Hotel Santo Tomas, part of the 'Hotel Santo Tomas / Historical Property' offer, is situated in the traditional Barrio Amon neighbourhood of San José, just a short walk from the Jade Museum, Gold Museum, and National Theatre. This 3-star hotel has received very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, hot tub, gym, and restaurant serving a traditional Costa Rican breakfast. Guests can enjoy the outdoor space, relax in the spa, or make use of the concierge service to arrange tours and excursions.
8.0 305 reviews
Costa Rica
15/07 – 14/08
$126/nighttotal: $3780 (30 )
Howler Monkey Hotel
1 2
hotel, Montezuma
The Howler Monkey Hotel is a beachfront lodge situated in Cabuya, 6 kilometres from Montezuma and next to the Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve. This family-friendly hotel offers wooden bungalows with private porches, hammocks, and BBQ facilities, plus an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and various watersports equipment rentals, alongside organised tours including canopy tours and horse riding.
9.1 142 reviews
Costa Rica
27/06 – 04/07
$141/nighttotal: $987 (7 )
Dolce Uvita
1 2
hotel, Bahia
Dolce Uvita, in Uvita, is located 2.1km from Uvita Beach and 2.6km from Hermosa Beach, offering convenient access to these popular coastal spots and the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary (14km away). This pet-friendly guesthouse boasts a swimming pool, jacuzzi, and on-site restaurant and bar, alongside a fitness centre, spa, and concierge service; all rooms include air conditioning and a safety deposit box.
8.3 110 reviews
Costa Rica
21/07 – 31/07
$98/nighttotal: $980 (10 )
Hostal Nuevo Arenal Downtown, Private Rooms With Bathroom
2 5
hotel, Nuevo Arenal
Hostal Nuevo Arenal Downtown, offering Private Rooms With Bathroom, enjoys a central Nuevo Arenal location, 19 kilometres from the Cavernas de Venado caves and 47 kilometres from La Fortuna Waterfall. This guesthouse provides 15-square-metre private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, parking, and an on-site restaurant; airport transfers and car hire are also available.
8.3 316 reviews
Costa Rica
27/06 – 04/07
$177/nighttotal: $1239 (7 )
Alma Vida Hotel
1 2
hotel, Manuel Antonio
Alma Vida Hotel, a 3-star guesthouse in Quepos, Costa Rica, is situated a kilometre from Espadilla Beach and 2 kilometres from Biesanz and Playitas Beaches, offering convenient access to popular surfing spots and other coastal attractions. This family-friendly establishment features a swimming pool, on-site restaurant serving breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free private parking, alongside a tour desk for booking local excursions.
9.6 284 reviews
Costa Rica
12/01 – 13/01
$143/nightfor 1 night
Agua Inn
1 2
hotel, Nuevo Arenal
Agua Inn is a 3-star hotel situated in a rainforest setting near Arenal Lake, just a short drive from Arenal Volcano National Park. It is rated excellent by guests for its location, cleanliness and overall experience. The hotel has 16 square metre rooms with a single bedroom and bathroom. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, a terrace with forest views and a traditional breakfast, as well as easy access to a variety of dining options and local attractions.
8.6 1438 reviews
Costa Rica
28/12 – 04/01
$642/nighttotal: $4494 (7 )
Hotel La Rosa De America
5 8
hotel, Alajuela
Hotel La Rosa de América, in Alajuela's suburbs, is situated 5km from Alajuela city centre and 7km from Juan Santamaría International Airport, offering a convenient paid airport shuttle. This 3-star establishment features an outdoor pool, lush gardens, a restaurant serving Italian and international cuisine (including a complimentary breakfast), and rooms with private entrances, free Wi-Fi, and private parking; spa and concierge services are also available.
Costa Rica
15/07 – 14/08
$81/nighttotal: $2430 (30 )
Cabinas El Dulce Sueño
1 2
hotel, San Cristóbal
Cabinas El Dulce Sueño in San Cristóbal offers a tranquil escape, located 14.8 kilometres from La Fortuna Waterfall and 14.5 kilometres from Ecotermales Fortuna Spa, with Fortuna Airport a mere 3.1 kilometres away. This accommodation provides air-conditioned rooms for up to three guests, featuring a garden, restaurant, bar, and complimentary WiFi and parking, ideal for families and pet owners seeking a comfortable base.
