosphere is very intimate, and all the rooms have a private, furnished balcony overlooking the garden or sea. There is also a luxurious bathroom with a rain shower, so if you’re looking for a hotel in Costa Rica with spacious and perfectly equipped rooms, this is the best choice.
In addition, when you need a moment to relax, you can head to the spa for a rejuvenating water circuit or wellness treatment. The hotel also has a restaurant, Bella Vista, which specializes in national and international dishes, and the Living Bar and Lounge, which is ideal for drinks. With all these amenities, I consider it one of the best hotels in Costa Rica for adults.
3. Selina Monteverde, a relaxing hotel in Costa Rica
⭐⭐⭐ | Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve | From $70/night
Selina Monteverde is another good hotel in Costa Rica, particularly if you want to stay near the beautiful Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve.
3. Selina Monteverde, a relaxing hotel in Costa Rica
This hotel is ideal for relaxing and unwinding, and you can enjoy a nice soak in the jacuzzi after a full day of exploring. The facilities are designed to help you enjoy your stay to the fullest, with several lounge areas and communal spaces where you can have fun and meet new people. There is always something to do, such as karaoke, billiards, movie nights, and yoga classes. The restaurant is delicious, and the bar has regular happy hour specials.
There are different types of rooms, including shared rooms, private rooms, and larger suites. They’re all super clean and tidy, thanks to the charming and attentive staff. Overall, the youthful atmosphere and gorgeous aesthetic make this one of the best hotels in Costa Rica.
4. Wyndham Tamarindo, one of the best hotels in Costa Rica near the beach
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Tamarindo | From $175/night
The Wyndham Tamarindo is one of the most popular beach hotels in Costa Rica, offering easy access to some of the best beaches in Tamarindo. While it’s not right on the beach, the views from its rooms are unbeatable. If you watch the sunset from its infinity pool, you’ll understand why Wyndham Tamarindo is among the best hotels in Costa Rica.
4. Wyndham Tamarindo, one of the best hotels in Costa Rica near the beach
In addition, there are plenty of entertainment options in the surrounding area, such as bars, clubs, restaurants, ice cream parlors, cafes, and craft stalls. You can enjoy a wide range of water activities here, so there’s no chance you’ll get bored.
Finally, the facilities at this Costa Rican hotel are incredible. In addition to the infinity pool, the spa is beautiful, and I highly recommend visiting the cocktail bar and restaurant, Vista, which serves delicious dishes with an ocean view. At the end of the day, return to your bright and spacious room, which is well-equipped for a restful night’s sleep.
5. Umami Hotel, the best hotel in Costa Rica for adults
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Cahuita National Park | From $200/night
The Umami Hotel is the best hotel in Costa Rica to stay at as a couple since they only accept adults. In addition, it has a great location just a short drive from Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, and Playa Punta Uva. You’ll also be super close to Cahuita National Park, one of the top places to see in Puerto Viejo.
5. Umami Hotel, the best hotel in Costa Rica for adults
If you’re looking for luxury hotels in Costa Rica, you will love Umami. Its facilities are amazing, with a beautiful outdoor pool, a spa, and a terrace overlooking the garden. The restaurant, SAL&MAR, is also excellent, providing a calm and cozy place to eat fresh, high-quality meals paired with the perfect wine.
The best part of this resort is the selection of rooms, which are spacious and stylish. Plus, the hotel reception is open 24 hours a day to assist you with anything, so this is one hotel in Costa Rica where you’ll get your money’s worth.
6. Selina La Fortuna, a well-priced accommodation in Costa Rica
⭐⭐⭐ | La Fortuna | From $45/night
Selina La Fortuna is a nice Costa Rica accommodation in downtown La Fortuna, near Arenal Volcano National Park, one of the country’s most beautiful national parks.
From the property’s front door, you can see the silhouette of the Arenal Volcano, a truly amazing sight. However, what I liked most about this hotel was that it gives you the fun, youthful vibe of a Costa Rican hostel with the luxurious facilities of a 5-star resort.
6. Selina La Fortuna, a well-priced accommodation in Costa Rica
Here, you can swim in the refreshing pool, hang out in the coworking area, or watch a movie in the theater. The rooms are divided into shared rooms, private rooms, and larger suites. If you want privacy, I recommend the standard room, which is budget-friendly and has a private bathroom. For something more sophisticated, a suite is your best option. We stayed in one of the glamping-style cabins next to the pool, and it was pretty great.
This Costa Rican hotel tends to attract younger people, and the atmosphere is livelier on the weekends. Of course, it’s nothing that will prevent you from getting a restful night’s sleep.
