Hotel Contenedores Corporativos in Platanal is conveniently located approximately 32 kilometres from both La Fortuna Waterfall and Kalambu Hot Springs. This 18-square-metre guesthouse offers one bedroom, one bathroom, and accommodates two guests, featuring amenities such as air conditioning, a terrace, free Wi-Fi, and free private parking; a paid airport shuttle service to Fortuna Airport (21km) is also available.
10 7 reviews
Hotel Honey Bee
hotel, Alajuela City
Hotel Honey Bee, a 5-star establishment in Alajuela City, is situated 5.8 kilometres from Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium and 9 kilometres from Juan Santamaría International Airport, offering a tranquil setting with garden and terrace views. This hotel provides complimentary WiFi and private parking, with rooms featuring coffee machines, flat-screen televisions, and hairdryers, while some include kitchenettes, and guests can enjoy buffet, continental, or vegetarian breakfast options.
8.9 3199 reviews
Hotel Residence Inn Suites Cristina
hotel, San José
Hotel Residence Inn Suites Cristina is located in central San José, a short walk from La Sabana Park and a 5-minute drive from the National Theater. This 4-star hotel has received very good user ratings for its location and cleanliness. The apartments are spacious and fully equipped, offering a home-away-from-home feel. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a swimming pool, restaurant, and fitness centre, as well as free parking and Wi-Fi.
8.7 104 reviews
Hotel D'lucia - Quebrada Ganado, Jaco, Costa Rica
hotel, Puntarenas
Hotel D'lucia, situated in Quebrada Ganado, Puntarenas, is approximately 10.3 km from Catarata Manantial de Agua Viva and 12.1 km from Pura Vida Gardens & Waterfalls. This 2-star guesthouse, offering the 'Hotel D'lucia - Quebrada Ganado, Jaco, Costa Rica' package, features a swimming pool, spa, and air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, plus a garden and on-site parking; Rainforest Adventures Jaco is 16 km away.
9.1 1777 reviews
Hotel Monte Real
hotel, Fortuna
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.
9.5 80 reviews
Guapote Lodge
hotel, Tigra
Guapote Lodge, in Tigra, offers a peaceful retreat 24 kilometres from La Fortuna Waterfall and within 26-46 kilometres of Kalambu Hot Springs and various adventure parks. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom lodge provides guests with a terrace/balcony, garden, restaurant, bar, room service, parking, and free Wi-Fi; daily American breakfasts are included.
8.8 437 reviews
Cabinas Pura Vida B&b And Tour Operator
hotel, Drake
Cabinas Pura Vida B&B Tour Operator is a 2-star hotel located in Drake, just a short walk from Agujitas Beach. The hotel enjoys a very good user rating and is situated in a peaceful area, perfect for a relaxing getaway. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with a private bathroom and shower, each measuring 18 square metres. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a shared kitchen, air conditioning, a terrace, a garden, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also offers organised tours to Corcovado National Park and Cano Island, as well as water activities like snorkeling and diving.
9.5 194 reviews
Monte Carlo Luxury Condominiums
hotel, Jacó
Monte Carlo Luxury Condominiums are situated in central Jacó, Costa Rica, just 0.15km from the town centre and 0.3km from Jaco Beach. These luxury apartments offer spacious accommodation with fully equipped kitchens, washing machines, dryers, private balconies, and access to a swimming pool, hot tub, fitness centre, and on-site restaurant and bar.
8.8 454 reviews
Esencia Hotel And Villas
hotel, Santa Teresa Beach
Esencia Hotel and Villas is located in Santa Teresa Beach, Costa Rica, just 100 metres from the beach and 8 kilometres from the Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve. This 3-star hotel offers air-conditioned rooms and villas with private terraces, a swimming pool, spa, restaurant, bar, and room service, plus free toiletries and on-site breakfast.
8.2 1075 reviews
Hotel Samoa Del Sur
hotel, Golfito
Hotel Samoa del Sur is a 3-star beachfront establishment in Golfito, Costa Rica, situated 3.1km from Golfito Airport. This family-friendly guesthouse offers 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, boasting an outdoor pool, garden, terrace, and a restaurant and bar, plus a playground for children and proximity to hiking trails.
8.5 353 reviews
Hotel Margarita Sierpe
hotel, Sierpe
Hotel Margarita Sierpe in Sierpe offers convenient access to local attractions and is a short distance from the town centre, though the precise distance isn't specified. This guesthouse provides one bedroom, one bathroom, free Wi-Fi, parking, and air conditioning, making it a suitable base for exploring nearby wildlife reserves and mangrove estuaries.
