Where to Stay in Costa Rica

Best Luxury Jungle & Beach Hotels

To fully experience the Pura Vida lifestyle of Costa Rica, where you stay matters—it can completely shape your entire trip.

When I plan Costa Rica itineraries for my clients, I almost always recommend a split stay between jungle and beach. This isn’t a destination where you pick one resort and settle in, it’s about pairing the right jungle hotel with the right beach stay.

It’s what makes Costa Rica feel like two completely different vacations in one.

I typically recommend starting with 3–4 nights in Arenal, followed by 3–5 nights at the beach. This gives you enough time to really experience each environment without feeling rushed, while still allowing for a slower, more relaxed pace toward the end of your trip.

Trying to stay in one place is one of the biggest mistakes I see. Costa Rica is meant to be experienced in layers, and this split is what makes the trip feel complete.

Best Jungle Hotels in Costa Rica (Arenal / La Fortuna)

Costa Rica’s jungle experience is all about lush landscapes, volcano views, hot springs, and that immersive “you’re in nature but still very comfortable” feeling. These are the properties I come back to again and again (and again!)

1. Nayara Gardens / Nayara Springs / Nayara Tented Camp

   This is my go-to for clients who want something special. It feels tucked away in the jungle but still polished and elevated in every way.
   Best for: couples, honeymooners, luxury travelers
   Things to know: Springs is adults-only, Gardens is more classic and slightly more family-friendly & Tented Camp feels the most unique and immersive into the jungle

2. Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

   If you want that classic Costa Rica hot springs experience built right into your stay, this is such an easy and fun option. I stayed here on my honeymoon and the adults-only hot springs section was so relaxing.
   Best for: first-time visitors, activity-driven travelers
   Things to know: slightly more lively than Nayara

3. The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal

   This is a great option if you want a mix of luxury and activity all in one place—especially for families or clients who don’t want to leave the resort much.
   Best for: families, travelers who want activities built in
   Things to know: larger resort feel with a lot going on

Best Beach Hotels in Costa Rica

The beach portion of your trip is where everything slows down. After a few days in the jungle, this is where you shift into full relaxation mode—but choosing the right location matters more than most people expect.

1. Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo

   You truly can’t go wrong with this property. It is one of the easiest luxury stays in Costa Rica! The grounds are beautiful and yes, they are swimmable beaches! These can be very rare is Costa Rica.

   Best for: families, couples, first-time Costa Rica travelers
   Good to know: feels very seamless and polished

2. Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo

   This is a great option for clients who want something a little more modern and relaxed, but still elevated. The design is beautiful, the views are incredible, and overall it offers really strong value for the level of experience.

   Best for: couples, younger families, design-forward travelers
   Good to know: a bit more relaxed than Four Seasons

3. Nantipa (Santa Teresa)

   Santa Teresa is located on the Nicoya Peninsula which is one of the five Blue Zone locations in the world. And you absolutely feel it. This is perfect if you want beachfront laid back luxury. I stayed here on my honeymoon as my Costa Rican beach stay and the entire staff made us feel like we were family. I will 100% be going back one day!!

   Best for: couples, honeymooners, boutique lovers
   Good to know: getting here takes a bit more effort as it is more-off-the-beaten-path, but it is worth it!

As I’ve mentioned, Costa Rica is one of those destinations where the details really matter especially where you stay and how you structure your time. When the right hotels are paired together, the entire trip just flows. It feels easy, balanced, and exactly what it’s supposed to be.

Hope this helps!!

Pura Vida,
Carolyn @ Carolyn Curates Travel

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