7. Mawamba Lodge, one of the best luxury hotels in Costa Rica
Tortuguero | From $170/night
The Mawamba Lodge is one of the best-located resorts in Costa Rica, specifically in Tortuguero, next to the Caribbean Sea. It’s one of the best places to stay in the area, and it offers direct beach access and incredible views of the Tortuguero canals. If your goal is to spot wild animals in their natural habitat, I highly recommend staying here.
7. Mawamba Lodge, one of the best luxury hotels in Costa Rica
The property has 58 rooms, four of which are superior rooms offering quiet and cozy accommodation. As for facilities, the private dock, swimming pool, jacuzzi, volleyball court, and game area stand out. I should also add the two restaurants: Katonga, a floating restaurant, and Mawamba, which specializes in local and international cuisine.
Like all the Costa Rica hotels in Tortuguero, the rooms are simple and don’t have air conditioning or television. If you prefer these amenities, book a higher-category room so you can enjoy a comfortable stay.
8. Best Western Jaco Beach, an all-inclusive hotel in Costa Rica
⭐⭐⭐ | Jacó | From $205/night
The Best Western Jaco Beach in Jacó is one of the best all-inclusive hotels in Costa Rica. If you decide to spend a couple of nights in this tourist town, you can visit Carara National Park and the famous Crocodile Bridge at the Tarcoles River.
8. Best Western Jaco Beach, an all-inclusive hotel in Costa Rica
Back at the hotel, you’ll find a restaurant, El Puerto, where you can dine on the outdoor terrace overlooking the pool and beach. It has a buffet with national dishes and international cuisine, so it’s perfect for all tastes. The resort also has a bar, El Muelle, which serves drinks and casual food like sandwiches.
There are plenty of ways to relax here, whether you prefer lounging by the pool or spending a day at the beach. The swimming pool has an area for children, and guests can enjoy direct beach access from the property. The rooms are spacious, bright, and carefully decorated, making this a recommended hotel in Costa Rica for family trips.
9. Río Celeste Hideaway Hotel, a good hotel in Costa Rica to disconnect
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Tenorio Volcano National Park | From $390/night
Río Celeste Hideaway Hotel is one of the most relaxing hotels in Costa Rica, where you can completely unwind and disconnect. It’s a convenient place to stay if you’re visiting Tenorio Volcano National Park since the hotel has trails that take you to spots along the Río Celeste where swimming is allowed.
9. Río Celeste Hideaway Hotel, a good hotel in Costa Rica to disconnect
The hotel has an outdoor pool, three jacuzzi tubs, a spa, and a restaurant with outdoor dining. There is also a bar, Luna Azul, which serves drinks and lighter meals. The best part of all is that breakfast is included in your rate, regardless of the room you choose.
In addition to its great facilities, the resort has spacious rooms with charming decor. Of course, they offer different categories, but they all have comfortable beds and a private terrace or balcony, some overlooking the rainforest or garden. Plus, every room at this hotel in Costa Rica is perfectly equipped, so, whichever one you choose, you’ll feel right at home.
10. Makanda by The Sea, the best hotel in Costa Rica for couples
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Manuel Antonio National Park | From $440/night
The Makanda by The Sea is one of the best resorts in Costa Rica for a couples getaway. It’s in an authentic wildlife sanctuary near Manuel Antonio National Park, and despite its somewhat remote location, there are shops, restaurants, and bars nearby.
10. Makanda by The Sea, the best hotel in Costa Rica for couples
This hotel also offers an exclusive, direct entrance to Biesanz Beach, although you’ll have to walk about 20 minutes to get there. It’s a quiet beach with very few crowds, so it’s worth the walk! Of course, you can also hang out at one of the hotel pools or indulge yourself at the spa. There is also an on-site bar that serves sushi and drinks, and the Sunspot restaurant next to the pool.
Another aspect that makes this one of the best hotels in Costa Rica is the selection of spacious, luxurious, and fully-equipped rooms, many of which have a private balcony overlooking the sea.
11. Gran Hotel Costa Rica, another good hotel in the Costa Rican capital
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | San José | From $190/night
The Grand Hotel Costa Rica is in front of the National Theater and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, in the southwest corner of the Plaza de la Cultura. It’s in the heart of San José, so you’ll have a view of the entire Central Avenue, from which you can explore the main points of interest of San José.
This Costa Rican hotel was built in 1930 and was renovated in 2016, so it has very modern facilities. In addition, it has a 24-hour business center, a meeting/event space, a market, a gift shop, and a gym, among other facilities.
11. Gran Hotel Costa Rica, another good hotel in the Costa Rican capital
There is also a restaurant that’s open daily and offers a menu full of national and international dishes. Don’t forget to go up to the fifth floor, where you can enjoy a drink at the bar, some live music, and stunning views of San José.
