Image courtesy of Nayara Springs
It’s no surprise that a vacation to Costa Rica, a paradise in Central America straddled by the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, promises one of the dreamiest tropical getaways imaginable. A dedication to a slower, more intentional and joy-filled way of life is ever-present. Pura vida, after all, is the country’s national motto. And Costa Rica's world-class resorts make any vacation to this lush paradise even more special.
Below, I’ve rounded up my favorite Costa Rican hotels and resorts, all of which exert a deep respect and appreciation for their natural locales. These magical properties help immerse you even more deeply into Costa Rica’s unique way of life, where the pace slows, and pressing obligations fade away.
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica
The Four Seasons Costa Rica is among the country’s best luxury resorts, with a sleek infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Coast, numerous dining options, adventurous nature experiences, wellness offerings and much more. Learn how to surf from experts at the resort's exclusive SurfX program, embark on a guided aerial trail expedition or opt for a luxe spa treatment. Here, wellness is more than physical, and in-house nutritionists, trainers, chefs and healers help travelers holistically balance the body, mind and spirit.
Fora Perks:
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. I'll be pleased to give you more details.
Nayara Tented Camp & Nayara Springs
Image courtesy of Nayara Tented Camp
Opt for the spectacular Nayara Tented Camp for safari-style tents, or Nayara Springs, a rainforest escape with luxe private villas, both of which sit near the regal Arenal Volcano. Your stay at either property (consistently ranked among the world’s best resorts) features private plunge pools fed by mineral hot springs, outdoor showers and breathtaking views of the diverse flora and fauna.
Fora Perks:
$100 food & beverage credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
Image courtesy of Andaz Costa Rica Resort
This beloved luxury hotel on the gorgeous Papagayo Peninsula boasts three beaches, a golf course, four swimming pools, a 24-hour fitness center, a kids' club and a wide array of nature adventures, including snorkeling.
Fora Perks:
$100 food & beverage credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hacienda AltaGracia, a Luxury Auberge Resort
Image courtesy of Hacienda AltaGracia
This serene casita resort features bird-song-filled acres of untamed tropical forest, a coffee farm, horse stables, organic chef’s gardens and a breathtaking wellbeing center. A dedication to holistic wellbeing permeates throughout, from the meticulously-sourced cuisine to the thoughtful, soothing design. Plus, the staff are quite possibly some of the loveliest people you'll ever meet.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit.
Breakfast daily.
Extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Pacuare Lodge
Image courtesy of Pacuare Lodge
This hotel on the banks of the thunderous Pacuare River features indigenous, Cabécar-inspired architecture, access to a lush rainforest and farm-to-table cuisine. Guests arrive via a white-water rafting adventure before settling into one of 20 secluded villas, each with a spring-fed private plunge pool.
Fora Perks:
Candlelit dinner by the river bank.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Kurà Boutique Hotel
Image courtesy of Kurà Boutique Hotel
Each of the eight luxury suites at this adults-only, boutique hotel high in the Uvita rainforest boasts panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and Pacific Ocean. Enjoy seven beautiful beaches along the blissfully untouched Whale Coast, known for its migrating humpback whales.
Fora Perks:
Complimentary poolside massage.
Complimentary lunch or dinner.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hotel Nantipa
Image courtesy of Hotel Nantipa
This luxurious beachfront getaway in Santa Teresa, on the Nicoya Peninsula, features lush villas and bungalows with a stylish design and a sustainable ethos, plus access to some of the country’s best beaches. But this is not your typical beach resort: the Nicoya Peninsula is also among one of the world’s famed Blue Zones, a UNESCO designation signifying the uniquely long and healthy lives of an area's local population.
Fora Perks:
$100 food & beverage credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Origins Luxury Lodge
Image courtesy of Origins Luxury Lodge
This five-star Costa Rican stay is perched among the mountainous rainforest of the country’s north, with views of the nearby Tenorio Volcano. Here, you can kayak in Rio Niño, hike among waterfalls, soak in a fire-heated hot tub on your private terrace and indulge in the property’s fantastic restaurant, which serves elevated dishes celebrating local ingredients, many of which are grown in the on-site organic garden.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit.
Welcome treat in room on arrival.
Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.
Rio Perdido Hotel & Thermal River
Image courtesy of Rio Perdido
This spa-like sanctuary in the canopy of the Guanacaste region lies on a vast nature reserve abundant with natural hot springs. The stylish property also offers numerous activities, including zip-lining, mountain biking, hiking and ample wellness experiences.
Lapa Rios Rainforest Lodge
Image courtesy of Lapa Rios Rainforest Lodge
This all-inclusive lodge on the Osa Peninsula is set amidst a tropical rainforest reserve overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Explore the nearby Corcovado National Park, among the most biologically diverse places on Earth (and home to adorable sloths), take in the stunning ocean views or lounge in your bungalow’s hammock before heading to the main lodge for a delicious meal highlighting local, organic ingredients.