8.8 3197 reviews
Costa Rica
21/07 – 31/07
$365/nighttotal: $3650 (10 )
Hilton San Jose La Sabana
2 5
hotel, San José
The Hilton San Jose La Sabana is located in the La Sabana district, just 1 kilometre from the National Stadium of Costa Rica and 3 kilometres from the Tobías Bolaños International Airport. This 4-star hotel receives very good user reviews for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hotel offers a range of modern amenities, including a fitness centre, indoor pool, sauna, and business centre. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast every morning and dine at the hotel's restaurant, as well as unwind on the terrace or take a dip in the pool.
9.5 909 reviews
Costa Rica
17/11 – 21/11
$215/nighttotal: $860 (4 )
Canal Grande Lodge
1 2
hotel, Piedades
Canal Grande Lodge is situated in Piedades, Costa Rica, 9.2km from the National Stadium and 11km from Juan Santamaría International Airport, offering convenient access to Parque Viva (9.2km). This guest house provides accommodation for two guests in one bedroom with one bathroom, featuring a swimming pool, sauna, restaurant, bar, room service, free Wi-Fi, and free parking, plus airport transfers and varied breakfast options.
8.8 489 reviews
Costa Rica
28/12 – 04/01
$259/nighttotal: $1813 (7 )
Fish Hook Marina Hotel
3 6
hotel, Golfito
Fish Hook Marina Hotel in Golfito, Costa Rica, enjoys a convenient location just 5 kilometres from Golfito Airport. This family-friendly establishment offers guests air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, bar, spa, fitness centre, pool, and grill, plus car rental services for exploring the surrounding area.
9.4 1216 reviews
Costa Rica
12/01 – 13/01
$121/nightfor 1 night
Villas Santa Teresa
1 2
hotel, Santa Teresa Beach
Santa Teresa Surf Vista Villas is a 10-minute walk from Santa Teresa Beach, close to restaurants and shops, and just a short drive from Montezuma, Tambor, and Montaña Grande. The hotel has excellent user ratings and is highly rated for its location and cleanliness. The villas offer stunning views of the sea, mountains, or gardens. Guests can enjoy a year-round outdoor pool, barbecue, sun terrace, spa, and fitness centre, as well as concierge service, car rental, free parking, and Wi-Fi.
Best Costa Rica luxury hotels (4 and 5 stars)
Among the 4684 accommodations in Costa Rica, here are the 4 best luxury hotels
9.0 2007 reviews
Costa Rica
05/07 – 09/07
$535/nighttotal: $2140 (4 )
Apartotel & Suites Villas Del Rio
2 7
hotel, San José
Apartotel & Suites Villas Del Rio is located in a quiet residential area near Costa Rica Country Club, about 5 miles from the centre of San José. The hotel has received very good user ratings, with excellent scores for location and cleanliness. The aparthotel offers a range of well-equipped apartments with living rooms, cable TV, DVD players, iPod docking stations, and fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes. Guests can enjoy two outdoor pools, a hot tub, a gym, a mini-market, barbecue facilities, and a free airport shuttle service.
8.5 1236 reviews
Costa Rica
29/12 – 05/01
$492/nighttotal: $3444 (7 )
Rincon Del Valle Hotel & Suites
2 8
hotel, San José
The Rincon Del Valle Hotel & Suites is located in San José, just 0.25km from La Sabana Metropolitan Park and 2km from the city centre. This 4-star hotel is rated as very good by previous guests, with consistently high scores for location, cleanliness and overall experience. The hotel offers a range of modern amenities, including a spa, fitness centre, restaurant and bar, as well as a terrace and garden for relaxation. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and room service, and there is also a public car park close by.
8.7 885 reviews
Costa Rica
07/08 – 14/08
$579/nighttotal: $4053 (7 )
Hotel Playa Bejuco
3 12
hotel, Esterillos Este
Hotel Playa Bejuco is situated just 75 metres from the beach in Bejuco, a 30-minute drive from the bustling Jaco Town Center and 1.5 hours from Juan Santamaría International Airport. This 4-star hotel has been rated "very good" by previous guests. The hotel offers a range of facilities including a swimming pool, jacuzzi, restaurant, bar and fitness centre. Guests can also enjoy a terrace, garden, sauna and room service.
8.5 2937 reviews
Costa Rica
01/08 – 07/08
$171/nighttotal: $1026 (6 )
Holiday Inn San Jose La Sabana By Ihg
1 2
hotel, San José
The Holiday Inn - San Jose La Sabana, an IHG Hotel, is located in Uruca, a district 4km from downtown San José, close to the La Sabana Metropolitan Park and 3km from Tobías Bolaños International Airport. The hotel is a 4-star establishment and receives very good user ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hotel offers a range of rooms, some with private bathrooms featuring hot tubs, others with slippers and free toiletries. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a fitness centre, a spa, a restaurant, a bar, and a tennis court.
