Hotel Monte Real is located in La Fortuna, just a short walk from the town centre and a bus station, bordering a peaceful river with its own forest and a Frog garden. It is a 3-star hotel with excellent user ratings. The hotel offers a range of amenities including a swimming pool, terrace, garden, restaurant, bar, and room service. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities such as canopy tours, horseback riding, boat tours, and volcano excursions.
8.8 112 reviews
Hotel Hospedaje Alto Lechuza Zarcero
hotel, Zarcero
Hospedaje Alto Lechuza Zarcero in Zarcero, Costa Rica, offers convenient access to Catarata Tesoro Escondido (18km) and Poás Volcano National Park (45km). This guest house provides 26 square metre rooms with a bedroom, bathroom, free Wi-Fi, private parking, and some rooms featuring balconies; mountain views are a key feature.
9.2 1662 reviews
Hotel Roca Negra Del Arenal
hotel, Fortuna
Hotel Roca Negra Del Arenal is located in the suburbs of Fortuna, 15.5 kilometres from Arenal Volcano National Park and 72 kilometres from Juan SantamarÃa International Airport, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling town centre. The hotel has consistently received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The accommodation features a spacious layout with comfortable rooms, each equipped with air conditioning, a terrace, and a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool, relax in the hot tub, and take advantage of amenities such as a garden, concierge service, room service, and free parking.
8.1 294 reviews
Howler Monkey Hotel
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.
Cabinas Ensueños offers accommodation directly on Tortuguero Beach, providing immediate coastal access and a rare opportunity for family rooms with sea views in Tortuguero. This hotel provides rooms with balconies or terraces, a sun terrace, a garden, and a tour desk, with complimentary WiFi available in public areas and a continental buffet breakfast included with the Cabinas Ensueños offer.
8.8 119 reviews
Oso De Osa
hotel, Sierpe
Oso De Osa Finca Y Eco-resort in Sierpe offers convenient access to the Sierpe River, providing a gateway to boat trips towards Corcovado National Park. This eco-resort features rooms with private bathrooms, river-view patios, and a garden, plus free parking and an optional paid airport shuttle service.
8.9 110 reviews
Hotel Mirador Osa
hotel, Mogos
Hotel Mirador Osa, a 3-star establishment in Mogos, is situated 45 kilometres from Golfito Airport, offering convenient access to local attractions. This guesthouse boasts an outdoor pool, garden, and terrace with scenic views, plus a restaurant, bar, room service, and free Wi-Fi; it features rooms with private bathrooms, some with patios and sea views.
Hotel Torre Fuerte, located in Venecia, offers convenient access to natural attractions, being 24 kilometres from Catarata Tesoro Escondido and 29 kilometres from La Paz Waterfall Gardens. This hotel provides a fitness centre, complimentary private parking, a terrace, an on-site restaurant, and free WiFi, with rooms featuring air conditioning and private bathrooms, and some boasting balconies.
Best Costa Rica luxury hotels (4 and 5 stars)
Among the 7104 accommodations in Costa Rica, here are the 4 best luxury hotels
The Buen Camino Hotel, San Mateo, is situated in San Mateo, Costa Rica, approximately 42 kilometres from both Parque Marino del PacÃfico and Parque Viva, and 48 kilometres from the Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium. This 4-star hotel offers guests free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, a garden, on-site dining with diverse options including vegetarian and vegan choices, plus bike rentals for exploring the area; it also boasts sea views from all rooms and patio pool views from most.
The Sheraton San Jose Hotel, Costa Rica is situated 12 kilometres from Juan Santamaria International Airport and is close to the Meridiano Corporate Center and a large shopping centre, offering a convenient location for both business and leisure travellers. It is a 5-star hotel with excellent user ratings. The hotel offers modern rooms with comfortable seating areas and flat-screen TVs. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a swimming pool, a fitness centre, a spa, a casino, and several restaurants and bars.
9.3 33 reviews
Hotel De Montaña Gema Del Bosque
hotel, Copey
Hotel De Montaña Gema Del Bosque, a 5-star establishment in Copey, is situated 11.7km from Cerro de la Muerte and 76km from La Managua Airport. This 24-square-metre lodging offers one bedroom, one bathroom, and accommodates up to three guests, including an a la carte breakfast and private bathrooms with showers.
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Best Costa Rica hotels with a pool
Among the 7104 accommodations in Costa Rica, here are the 4 best hotels with a pool
8.7 784 reviews
Loma Real Hot Springs Bed & Breakfast
hotel, Fortuna
Loma Real Hot Springs Bed & Breakfast in Fortuna is conveniently located 6.6km from La Fortuna Waterfall and within easy reach of other attractions such as Arenal Hanging Bridges Park (16km), Kalambu Hot Springs, and Ecotermales Fortuna Spa. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse offers an outdoor swimming pool, hot spring bath, free private parking, and rooms with private patios, some including kitchenettes; free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
9.2 340 reviews
Fuego Lodge
hotel, Santa Teresa Beach
Fuego Lodge is located in Santa Teresa, less than 1km from Santa Teresa Beach, 1.4km from Carmen Beach, and a 10-minute drive from Cocal Beach. This 4-star hotel offers rooms, suites and studios, each with air conditioning, kitchenettes, private bathrooms, and amenities including a terrace/balcony, free Wi-Fi, and on-site parking; a swimming pool and spa are also available.
