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Costa Rica is an unforgettable destination that I was completely captivated by, thanks to its amazing natural scenery, rich biodiversity, and dreamlike beaches. If you’re contemplating traveling to Costa Rica to experience all its attractions firsthand, this guide will discuss the top-rated hotels in Costa Rica.
Fortunately, there are many alternatives for lodging around the country catering to all financial means. This implies you’ll find options spanning basic hostels and family-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. In other words, you’ll have no trouble locating Costa Rican accommodation fitting your tastes and budget and near the significant sites you want to explore.
So, if you’re still deciding where to stay in Costa Rica, this guide aims to aid with a curated selection of the top hotels and resorts in the country:
- Urban Green Hotel & Suites – San José
- The Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio is located in Manuel Antonio National Park.
- Selina Monteverde – This hotel is situated near the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve.
- Wyndham Tamarindo – Tamarindo
- Umami Hotel – Cahuita National Reserve
- 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 – This hotel is located near the Manuel Antonio National Park.
- Grand Hotel Costa Rica– San José
- Grand Occidental Papagayo – Gulf of Papagayo
- Capitan Suizo Beachfront Luxury Hotel – Tamarindo
- Canaima Chill House – Santa Teresa
- Hampton By Hilton San Jose Airport – Juan Santamaría International Airport
Table of Contents
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, this hotel in Costa Rica is considered the best due to its impressive amenities. The resort provides various room alternatives, but they are all comfortable and spacious featuring modern design elements. Additionally, all rooms include air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a television. You can even request breakfast be delivered to your room if you want to indulge yourself.
Additionally, some upgraded rooms provide separate living spaces and city perspectives. The Premium Suite also includes a private terrace and a hot tub, making it the best choice if you’re celebrating a memorable occasion.
Undoubtedly, this hotel in Costa Rica provides excellent service, featuring an accommodating team available around the clock each day to assist visitors.
2. Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio, the best hotel in Costa Rica
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Manuel Antonio National Park | From $180/night
Shana by the Shore Manuel Antonio is considered the top hotel in Costa Rica for those seeking a beach vacation, as it`s located adjacent to Playa Playitas and in close proximity to Playa Biesanz. Furthermore, this resort would be the perfect accommodation if you plan to visit Manuel Antonio National Park since it`s just a brief distance away.
What we valued most about this establishment was that it caused us to feel right at home. Even though it housed 54 rooms, the ambiance is quite intimate, and all the quarters have a private, furnished balcony overlooking the garden or sea. There is also a luxurious bathroom with a rainfall showerhead, so if you’re searching for a hotel in Costa Rica with spacious and fully equipped rooms, this is the best selection.
Additionally, taking time to unwind, you can head to the spa for a revitalizing water circuit or wellness treatment. The hotel also houses a restaurant named Bella Vista serving national and international cuisine options, and the Living Bar and Lounge providing an ideal spot for refreshments. With all these amenities, I consider it one of the premier hotels in Costa Rica for adult travelers.
3. Selina Monteverde, a relaxing hotel in Costa Rica
⭐⭐⭐ | Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve | From $70/night
Yavapai Lodge positioned at the South Rim, stands alone as one of the top-rated hotels at the Grand Canyon. It is acknowledged as the largest facility within Grand Canyon National Park, providing contemporary, refurbished rooms with an assortment of amenities within easy walking range.
This lodge is perfect for relaxing and unwinding, and you can enjoy a comforting soak in the hot tub after a complete day of exploring. The facilities are designed to help you make the most of your stay, with different lounge spaces and communal areas where you can have fun and meet new people. There is always something to do, like karaoke, billiards, movie nights, and yoga lessons. The restaurant is delightful, and the bar has regular happy hour special deals.
There are different types of accommodations, including shared rooms, private rooms, and larger suites. They’re all extremely clean and tidy, owing to the kind and attentive staff. Overall, the youthful environment and beautiful design 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
Additionally, the Beatriz Costa & Spa represents another beautifully positioned hotel in Costa Teguise that could serve as an excellent budget-friendly option. It stands as one of the top low-cost lodgings in Lanzarote, implying comfort and standard could still be found without an inflated cost. Moreover, the situation is fairly beneficial as the location allows for tranquility while remaining nearby popular destinations.
Additionally, there are plenty of entertainment options in the surrounding area, including bars, clubs, restaurants, ice cream parlors, cafes, and craft stalls. Here you can enjoy a wide range of water activities, so there’s no chance you’ll become bored.