As for the rooms, they’re all quite comfortable and come with a mini fridge, flat-screen TV, and walk-in shower. However, if you’re looking for something more exclusive, you can book an executive suite, which has a living room and 24-hour room service. You’ll also have access to the Executive Lounge, where guests get free unlimited sodas and drinks. So, whether you’re staying here with friends, family, or as a couple, this is one of the best hotels in Costa Rica to consider.
12. Occidental Papagayo, a hotel in Costa Rica near the beach for couples
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Golfo de Papagayo | From $204/night
The Occidental Papagayo is another one of the best beachfront hotels in Costa Rica in the Gulf of Papagayo near Playa Hermosa and Playa Panamá. In addition to its lovely views and quiet atmosphere, it’s an adults-only hotel, so it’s ideal for a couples vacation. It’s worth getting the all-inclusive plan, which includes all your food and drinks for a flat rate.
What’s great about this resort is that you can see all kinds of wild animals nearby, such as monkeys, iguanas, and various bird species. Plus, the hotel can even prepare a picnic lunch for you so you can go exploring without worrying about meals.
12. Occidental Papagayo, a hotel in Costa Rica near the beach for couples
The facilities at this hotel are excellent and include a large lagoon-shaped swimming pool, a spa with an outdoor jacuzzi, and a beauty treatment area. As one of the best beach hotels in Costa Rica, you can book a variety of water activities, such as kayaking or snorkeling.
Of course, the rooms are also notable, featuring all the amenities and comforts you need for a relaxing getaway. In particular, the Premium rooms stand out, as you can enjoy some personalized services with your rate.
13. Capitan Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel, another amazing hotel in Costa Rica
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Tamarindo | From $378/night
The Capitan Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel is an excellent seaside hotel in Costa Rica with a dreamy location away from the crowded tourist areas of Tamarindo. The best part is that while the property offers seclusion, it’s just a 10-minute walk from Tamarindo.
13. Capitan Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel, another amazing hotel in Costa Rica
Inside the resort, you’ll find a bar and a restaurant with an outdoor terrace, a recreation area with sports and games, a spa offering wellness treatments, and a refreshing swimming pool.
As a boutique hotel, there are only 35 rooms, so the ambiance is intimate and cozy. Some of the rooms have a terrace or balcony, and there are family suites with up to four rooms. They’re all spacious and well-equipped, although they don’t have TVs. Overall, this is one of the best beach hotels in Costa Rica if you want to disconnect.
14. Canaima Chill House, one of the best cheap hotels in Costa Rica
Santa Teresa | From $140/night
If you’re on a tighter budget, consider staying at the Canaima Chill House, one of the best cheap hotels in Costa Rica. This property is in Santa Teresa, just a 10-minute walk from the beach. And if laying in the sand isn’t your thing, the hotel has a nice freshwater pool.
14. Canaima Chill House, one of the best cheap hotels in Costa Rica
Keep in mind that this hotel is very small, with just eight rooms that accommodate two guests each. The loft suites are an exception since they have capacity for up to four people. All of the rooms have air conditioning, a kitchen, and a private balcony or terrace. Another thing about this Costa Rican resort is that it only allows children ages 8 and older. If you’re traveling with younger kids, check out one of the other options in this guide.
If you decide to stay here, be aware that card payments are not accepted, so you’ll need to bring cash. There isn’t an on-site restaurant, but the reception desk can provide information about nearby restaurants, and you can have food delivered to the hotel.
15. Hampton By Hilton San Jose Airport, a hotel in Costa Rica near the airport
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | San José International Airport | From $149/night
The Hampton By Hilton San Jose Airport is one of the best hotels in Costa Rica for travelers who are passing through or want to stay near the airport. The hotel has a business center and meeting rooms for business travelers, as well as good Wi-Fi. Other amenities include a 24-hour reception desk, a swimming pool, and a gym.
15. Hampton By Hilton San Jose Airport, a hotel in Costa Rica near the airport
What makes this property stand out from other nearby hotels in Costa Rica is its delicious breakfasts and attentive staff, who are super friendly and helpful. If you have time and want to see some attractions, you can ask the reception desk, and they’ll give you tourist information and a list of nearby places.
Finally, the rooms here are spacious and comfortable, with modern decor and all the services you need for a pleasant stay. Overall, it’s one of the most recommended hotels in San José, so I’m sure you’ll be satisfied.
Now that you know more about the best hotels in Costa Rica, I hope you feel more prepared for your trip. Once you’ve planned your travel route, check out this map to see which hotels are best for your itinerary, depending on the places you want to visit:
During our trip, we switched hotels every one or two nights so we could explore other areas of the country. However, once you reach the Pacific coast, I recommend booking a longer stay at an all-inclusive resort so you can fully relax.
If you have any questions about which hotel in Costa Rica to book, or you want to share your experience at one of these resorts, leave a comment below. I’d love to hear what you think and help you out!
Enjoy your stay in Costa Rica!
