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- 17 BEST HOTELS in Costa Rica [December 2024!]
17 BEST HOTELS in Costa Rica [December 2024!]
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Costa Rica is one of the best places on the planet for nature lovers, with an abundance of interesting wildlife and glorious landscapes. It really does offer many once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Costa Rica is, however, known for being fairly expensive. So, we created this insider guide to the best hotels in Costa Rica to make your planning even easier.
Located near a range of the country’s best destinations and attractions, and covering various budgets and property types, finding the ideal Costa Rica accommodation will be hassle-free.
Our knowledgeable team of travel writers has made this list of the best hotels in Costa Rica to make your trip-planning a breeze.
Now, here are the best hotels in Costa Rica (spoiler: there are sure to be some you just can’t wait to check into!) …
Table of Contents
- #1 – Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel & Nature Reserve
- #2 – Hampton Inn & Suites San Jose Airport
- #3 – Hotel Grano de Oro
- #4 – Apartotel La Sabana
- #5 – The Oaks Tamarindo
- #6 – Cocoon Hotel
- #7 – Caribbean Paradise Eco-Lodge
- #8 – Mountain Faro
- #9 – Nayara Hotel Spa and Gardens
- #10 – Cabinas El Colibri
- More Best Hotels in Costa Rica
- #11 – The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
- #12 – Rancho de Lelo Ecolodge & Sustainable Farm
- #13 – Hotel Buddha House
- #14 – Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana Costa Rica
- #15 – Hotel Perico Azul & Surf Camp
- #16 – Hotel Flying Crocodile
- #17 – La Tropicale Beach Lodge
- Arenal Springs Resort
- Concluding Thoughts
Quick Answers – Best Hotels in Costa Rica
At A Glance: Best Hotels in Costa Rica
- Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel & Nature ReserveBest Overall Hotel
- Hampton Inn & Suites San Jose AirportBest Hotel Near the Airport
- Hotel Grano de OroBest Hotel Near Downtown
- Apartotel La SabanaBest Hotel for Families
- The Oaks TamarindoBest Pet-Friendly Hotel
| BEST HOTELS IN COSTA RICA | |||
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Overall Best HotelOverall Best HotelVilla Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel & Nature Reserve |
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Best Hotel Near the AirportBest Hotel Near the AirportHampton Inn & Suites San Jose Airport |
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Best Hotel Near DowntownBest Hotel Near DowntownHotel Grano de Oro |
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Best Hotel for FamiliesBest Hotel for FamiliesApartotel La Sabana |
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Best Pet-Friendly HotelBest Pet-Friendly HotelThe Oaks Tamarindo |
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Best Cheap HotelBest Cheap HotelCocoon Hotel |
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Best Hotel Near Tortuguero National ParkBest Hotel Near Tortuguero National ParkCaribbean Paradise Eco-Lodge |
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Best Hotel Near Monteverde Cloud Forest PreserveBest Hotel Near Monteverde Cloud Forest PreserveMountain Faro |
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Best Hotel Near SArenal VolcanoBest Hotel Near Arenal VolcanoNayara Hotel Spa and Gardens |
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Best Hotel Near CarrilloBest Hotel Near CarrilloCabinas El Colibri |
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#1 – Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel & Nature Reserve
Overall Best Hotel in Costa Rica
Overall Best Hotel in Costa Rica
Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel & Nature Reserve
- $$
- Luxury jungle cabins with amazing views of Los Angeles Private Biological Reserve
- Traditional, local, organic dishes served in the onsite restaurant
- Relaxing spa services
The gorgeous four-star Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel & Nature Reserve is our recommendation for the overall best hotel in Costa Rica. It has top-class accommodations, rooms, and services, and everything you need for a memorable stay.
From the exceptional restaurant with an enticing menu of organic local dishes and the terrific spa to the working farm, games room, and fitness centre, everything at the Villa Blanca is geared up for your enjoyment.
The setting is sublime, within a wildlife-rich rainforest.
The hotel has a village-like feel, and each gorgeous cabin has its own bathroom, TV, terrace, and open fire.
#2 – Hampton Inn & Suites San Jose Airport
Best Hotel in Costa Rica Near the Airport
Best Hotel in Costa Rica Near the Airport
Hampton Inn & Suites San Jose Airport
- $$
- Free airport transfers and only 1.5 kilometres from the airport
- Soundproofed rooms for a good night’s sleep
- Filling breakfast included in the room price
Hampton Inn & Suites San Jose Airport is the best hotel in Costa Rica near the airport.
