As you embark on planning your dream vacation to Costa Rica, finding the right place to stay is essential to an enjoyable trip. With a variety of options from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels in stunning natural settings, Costa Rica offers accommodations for every taste and budget. However, the diversity of choices can make it difficult to determine what is right for you. By assessing your priorities, needs, and budget, you can narrow down the options and find lodging that will serve as the perfect base camp for your adventure. Also, you can use this guide to pick out the most suitable lodging for you.
Hotels in Costa Rica: budget to luxury options
When planning your trip to Costa Rica, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing where to stay. Costa Rica offers a wide range of lodging options to suit any budget or travel style.
Boutique Hotels
When choosing where to stay in Costa Rica, consider boutique hotels for a stylish yet intimate experience. These smaller, upscale properties offer personalized service and amenities focused on sustainability and community. Boutique hotels provide a curated experience in natural settings. They are located throughout the country, from beach towns to mountain retreats, and range from eco-lodges to luxury resorts. Many are situated on expansive grounds with hiking trails, yoga studios, spas, and farm-to-table restaurants.
When booking a boutique hotel in Costa Rica, look for the following:
- Locally owned and operated,
- Eco-friendly,
- All-inclusive or meal plan options,
- Unique activities,
- Secluded and intimate.
Eco-Lodges and resorts
To truly immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s natural surroundings, stay at an eco-lodge. These sustainable accommodations are set within rainforests or cloud forests, allowing you to wake up to the sounds of howler monkeys and toucans outside your window. Eco-lodges aim to have a low impact on the environment. They are built using local, natural materials and run on solar or hydroelectric power.
Costa Rica’s eco-lodges are found within a variety of ecosystems, from lowland rainforests to cloud forests 3,000 feet high in the mountains. Some lodges even border renowned national parks like Manuel Antonio or Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. This allows you to explore different natural environments and spot wildlife in their native habitat. You may see sloths, monkeys, agoutis, coatis, and over 200 species of birds.
Vacation rentals
When planning your Costa Rican getaway, consider renting a vacation home for a memorable stay. Costa Rica offers a variety of rental options to suit any need and budget.
Condos
For those seeking amenities like a pool, gym, or security, a condominium complex is ideal. Condos for rent are available near major tourist destinations. You’ll enjoy the convenience of nearby attractions and services while having your own space. Condo rentals typically sleep 2 to 6 people and include a kitchenette, a living area, and one or more bedrooms.
Villas
A villa provides the ultimate in privacy and luxury. Villas are freestanding homes, ranging from intimate one-bedroom casitas to sprawling estates with 5 or more bedrooms. Villas usually come with a private pool and yard, and some offer extras like a hot tub, home theater, or game room. Housekeeping and concierge services can often be arranged. Villas are perfect for large groups or families seeking an exclusive getaway.
Cabins
For a more rustic feel, consider renting a cabin. Cabins are located throughout the country, including beach, mountain, and rainforest settings. Accommodations range from basic with minimal amenities to upscale with full kitchens and panoramic views. A cabin stay places you close to nature, with opportunities for activities like hiking, bird watching, and stargazing. Cabins typically sleep 2 to 8 people.
Hostels in Costa Rica
If you’re traveling on a budget, hostels are an affordable option for accommodation. Hostels provide basic lodging, often in a dorm-style setting, for a fraction of the cost of a hotel. Staying in a hostel is also a great way to meet fellow travelers and make new friends.
Hostels typically offer a choice of shared dorm rooms or private rooms. Dorm rooms contain multiple beds, usually bunk beds, and are the most budget-friendly option.
Recommended hostels
Some highly-rated hostels in Costa Rica include:
- Arenal Hostel Resort; offers dorms, private rooms, a pool, and a hot tub.
- Hostel Pangea; 24-hour security, bar, and daily activities.
- Montezuma Hostel; ocean views, hammocks, communal kitchen, and nightly bonfires.
- Rocking J’s Hostel; private cabins, communal dinners, and reggae music.
Beachfront accommodation
If waking up to the sound of gentle ocean waves and salty sea breezes appeals to you, consider booking beachfront accommodation for your Costa Rican getaway. Coastal lodging options range from large resorts with all the amenities to intimate boutique hotels with just a few rooms.
Beach house rentals
If you want maximum privacy and independence, renting a beach house is an appealing option. You can find beachfront houses and cabins for rent up and down the Pacific coast, especially near major surfing destinations like Jaco, Tamarindo, and Santa Teresa. Most come fully furnished and equipped so you can cook your meals and often have additional amenities like private pools, hot tubs, and outdoor showers. While secluded, you are still within walking distance of local restaurants, shops, and activities.
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