Top cities
Best Costa Rica hotels with a pool
Among the 4684 accommodations in Costa Rica, here are the 4 best hotels with a pool
8.4 2057 reviews
Costa Rica
27/12 – 02/01
$439/nighttotal: $2634 (6 )
Hilton Cariari Doubletree San Jose - Costa Rica
2 7
hotel, San José
The Hilton Cariari Doubletree San Jose - Costa Rica is a 5-star hotel situated a short drive from Juan Santamaría International Airport and a 10-minute drive from the city centre. The hotel enjoys a convenient location, offering easy access to both the airport and the city. It has received very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hotel features a range of amenities and facilities for guests to enjoy, including a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness centre, and several dining options. Guests can also take advantage of the on-site ATM, free parking, and Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.
9.4 505 reviews
Costa Rica
18/12 – 22/01
$219/nighttotal: $7665 (35 )
Ballena Paradise Apartments
2 4
hotel, Uvita
Ballena Paradise Apartahotel in Uvita is a short 7-minute walk from Uvita Beach, 1.6km from Hermosa Beach, and within a 14km and 30km drive of Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary and Nauyaca Waterfalls respectively. This two-bedroom apartment offers 72 square metres of space, including a private bathroom, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and an outdoor swimming pool; room service and free private parking are also provided.
9.7 376 reviews
Costa Rica
15/07 – 24/07
$120/nighttotal: $1080 (9 )
Hotel Buenos Aires
1 2
hotel, Santa Teresa Beach
Hotel Buenos Aires offers beachfront accommodation on Santa Teresa's main surf beach, 16km from Tambor and 34km from Montaña Grande. This Santa Teresa Beach hotel boasts a 24 square metre room with one bedroom, one bathroom, sleeping up to two guests, and features an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant (Brisas del Mar), free Wi-Fi, and free private parking.
8.5 616 reviews
Costa Rica
01/07 – 31/07
$196/nighttotal: $5880 (30 )
Hotel El Paraiso Escondido - Costa Rica
1 4
hotel, Jacó
Hotel El Paraiso Escondido, a 3-star establishment in Jacó, Costa Rica, is located 0.35km from Jaco Beach and 0.15km from various international restaurants. This guesthouse offers air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV, a swimming pool, barbecue facilities, free Wi-Fi, and on-site luggage storage; local tour and horseback riding assistance is also available.
Frequently Asked Questions about hotels in Costa Rica
What are the best landmarks to visit?
For iconic landmarks, you can't miss the Arenal Volcano, with its stunning views and surrounding rainforest. Poás Volcano National Park offers breathtaking crater views, while the majestic Manuel Antonio National Park boasts beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife. Then there's the cloud forests of Monteverde, a unique ecosystem with hanging bridges and incredible biodiversity. And don't forget the stunning beaches of Tamarindo and the vibrant capital city, San José, with its National Museum.
What are the most popular 2, 3 and 4-star hotels in Costa Rica?
There is a wide range of hotels to be found in Costa Rica. Like any country with a tropical climate and gorgeous beaches, you'll find an abundance of all-inclusive luxury resorts with their own spas, swimming pools, restaurants and more. Business travelers can stop in the urban corporate hotels, while those traveling for pleasure can stay in a cute boutique hotel or bed and breakfast.
What are some must-do activities?
Ziplining through the rainforest canopy is a classic Costa Rican adventure. White-water rafting on the Pacuare River is thrilling, while surfing lessons in Tamarindo are a popular choice. For a more relaxed experience, consider exploring the cloud forests on a guided hike, or taking a boat tour to spot wildlife like dolphins and whales. Birdwatching is also incredible, particularly in areas like Monteverde and Tortuguero.
One type of accommodation that's especially brilliant in Costa Rica is the ecolodge, which you can find in the jungles and other stunning settings. You can find another type of hotel accommodation: the cabina, a locally owned, one-floor establishment with doors opening directly outside.
When is the ideal time to visit?
The dry season (December to April) offers the best weather for most activities, with sunshine and lower humidity. However, it's also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. The green season (May to November) has more rain, but also fewer tourists and lower prices. It's still possible to enjoy many activities, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant.
What are the best family friendly hotels in Costa Rica?
If you're visiting Costa Rica for the first time, then Manuel Antonio is a good place to start. It's one of the country's most popular destinations due to its beautiful beaches and surrounding nature, and cute sloths. Alternatively, La Fortuna is another popular tourist spot, famous for the Arena Volcano National Park. Costa Rica is all about nature. If you're visiting this lush country, you'll want to visit some of its gorgeous natural parks, like the Manuel Antonio National Park, the Arenal Volcano National Park, or Monteverde and the Cloud Forests. For beaches, head over to Dominical, Tamarindo, Jaco, and Mal Pais and Santa Teresa. If you're looking for museums and culture, then stop by the capital of San Jose.
