Costa Rica offers an incredible array of experiences for travelers—from lush rainforests and towering volcanoes to pristine beaches and remote wilderness. No matter where you’re heading in this diverse country, finding the perfect place to stay is key to your experience. This guide breaks down the best hotels in Costa Rica, categorized by region and price range, so you can choose accommodations that suit your budget and style.
1. Central Valley: The Cultural Hub
Costa Rica’s Central Valley is home to the country’s capital, San José, and some of its most iconic landmarks. The area is known for its coffee plantations, volcanoes like Poás and Irazú, and charming colonial towns like Heredia and Alajuela. It’s a convenient base for exploring the country’s natural and cultural wonders and definitely a place for some of the best hotels in Costa Rica.
Luxury
Best for: Eco-conscious luxury travelers
Why stay here: Nestled in the lush hills of Heredia, this boutique hotel is a coffee lover's dream. You can take coffee plantation tours, enjoy organic meals, and unwind in beautifully designed suites with panoramic valley views. The hotel focuses on sustainability and luxury, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and eco-consciousness.
Key amenities: Coffee tours, infinity pool, spa, farm-to-table dining.
Best for: Nature enthusiasts and wellness seekers
Why stay here: Located in the cloud forest of Bajos del Toro, this luxury eco-lodge offers an immersive nature experience. With private villas that boast floor-to-ceiling windows, El Silencio provides access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and a serene spa that focuses on holistic wellness.
Key amenities: Private bungalows, on-site trails, yoga classes, spa with outdoor Jacuzzis.
Mid-Range
Best for: Travelers wanting luxury in the heart of the city
Why stay here: Set in a converted Victorian mansion in downtown San José, Hotel Grano de Oro combines elegance with comfort. It offers easy access to the city’s cultural attractions, museums, and parks, making it a great choice for urban explorers who still want a touch of luxury.
Key amenities: Rooftop garden, fine dining, historical architecture.
Best for: Wellness travelers who love nature
Why stay here: Xandari is a tropical paradise overlooking the Central Valley. The property boasts five kilometers of private trails, gardens, and waterfalls. Spacious villas with outdoor terraces and the hotel’s commitment to sustainability make this a top choice for nature lovers on a mid-range budget.
Key amenities: Private hiking trails, spa, organic gardens, infinity pools.
Budget
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who want a cozy city stay
Why stay here: This boutique B&B offers affordable and charming accommodations in downtown San José, perfect for those seeking a central location without the price tag. It’s within walking distance of major cultural attractions, such as the National Museum and Central Market.
Key amenities: Rooftop terrace, complimentary breakfast, easy access to city sights.
Best for: Budget travelers seeking a vibrant, social atmosphere
Why stay here: Selina San José is a budget-friendly option offering more than just a place to sleep—it’s a community hub for travelers. Located in the heart of San José, this trendy, affordable hotel is perfect for those looking to experience Costa Rica’s capital city on a budget. With its lively common areas, yoga classes, and co-working spaces, it’s ideal for both backpackers and remote workers.
Key amenities: Shared and private rooms, free Wi-Fi, co-working space, and an on-site bar.
2. Arenal and Northern Highlands: Adventure and Hot Springs
The Arenal region, dominated by the iconic Arenal Volcano, is a hotspot for adventure tourism. From zip-lining and rafting to hiking and soaking in natural hot springs, there’s no shortage of activities in this lush, rainforest-covered region.
Luxury
Best for: Hot springs enthusiasts and couples
Why stay here: Known for its exclusive thermal springs, Tabacón offers a luxurious experience in the heart of the rainforest. The beautifully landscaped hot springs provide the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure, and the resort’s spa and suites ensure an indulgent stay. This is definitely one of the best hotels in Costa Rica.
Key amenities: Natural hot springs, fine dining, private suites with volcano views.
Best for: Honeymooners and luxury seekers
Why stay here: Offering private plunge pools fed by natural springs, Nayara Springs is an adults-only retreat that delivers unparalleled luxury. Surrounded by lush rainforest and with stunning views of the volcano, this boutique resort offers privacy, romance, and top-notch service.
Key amenities: Private plunge pools, yoga pavilion, multiple gourmet restaurants.
Mid-Range
Best for: Families and couples looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure
Why stay here: With spacious rooms, stunning volcano views, and its own thermal pools, Arenal Springs Resort is perfect for those who want a blend of comfort and natural beauty. It’s family-friendly and offers a variety of activities, including yoga and horseback riding.
Key amenities: Thermal pools, family rooms, on-site dining.
Lost Iguana Resort & Spa – La Fortuna
Best for: Nature lovers looking for privacy
Why stay here: Tucked away in the jungle, Lost Iguana Resort offers rooms with some of the best views of Arenal Volcano. Each room is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a private and tranquil experience. The resort also has its own trails for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Key amenities: Volcano views, hiking trails, spa services.
Budget
Best for: Backpackers, solo travelers and groups looking for affordable options with a social atmosphere.
Why stay here: Located in the heart of La Fortuna, Arenal Backpackers Resort is a great budget option that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. It offers a lively atmosphere with its pool bar and garden lounge, making it a social hub for meeting fellow travelers.
Key amenities: Pool, bar, communal kitchen, and tour services.
Best for: Budget travelers seeking a social experience
Why stay here: Selina is known for offering affordable accommodations with a cool, community vibe. The La Fortuna location has dorms, private rooms, and co-working spaces, making it a great spot for digital nomads and budget-conscious adventurers.
