With so much to experience, deciding where to stay in Costa Rica can be troublesome. It is a country that has two coastlines of tropical beaches. Its rainforests are alive with wildlife, while its sparkling waters are a second biodiversity hotspot. Active volcanoes and brooding rivers provide further chances for adventure. If you want to see every corner of this charming country, our 9 day highlights of Costa Rica package tour may be just the thing! And they do all this while being one of the most sustainable and ecological countries to visit. Why not come and discover for yourself why Central America’s rich coast is officially one of the world’s happiest countries?
Where to Stay in La Fortuna
La Fortuna is located in Costa Rica’s northern highlands. A charming small town, there’s a healthy balance between normal life and the fact it’s a major tourist destination. For La Fortuna is the main gateway to the stunning Arenal Volcano, as well as Lake Arenal.
Amor Arenal
The adults-only Amor Arenal sits deep in the jungles around Arenal Volcano. Its suite-like rooms form individual structures made even more private because of their tree cover. Simply but beautifully decorated with polished hardwoods, they also contain a private plunge pool and exterior terrace. Guests can use an outdoor freeform pool, spa, and gym.
7 km west of central La Fortuna, Ruta 142, Camino al Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal, 21007 Fortuna
Finca Luna Nueva Lodge
Finca Luna Nueva Lodge offers guests well-sized bedrooms that avoid over decoration. Constructed using fallen timbers from the farm, the building has wide verandas that look across to the year-round outdoor pool. A 15-meter platform allows observation of the surrounding rainforest, while facilities include a solar-powered jacuzzi and spa center. Much of the food grows on its certified organic biodynamic farm.
2.5 km west of Casa de Maquinas ICE, San Isidro Peñas Blancas, San Ramon, Alajuela, 11000 Fortuna
Where to Stay in Uvita
Uvita is a small town in the south of Costa Rica within the boundaries of Marino Ballena National Park. Its Pacific Ocean location has it just a short stroll from one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. A center for adventure tours, Uvita has a unique population. It consists of a high number of expatriates who have decided to make their home here.
Kura
Kura has just eight luxury suites for the sole use of those over the age of 18. Its airy and consistently minimalist design lets the panoramic views across the jungle towards the Pacific take all the glory. They can be enjoyed from the rooms, sea view restaurant, and the salt-water infinity pool. Dedicated to relaxation and tranquility, Kura has its own spa too.
Uvita de Osa, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
Oxygen Jungle Villas
Another adults-only choice in Uvita is Oxygen Jungle Villas. Each of its individual villas sit beneath a sweeping A-frame roof. They are otherwise completed in plate glass, allowing the jungle in, but not the bugs. Guests will find a king-sized bed inside, and a sofa on the secluded veranda. Beside the main reception space, there is an infinity pool and the chance to receive a range of spa treatments.
Camino de Suenos 1,5 km NE del Catarata de Uvita, 11301 Uvita
Where to Stay in San José
The capital of Costa Rica, San José is not on everyone’s destinations list. However, its well-worth spending a night or two here. Paseo Colón has a number of landmarks, from the cathedral of 1871 to the nearby National Museum. There’s also plenty of places to sample authentic Costa Rica food, and dance the night away too. Explore it fully with our ultimate tour of the city or our San José design guide.
Alta Hotel
Next to a rehabilitation center for the country’s wildlife, the Alta Hotel lies on the hills of Alto de las Palomas. Its high ceilings and stonework keep its interiors cool, and give them a timeless feel. Its 23 rooms and suites feature handcrafted pieces of furniture, comfy leather armchairs, and fresh flowers. Their walls hang with evocative black and white photographs from the 1920’s.
Alto de las Palomas, Carretera Vieja a Santa Ana, Escazu, Escazú, 10201 San José
Hotel Presidente
The centrally-located Hotel Presidente is a stone’s throw from Paseo Colón. Its open, warehouse-like shared spaces of exposed brick lead into more intimate rooms. These are finished with finely whitewashed walls and tiled floors. The hotel has a beautiful planted terrace where guests can unwind, and also enjoy the complimentary buffet breakfasts.
Avenida Central, 29221 San José
Where to Stay in Santa Teresa
150 kilometers west of San José is the beachside town of Santa Teresa. While laid-back and popular with surfers, Santa Teresa still manages to boast some extraordinary places to stay. What’s more, many visitors are surprised by the quality of the food on offer. Its nightlife also rivals that of the capital.
Hotel Nantipa – A Tico Beach Experience
Hotel Nantipa sits alongside the beaches and pounding waves of the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by jungle, it has a garden and terrace, where guests will find a large outdoor pool. Inside, its luxury rooms have a contemporary look. They are rich in natural materials including woods and wickerwork that perfectly complement the natural surrounds.
Calle Principal, Santa Teresa Beach, Costa Rica
Where to Stay in Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio National Park is close to the town of Quepos, on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. It combines pristine jungle, spotless beaches, and offshore coral reefs. Although the country’s smallest national park, it isn’t short of attractions. Hiking, sports fishing, and surfing are all popular. It’s also close to a number of our Yoga Retreats in Costa Rica. If you’re driving yourself, see our guide on how to get to Manuel Antonio from San José, or try our Manuel Antonio Catamaran tour!
Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
The Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort has a beachside location a short walk from the national park. A series of individual villas stretch along the coast from its restaurant. They are bookended by two pools, which form just part of this 4.5-hectare site. Its rooms are simply furnished, in the knowledge that nothing can compete with the natural beauty here.
Junction 4.6 km Route 618, Arenas Del Mar, Puntarenas Province, Manuel Antonio, 60601
Los Altos Resort
The Los Altos Resort has large rooms bathed in natural light thanks to double-height windows. Modern art hangs from the walls, while this all-suite resort offers every guest a fully-equipped kitchen and balcony. There’s a platform used for yoga, in addition to a games room, outdoor pool, spa and gym.
4th Km to Manuel Antonio National Park, 00011 Manuel Antonio
The Charm of Costa Rica
Costa Rica has a series of magical stays. Working with their natural environment rather than against it, they provide the perfect base for exploring the country’s many wonders. Explore it further with our tours of Costa Rica or more hotels across the country. From the coast to the volcanoes of the highlands, there’s no need to rough it in Costa Rica!
