Bella Vista Ranch Ecolodge, a 4-star hotel in Turrialba, Costa Rica, is situated 13 kilometres from Santa Cruz and 34 kilometres from Cartago, offering easy access to regional attractions and requiring a 4WD vehicle or use of their free shuttle service. This eco-lodge provides a one-bedroom, one-bathroom lodging with a guest capacity of three, featuring a swimming pool, terrace, restaurant serving breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and on-site parking; plus river rafting on the Pacuare River and nearby cycling and hiking opportunities are available.
8.8 1321 reviews
Hotel Arte Natura
hotel, Fortuna
Hotel Arte Natura is located in Fortuna, just 2.5 miles from the La Fortuna Waterfall and 1.6 miles from the Kalambu Hot Springs, offering easy access to the area's natural wonders. This 4-star hotel receives very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hotel features a variety of rooms, including those with patios, and offers a range of amenities for a comfortable stay. Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool and garden, relax in the bar, or dine in the restaurant, which serves both à la carte and continental breakfast options.
9.1 2084 reviews
Posada El Quijote
hotel, San José
Posada El Quijote is a 4-star hotel located in San José, just 15 kilometres from the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Theatre of Costa Rica, and the Pre-Colombian Gold Museum. The hotel has received excellent user ratings for its cleanliness and overall experience. The hotel is housed in a charming colonial-style building with a spacious garden. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a shared lounge.
8.8 108 reviews
Hotel Mirador Osa
hotel, Mogos
Hotel Mirador Osa, a 3-star establishment in Mogos, is situated 45 kilometres from Golfito Airport, offering convenient access to local attractions. This guesthouse boasts an outdoor pool, garden, and terrace with scenic views, plus a restaurant, bar, room service, and free Wi-Fi; it features rooms with private bathrooms, some with patios and sea views.
9.1 1758 reviews
Hotel Monte Real
hotel, Fortuna
Hotel Monte Real is located in La Fortuna, just a short walk from the town centre and a bus station, bordering a peaceful river with its own forest and a Frog garden. It is a 3-star hotel with excellent user ratings. The hotel offers a range of amenities including a swimming pool, terrace, garden, restaurant, bar, and room service. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities such as canopy tours, horseback riding, boat tours, and volcano excursions.
8.8 449 reviews
Esencia Hotel And Villas
hotel, Santa Teresa Beach
Esencia Hotel and Villas is located in Santa Teresa Beach, Costa Rica, just 100 metres from the beach and 8 kilometres from the Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve. This 3-star hotel offers air-conditioned rooms and villas with private terraces, a swimming pool, spa, restaurant, bar, and room service, plus free toiletries and on-site breakfast.
9.6 108 reviews
Finca La Puesta Del Sol - Miramar De Sierpe
hotel, Sierpe
Finca La Puesta Del Sol, in Sierpe, offers river and mountain views near the Sierpe River and its wildlife. This one-bedroom guesthouse boasts a 25 square metre floor area, featuring a private bathroom, terrace, and free Wi-Fi, plus access to an outdoor pool and on-site restaurant.
9.5 258 reviews
Selva Armonia Immersive Jungle Resort
hotel, Uvita
Selva Armonia Immersive Jungle Resort, a 4-star hotel in Uvita, Costa Rica, is located 19 kilometres from the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary and 34 kilometres from Nauyaca Waterfalls. This family-friendly establishment offers rooms with desks, some including kitchenettes, alongside an outdoor pool, hot tub, garden, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, spa, and concierge service, plus a nightclub for evening entertainment.
8.8 176 reviews
Tortuguero7 Lake View
hotel, Tortuguero
Tortuguero7 Lake View, situated in Tortuguero, Costa Rica, offers lake view rooms a short 0.8km walk from Tortuguero Beach. This hotel provides 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom lodgings with a terrace/balcony, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, room service, and access to a pool and water park; daily breakfast is included.
