Find the best Costa Rica Hotels

Top reasons to visit Costa Rica

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Costa Rica boasts breathtaking scenery, from lush rainforests to picturesque beaches, perfect for nature lovers.
• Adventure Activities: The country offers thrilling experiences such as zip-lining, white-water rafting, and hiking in volcanic parks.
• Rich Biodiversity: Home to diverse wildlife, visitors can explore numerous national parks and nature reserves brimming with flora and fauna.
• Charming Local Culture: Experience vibrant towns with adobe architecture, local markets, and welcoming communities.
• Varied Accommodation Options: Costa Rica provides a range of lodging, from cozy bed and breakfasts to adventurous hotels, catering to all travellers.

Find great hotels in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers a diverse selection of lodging options, from charming bed and breakfasts to adventurous hotels. Whether you seek accessible rooms or accommodations in popular areas like La Caravana, Barrio Escalante, or El Roble, you’ll find a variety of choices to enhance your family vacation experience. Embrace the beauty of the beach and the thrill of adventure while enjoying the warm hospitality that Costa Rica is renowned for.

• Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive: Embrace the spirit of adventure at Hotel Riu Guanacaste, a vibrant 4-star all-inclusive resort nestled along the stunning Costa Rican coastline. This beachfront oasis offers a plethora of activities, from windsurfing to kayaking and snorkelling, ensuring an exhilarating stay for the adventurous traveller. Guests can indulge in unlimited food and drinks, including a variety of buffet options and à la carte dining. The property features a full-service spa, complete with Swedish massages and aromatherapy treatments, providing the perfect relaxation after a day of exploration. With its lively entertainment offerings and direct beach access, this resort is ideal for those seeking a fun-filled beach vacation.
• Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive: Experience luxury at its finest at the 4.5-star Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica, where comfort meets elegance. This all-inclusive resort is perfect for families, featuring a water park and children’s amenities, ensuring a delightful stay for guests of all ages. The resort boasts a variety of dining options, including a minibar in each room and extensive buffet selections. Relax at the full-service spa or enjoy a day at the beach with direct access. With its family-friendly atmosphere and luxurious facilities, this hotel offers a remarkable beach getaway while catering to the needs of both adults and children.
• Occidental Tamarindo - All Inclusive: The Occidental Tamarindo is a welcoming 4-star all-inclusive resort that embraces a diverse and vibrant atmosphere. Known for its LGBTQIA-friendly environment, this resort offers a range of activities including tennis and dancing lessons, ensuring guests of all interests feel at home. The property features numerous dining options and a lively nightclub, perfect for those seeking evening entertainment. Children can enjoy supervised activities and a dedicated kids' club, making it an excellent choice for families. With a full-service spa and outdoor treatment rooms, this resort provides a relaxing retreat after an adventurous day on the beach.

Where to stay in Costa Rica

For an unforgettable holiday in Costa Rica, immerse yourself in its lush landscapes and vibrant atmosphere. Discover charming towns adorned with adobe structures and surrounded by abundant fruit trees. Thrill-seekers can indulge in adrenaline-pumping activities while families will appreciate the friendly, relaxed environment. With its consistent rainfall nourishing the rich biodiversity, Costa Rica offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity, making it an ideal destination for every traveller.

• San José: As the vibrant capital of Costa Rica, San José is a bustling metropolis nestled in the Central Valley. This city offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and urban charm, making it a central hub for tourists. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local lifestyle by exploring the lively markets, museums, and parks. With its proximity to stunning natural landmarks like national parks and beaches, San José serves as an ideal starting point for outdoor adventures. Popular activities include hiking and visiting spas, ensuring a well-rounded travel experience.
• La Fortuna: Known for its breathtaking scenery and adventure opportunities, La Fortuna is a charming city located near the famed Arenal Volcano. This area attracts outdoor enthusiasts looking for activities such as hiking, hot springs, and wildlife watching. The climate and lush surroundings create a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration alike. With a variety of resorts and recreational areas nearby, La Fortuna offers a blend of thrill and tranquillity, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Costa Rican experience.
• Tamarindo: A lively beach town on the Pacific coast, Tamarindo is popular for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Known for its surf culture, this city provides an array of activities from water sports to golf courses, making it ideal for families and couples alike. The picturesque coastline and nearby national parks offer opportunities for both relaxation and adventure. With a range of resorts and eateries, Tamarindo is perfect for those wishing to enjoy a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family holiday.