9.0 228 reviews
Hotel Grosseto Palma Real
hotel, Loma
Hotel Grosseto Palma Real is situated in Loma, just a short drive from Rainmaker and Rainforest Adventures Jaco, offering easy access to the area's natural wonders. This 3-star hotel consistently receives excellent user ratings for its cleanliness and overall experience. The hotel features a relaxing garden and outdoor swimming pool, perfect for a tranquil getaway. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, a bar, room service, and a 24-hour front desk, ensuring a comfortable stay.
9.0 314 reviews
Manala Hotel
hotel, Santa Teresa Beach
Manala Hotel, a 3-star establishment in Santa Teresa, is situated just 0.1 km from Santa Teresa Beach and a 20-minute drive from the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve. This guesthouse offers air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs, a swimming pool, jacuzzi, and beautiful tropical gardens with hammocks; room service, a restaurant, and bar are also available.
Frequently asked questions about hotels in Costa Rica
What are the best landmarks to visit in Costa Rica?
For iconic landmarks, you've got to see 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 stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, perfect for a refreshing dip.
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 in Costa Rica?
Ziplining through the rainforest canopy is a must. White-water rafting on the Pacuare River is an adrenaline rush. For a more relaxed experience, consider exploring the Monteverde Cloud Forest on a hanging bridge, or taking a surfing lesson on the beaches of Tamarindo. Wildlife spotting tours, particularly for sloths and monkeys, are incredibly popular.
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 Costa Rica?
The dry season (December to April) is generally considered the best time to visit, with sunny skies and less rainfall. However, this is also peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. The 'green' season (May to November) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but you'll encounter more rain.
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 neighbourhoods or areas are best for spending a week in Costa Rica?
La Fortuna, near Arenal Volcano, is great for adventure activities. Tamarindo offers beautiful beaches and surfing. Monteverde is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking cloud forest exploration. For a more relaxed beach vacation, consider Manuel Antonio.
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 of Costa Rica are perfect for a weekend getaway?
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 Costa Rica?
Renting a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially if you plan on venturing beyond the main tourist areas. Many roads, particularly those leading to national parks, are unpaved and can be challenging to navigate in a smaller car.
What are the best hotels with a swimming pool in Costa Rica?
Credit cards are accepted in most larger hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. However, it's always a good idea to carry some colones (CRC), especially for smaller establishments and local markets.
Are there any unwritten rules of behaviour visitors should know about Costa Rica?
It's considered polite to greet people with a 'pura vida', a common Costa Rican greeting. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is also appreciated. Respect for the environment and wildlife is paramount, so please stick to designated trails and avoid disturbing animals.
What local specialties should you try in Costa Rica?
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. And don't forget the delicious tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and papayas.
What are the most common travel mistakes tourists make in Costa Rica?
Underestimating the distances between locations and not allowing enough travel time. Not packing appropriate clothing and footwear for varied climates and activities. Failing to learn basic Spanish phrases. Not being adequately prepared for rain, even during the dry season.
What are some hidden gems to explore in Costa Rica?
Corcovado National Park in the Osa Peninsula offers incredible biodiversity and fewer crowds than other national parks. The Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Explore the smaller, lesser-known beaches along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
Best Costa Rica hotels with parking
9.1 210 reviews
El Paraiso Azul
hotel, Ojochal
El Paraiso Azul in Ojochal offers excellent accommodation a 13-minute walk (approximately 1 km) from Tortuga Beach, 27 km from Nauyaca Waterfalls, and 27 km from the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary. This family-friendly guesthouse provides a swimming pool, garden, terrace, free Wi-Fi, private parking, and airport transfers, plus guest rooms with balconies offering garden or sea views and an on-site grill.
8.1 470 reviews
Hotel Casa Tago
hotel, Alajuela City
Hotel Casa Tago is located in Alajuela City, just 3 kilometres from Juan SantamarÃa International Airport and within walking distance of the Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium. The hotel is well-rated, receiving very good reviews for both its location and overall experience. This one-bedroom guesthouse offers a private garden, a terrace, and a swimming pool for relaxation. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, parking, and a continental breakfast, as well as take advantage of the tour desk to explore the area.
8.9 519 reviews
Mirians Place Drake
hotel, Drake
Miriams Place Drake is situated in Drake, a 7-minute walk from Colorada and 2.7 kilometres from Cocalito Beach. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse offers free Wi-Fi, private parking, a garden, terrace, and family rooms, plus a tour desk and luggage storage; airport shuttle services are available at a cost.
The Courtyard By Marriott San Jose Escazu is located in the upscale district of Escazu, just 2 kilometres from Multiplaza Shopping Center and a short distance from CIMA Hospital and Escazu Avenue. This 4-star hotel has received very good user ratings and is a popular choice for travellers looking for a comfortable and convenient stay. The hotel features a traditional design with a focus on comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, restaurant, bar, and tennis court.
8.2 5965 reviews
Country Inn & Suites By Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica
The Hilton Cariari Doubletree San Jose - Costa Rica is a 5-star hotel situated a short drive from Juan SantamarÃa 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.