8.4 1306 reviews
Hotel El Icaco Tortuguero
hotel, Tortuguero
Hotel El Icaco Tortuguero is situated on the beach within Tortuguero National Park, offering direct access to green sea turtle nesting sites. This 2-star lodge boasts 25 square metre rooms with private terraces, air conditioning, and a shared swimming pool (approximately 200 metres from the main building), plus a restaurant, room service, and Wi-Fi in public areas.
9.0 427 reviews
Hotel Vista Linda Montaña
hotel, Alajuela
Hotel Vista Linda Montaña is situated just 19 kilometres from Alajuela City centre and a 10-minute drive from Juan Santamaría International Airport, making it a convenient base for exploring the area. This 3-star hotel receives excellent user ratings, offering a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The hotel features bright and cheerful rooms with private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast with tropical fruit on the terrace, relax by the outdoor pool with mountain views, or take advantage of the free Wi-Fi and parking.
8.8 8035 reviews
Sleep Inn Paseo Las Damas
hotel, San José
The Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas is situated in San José, just across the street from España Park and the Modern Art Museum, within a short walk of the National Museum and the Atlántico Train Station. This 3-star hotel enjoys a very good user rating, with excellent reviews for its cleanliness. The hotel offers a range of modern amenities, including a casino, a gym, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including a Jacuzzi, a terrace, a garden, and a spa, as well as a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness centre.
Best Costa Rica luxury hotels (4 and 5 stars)
Among the 4684 accommodations in Costa Rica, here are the 4 best luxury hotels
9.3 246 reviews
Alborada Boutique Stay
hotel, Uvita
Alborada Boutique Stay, a 5-star hotel in Uvita, is located 2.1km from Uvita Beach and 2.9km from Hermosa Beach, offering convenient access to Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary (14km) and Nauyaca Waterfalls (29km). This Uvita lodging boasts 24 square metre rooms, each with a bedroom, bathroom, and amenities including free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a complimentary gluten-free breakfast option; an outdoor pool and free private parking are also available.
8.7 877 reviews
Hotel Playa Bejuco
hotel, Esterillos Este
Hotel Playa Bejuco is situated just 75 metres from the beach in Bejuco, a 30-minute drive from the bustling Jaco Town Center and 1.5 hours from Juan Santamaría International Airport. This 4-star hotel has been rated "very good" by previous guests. The hotel offers a range of facilities including a swimming pool, jacuzzi, restaurant, bar and fitness centre. Guests can also enjoy a terrace, garden, sauna and room service.
9.7 15 reviews
Villa Marala
hotel, Esterillos
Villa Marala, a four-star hotel in Esterillos, offers convenient access to Manuel Antonio National Park, located 50 kilometres away, and Rainmaker, situated 35 kilometres from the property. This accommodation provides air-conditioned rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, a garden, on-site parking, and a restaurant, accommodating up to seven guests within its 20 square metre, one-bedroom layout.
8.4 1947 reviews
Hotel Cayuga
hotel, Puntarenas
Hotel Cayuga is located just 800 metres from Puntarenas Beach in Puntarenas, offering easy access to the sand and surf, as well as other attractions like Playa Pochote and Parque Marino del Pacifico. This 4-star hotel has received very good user ratings for its location and cleanliness. The hotel features a range of modern amenities, including a swimming pool, a fitness centre, a restaurant, and a bar. Guests can also enjoy a terrace and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.
Best Costa Rica hotels with a pool
Among the 4684 accommodations in Costa Rica, here are the 4 best hotels with a pool
8.9 708 reviews
Hotel Arenal Country Inn
hotel, Fortuna
Hotel Arenal Country Inn is located in Fortuna, just a short drive from La Fortuna Waterfall and Kalambu Hot Springs, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of Costa Rica's natural beauty. This 3-star hotel receives consistently high ratings from guests, highlighting its excellent value for money and comfortable accommodation. The hotel features a range of amenities perfect for families and couples alike. Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, relax in the garden, and dine at the on-site restaurant. With air-conditioned rooms, private bathrooms, and complimentary continental breakfast, this hotel provides a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the surrounding area.