Finally, the facilities at this Costa Rican hotel are exceptional. 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 regarded as the optimal lodging in Costa Rica for couples since exclusively adults are permitted to stay there. What`s more, it has a superb location just a brief drive from Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, and Playa Punta Uva. Guests will also be extremely near to Cahuita National Park, regarded as one of the premier attractions in Puerto Viejo.
Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall is also at Yavapai Lodge, but it presents a different dining option from Yavapai Tavern. While the decor underwent renovations a few years ago, it still maintains its original warmth and welcoming atmosphere.
The best aspect of this resort is the selection of accommodations, which are spacious and stylish. Plus, the hotel reception is accessible 24 hours a day to assist you with anything, so this is one hotel in Costa Rica where you’ll get value for your monetary investment.
6. Selina La Fortuna, a well-priced accommodation in Costa Rica
⭐⭐⭐ | La Fortuna | From $45/night
Selina La Fortuna is a suitable Costa Rica lodging in downtown La Fortuna, near Arenal Volcano National Park, one of the country’s most beautiful national parks
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Here, you can swim in the refreshing pool, work remotely in the coworking space, or watch a film in the theater. The rooms are divided into shared accommodations, private rooms, and more spacious suites. If privacy is desired, I recommend the standard room, which is reasonably priced and has an exclusive restroom. For something more sophisticated, a suite is your best choice. We stayed in one of the glamping-style cabins next to the pool area, and it was quite pleasant.
This Costa Rican hotel tends to primarily attract younger guests, and the ambiance is livelier particularly on weekends. Of course, it’s nothing that will stop you from getting a restful night’s sleep.
7. Mawamba Lodge, one of the best luxury hotels in Costa Rica
Tortuguero | From $170/night
JM Puerto Rosario is another renowned lodging in Puerto del Rosario that is worth considering. Situated in the historic center facing the bustling port, it provides an ideal choice for visitors with a limited time in the city. With the promenade just steps away, you’ll have easy access to shops, supermarkets, and a few of the top-rated eateries in Fuerteventura.
The property has 58 spaces for accommodation, four of which are superior rooms offering peaceful and cozy lodging. Regarding facilities, the private pier, swimming pool, hot tub, volleyball court, and recreation area stand out. I should also mention the two dining establishments: Katonga, a floating restaurant, and Mawamba, which specializes in local and international fare.
Similar to other Costa Rica lodging in Tortuguero, the rooms have basic amenities and lack air conditioning or television. To experience greater comforts, book a higher category accommodation with these added conveniences.
8. Best Western Jaco Beach,an all-inclusive hotel in Costa Rica
⭐⭐⭐ | Jacó | From $205/night
The widely known Best Western Jaco Beach resort located in the charming town of Jacó, Costa Rica is regarded as one of the top all-inclusive accommodations in the country. Visitors staying here for a couple nights will have the chance to explore Carara National Park as well as the iconic Crocodile Bridge on the Tarcoles River.
Returning to the hotel, you’ll find a restaurant, El Puerto, where you can dine on the outdoor terrace overlooking the pool and beach. It serves a buffet of national dishes and international cuisine, making it perfect for all tastes. The resort also has a bar, El Muelle, which offers drinks and casual foods like sandwiches.
There are plenty of ways to unwind here, whether you prefer relaxing by the pool or spending a day at the coast. The swimming pool has a section for children, and guests can appreciate direct beach access from the property. The rooms are roomy, bright, and carefully decorated, making this property 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 places to spend time in Costa Rica, where you can completely relax and disconnect from everything. It’s a convenient location to stay if you’re visiting Tenorio Volcano National Park since the hotel has paths that take you to spots along the Río Celeste where swimming is permitted.
The hotel features an outdoor pool, three jacuzzi tubs, a spa, and a restaurant providing outdoor dining. It also has a bar, Luna Azul, serving drinks and lighter meals. Best of all, breakfast is covered in your rate, regardless of the room chosen.
In addition to its great amenities, the resort has spacious accommodations with charming decorations. 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, each room at this hotel in Costa Rica is perfectly supplied, 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 freshly renovated MAQ boutique hotel is centrally situated in the community of Tofino. The hotel overlooks the harbor and offers tastefully furnished completely new rooms featuring modern washrooms and organic, locally sourced bath products, excellent cuisine, high-speed internet, and either full or partial harbor perspectives. Accommodations include king rooms and queen rooms as well as spacious suites.
This hotel also offers an private, direct entrance to Biesanz Beach, although you’ll have to walk about 20 minutes to get there. It’s a tranquil beach with very few crowds, so it’s worth the walk! Of course, you can also hang out at one of the hotel swimming areas or indulge yourself at the spa. There is also an on-site bar that serves sushi and drinks, and the Sunspot dining area next to the swimming area.
