Home to one of the world’s most vibrant natural environments, Costa Rica attracts many tourists every year to its pristine beaches and tropical rainforests. Located in Central America, this gorgeous country is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. Diverse landscapes offer habitats for exotic flowers, animals, birds and reptiles as well as adrenaline rushes like ziplining, whitewater rafting, sport fishing and mountain biking. What could be more perfect than a modern vacation resort right in the middle of all this splendor? Find out more about the best beach resorts in Costa Rica.
10. Hotel Punta Islita[SEE MAP]
Nestled within an enchanting setting of tropical rainforest and colorful villages along the beautiful Guanacaste coastline in in the northwestern part of Costa Rica, the Hotel Punta Islita is a premiumvacation resort for both couples and families. Guests can choose between elegant, spacious rooms with balconies that open to idyllic ocean views or private villas that house two to four bedrooms, kitchens, landscaped gardens and plunge pools. With the resort featuring a full-service spa, two outdoor swimming pools, a 9-hole golf course and two outstanding restaurants, guests can relax or play as much as they desire. Area attractions include the nearby Carrillo Beach and the Islita Art Museum as well as adventures like canopy ziplining or hiking through the forest to hear howler monkeys and glimpse exotic birds.
9. Villa Caletas[SEE MAP]
Perched on a high hilltop overlooking its own secluded beach near the town of Herradura on the Pacific Ocean, the Villa Caletas is a luxury Costa Rica beach resort offering both privacy and adventure. Esteemed for both its location and exquisite decor, this gorgeous hotel features an outdoor pool with bar, Jacuzzi tubs, a spa, fitness center and two restaurants. Guests can choose to wake up each morning to spectacular views of the mountains or the ocean. Exciting day trips are available here such as visits to national parks, horse riding, 4×4 adventures and boat cruises to Tortuga Island.
8. Falls Resort at Manuel Antonio[SEE MAP]
Surrounded by a tranquil atmosphere of tropical gardens, waterfalls and sandy beaches, the Falls Resort at Manuel Antonio offers a picture-perfect vacation destination. In addition to amenities like an outdoor pool, spa and lounge, the resort features rooms with terraces, mini bars and luxurious bed sheets as well as luxury tree houses that overlook a tropical jungle of toucans, monkeys and butterflies. Adventures abound here such as whitewater rafting, snorkeling, scuba diving, sport fishing, sea kayaking and mangrove hiking.
7. Villas Tranquilas[SEE MAP]
Conveniently located near the airport, the Villa Tranquilas presents a beautiful, remote setting that brings exotic wildlife right to the door. This family-friendly resort features 16 villas that each contain 4 private town homes with kitchens, modern appliances, cable TV and wireless Internet. Guests also have access to laundry facilities, gardens and outdoor pool. Area attractions include the Manuel Antonio Beach, Finca Naturales Wildlife Refuge and the lively town of Quepos, which offers shops, art galleries, restaurants and nightlife venues.
6. Hotel San Bada[SEE MAP]
Costa Rica tourists could not ask for a better hotel location than Hotel San Bada. Located next door to the impressive Manuel Antonio National Park and its beautiful beach, this jewel of a hotel offers 67 rooms that include standard, deluxe and luxury suites that all open to balconies with garden or ocean views. Guests here can enjoy access to three outdoor pools, a full-service spa, gym, terrace bar and excellent restaurant. Activities at this beach resort include whitewater rafting, sport fishing, jet skiing, dolphin watching and mangrove tours to view exotic wildlife.
5. Tambor Tropical Beach Resort[SEE MAP]
With its remote location on the scenic Nicoya Peninsula, the Tambor Tropical Beach Resort presents the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or honeymoon. Featuring 12 beachfront suites with spacious living areas, large bathrooms and modern kitchens, the resort also offers massage treatments, a full-service restaurant and a beautiful, mosaic-tiled swimming pool. In addition to beach fun, guests here can opt for day trips like photography and birdwatching tours, sea kayaking, jungle hiking, horseback riding and snorkeling.
4. Gaia Hotel & Reserve[SEE MAP]
Situated within the beautiful coastal forest of Manuel Antonio, the Gaia Hotel & Reserve is a luxury beach hotel designed for adults and teens. Rooms and villas feature LCD televisions, DVD players and wireless Internet as well as terrace views of the lush, tropical surroundings. Amenities include two outdoor pools, full-service spa, fitness center, restaurant and lounge. Guests can also enjoy a wide range of area activities such as deep sea fishing, scuba diving, mountain biking, surfing, canopy tours, jungle hiking, dolphin watching and much more.
3. Zephyr Palace Luxury Rental Mansion[SEE MAP]
Set atop a tropical mountain overlooking panoramic views of the lovely Nicoya Gulf, this luxury mansion offers seven sumptuous suites that each feature a different theme such as African, Egyptian, Royal Palace and 1920s era. Guests here enjoy access to an infinity swimming pool, discotheque, art gallery, spa and gourmet restaurant. The surrounding area offers stunning beaches and wildlife reserves that are home to scarlet macaws.
2. Los Altos Beach Resort & Spa[SEE MAP]
Set amid lush rainforest with breathtaking ocean views, the family-oriented Los Altos Beach Resort & Spa offers all the comforts of home with exotic adventure. Guests here can enjoy their choice of Balinese luxury condos that all feature multiple bedrooms, baths, kitchens, exquisite furnishings and balconies that open to ocean views. Guests can stay at the resort with its swimming pool, fitness center, spa and restaurant as well as opt for outings like jungle hiking, ziplining, snorkeling, parasailing, whitewater rafting and more.
1. Four Seasons Resort Culebra[SEE MAP]
Located in the northwest region of Costa Rica near the Gulf of Papagayo, this family-friendly accommodation continues to be one of the best Costa Rica beach resorts. With more than 155 rooms that include standard rooms, villas and luxury tree houses with plunge pools, the wonderful Four Seasons Resort Culebra also offers three swimming pools, a spa, and tennis courts. Adults can enjoy several complimentary classes such as cooking, salsa dancing, flower arranging while children can engage in daily activities like arts and crafts, sea shell collecting on the beach and birdwatching. Area attractions include national parks, volcanoes, golf course and Audubon Bird Sanctuary.
Emily says
The Springs Resort and Spa in Arenal is the BEST! I researched ALL the spots in Costa Rica for my wedding. They are expensive but worth every penny.
Richard Crest says
Great list of Costa Rica beach resorts. I love to have a vacation there soon and have an accommodation at Hotel San Bada.:)