Things to do in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers an exhilarating blend of outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery, perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Popular activities include exploring the lush landscapes of Monteverde, indulging in adrenaline-pumping experiences, and enjoying various recreational areas. Whether you seek active pursuits or educational experiences, this vibrant country promises unforgettable adventures across its stunning terrain.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Costa Rica, visit Multiplaza Mall Escazu for a variety of shops and entertainment. Alternatively, explore Mercado Central for local goods and souvenirs, or head to San Ramon Municipal Market for a taste of local culture and family-friendly vibes.

Recreation

The National Stadium of Costa Rica offers an energetic atmosphere, perfect for sports enthusiasts. Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course invites you to enjoy a scenic round of golf amidst stunning landscapes, while Manuel Antonio Nature Park & Wildlife Refuge provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and wildlife observation.

Adventure

At Rainforest Adventures Jaco, soar through the treetops on an exhilarating zipline course, immersing yourself in the lush surroundings. Experience relaxation at Kalambu Hot Springs, a delightful waterpark perfect for family fun. Indulge your senses with the Costa Rica Chocolate Tour, where you can learn about chocolate production and enjoy tastings.

Nightlife

In Costa Rica, the National Theater offers a rich blend of romance and culture, perfect for an enchanting night. For a unique experience, the Alexander Skutch Bird Sanctuary provides entertaining outdoor activities. Teatro Jacó combines theatre with vibrant nightlife, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for visitors.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Costa Rica

To save money on your trip to Costa Rica, consider visiting between September and November when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance or search for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays are generally the least expensive days to stay, while Sundays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's filters to find eco-friendly accommodations and sort by price to discover the best offers. Additionally, consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for potential savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Costa Rica are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Costa Rica is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Costa Rica is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Costa Rica is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Costa Rica with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a paradise for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and a plethora of activities. With its beautiful beaches, national parks, and nature reserves, visitors can indulge in a variety of experiences that cater to those seeking sun-soaked relaxation or thrilling adventures amidst nature. Whether you're exploring vibrant coastal areas or immersing yourself in lush landscapes, Costa Rica promises a memorable holiday for every type of traveller.

• Black Beach: This stunning beach is renowned for its unique black sand, created by volcanic minerals. Visitors can enjoy the relaxing beach vibes, take leisurely strolls along the shore, and soak up the sun while surrounded by lush greenery.
• Playa La Macha: A paradise for naturists, Playa La Macha offers a serene and liberating atmosphere. The pristine, secluded setting allows visitors to connect with nature in a welcoming environment, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and sunbathing.
• Las Baulas National Marine Park: This national park is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, featuring breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife. Explore the park’s trails, witness nesting turtles, and enjoy activities like kayaking and hiking in a truly enchanting setting.

Best time to go to Costa Rica

The best time to visit Costa Rica can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Costa Rica falls in March, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Costa Rica falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	69.3°F (20.700000000000003°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
June	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
July	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Costa Rica

Arriving in Costa Rica can be done through its main airports. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is situated 16.1km from the city centre, with nearby hotels like Hilton San Jose La Sabana, 12.9km away, offering various airport shuttle services. DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari and Four Points by Sheraton, both 6.4km away, provide convenient transport options as well. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is located 175.4km from San José, with guesthouses such as Villas Hermosa Heights and Nacazcol - Playas del Coco, both 16.1km away, offering shuttle services. Lastly, Quepos (XQP) is 36.4km away, featuring hotels like Makanda by the Sea, just 3.2km from the airport, with accessible transport services.