Top 10 Luxury Hotels in Costa Rica for a Tropical Escape

Costa Rica’s tropical beauty, vibrant wildlife, and welcoming culture make it one of the best places for a luxurious getaway. From lush rainforest retreats to beachfront escapes, Costa Rica's luxury hotels bring you close to nature while surrounding you with high-end amenities and comfort. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, here’s a list of the top 10 luxury hotels in Costa Rica to make your tropical escape unforgettable.

1. Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo

Top Pick for Families

The Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo sits on a private stretch of beach, making it an ideal spot for families who want both seclusion and top-notch service. This resort has an impressive variety of activities for kids, including nature programs, beach sports, and cultural activities, ensuring that every family member has something to enjoy.

Parents can relax at the spa or take a yoga class while their children participate in educational programs about local wildlife. The resort’s accommodations range from spacious guest rooms to private villas, providing plenty of space and privacy for families. Each room has ocean views, offering a perfect backdrop for a memorable family trip.

Dining here is also a highlight. The Four Seasons Costa Rica features several restaurants offering fresh, local cuisine along with international options to please all palates. With attentive service and kid-friendly menu choices, dining is both relaxed and refined.

Additionally, the resort offers family-friendly tours such as wildlife spotting and rainforest hikes, so everyone can experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica together. With its balance of relaxation and activities, the Four Seasons Costa Rica is perfect for families seeking an unforgettable vacation.

2. Nayara Gardens, Arenal Volcano

Best Spa Retreat

Nestled in the heart of Arenal Volcano National Park, Nayara Gardens is an exceptional choice for guests looking to unwind and reconnect in a peaceful setting. Known for its impressive spa, this hotel offers open-air treatment rooms that let you experience nature while enjoying massages and beauty treatments.

The spa here uses natural ingredients inspired by the Costa Rican landscape, such as volcanic mud and tropical fruit. These natural treatments help guests relax and rejuvenate, making it a favorite for those looking to pamper themselves. Each room and villa at Nayara Gardens offers private terraces with views of the volcano or lush gardens, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.

For those looking to explore, Nayara Gardens provides easy access to outdoor adventures like hot springs and rainforest hikes. The lush gardens are home to many colorful birds and butterflies, giving guests the chance to enjoy Costa Rica’s wildlife up close.

Dining at Nayara Gardens is a delight, with its fine restaurants serving a mix of local and international dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. A romantic ambiance and exceptional service make it a great choice for couples as well, but its spa amenities truly make it stand out.

3. Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo

Top Pick for Adventure Seekers

Located on the scenic Papagayo Peninsula, the Andaz Costa Rica Resort is a paradise for those who crave both luxury and adventure. The resort offers direct access to water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, plus exciting land activities such as mountain biking and zip-lining.

Rooms and suites feature contemporary designs with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in natural light and showcase incredible views. Each room feels connected to nature while still providing high-end amenities, making it an ideal base for adventurers. The outdoor infinity pools, some with ocean views, add an extra touch of relaxation after a day of activity.

The resort’s dining options are a mix of local and international flavors, offering dishes inspired by Costa Rican culture and fresh ingredients. Andaz Costa Rica has multiple restaurants with menus that focus on sustainability and local cuisine, so guests can experience the authentic flavors of Costa Rica.

Additionally, Andaz Costa Rica offers cultural activities like cooking classes, coffee tastings, and local art workshops. For thrill-seekers who want luxury without missing out on adventure, this resort is an ideal choice.

4. Nayara Springs, Arenal Volcano

Best for Couples

Nayara Springs is an adults-only resort that’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape in a serene setting. Located near the Arenal Volcano, it’s surrounded by lush rainforest, and each private villa has its own plunge pool filled with natural hot springs water.

Privacy is key here, with each villa hidden among the trees, giving couples a secluded and intimate experience. The rooms are elegantly designed with natural materials, blending luxury and nature effortlessly. Private terraces offer stunning views, making this a truly romantic escape.

The resort's spa is also an exceptional experience. Treatment rooms are open-air, letting couples listen to the sounds of the forest as they unwind with massages and therapies. Guests can also enjoy yoga sessions or relax by the infinity pool surrounded by tropical plants.

Dining at Nayara Springs includes options that showcase fresh, local ingredients, with a focus on Costa Rican flavors. Its commitment to exceptional service, comfort, and privacy makes Nayara Springs the top choice for couples.

5. Hotel Grano de Oro, San José

Best Urban Luxury Stay

Hotel Grano de Oro in San José is a luxury hotel that’s perfect for travelers who want to experience city life in Costa Rica. This hotel is located near the vibrant neighborhoods of San José, allowing guests to explore Costa Rican art, history, and dining right outside their doorstep.

Grano de Oro was once a Victorian mansion, and its architectural style reflects that elegance. Rooms and suites are beautifully decorated with rich wood furnishings and artwork, creating a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance. With its central location, guests can easily visit the National Theater, museums, and bustling markets.

