In Costa Rica, “pura vida” isn’t just a cheery greeting—it’s the national mantra. Think of it as the Costa Rican way of saying, “Let’s embrace life’s awesomeness while we sip fresh coconut water and high-five a sloth.” It’s no wonder this paradise lands on the top of happiness charts (and greenest countries, too). With its endless beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanoes that just scream “I’m a real hothead,” Costa Rica’s got biodiversity so rich it could put a treasure chest to shame.
Now, let’s dive into the five best resorts in Costa Rica that are rumored to be the crème de la crème of vacation spots. From indulging in cacao ceremonies at the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo to luxuriating in natural hot springs at Tabacón Thermal Resort and Spa, these resorts have all the trimmings for a Costa Rican escapade. Expect to meet rare wildlife, zip-line through verdant canopies, and, yes, sip coffee so artisanal it practically sings a folk ballad.
So, can these 5 best resorts in Costa Rica actually live up to the hype? Or are they just really good at photoshopping their brochures? Buckle up and find out if these top-notch resorts can truly wow you—or at least make you reconsider your boring, non-Costa Rican vacation plans.
Table of Contents
Unleashing Costa Rica’s Best-Kept Secrets: Can These 5 Best Resorts in Costa Rica Really Wow You?
The Crown Jewel of Luxury: Why the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo Tops the List of Best Resorts in Costa Rica
When it comes to the best resorts in Costa Rica, the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo is like the VIP of the resort world. Picture this: 1,400 acres of pristine tropical forest, two exclusive beaches, and a level of luxury so high you might need a ladder to reach it. It’s like Costa Rica’s version of a royal palace, but with better weather and fewer crowns.
Who’s going to fall head over heels for this slice of paradise? If you’re a discerning traveler who values privacy, luxury amenities, and a staff that practically reads your mind, then this is your jam. This resort doesn’t just do luxury; it does “luxury with a side of ‘wow’.”
The Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo is loaded with all-star amenities that make other resorts look like they’re still stuck in the ‘90s. There’s an 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed golf course that’s so exclusive it practically whispers “You’re amazing” every time you swing. For the foodies, there’s a smorgasbord of dining options, from Italian delights at Pesce to the beachy vibes at Virador Beach Club, and even a wood-fired Latin grill at Bahia. And if you’ve ever wanted to mix your own rum blend, La Reserva bar is ready to make your mixology dreams come true.
But wait, there’s more! The 2023 renovation added a state-of-the-art wellness shala for those who want to do yoga in a place that doesn’t just overlook the ocean but practically caresses it. Kids will adore the revamped kids club, and adventure seekers can conquer the Palmares Outpost—a 250-acre playground with zip-lining, aerial trekking, and mountain biking that’ll make your Fitbit cry tears of joy.
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For those who prefer a more tranquil pursuit, the Papagayo Explorers team will help you become one with nature through coral planting, hikes to hidden waterfalls, and maybe even a guided meditation with a friendly monkey.
So, if you’re on the hunt for the best resorts in Costa Rica, the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo isn’t just a contender—it’s the reigning champ.
Best Resorts in Costa Rica: Hotel Nantipa—Where Pura Vida Meets Pure Bliss
If you’re on the hunt for the best resorts in Costa Rica, and you fancy a boutique stay with a dash of local flavor, look no further than Hotel Nantipa. Nestled in Santa Teresa, this gem is like a slice of Tico paradise—minus the overcrowded tourist traps and plus all the charm you could dream of.
Why will free-spirited couples and solo travelers fall head over heels for this place? Because it’s the epitome of the pura vida lifestyle, with a local vibe that’s as fresh as a morning mango. Imagine private plunge pools where you can sip cocktails while pretending you’re in a Netflix series, outdoor showers where you can rinse off the day’s adventures with a view of the ocean, and private terraces with hammocks so comfy they should come with a warning label.
Hotel Nantipa is one of the best resorts in Costa Rica, boasting 29 modern and sleek bungalows, villas, and suites that are just a few sandy steps away from the beach and the local smoothie bars. It’s basically the perfect launchpad for your journey into Costa Rican bliss. And since it’s part of the Small Luxury Hotels collection, you can expect the usual boutique perks: friendly local staff, a restaurant that serves up traditional Tico dishes and fresh seafood, and even community events like beach clean-ups and yoga classes.
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Don’t miss out on the Blue Wellness Experience, a package that’s essentially your ticket to feeling like a zen master. It includes customized yoga and meditation sessions, nutritious meals that even your health-conscious aunt would approve of, and nature excursions that are sure to make your Instagram followers jealous.