Which neighborhoods or areas are best for spending a week?
La Fortuna (near Arenal Volcano) offers a great mix of adventure activities and relaxation. Tamarindo is perfect for beach lovers and surfers. Monteverde is ideal for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a cooler climate in the cloud forest. For a more cultural experience, San José provides access to museums, theaters, and vibrant nightlife. Manuel Antonio is great for those who want a combination of beach and rainforest.
What are the best pet friendly hotels in Costa Rica?
For breakfast, try Gallo Pinto, a rice dish mixed with black beans, served with natilla (sour cream), scrambled eggs and fried plantain. Casados, a rice and bean dish, is often served for lunch with some meat or fish and a salad with fried plantains, white cheese and corn tortilla. Arroz con pollo, rice with chicken, is another commonly served dish, often served with local vegetables like yucca, chayote, and camote. Try arroz con leche, a local and traditional rice pudding from Costa Rica.
Which parts are perfect for a weekend getaway?
If you're short on time, consider a weekend trip to Pacuare River Lodge for white-water rafting, or to Manuel Antonio National Park for beautiful beaches and wildlife viewing. The Poás Volcano National Park and nearby Doka Estate Coffee Plantation make for a fantastic nature and coffee-focused weekend. Alternatively, explore the beaches and nightlife of Jaco.
What are the best hotels with jacuzzi in Costa Rica?
How easy is it to get around in Costa Rica without a car?
The best way to get around Costa Rica is by bus. Buses are reliable, navigable, inexpensive, and you can pick up many services in the capital, San Jose. It's safer and easier to get around by bus rather than driving yourself, as there are many potholes and confusing intersections.
Is renting a car recommended for exploring?
Renting a car can be beneficial for exploring at your own pace, especially if you plan to visit multiple locations. However, the roads can be challenging in some areas, and driving can be stressful. Public transportation and organized tours are also viable options, depending on your itinerary and preferences. Consider your comfort level with driving in unfamiliar conditions and the type of experiences you're seeking.
What are the best hotels with a swimming pool in Costa Rica?
Credit cards are accepted in most tourist areas, especially larger hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's always a good idea to carry some colones (CRC), especially in smaller towns and rural areas, as some smaller businesses may only accept cash.
What are the largest airports?
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near San José is the main international airport. Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia serves the Guanacaste region, offering easier access to the Pacific beaches.
Are there any unwritten rules of behavior visitors should know about?
Costa Ricans are known for their 'pura vida' lifestyle, emphasizing relaxation and friendliness. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is appreciated. Being respectful of the environment and wildlife is crucial. It's also polite to be punctual for appointments and to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
What local specialties should you try?
Gallo pinto (rice and beans) is a staple breakfast dish. Casado is a hearty lunch plate with rice, beans, meat, salad, and plantains. Try the fresh seafood, especially ceviche. Olla de carne is a flavorful beef stew. And don't forget to sample the delicious Costa Rican coffee.
Where are the best shopping spots?
San José offers a variety of shopping options, from upscale malls like Multiplaza Escazú to local markets like Mercado Central. In tourist areas like Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio, you'll find shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and clothing. For unique artisan crafts, explore smaller towns and villages.
What signature events or festivals take place?
The Festival de la Luz (Festival of Lights) in San José is a vibrant parade with elaborate floats. Many towns and cities celebrate their patron saint's day with colorful festivals and religious processions. Specific dates vary annually, so checking a local calendar closer to your travel dates is recommended.
What’s the best place for mild and comfortable weather?
The Central Valley, including San José and surrounding areas, generally offers a mild and comfortable climate year-round, with temperatures averaging between 15-25°C. The higher elevations of the cloud forests also provide cooler temperatures.
What are the most common travel mistakes tourists make?
Underestimating travel times between destinations is a common mistake. Not packing appropriate clothing for varied climates (rain gear in the green season, layers for higher elevations) is another. Failing to learn basic Spanish phrases can also limit interactions. And finally, neglecting to plan for potential insect bites and taking precautions against them is a frequent oversight.
What are some hidden gems to explore?