A top-rated hotel, it’s less than two kilometres from the country’s main airport of Santamaria International Airport. You won’t be disturbed by planes coming and going, thanks to the soundproofed rooms.
All modern guest rooms are en suite and have cable TV. Free airport shuttles make getting here and away easy and there’s also free onsite parking. Other freebies include breakfast and Wi-Fi. Hotel facilities include a swimming pool and gym.
Avoid the crowds! Check out our Best Time to Visit Costa Rica Guide to Costa Rica to yourself!
#3 – Hotel Grano de Oro
Best Hotel in Costa Rica Near Downtown
Best Hotel in Costa Rica Near Downtown
Hotel Grano de Oro
- $$$
- Elegant Victorian-themed hotel
- Delectable fusion meals served in the onsite restaurant
- Swimming pool and massage centre
Hotel Grano de Oro is the best hotel in Costa Rica near downtown San Jose, the nation’s vibrant capital city. The pool and child-minding services make it a top Costa Rica hotel for families, while the stylish rooms exude a certain romance that will certainly keep couples happy.
Enjoy delicious meals in the onsite restaurant and unwind in the bar after a busy day of sightseeing, or hit up one of the many eateries in the nearby area.
#4 – Apartotel La Sabana
Best Hotel in Costa Rica for Families
Best Hotel in Costa Rica for Families
Apartotel La Sabana
- $
- Filling breakfast included in the nightly price
- Beautiful, peaceful swimming pool
- Located within easy reach of San Jose’s major attractions
Situated in San Jose, Apartotel La Sabana is, in our eyes, the best hotel in Costa Rica for families.
You can stay in a comfortable and well-equipped apartment, complete with a private bathroom, with a different number of bedrooms available. Old and young alike are sure to love splashing about in the outdoor pool and the onsite restaurant is ideal if you don’t want to venture too far for dinner.
The children’s TV channels make evenings fun for little ones and restful for adults, or you can surf the free Wi-Fi.
#5 – The Oaks Tamarindo
Best Pet-Friendly Hotel in Costa Rica
Best Pet-Friendly Hotel in Costa Rica
The Oaks Tamarindo
- $$$
- Extensive gardens with several swimming pools
- Located close to Huacas Village
- Various activities available, including horse riding, canoeing, diving, and hiking
The Oaks Tamarindo is a luxurious and modern hotel close to Huacas Village. You can even take your furry friends along on vacation, making this our pick for the best pet-friendly hotel in Costa Rica. Child-minding services make it perfect for families with kids too.
Wander through the sprawling green gardens at the Oaks and take a dip in the three outdoor pools, hit the gym, or arrange a massage. Accommodation is in spacious and modern self-catering apartments, each of which has a separate bedroom and seating area, a bathroom, and a kitchen.
#6 – Cocoon Hotel
Best Cheap Hotel in Costa Rica
Best Cheap Hotel in Costa Rica
Cocoon Hotel
- $
- Within easy reach of the airport and city centre
- Friendly common room with a bar
- Onsite restaurant that serves Latin American and American dishes
Cocoon Hotel is the best cheap hotel in Costa Rica. In a great location, close to the heart of San Jose and the airport, it provides comfort and good facilities for affordable prices.
You can choose between fan or air conditioned rooms at the Cocoon, each with a private bathroom. The triple rooms are ideal for families and groups of friends. Onsite amenities include a restaurant, lounge-cum-bar, laundry services, free Wi-Fi, a tour desk, and luggage storage.
#7 – Caribbean Paradise Eco-Lodge
Best Hotel in Costa Rica Near Tortuguero National Park
Best Hotel in Costa Rica Near Tortuguero National Park
Caribbean Paradise Eco Lodge
- $$
- Beautiful mountain and river views
- Completely surrounded by Tortuguero National Park
- Diverse cuisine served in the onsite restaurant
Caribbean Paradise Eco-Lodge is our pick for the best hotel in Costa Rica near Tortuguero National Park. The stunning national park surrounds the hotel, putting you right at the heart of nature.
There’s a high chance of spotting diverse wildlife while chilling in the hotel; look out for monkeys, colourful birds, and more. Stroll in the gardens and cool off in the pool before savouring delicious meals in the convenient onsite restaurant.
You can arrange various massages for some relaxation and take care of the essentials with laundry services.
#8 – Mountain Faro
Best Hotel in Costa Rica Near Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve
Best Hotel in Costa Rica Near Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve
Mountain Faro
- $
- Amazing staff members who really go the distance to make sure you have a great stay
- Free onsite parking available
- Laundry facilities
The best hotel in Costa Rica near Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve, Mountain Faro is a spotlessly clean accommodation in the midst of spectacular nature.