8.3 613 reviews
Out Of Bounds Boutique Hotel
hotel, San José
The Out Of Bounds Boutique Hotel is located 2 kilometres from the Multiplaza Shopping Mall and is a 32-minute drive from San José's city centre, offering a convenient base for exploring the city and its surrounding areas. This 3-star hotel enjoys very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hotel offers 1-bedroom apartments with a private balcony or terrace, perfect for enjoying the fresh air and views. Guests can take advantage of amenities such as a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and free parking, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Best Costa Rica luxury hotels (4 and 5 stars)
Among the 7104 accommodations in Costa Rica, here are the 4 best luxury hotels
8.5 405 reviews
Buen Camino Hotel, San Mateo
hotel, San Mateo
The Buen Camino Hotel, San Mateo, is situated in San Mateo, Costa Rica, approximately 42 kilometres from both Parque Marino del Pacífico 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.
9.0 1135 reviews
Tilajari Hotel Resort
hotel, Fortuna
The Tilajari Hotel Resort & Conference Centre is located in Muelle, Fortuna, approximately 30 kilometres from Arenal Volcano National Park. This 4-star hotel offers 1-bedroom suites with rainforest views, a swimming pool, jacuzzi, spa, restaurant, and tennis court, plus free Wi-Fi and parking.
8.7 895 reviews
Hotel Playa Bejuco
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.
9.3 272 reviews
Vista Villas
hotel, Ojochal
Vista Villas is situated in Ojochal, 35km from Dominical and 13km from Uvita, offering ocean views from all rooms and balconies. This 4-star hotel has received excellent user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. Each villa features a private bathroom, air conditioning, and free WiFi, accommodating up to two guests. Enjoy the swimming pool with ocean views, relax on your balcony, and take advantage of the tour desk to plan your adventures in the surrounding area.
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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
8.0 3782 reviews
Hotel La Guaria Inn & Suites
hotel, Alajuela City
Hotel La Guaria Inn & Suites is located in Alajuela, Costa Rica, a short 5-minute drive (approximately 3.2 kilometres) from Juan Santamaría International Airport. This 3-star establishment offers guests a range of amenities including a swimming pool, spa, free airport shuttle (one-way), complimentary breakfast, and free Wi-Fi, alongside convenient on-site parking and laundry services.
8.6 2042 reviews
Hilton Cariari Doubletree San Jose - Costa Rica
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.
8.1 323 reviews
Le Petit Hotel
hotel, Fortuna
Le Petit Hotel is located in Fortuna, just a short drive from the La Fortuna Waterfall and Kalambu Hot Springs, making it an ideal base for exploring the area's natural beauty. The hotel has consistently received very good ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall user experience. The hotel offers comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, each measuring 9 square metres and suitable for up to two guests. Amenities include a shared kitchen, an outdoor swimming pool, a peaceful garden, and free Wi-Fi access throughout the property.
8.8 5245 reviews
Hampton By Hilton San Jose Airport Costa Rica
hotel, Alajuela City
The Hampton By Hilton San Jose Airport Costa Rica is situated 1.6km from Juan Santamaría International Airport in Alajuela, offering convenient access to San José. This 4-star hotel features 1-bedroom suites with air conditioning, a swimming pool, fitness centre, restaurant, bar, and free airport shuttle, plus organised tours to attractions like the Butterfly Farm (4.8km) and the National Museum of Costa Rica (12.9km).
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 cloud forests. Poás Volcano National Park offers incredible crater views, while the majestic Manuel Antonio National Park boasts beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife. Then there's the breathtaking Monteverde Cloud Forest, famous for its hanging bridges and biodiversity.
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?
Zip-lining through the rainforest canopy is a classic Costa Rican adventure. White-water rafting on the Pacuare River is thrilling, and wildlife spotting tours, particularly in Tortuguero National Park for turtles, are unforgettable. Surfing lessons on the beaches of Tamarindo are popular, and exploring the hanging bridges of Monteverde is a must for nature lovers.
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. The green season (May to November) offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds but a higher chance of 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, offers a good base for exploring volcanoes and cloud forests. Tamarindo is perfect for beach lovers and surfers. For a more laid-back experience, consider the charming town of Monteverde, nestled in the cloud forest. Manuel Antonio offers a combination of beaches 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 of Costa Rica are perfect for a weekend getaway?
The Pacuare River area is ideal for a weekend of white-water rafting and jungle exploration. Manuel Antonio National Park offers a quick escape to stunning beaches and wildlife. For a city break, San José provides cultural attractions and easy access to other areas.
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 Costa Rica?
Renting a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main tourist areas. Many roads, particularly in the rainforest, are unpaved and require a vehicle with good ground clearance. Public transport is available but can be limited in some areas.
What are the best hotels with a swimming pool in Costa Rica?
Credit cards are accepted in most larger hotels, restaurants, and tourist establishments. However, it's advisable to carry some colones (CRC), especially in smaller towns and rural areas, as some smaller businesses may not accept cards.
What are the largest airports in Costa Rica?
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José is the main international airport. Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia serves the Guanacaste region, a popular tourist destination.