The Corcovado National Park in the Osa Peninsula is a remote and incredibly biodiverse area. The Tenorio Volcano National Park, with its stunning Rio Celeste river, is another lesser-known gem. The beaches and wildlife of the Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge are also worth exploring for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
Best Costa Rica hotels with parking
8.8 2240 reviews
Costa Rica
01/08 – 07/08
$112/nighttotal: $672 (6 )
Casona Rústica & Bungalow
1 2
hotel, Fortuna
Casona Rústica & Bungalow is located in Fortuna, just 4.4 miles from La Fortuna Waterfall and 3.9 miles from Kalambu Hot Springs, making it a convenient base for exploring the region's natural beauty. This 3-star hotel is popular with guests, receiving very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. This charming guesthouse offers a choice of rooms and bungalows, each with private bathrooms and air conditioning for comfortable stays. Guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool, relax on the terrace, and take advantage of amenities like free Wi-Fi, parking, and airport transportation.
9.1 4363 reviews
Costa Rica
13/01 – 16/01
$320/nighttotal: $960 (3 )
Hotel Secreto La Fortuna
1 4
hotel, Fortuna
Hotel Secreto La Fortuna is located in Fortuna, just 75 miles from both Monteverde and Juan Santamaría International Airport, making it a convenient base for exploring the area. The 3-star hotel enjoys excellent user ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience. The hotel offers a range of comfortable rooms, each with a private bathroom, and many boasting views of the surrounding mountains or the swimming pool. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, parking, cable TV, a terrace, a garden, room service, and a ticket service for excursions and activities.
9.7 3 reviews
Costa Rica
15/07 – 14/08
$184/nighttotal: $5520 (30 )
Aj Suites - Modern Beach Apartments With Pool And Full Kitchen
1 2
hotel, Uvita
AJ Suites offers modern beach apartments in Uvita, located 13 kilometres from the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary and 29 kilometres from the Nauyaca Waterfalls. These apartments, each measuring 54 square metres, feature one bedroom and one bathroom, a full kitchen, air conditioning, a swimming pool, garden, terrace, and free private parking.
8.7 827 reviews
Costa Rica
02/11 – 08/11
$158/nighttotal: $948 (6 )
Hotel Arenal Rabfer
1 3
hotel, Fortuna
Hotel Arenal Rabfer is situated in La Fortuna, just a short walk from the town centre, offering easy access to local amenities and attractions. This 3-star hotel receives consistently high user ratings, making it a popular choice for travellers seeking a comfortable and convenient stay. The hotel features a range of amenities including an outdoor pool, tropical gardens, and a spa, perfect for relaxation. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and access to a fitness centre, restaurant, and bar.
Best hotels in Costa Rica with a gym
8.9 1780 reviews
Costa Rica
05/09 – 12/09
$324/nighttotal: $2268 (7 )
Adventure Inn
1 6
hotel, San José
Adventure Inn is located in the Ciudad Cariari neighbourhood, just a 10-minute drive from both central San José and the international airport, providing easy access to the city's attractions. This 4-star hotel boasts very good user ratings for its cleanliness, location and overall experience. The hotel offers a range of modern rooms, each featuring two queen-size beds, free Wi-Fi, and a coffee maker. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities including a swimming pool, a hot tub, a fitness centre, a restaurant, a bar, and a spa.
9.5 676 reviews
Costa Rica
27/12 – 02/01
$192/nighttotal: $1152 (6 )
Terrazas De Golf Boutique Hotel
1 2
hotel, San José
The Terrazas De Golf Boutique Hotel is located just 5km from Juan Santamaría International Airport, near the Cariari Golf Course in San José. This 4-star hotel has excellent user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hotel provides spacious and comfortable rooms, many with balconies overlooking the golf course or gardens. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, fitness centre, and tennis court, as well as on-site dining, room service, and laundry facilities.
9.8 281 reviews
Costa Rica
27/06 – 04/07
$537/nighttotal: $3759 (7 )
Hotel Three Sixty - Adults Only
1 2
hotel, Ojochal
Hotel Three Sixty - Adults Only is situated in Ojochal, Costa Rica, 16km from Uvita and 18km from Marino Ballena National Park. This 4-star adults-only retreat offers twelve individual villas, each boasting a 60 square metre floor area, private terrace with ocean views, and access to a swimming pool, spa, restaurant (Kua Kua), and bar (Bar 360).
9.1 206 reviews
Costa Rica
28/12 – 04/01
$593/nighttotal: $4151 (7 )
Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose
3 6
hotel, San José
Homewood Suites by Hilton Cariari San José is located in the Cariari district, approximately 9 kilometres from Juan Santamaría International Airport and 7 kilometres from Parque Diversiones. This 3-star hotel offers self-catering apartments with air conditioning, a swimming pool, and a fitness centre, all within easy reach of Poás Volcano National Park and other San José attractions.