So if you’re searching for the best resorts in Costa Rica that offer a local touch with all the luxury trimmings, Hotel Nantipa might just be your ticket to paradise. Get ready to embrace the pura vida vibe while enjoying some serious beachside R&R.
Lapa Rios Lodge: The Ultimate Eco-Jungle Retreat Among the Best Resorts in Costa Rica
If you’re on a quest for the best resorts in Costa Rica where your wildest rainforest dreams can come true, look no further than Lapa Rios Lodge. This eco-lodge isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a green, guilt-free adventure nestled in Central America’s last remaining tropical lowland rainforest. Think of it as the VIP section of rainforest retreats, but with fewer velvet ropes and more howler monkeys.
Lapa Rios, the pioneer of eco-lodging in Costa Rica since 1993, has set the gold standard for sustainable hotels in the region. With 17 bungalows tucked away in over 1,000 acres of pristine rainforest on the Osa Peninsula, this lodge is the ultimate sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts. It’s like Mother Nature’s very own five-star resort, but with a serious commitment to protecting her finest features.
Here’s why it stands out among the best resorts in Costa Rica: not only is it plastic-free (take that, disposable culture!), but it’s also packed with eco-friendly perks. From all-local staff who know their stuff, to collaborations with nonprofits for solar panels, education programs, and community water pumps, this place isn’t just a pretty face in the jungle. They even partner with the Nature Conservancy and CEDARENA to keep their rainforest fortress in top shape.
What’s on offer? Prepare for a wildlife extravaganza in Corcovado National Park, which is basically the Amazon’s cooler cousin. The Lapa Rios Reserve is home to an astonishing 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity. Keep your eyes peeled for Costa Rica’s cheekiest monkeys, the elusive three-toed sloth, a tapir, silky anteater, poison dart frogs, and over 300 bird species. Birdwatchers, rejoice—those elevated bungalows and villas are practically built for spotting scarlet macaws and other avian wonders.
When you stay at Lapa Rios Lodge, you get a front-row seat to nature’s greatest hits, complete with wellies for hiking and naturally sourced bath products for a guilt-free rinse after your jungle escapades. And yes, all tours and activities, plus three a-la-carte meals a day, are included. So, if you’re in search of the best resorts in Costa Rica where you can live out your eco-adventurer fantasies, Lapa Rios Lodge is your ticket to a sustainable slice of paradise.
Hacienda AltaGracia: The Pinnacle of Luxury and Nature at the Best Resorts in Costa Rica
If your idea of the best resorts in Costa Rica involves a luxurious retreat where nature and five-star service meet in perfect harmony, Hacienda AltaGracia should be at the top of your list. This isn’t just a getaway; it’s a full-blown nature immersion experience where you’ll be pampered, dazzled, and probably never want to leave.
Perched on 180 lush acres in the Talamanca Mountains, Hacienda AltaGracia is like a secret garden with 50 luxury casitas that make other resorts look like budget motels. From the moment your private charter flight touches down on the resort’s own airstrip (because why not start your vacation with a little VIP flair?), you’ll be greeted by your very own Compa—think of them as your personal vacation wizard, ready to craft a magical itinerary tailored just for you.
This sanctuary for luxury travelers comes with a smorgasbord of amenities that will make you wonder how you ever lived without them. From equestrian stables for your inner cowboy or cowgirl to terraces with heated private plunge pools (perfect for that “I’ve arrived” Instagram shot), this place has it all. And let’s not forget the wellness programming by The Well, where you can indulge in spa treatments that are probably more relaxing than a full-body massage from a team of masseuses.
Families, don’t fret—kids aged five to twelve get their own slice of paradise at the Junior Adventurers’ Club, featuring a rope course, butterfly garden, and other activities that’ll make them think you’re the coolest parents ever. Meanwhile, you can bask in tranquility with one- or two-bedroom casitas that overlook coffee plantations and verdant hills. And yes, all your meals, non-alcoholic beverages, activities, and transfers are included—because nothing says relaxation like not having to worry about a single thing.
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When it comes to dining, don’t miss the Edible Garden Dinner Series at the El Cultivo garden. And for a true taste of local tradition, the weekly Cienfuegos rodeo barbecue dinner is a must—think of it as an outdoor feast with a side of cowboy charm and a horse show that’ll make you wish you’d brought your own lasso.