9.0 2016 reviews
Apartotel & Suites Villas Del Rio
hotel, San José
Apartotel & Suites Villas Del Rio is located in a quiet residential area near Costa Rica Country Club, about 5 miles from the centre of San José. The hotel has received very good user ratings, with excellent scores for location and cleanliness. The aparthotel offers a range of well-equipped apartments with living rooms, cable TV, DVD players, iPod docking stations, and fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes. Guests can enjoy two outdoor pools, a hot tub, a gym, a mini-market, barbecue facilities, and a free airport shuttle service.
8.3 969 reviews
Corcovado & Drake Inn
hotel, Drake
Corcovado & Drake Inn, a 3-star hotel in Drake, offers convenient access to Colorada (a 4-minute walk) and Cocalito Beach (2.6 km). This family-friendly inn, featuring an outdoor pool, restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi, provides guests with on-site parking, concierge service, and shuttle service on request as part of the Corcovado & Drake Inn offer.
9.1 232 reviews
Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose
hotel, San José
Homewood Suites by Hilton Cariari San José is located in the Cariari district, approximately 9 kilometres from Juan Santamaría International Airport and 7 kilometres from Parque Diversiones. This 3-star hotel offers self-catering apartments with air conditioning, a swimming pool, and a fitness centre, all within easy reach of Poás Volcano National Park and other San José attractions.
Frequently asked questions about hotels in Costa Rica
What are the best landmarks to visit in Costa Rica?
For iconic landmarks, you can't miss the Arenal Volcano, a majestic stratovolcano offering stunning views and opportunities for hiking and hot springs experiences. Poás Volcano National Park boasts a breathtaking crater, while the breathtaking Monteverde Cloud Forest offers unique biodiversity and stunning scenery. For a coastal experience, Manuel Antonio National Park's beaches are famous for their beauty and wildlife.
What are the most popular 2, 3 and 4-star hotels in Costa Rica?
There is a wide range of hotels to be found in Costa Rica. Like any country with a tropical climate and gorgeous beaches, you'll find an abundance of all-inclusive luxury resorts with their own spas, swimming pools, restaurants and more. Business travelers can stop in the urban corporate hotels, while those traveling for pleasure can stay in a cute boutique hotel or bed and breakfast.
What are some must-do activities in Costa Rica?
Zip-lining through the rainforest canopy is a classic adventure. White-water rafting on the Pacuare River offers an adrenaline rush. For a more relaxed experience, consider exploring the numerous national parks, such as Tortuguero National Park, known for its turtle nesting sites. Surfing lessons on the Pacific coast are also popular.
One type of accommodation that's especially brilliant in Costa Rica is the ecolodge, which you can find in the jungles and other stunning settings. You can find another type of hotel accommodation: the cabina, a locally owned, one-floor establishment with doors opening directly outside.
When is the ideal time to visit Costa Rica?
The dry season, from December to April, offers the best weather for most activities, with sunny skies and less rainfall. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. The green season (May to November) brings more rain, but also fewer tourists and lower prices. The best time depends on your priorities and tolerance for rain.
What are the best family friendly hotels in Costa Rica?
If you're visiting Costa Rica for the first time, then Manuel Antonio is a good place to start. It's one of the country's most popular destinations due to its beautiful beaches and surrounding nature, and cute sloths. Alternatively, La Fortuna is another popular tourist spot, famous for the Arena Volcano National Park. Costa Rica is all about nature. If you're visiting this lush country, you'll want to visit some of its gorgeous natural parks, like the Manuel Antonio National Park, the Arenal Volcano National Park, or Monteverde and the Cloud Forests. For beaches, head over to Dominical, Tamarindo, Jaco, and Mal Pais and Santa Teresa. If you're looking for museums and culture, then stop by the capital of San Jose.