The friendly members of staff will extend a warm welcome and really make you feel at home. The vibe is peaceful.
Rooms at Mountain Faro are basic but comfortable, with a fridge and coffee machine, and rooms are available in different sizes to suit couples, friends, and families.
#9 – Nayara Hotel Spa and Gardens
Best Hotel in Costa Rica Near Arenal Volcano
Best Hotel in Costa Rica Near Arenal Volcano
Nayara Hotel Spa and Gardens
- $$$$
- Romantic vibe
- Close to both La Fortuna Waterfall and Arenal Volcano
- Outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi
Nayara Hotel Spa and Gardens is a great base to get out into nature and discover the beautiful gems of Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Waterfall. It’s our recommendation for the best hotel in Costa Rica near Arenal Volcano.
The four-star property offers plenty of opportunities to relax, from an array of spa services to chilling out in the pool or Jacuzzi. Alternatively, hit the gym or arrange activities like hiking, horse riding, and fishing. Rooms are attractive and come with a private bathroom, TV, iPod dock, and minibar.
#10 – Cabinas El Colibri
Best Hotel in Costa Rica Near Carrillo
Best Hotel in Costa Rica Near Carrillo
Cabinas El Colibri
- $
- Five-minute walk from the beach
- Top-notch restaurant that serves Argentinean cuisine
- Choice of rooms and studio apartments to suit different requirements
Cabinas El Colibri is our choice for the best hotel in Costa Rica near Carrillo.
Wake up in your comfortable and spacious room, enjoy breakfast, then feel the sand between your toes after a short stroll to the beach. Alternatively, take a dip in the onsite pool.
The onsite restaurant, bar, laundry services, parking, free Wi-Fi, and luggage storage make your stay even more comfortable. All rooms are en suite with a TV and safe.
More Best Hotels in Costa Rica
If you still haven’t found what you’re looking for, here are even more top hotels in Costa Rica to tempt you.
#11 – The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa and Resort
- $$$
- Situated close to Baldi Hot Springs and Arenal Volcano
- Adults’ pool and children’s pool
- Terrific spa and wellness facilities that include a sauna, beauty centre, and massages
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort is a top-rated hotel in Costa Rica. A fabulous place for people who want to indulge in some blissful pampering and treat themselves to some TLC, the hotel has an excellent spa and outdoor pool.
You’ll find a well-equipped gym at the Royal Corin, plus a gift shop, and a tour desk. Self-service laundry facilities are available to help you stay looking fresh. Rooms have everything you need for a comfortable stay with splashes of luxury.
#12 – Rancho de Lelo Ecolodge & Sustainable Farm
Rancho de Lelo Ecolodge and Sustainable Farm
- $
- Situated close to Monteverde Ecological Sanctuary and Selvatura Adventure Park
- Off-the-beaten-track, remote location
- Onsite restaurant-bar with cocktail hour specials
One of the nicest hotels in Costa Rica’s Monteverde, Rancho de Lelo Ecolodge & Sustainable Farm is a secluded gem. Escape the crowds and surround yourself by nature.
Accommodation is in individual cabins, providing even more privacy and an intimate atmosphere. Cabins have a private bathroom and some have a balcony. They combine rustic touches with modern features.
Feeling peckish? Satisfy your hunger in the onsite restaurant. Spend your days hiking and fishing and unwind in the evening in the communal lounge.
#13 – Hotel Buddha House
Hotel Buddha House
- $
- Peaceful hotel with various room types
- Onsite swimming pool that’s open all year round
- Excellent value for money
Hotel Buddha House is a top Costa Rica hotel for people who want to relax and enjoy a serene and spiritual vibe. Various room types suit different budgets and group sizes; rooms include those with private or shared bathrooms, those with fans or air-conditioning, and those that can accommodate two, three, four, and five-plus guests.
The restaurant serves comforting fare throughout the day and the pool is a great place to beat the heat. Toss something tasty on the BBQ, grab a good read from the library, or book a range of tours to explore the area. Jaco Beach is nearby too.
#14 – Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana Costa Rica
Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana Costa Rica
- $$
- A large well-equipped hotel close to San Jose’s highlights and nightlife
- Business centre and meeting rooms
- 24-hour reception and friendly, professional members of staff
A top-rated hotel in Costa Rica, Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana Costa Rica is right in the thick of the action, with bars, clubs, restaurants, shops, and attractions all at your fingertips.