So, if you’re scoping out the best resorts in Costa Rica for a transformative retreat that blends luxury with natural splendor, Hacienda AltaGracia is your ultimate destination. Prepare to be wowed, pampered, and probably spoiled for any other vacation you’ll ever take.
Silvestre Nosara: One of the Best Resorts in Costa Rica for Surf, Sun, and Rooftop Bliss
Dreaming of the best resorts in Costa Rica where luxury meets laid-back beach vibes? Look no further than Silvestre Nosara Hotel and Residences. This newly opened coastal retreat, launched in February 2024, is a prime contender for the title of the best resort in Costa Rica, especially if your ideal vacation involves surfing, stunning sunsets, and rooftop relaxation.
Nestled just steps from the pristine sands of Playa Guiones, Silvestre Nosara offers nine luxurious residences that redefine what it means to be the best resort in Costa Rica. These two-bedroom havens come with ensuite bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens, and the ultimate convenience of washers and dryers. The Tropical Garden Grand Residence takes the luxury up a notch with a private barrel sauna, ice bath, and outdoor dining area complete with a grill—perfect for après-surf cookouts.
When it comes to amenities, Silvestre Nosara is a top pick among the best resorts in Costa Rica. The rooftop infinity pool is a highlight, offering breathtaking views that make your poolside cocktail even more enjoyable. Surf enthusiasts will appreciate the surf concierge and Jim Banks performance surfboards, ensuring you ride the best waves in style. And with Le Labo toiletries and Marshall speakers, this resort knows how to blend sophistication with fun.
For those seeking pure relaxation, the rooftop terrace provides a stellar spot for stargazing after a day of adventures. Don’t be surprised if you catch a glimpse of Nosara’s very own residents—the local monkeys—traversing the area’s longest “monkey bridge.” This treetop pathway is a unique feature that makes Silvestre Nosara a standout among the best resorts in Costa Rica.
Families and groups will find that Silvestre Nosara delivers personalized service that sets it apart from other residential-style accommodations. With options like private chef-prepared dinners, grocery delivery from over 25 local producers, and Blue Zone-inspired breakfasts, this resort ensures that your stay is as indulgent as it is unforgettable. The wellness studio and a variety of activities round out the experience, making it clear why Silvestre Nosara is a top choice among the best resorts in Costa Rica.
So, if you’re searching for the best resorts in Costa Rica where you can enjoy surfing, stunning views, and top-notch amenities, Silvestre Nosara is your perfect match. Get ready to experience a beachside retreat that combines luxury with relaxation and a splash of monkey magic.
Origins Lodge: The Best Resort in Costa Rica for Off-the-Grid Romance and Jungle Bliss
Looking for the best resorts in Costa Rica that offer a slice of secluded paradise? Say hello to Origins Lodge, where honeymooners and couples can escape the hustle and bustle and dive into a world of tranquility and natural wonder. If your ideal getaway involves panoramic views, private plunge pools, and being completely off the grid (but with all the luxury, of course), Origins Lodge might just be your next obsession.
Tucked away in the lush rainforest of Bijagua de Upala, Origins Lodge is not exactly on the typical tourist map—yet. This hidden gem features six one-bedroom circular lodges and a three-bedroom villa, all nestled within 111 acres of untamed jungle. Imagine sprawling decks with plunge pools and outdoor fireplaces where you can cozy up and marvel at views of the lake and Nicaragua’s volcanoes. It’s like a romantic fairy tale, but with a lot more luxury and fewer evil queens.
The resort’s approach to nature and luxury makes it a standout among the best resorts in Costa Rica. Here, you can hike, practice yoga, and indulge in spa treatments that feature local ingredients. With acclaimed French chef Jean-Luc L’Hourre in charge of the culinary program, dining at Origins Lodge is like a rainforest feast fit for royalty. You’ll savor meals made from the freshest local produce, including honey from Meliponias beehives and cheese from the property’s own cow. And if you’re wondering where your eggs come from, don’t worry—they’re from the farm’s chickens.
For those who think “off-the-grid” means not missing out, the lodge delivers. The natural lagoons are teeming with local fish, and horseback rides through rural trails let you mingle with local farmers who supply the hotel. Plus, Origins Lodge is making a difference with reforestation efforts, so you can feel extra good about your stay while being surrounded by stunning green scenery.
So, if you’re on the hunt for the best resorts in Costa Rica that offer a mix of romantic seclusion and eco-friendly luxury, Origins Lodge is your dream destination. Pack your bags, leave the GPS behind, and get ready for a getaway where the jungle is your playground and serenity is your new best friend.
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