Which neighbourhoods or areas are best for spending a week in Costa Rica?
La Fortuna, near Arenal Volcano, is a great base for exploring volcanoes, rainforests, and hot springs. Tamarindo on the Pacific coast is ideal for surfers and beach lovers. Monteverde offers excellent cloud forest experiences. For a more cultural experience, consider San José, the capital city.
What are the best pet friendly hotels in Costa Rica?
For breakfast, try Gallo Pinto, a rice dish mixed with black beans, served with natilla (sour cream), scrambled eggs and fried plantain. Casados, a rice and bean dish, is often served for lunch with some meat or fish and a salad with fried plantains, white cheese and corn tortilla. Arroz con pollo, rice with chicken, is another commonly served dish, often served with local vegetables like yucca, chayote, and camote. Try arroz con leche, a local and traditional rice pudding from Costa Rica.
Which parts of Costa Rica are perfect for a weekend getaway?
Manuel Antonio National Park, with its beautiful beaches and wildlife, is perfect for a short break. Pacuare River Lodge offers a luxurious and adventurous escape. The charming town of Uvita, known for its whale tail sandbar, is another excellent choice for a relaxing weekend.
What are the best hotels with jacuzzi in Costa Rica?
How easy is it to get around in Costa Rica without a car?
The best way to get around Costa Rica is by bus. Buses are reliable, navigable, inexpensive, and you can pick up many services in the capital, San Jose. It's safer and easier to get around by bus rather than driving yourself, as there are many potholes and confusing intersections.
Is renting a car recommended for exploring Costa Rica?
Renting a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially if you plan on venturing beyond the main tourist areas. Many roads, particularly in the rainforest, are unpaved and require a vehicle with good ground clearance. Public transport is available but can be limited in some areas.
What are the best hotels with a swimming pool in Costa Rica?
Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's always a good idea to carry some colones (CRC), especially in smaller towns and rural areas, where cash is often preferred.
What are the largest airports in Costa Rica?
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia are the two largest international airports in Costa Rica.
Are there any unwritten rules of behaviour visitors should know about Costa Rica?
It's considered polite to greet people with a 'Buenos días' (good morning), 'Buenas tardes' (good afternoon), or 'Buenas noches' (good evening). Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is always appreciated. Respect for the environment and wildlife is crucial; stay on marked trails and avoid disturbing animals.
What local specialties should you try in Costa Rica?
Gallo pinto (rice and beans) is a staple breakfast dish. Casado (a traditional lunch plate) typically includes rice, beans, meat, salad, and plantains. Try fresh tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and papaya. Olla de carne (beef stew) is a hearty and flavorful option.
Where are the best shopping spots in Costa Rica?
San José offers a variety of shopping options, from modern malls to traditional markets. For souvenirs, look for handcrafted items in local artisan shops. Many national parks also have small shops selling souvenirs and local crafts.
What signature events or festivals take place in Costa Rica?
The Festival de la Luz (Festival of Lights) in San José is a spectacular parade with vibrant floats and music. Numerous religious festivals are celebrated throughout the year, often with colourful processions and traditional food. Specific dates vary.
What’s the best place in Costa Rica for mild and comfortable weather?
The Central Valley, where San José is located, generally enjoys a mild and pleasant climate year-round, with average temperatures around 20-25°C. The higher elevations in areas like Monteverde also offer cooler temperatures.
What are the most common travel mistakes tourists make in Costa Rica?
Underestimating the distances between destinations and not allowing enough travel time is a common mistake. Not packing appropriate clothing and footwear for various activities and weather conditions is another. Failing to learn basic Spanish phrases can also make communication more challenging.
What are some hidden gems to explore in Costa Rica?
Corcovado National Park, in the Osa Peninsula, is known for its incredible biodiversity but is less visited than other parks. Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, including jaguars. The small town of Bijagua, near the Tenorio Volcano, provides a tranquil escape and access to beautiful hikes.