The hotel’s restaurant is a must-try, known for its gourmet fusion of European and Costa Rican flavors. Guests can also enjoy a rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing in the city.

For those looking to blend a luxurious stay with city exploration, Hotel Grano de Oro offers a unique experience in San José, combining luxury accommodations with a prime city location.

6. El Silencio Lodge & Spa, Bajos del Toro

Top Nature Retreat

El Silencio Lodge & Spa is an eco-luxury retreat located in the cloud forests of Bajos del Toro, designed for guests seeking a peaceful connection with nature. This eco-friendly hotel offers private suites and villas with floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the beauty of the forest indoors.

Guided nature hikes and bird-watching tours provide guests with a deeper understanding of Costa Rica’s rich ecosystems. El Silencio also offers wellness programs, including yoga classes and nature-inspired spa treatments that help guests rejuvenate.

The rooms are tastefully designed with comfort in mind and feature private hot tubs that overlook the lush greenery, allowing guests to relax in a beautiful natural setting. With an emphasis on sustainability, El Silencio Lodge practices eco-friendly operations to preserve the pristine environment around it.

El Silencio’s dining is centered on fresh ingredients sourced from its own organic farm and nearby communities. For a luxury stay immersed in Costa Rica’s natural beauty, this hotel is unmatched.

7. Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort, Manuel Antonio

Best Beachfront Relaxation

Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort in Manuel Antonio offers the perfect combination of luxurious beachfront relaxation and eco-conscious accommodations. Located on a pristine beach and surrounded by rainforest, the resort provides guests with a unique experience of staying both close to nature and in high-end comfort.

The rooms and suites at Arenas Del Mar are designed with sustainability in mind, using natural materials that blend into the lush environment. Each accommodation offers scenic views of the ocean or forest, with many rooms featuring private outdoor terraces. The resort’s proximity to Manuel Antonio National Park also allows guests to enjoy wildlife sightings right from their rooms.

Dining at Arenas Del Mar focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, creating delicious dishes inspired by Costa Rican cuisine. With two on-site restaurants and an oceanfront bar, guests can enjoy meals with a view of the beach, making dining here an experience in itself.

The resort’s location makes it ideal for those looking to explore the region. From guided rainforest tours and surfing lessons to relaxing by the beachfront pool, Arenas Del Mar offers a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a top choice for eco-luxury in Costa Rica.

8. Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas, Guanacaste

Best for Sunset Views

Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas is known for its stunning sunset views, making it a top choice for those looking to relax in luxury. Each villa at this adults-only resort has a private plunge pool with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, creating a beautiful backdrop for any vacation.

This boutique hotel focuses on providing a tranquil experience, with each room designed to maximize privacy and comfort. The design incorporates natural materials, bringing a rustic yet luxurious feel to the space. The villas’ open layout allows for an indoor-outdoor experience.

Dining at Casa Chameleon highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients in dishes inspired by Costa Rican cuisine. The restaurant’s open-air setting allows guests to enjoy meals with a view of the ocean, making for an unforgettable dining experience.

For a truly romantic and scenic stay, Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas offers a unique luxury experience that emphasizes tranquility and breathtaking views.

9. The Springs Resort and Spa, Arenal

Best for Hot Springs Experience

The Springs Resort and Spa is a top choice for those looking to experience Costa Rica’s natural hot springs in a luxury setting. This sprawling resort near the Arenal Volcano features over a dozen hot spring pools, each set at different temperatures for a relaxing soak.

The resort’s rooms and suites offer volcano or valley views, and each is beautifully designed with local touches and luxurious furnishings. The spacious layout makes it a good choice for families and couples alike.

Guests can enjoy various outdoor activities like hiking, wildlife tours, and river tubing. The Springs Resort also has an animal sanctuary where visitors can learn about and interact with local wildlife.

Dining here is diverse, with options ranging from fine dining to casual poolside snacks. For a unique hot springs experience combined with luxury accommodations, The Springs Resort is hard to beat.

10. Kura Boutique Hotel, Uvita

Best for Eco-Luxury

Kura Boutique Hotel in Uvita is an eco-luxury property designed for environmentally conscious travelers who still want a high-end experience. Set on a lush hillside overlooking Marino Ballena National Park, this adults-only hotel has a sleek, modern design that’s both stylish and eco-friendly.

Each suite has a private terrace with panoramic ocean views, providing guests with an intimate and scenic retreat. The hotel prioritizes sustainable practices, from solar power to local sourcing, to protect the surrounding environment.

Kura Boutique’s infinity pool is an iconic feature, offering stunning views of the coastline and sunset. Guests can also explore nearby attractions, like whale-watching tours and hiking trails within Marino Ballena National Park.

The hotel’s restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients to create gourmet dishes that reflect Costa Rican flavors. For a blend of luxury and sustainability, Kura Boutique Hotel is an excellent choice.

Costa Rica’s luxury hotels offer something for every type of traveler, from serene retreats in the jungle to vibrant city stays. With this list of top hotels, you're sure to find the perfect place to experience the beauty and relaxation of Costa Rica in style.