An additional feature that makes this amongst 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 located 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 hotel in Costa Rica was constructed in 1930 and renovated in 2016, so it has highly advanced facilities. Additionally, it has a 24-hour business center, a meeting/event space, a market, a gift shop, and a gym, among other amenities.
There is also an eatery open daily offering a menu with diverse local and international dishes. Be sure to go up to the fifth floor where you can enjoy a beverage at the bar area, live music performances, and spectacular views of San José.
While the lodging units provide considerable comfort and include things like small refrigerators, flat-screen televisions, and walk-in showers, those searching for something more special could book an executive suite which has separate living and dining areas as well as around the clock room service. Guests will also benefit from access to the Executive Lounge where complimentary carbonated and non-carbonated drinks are readily available at any hour. Therefore, whether staying together with friends, family or as a couple, this represents one of the premier hotels in Costa Rica worthy of consideration.
12. Occidental Papagayo, a hotel in Costa Rica near the beach for couples
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Golfo de Papagayo | From $204/night
The renowned Occidental Papagayo resort is another one of the premier coastal lodgings in Costa Rica along the Gulf of Papagayo near Playa Hermosa beach and Playa Panamá. In addition to its spectacular ocean views and tranquil setting, it exclusively accommodates adults, making it ideal for couples seeking a getaway. Opting for the all-inclusive package is worthwhile, as it incorporates all meals and beverages at a flat cost.
What’s good about this resort is that you can see all kinds of wild creatures 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.
The facilities at this lodging are excellent and feature a sizable lagoon-style swimming pool, a spa with an outdoor hot tub, and a beauty treatment area. As one of the top beach hotels in Costa Rica, you can book a range of water activities, such as kayaking or snorkeling.
Of course, the living quarters are also notable, featuring all the comforts and conveniences required for a relaxing retreat. In particular, the Premium rooms stand out, as you can enjoy certain individualized services included in 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 outstanding beachfront lodge in Costa Rica with an idyllic location away from the crowded tourist spots of Tamarindo. The most valuable aspect is that even though the property provides seclusion, it’s just a 10-minute walk from Tamarindo.
Within the resort complex, visitors will find a refreshment area along with an eating establishment providing outside terrace seating, a recreational area supplying sports and activities, a spa providing wellness treatments, and a refreshing pool for relaxing and swimming.
As a small hotel, there are only 35 rooms, so the atmosphere 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 top 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 your budget is tight, take into account staying at the Canaima Chill House, one of the properties offering excellent value located in Costa Rica. This location is situated in Santa Teresa, just a brief 10-minute walk from the beach. And if relaxing by the sea doesn`t appeal to you, the hotel has a pleasant freshwater pool available for use.
Keep in mind that this hotel has a very small size, with just eight rooms that accommodate two guests each. The loft suites are an exception since they have ability 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 eight and older. If you’re traveling with younger kids, check out one of the other options outlined in this guide.
If choosing to stay at this location, be aware that card remittances are not approved, so you’ll necessity carry cash. There isn’t an on-site eatery, but the reception counter can provide info approximately 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 finest lodgings in Costa Rica for vacationers who are passing through or desire to remain near the airport. The hotel has a business center and meeting rooms for business travelers, as well as good Wi-Fi. Other provisions include a 24-hour reception desk, a swimming pool, and a gym.
What makes this lodging stand apart from other nearby hotels in Costa Rica is its delicious breakfasts and attentive personnel, who are incredibly friendly and helpful. If you have time and want to see some attractions, you can ask the reception desk, and they’ll provide you tourist information and a list of nearby places.
Ultimately, the rooms here are expansive and comfortable, with modern design and all the services needed for a pleasant stay. Overall, it’s one of the most advised lodgings in San José, so I’m confident you’ll be satisfied.
Now that you have more information about the top-rated hotels in Costa Rica, I hope you feel better prepared for your travels. After planning your route, check out this map showing which lodgings suit your itinerary best depending on the locations you want to explore:
During our trip, we alternatedhotels every one or two nights to explore other regions of the country. However, after reaching the Pacific coast, I suggest reserving a longer stay at an all-inclusive resort to fully relax without interruption.
If you have any inquiries about which hotel in Costa Rica is best to reserve, or you want to share your experience at one of these resorts, leave a comment below. I’d be happy to listen to what you think and assist you.
Appreciate your stay in Costa Rica!