Best Costa Rica hotels with parking
9.1 213 reviews
El Paraiso Azul
hotel, Ojochal
El Paraiso Azul in Ojochal offers excellent accommodation a 13-minute walk (approximately 1 km) from Tortuga Beach, 27 km from Nauyaca Waterfalls, and 27 km from the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary. This family-friendly guesthouse provides a swimming pool, garden, terrace, free Wi-Fi, private parking, and airport transfers, plus guest rooms with balconies offering garden or sea views and an on-site grill.
9.2 1685 reviews
Hotel Roca Negra Del Arenal
hotel, Fortuna
Hotel Roca Negra Del Arenal is located in the suburbs of Fortuna, 15.5 kilometres from Arenal Volcano National Park and 72 kilometres from Juan Santamaría International Airport, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling town centre. The hotel has consistently received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The accommodation features a spacious layout with comfortable rooms, each equipped with air conditioning, a terrace, and a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool, relax in the hot tub, and take advantage of amenities such as a garden, concierge service, room service, and free parking.
8.6 546 reviews
Hotel Vista Del Cerro
hotel, Fortuna
Hotel Vista Del Cerro is situated in Fortuna, just 2 kilometres from the town centre and a 40-minute drive from the Arenal Volcano National Park. This 2-star hotel offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning and private bathrooms, as well as a swimming pool, a restaurant serving regional cuisine and a spa for guests to relax and unwind.
9.1 471 reviews
Vida Aventura Ranch
hotel, Tanques
Vida Aventura Ranch in Tanques is conveniently located 22.5km from Miravalles Volcano and 24km from Edgardo Baltodano Briceño Stadium, offering easy access to both natural wonders and local amenities. This family-friendly lodge boasts an outdoor pool, jacuzzi, spa, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi, along with free private parking and a shared kitchen; paid airport transfers are available to and from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (35km).
Best hotels in Costa Rica with a gym
9.0 3172 reviews
Aloft By Marriott San Jose Hotel, Costa Rica
hotel, San José
The Aloft San Jose Hotel is situated in the Forum 2 Business Park, a trendy area of San José, 15 kilometres from the city centre and a 15-minute drive from Juan Santamaria International Airport. This 4-star hotel has received very good user ratings for both its location and overall experience. The hotel offers modern, spacious rooms with a contemporary design. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness centre, restaurant, bar, and spa, as well as free parking and Wi-Fi.
8.8 2169 reviews
El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse
hotel, San José
The El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse is located in the San Antonio de Belen countryside, a 32-kilometre drive from San José city centre and a 24-kilometre drive from Juan Santamaría International Airport. This 4-star hotel has received very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hotel offers a range of facilities, including a swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a tennis court, as well as a restaurant, bar, and spa bath in some rooms. Guests can enjoy a peaceful stay in the countryside setting, with easy access to the city and airport.
8.8 2154 reviews
Courtyard By Marriott San Jose Escazu
hotel, San José
The Courtyard By Marriott San Jose Escazu is located in the upscale district of Escazu, just 2 kilometres from Multiplaza Shopping Center and a short distance from CIMA Hospital and Escazu Avenue. This 4-star hotel has received very good user ratings and is a popular choice for travellers looking for a comfortable and convenient stay. The hotel features a traditional design with a focus on comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, restaurant, bar, and tennis court.
8.3 2256 reviews
City Express By Marriott San Jose Costa Rica
hotel, San José
The City Express By Marriott San José Costa Rica is located near Juan Santamaría International Airport, making it a convenient option for travellers arriving or departing from San José. This 4-star hotel is rated very good by previous guests for its cleanliness, location and overall experience. The hotel offers a range of facilities including a swimming pool, garden, restaurant, bar and fitness centre. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet featuring the traditional Costa Rican dish, Gallo Pinto, and benefit from room service, free parking and easy access to the city centre and shopping centre.