Are there any unwritten rules of behaviour visitors should know about Costa Rica?
Costa Ricans are known for their 'Pura Vida' lifestyle, emphasising a relaxed and friendly attitude. It's polite to greet people with a 'Buenos días', 'Buenas tardes', or 'Buenas noches', depending on the time of day. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is also appreciated.
What local specialties should you try in Costa Rica?
Gallo Pinto (rice and beans) is a staple breakfast dish. Casado is a typical lunch or dinner plate with rice, beans, meat, salad, and plantains. Try the fresh seafood, especially ceviche, and don't miss the delicious tropical fruits like pineapple and mango.
Where are the best shopping spots in Costa Rica?
San José offers a variety of shopping options, from upscale malls to local markets. In smaller towns, you'll find artisan crafts and souvenirs. Many national parks and tourist areas have shops selling local products.
What signature events or festivals take place in Costa Rica?
The Festival de la Luz (Festival of Lights) in San José is a vibrant parade with colourful floats. Numerous religious festivals are celebrated throughout the year, often featuring traditional music and dance. The country also hosts various smaller, regional festivals celebrating local traditions.
What’s the best place in Costa Rica for mild and comfortable weather?
The central valley, where San José is located, generally enjoys a mild and comfortable climate year-round. The higher elevations of the cloud forests also offer pleasant temperatures.
What are the most common travel mistakes tourists make in Costa Rica?
Underestimating the distances between locations and not planning enough travel time is a common mistake. Not packing appropriate clothing for varying climates and activities is another. Forgetting insect repellent and sunscreen is also frequent.
What are some hidden gems to explore in Costa Rica?
Corcovado National Park in the Osa Peninsula is known for its incredible biodiversity but is less visited than some other parks. The Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for birdwatchers. The Tenorio Volcano National Park, with its stunning Rio Celeste river, is another less-crowded gem.
Best Costa Rica hotels with parking
8.4 189 reviews
Casa Echavarria
hotel, San José
Casa Echavarria is a 3-star guesthouse located just 3.5 kilometres from San José's main attractions, including the Pre-Colombian Gold Museum, the National Theatre, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, offering a peaceful retreat within easy reach of the city's cultural heart. It consistently receives very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The guesthouse features a single bedroom and bathroom, providing a comfortable and intimate stay. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a garden, terrace, spa, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and room service, as well as free Wi-Fi and parking.
8.6 545 reviews
Hotel Vista Del Cerro
hotel, Fortuna
Hotel Vista Del Cerro is situated in Fortuna, just 2 kilometres from the town centre and a 40-minute drive from the Arenal Volcano National Park. This 2-star hotel offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning and private bathrooms, as well as a swimming pool, a restaurant serving regional cuisine and a spa for guests to relax and unwind.
8.4 118 reviews
Hostal Nuevo Arenal Downtown, Private Rooms With Bathroom
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.
9.1 436 reviews
Hotel De Montaña El Pelicano
hotel, San Isidro
Hotel De Montaña El Pelicano enjoys an excellent location in San Isidro de El General, Costa Rica, approximately 39 kilometres from Cerro de la Muerte and 40 kilometres from Nauyaca Waterfalls. This family-friendly lodge boasts a swimming pool, jacuzzi, spa, restaurant serving diverse cuisines, and free Wi-Fi; guests can also arrange tours via the concierge service.
Best hotels in Costa Rica with a gym
9.0 471 reviews
Hyatt Centric San José Escazú
hotel, San José
The Hyatt Centric San José Escazú hotel is situated in San Rafael, San José's financial district, 6 kilometres from the city centre and a 15-minute drive from Juan Santamaría International Airport. This establishment offers rooms with contemporary décor, flat-screen TVs, and iPod docking stations, along with a rooftop pool, fitness centre, Fogo Restaurant serving Costa Rican cuisine, and free Wi-Fi and parking.
8.7 51 reviews
Hotel Torre Fuerte
hotel, Venecia
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.
8.8 1372 reviews
Hotel Suerre
hotel, Guápiles
Hotel Suerre in Guápiles is conveniently located less than a kilometre from Guápiles Central Park and just under 2 kilometres from Guápiles Boulevard. This 4-star establishment offers 32-square-metre rooms with one bedroom and bathroom, boasting amenities including a swimming pool, tennis court, spa, and restaurant; children under 12 stay free (breakfast excluded).
9.4 50 reviews
Hyatt Place Cariari/convention Center
hotel, San José
The Hyatt Place Cariari/Convention Center in San José is located 8.4 kilometres from Parque Diversiones and 8.9 kilometres from the Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium, with Juan Santamaría International Airport a mere 8 kilometres away, offering a paid shuttle service. This 4-star hotel provides a business centre, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, an on-site restaurant and bar, and rooms equipped with a desk, flat-screen TV, and fridge, with some boasting mountain views.