Key amenities: Pool, shared kitchen, co-working space, on-site bar.
3. Guanacaste: Beaches and Dry Tropical Forests
Guanacaste, located along Costa Rica's northern Pacific coast, is famous for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and adventure activities. Whether you’re into surfing, snorkeling, or just lounging on the sand, this region is perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Luxury
Best for: Families and luxury travelers
Why stay here: Situated on the exclusive Papagayo Peninsula, the Four Seasons offers unparalleled luxury and service. With two private beaches, a world-class spa, and an 18-hole golf course, this resort is ideal for those seeking one of the best hotels in Costa Rica and a high-end beach getaway.
Key amenities: Private beaches, golf course, kids’ club, multiple pools.
Best for: Couples and travelers seeking a modern, luxurious stay
Why stay here: The Andaz blends contemporary design with Costa Rican flair. Set on a hill overlooking the Pacific, the resort offers chic rooms, a stunning infinity pool, and easy access to both beaches and nature trails.
Key amenities: Infinity pools, beach access, eco-friendly design, spa.
Mid-Range
Best for: Travelers seeking a beachfront location without breaking the bank
Why stay here: This beachfront hotel offers direct access to Playa Hermosa, a quiet beach perfect for swimming and relaxing. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, Hotel Bosque del Mar is ideal for those looking for peace and serenity at a reasonable price.
Key amenities: Beachfront access, garden views, pool, restaurant.
Best for: Beachgoers and surfers
Why stay here: Located on the vibrant Tamarindo Beach, this resort is perfect for beach lovers who want a blend of activity and relaxation. With direct access to the beach and an array of bars, restaurants, and shops nearby, this resort offers an exciting atmosphere.
Key amenities: Beachfront location, multiple pools, swim-up bar, ocean views.
Budget
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers seeking a chic experience
Why stay here: While not the most budget option, El Mangroove offers incredible value for what it provides—trendy design, excellent service, and a beachfront location. It’s ideal for those seeking a more affordable luxury experience.
Key amenities: Beach access, infinity pool, modern design, paddleboarding.
Best for: Backpackers and surfers
Why stay here: Just a short walk from Tamarindo Beach, this laid-back hostel is perfect for budget travelers. With dorms and private rooms, it offers basic accommodations, but the social atmosphere and proximity to the beach make it a fun and affordable stay.
Key amenities: Communal kitchen, surfboard rentals, garden hammocks.
4. Southern Caribbean: Laid-Back Vibes and Untouched Beauty
Costa Rica’s Southern Caribbean coast offers a completely different vibe from the Pacific side, with Afro-Caribbean culture, pristine beaches, and untamed wilderness. The region is known for its beautiful beaches like Puerto Viejo and Cahuita, abundant wildlife, and relaxed atmosphere.
Luxury
Best for: Boutique luxury seekers and beach lovers
Why stay here: Nestled between the jungle and the beach, Le Caméléon combines sleek modern design with the laid-back vibes of the Caribbean. With its private beach club and proximity to Cahuita National Park, it’s the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Key amenities: Private beach club, swimming pool, spa services, proximity to national parks.
Best for: Eco-luxury travelers and couples
Why stay here: A boutique hotel offering a serene, eco-conscious stay, Aguas Claras features artfully designed bungalows and suites surrounded by lush greenery. Located near Playa Chiquita, it’s perfect for those looking for a luxurious, environmentally friendly experience in a tropical paradise.
Key amenities: Pool, private beach, sustainable practices, organic dining.
Mid-Range
Best for: Families and nature lovers
Why stay here: Situated right on the beach, this hotel offers charming villas surrounded by tropical gardens. With easy access to Playa Cocles and Puerto Viejo, it’s perfect for families and couples who want to experience the natural beauty of the region without the high price tag.
Key amenities: Beach access, pool, kitchenettes in villas.
Best for: Couples and travelers who enjoy a social atmosphere
Why stay here: Just outside Puerto Viejo, this adults-only hotel offers a friendly and vibrant atmosphere. The property features rustic wooden design, a beautiful beachfront location, and is known for its laid-back vibe and excellent service.
Key amenities: Beachfront access, swimming pool, restaurant, tropical gardens.
Budget
Best for: Backpackers and solo travelers
Why stay here: One of the most iconic backpacker spots in Costa Rica, Rocking J’s offers affordable accommodations right on the beach. With options ranging from hammocks to private rooms, this hostel is known for its lively social scene and fun vibe.
Key amenities: Beach access, on-site bar, communal kitchen, art space.
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers seeking a quiet retreat
Why stay here: This budget-friendly property offers simple, clean rooms in a garden setting. Located just a short walk from Puerto Viejo’s main strip, it’s ideal for travelers who want to stay in a peaceful environment while still being close to the action.
Key amenities: Gardens, hammocks, communal kitchen, Wi-Fi.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re seeking luxurious beachfront resorts, eco-conscious boutique hotels, or budget-friendly hostels, Costa Rica’s diverse regions offer something for every traveler. From the active volcanoes of Arenal to the laid-back beaches of the Southern Caribbean Coast, your accommodations will play a huge role in shaping your experience. With this guide, you can now choose the perfect hotel based on your budget and desired location. Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Costa Rican adventure!
TOP-RATED ACTIVITIES IN COSTA RICA: