Hotels in Costa Rica

Top reasons to visit Costa Rica

• Thrilling Outdoor Adventures: Costa Rica is renowned for its exhilarating activities, from zip-lining through rainforests to white-water rafting in stunning landscapes.
• Breathtaking Natural Beauty: With pristine beaches, lush national parks, and diverse wildlife, the country's scenery is simply captivating.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Visitors can explore vibrant cities, learn about local customs, and enjoy traditional cuisine.
• Tranquil Retreats: Ideal for relaxation, Costa Rica offers serene spots amidst nature, perfect for unwinding.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: From charming hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts, there's something to suit every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels in Costa Rica

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Costa Rica, from charming hotels to inviting bed and breakfasts. Whether you're seeking adventure, a family-friendly getaway, or a relaxing beach retreat, there are numerous facilities to cater to your needs. Explore accessible rooms and unique stays in La Caravana, Barrio Escalante, and El Roble, ensuring a memorable experience in this beautiful destination.

• Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive: Nestled along the stunning beaches of Costa Rica, Hotel Riu Guanacaste is a vibrant 4-star all-inclusive resort perfect for families and adventure seekers. Engage in a plethora of activities including kayaking, windsurfing, and snorkelling, all while enjoying unlimited food and drink options. The resort boasts a water park for children, shared playground facilities, and a diverse entertainment programme featuring themed parties and live performances. With direct beach access, it's ideal for those looking to soak up the sun and partake in thrilling water sports. The hotel’s diverse amenities ensure a memorable experience for guests of all ages.
• Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive: This elegant 4.5-star resort offers a luxurious all-inclusive experience, making it a prime choice for families and business travellers alike. Enjoy a wide array of dining options, including à la carte and buffet services, alongside a well-stocked in-room minibar. The property features a full-service spa, where you can unwind with massages and sauna sessions, while children can enjoy shared playground facilities and a water park. With its sophisticated ambiance and top-notch amenities, Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica ensures a relaxing and indulgent getaway in the heart of paradise.
• Barceló San José: Located in the vibrant city of San José, this 4-star hotel caters to families and couples seeking a romantic retreat. Offering unique romance packages, guests can unwind with 24-hour room service and enjoy the exquisite spa services, including body scrubs and manicures. The hotel features outdoor pools and family-friendly amenities such as cribs and child safety features. The tranquil setting and attentive service create an ideal environment for relaxation and romance, making Barceló San José a charming choice for your Costa Rican getaway.

Where to stay in Costa Rica

Costa Rica promises an unforgettable experience for both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking tranquillity. Discover the lush landscapes filled with abundant fruit trees and serene nature, ideal for relaxation. Explore vibrant cities and charming adobe structures, or embrace your adventurous side with thrilling activities. With its friendly atmosphere, Costa Rica is perfect for families and romantic getaways alike, all while enjoying the refreshing rains that nourish this stunning paradise.

• San José: As the capital and largest city of Costa Rica, San José is a vibrant metropolis nestled in the central valley. Its geographical location makes it a convenient base for exploring the country. Visitors flock to San José for its outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, and rich cultural experiences. The city boasts numerous recreational areas, luxurious resorts, and relaxing spas, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Nearby attractions include beautiful beaches, lush national parks, and serene state parks, making it an ideal starting point for your Costa Rican journey.
• La Fortuna: Situated in the shadow of the iconic Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna is a picturesque city famed for its breathtaking landscapes and adventure opportunities. With a steady influx of tourists throughout the year, La Fortuna is particularly busy from January to April. Visitors are drawn here for outdoor activities such as hiking, hot springs, and waterfall excursions. The city offers a variety of resorts and spas, ensuring a comfortable stay. Explore the nearby national parks, marvel at the volcano, or unwind on the beautiful beaches, all while soaking in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds La Fortuna.
• Tamarindo: Located on the Pacific coast, Tamarindo is a lively city known for its stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere. This destination appeals to families and couples alike, with peak visitor numbers seen from December to January and March. Tamarindo offers a plethora of activities, including golf, surfing, and exquisite dining. With its proximity to national parks and volcanic landscapes, Tamarindo provides opportunities for both relaxation and adventure. The picturesque beaches make it a romantic getaway, while the vibrant local culture ensures a memorable experience for all who visit.

Things to do in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers a thrilling blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, perfect for those seeking an active holiday. Engage in adrenaline-pumping activities across the country, including exciting experiences in Monteverde. Whether you're exploring recreational areas or enjoying educational excursions, the diverse range of adventure activities will ensure an unforgettable vacation. Prepare for a journey filled with excitement and natural beauty in this vibrant Central American destination.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Costa Rica, visit Auto Mercado Herradura for a vibrant mix of family and city vibes. For local culture, explore Mercado Central and the San Ramon Municipal Market, both offering a bustling atmosphere with unique gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

The National Stadium of Costa Rica offers an energetic atmosphere, perfect for sports enthusiasts. At Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course, enjoy stunning outdoor vistas while playing a round of golf. For a tranquil experience, visit Manuel Antonio Nature Park & Wildlife Refuge, where you can unwind amidst nature's beauty and diverse wildlife.

Adventure

At Rainforest Adventures Jaco, soar through the canopy on exhilarating zip lines and navigate a thrilling ropes course, embracing the wild surroundings. Dive into fun at Balneario Las Musas, where family-friendly water attractions promise endless entertainment. Experience the serenity of nature while paddle boarding in Costa Rica's stunning waters.

Nightlife

In Costa Rica, the National Theater enchants visitors with its romantic atmosphere and cultural performances. For a unique experience, the Alexander Skutch Bird Sanctuary offers lively entertainment amidst nature. Teatro Jacó captivates with its engaging shows, blending romance and culture in a vibrant setting.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Costa Rica

To save money on your trip to Costa Rica, consider visiting during the off-peak months of September to November when prices are lower. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest days for lodging, while Sundays are the most expensive. Use Expedia's search tools to filter by budget and combine hotel, flight, and activity bookings for added savings. Additionally, take advantage of free activities and public transport to further enhance your travel experience without breaking the bank.

• 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. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• 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, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations in Costa Rica with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. With its beautiful beaches, national parks, and nature reserves, the country offers a plethora of attractions for travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature and embark on thrilling experiences. Whether you prefer relaxing by the beach or exploring lush landscapes, Costa Rica caters to all your adventurous desires.

• Arenal Volcano National Park: Experience the thrill of adventure amidst stunning scenery at Arenal Volcano National Park. Marvel at the majestic volcano, explore lush hiking trails, and enjoy outdoor activities such as zip-lining and hot springs, all while being surrounded by diverse wildlife.
• Coco Beach: Relax and unwind at Coco Beach, known for its vibrant beach vibes. Enjoy sunbathing on the golden sands, swimming in the warm Pacific waters, or indulging in water sports. The lively atmosphere and stunning sunsets create the perfect setting for a tropical getaway.
• Sabana Park: Discover the charm of Sabana Park, an urban oasis ideal for families and city dwellers. Enjoy leisurely strolls, have a picnic, or engage in outdoor sports while surrounded by lush greenery, playgrounds, and beautiful views of the city skyline.

Best time to go to Costa Rica

The best time to visit Costa Rica is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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

Costa Rica offers two major airports for tourists. San José's Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is located 16.1km from the city centre, with nearby hotels such as the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall, 8.0km away, and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, only 3.2km from the airport. Liberia's Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) is situated 175.4km from the capital, with excellent options like the 4.5-star Secrets Papagayo Resort, 11.3km away, and Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, 14.5km distant. Quepos Airport (XQP), 54.7km from San José, features hotels like the 5-star Makanda by the Sea, just 3.2km away.