Take some time out to chill at the pool, on the rooftop terrace, or in the sauna, and mix with friends old and new in the bar. The Garden Grill restaurant serves a range of international meals. The business centre, family rooms, laundry facilities, ATM, free Wi-Fi, and tour desk make your stay hassle free.
There’s so much to do in Costa Rica!! With the help of our epic guide to the 24 best things to do in Costa Rica, you’ll find something to suit your taste, no matter your budget!
#15 – Hotel Perico Azul & Surf Camp
Hotel Perico Azul and Surf Camp
- $
- Two-minute walk from Jaco Beach
- Shared kitchen and dining area
- Surf lessons and varied water sports available
A great hotel in Costa Rica for adventurous travellers and fans of water sports, Hotel Perico Azul & Surf Camp can be found alongside the soft sands of Jaco Beach. Book in for some top-quality surf lessons or rent surf equipment to get out on your own and ride the waves.
Want to chill? Relax by the inviting swimming pool. Whip up a storm in the shared kitchen or check out the diverse local restaurants. Rooms are basic but comfortable, clean, and homey, and each has a private bathroom.
#16 – Hotel Flying Crocodile
Hotel Flying Crocodile
- $$
- Small hotel with an intimate atmosphere
- Onsite restaurant serves tasty German fare
- Outdoor swimming pool with kid’s area and poolside bar
The laid-back Hotel Flying Crocodile is a top Costa Rica hotel in Samara. Expect eclectic designs, plenty of nature, rustic features, and modern interiors. The sparkling swimming pool is set in lush gardens, providing a great place to take it easy and bask in the sunshine.
Grab a drink from the bar or satisfy your hunger in the onsite restaurant with hearty German cuisine. Breakfast is included in the price. You can discover the surroundings with a range of tours, conveniently bookable on site.
#17 – La Tropicale Beach Lodge
La Tropicale Beach Lodge
- $
- Fantastic seafood restaurant and BBQ facilities
- Free continental breakfast served each morning
- Two beautiful swimming pools in gorgeous grounds
Among the top-ten hotels in Costa Rica’s area of Guanacaste, La Tropicale Beach Lodge offers a peaceful slice of paradise. Close to the beach and the jungle, your stay is sure to be diverse.
Various activities are arranged at the hotel and in the nearby area, including movie nights, water sports, horse riding, walking tours, and fishing. Bicycles are free to use. Other freebies include breakfast and Wi-Fi.
Two swimming pools, a bar with happy hour promotions, and a games room provide opportunities for fun without even leaving the hotel.
Bonus Hotel!
Arenal Springs Resort
Arenal Springs Resort
- $$$$
- Excellent hotel restaurant and bar
- Beauty centre, spa, pool, and massages
- Business facilities if you need to catch up on work while on vacation
The beautiful stone-surrounded swimming pool, set in green gardens with shaded cabanas, is a top feature of the gorgeous four-star Arenal Springs Resort. Various wellness facilities, massages, and a beauty centre add even more bliss to your restful stay.
Enjoy a bite to eat in the restaurant or order room service for an intimate meal on your private terrace. From the fitness centre and tour-booking services to the bright, modern rooms and business facilities, everything is geared up to make sure you have an exceptional stay.
Concluding Thoughts
So, there you go… The ultimate guide to the best hotels in Costa Rica. Book your favourites ASAP to make sure you have the perfect stay.
Looking for more info on where to stay? Put together by our travel experts, our epic guide for where to stay in Costa Rica will help you find an amazing, safe neighborhood (and super quickly!).
If you’re still deciding which hotel to choose no stress—go with our winner of the overall best hotel in Costa Rica: Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel & Nature Reserve. With beautiful cabins set in nature, stunning gardens, spa services, a top-class restaurant, and more, it’s all but impossible to find fault with this awesome Costa Rica hotel in San Ramon.
Which hotel(s) are you drawn to? It’s time to get ready for your Costa Rican adventure!
Have we skipped one of your favourite hotels in Costa Rica? We think these are the top hotels in Costa Rica but we’d love to hear from you too. Leave us a comment below.
Where else are you travelling to? Can we tempt you with our local guide to 15 awesome things to do in Bermuda?! Plus, while you’re there, our neighborhood guide to where to stay and the best hotels for your time on the wondrous island will help you save money and stress!
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About the Author Aaron Hovanesian
Born in Los Angeles, Aaron Hovanesian is one of the original staff writers for Hotel Jules. Having backpacked the world as a young man, Aaron now prefers to travel the world in luxury, proudly staying in the world's most amazing hotels and properties. When Aaron is not traveling he lives in Western Colorado he can be found brewing his own beer (probably an IPA) or spending time with his two amazing golden retrievers.