Hotels in Costa Rica

Top reasons to visit Costa Rica

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Costa Rica is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, from lush rainforests to picturesque beaches.
• Adventure Activities: Thrill-seekers can enjoy zip-lining, white-water rafting, and hiking in national parks.
• Relaxing Beaches: The country boasts idyllic beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
• Rich Biodiversity: Home to diverse wildlife, visitors can explore vibrant ecosystems in various nature reserves.
• Welcoming Culture: Experience the friendly atmosphere and rich cultural heritage of Costa Rica.

Find great hotels in Costa Rica

Explore a diverse array of accommodation options in Costa Rica, ranging from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Whether you're seeking adventure amidst stunning landscapes, a relaxing beach getaway, or a family-friendly experience, Costa Rica has something for everyone. Notable options include the Sendero Hotel and Santarena Hotel, ensuring a memorable stay in this beautiful destination.

• Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive: Nestled along the beautiful coastline of Costa Rica, Hotel Riu Guanacaste is a vibrant 4-star resort ideal for families and adventure seekers. With a guest rating of 8.4, this all-inclusive haven offers unlimited food and drinks, featuring a wide range of culinary options, from buffets to à la carte dining. Guests can indulge in activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, and volleyball, all included in the package. For families, the property boasts a children's club and water park, ensuring younger guests are entertained. Its direct beach access allows for easy exploration of the stunning coastline, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
• Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive: Offering a touch of luxury with a 4.5-star rating, Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica is the epitome of elegance with eco-friendly credentials. Rated 8.0, this resort provides an extensive array of all-inclusive services, including gourmet dining options and beverages. The property’s eco-certification appeals to environmentally conscious travellers, while families can enjoy facilities like a children’s pool and supervised childcare. Its direct beach access allows guests to partake in water sports like kayaking and bodyboarding, ensuring an exhilarating stay. This hotel combines sustainability with comfort, making it a perfect choice for eco-friendly holidays.
• Barceló San José: A sophisticated 4-star hotel with an impressive guest rating of 9.0, Barceló San José is an excellent choice for both romantic getaways and business trips. Located conveniently in Costa Rica, this hotel offers amenities designed for families, including a children’s pool and cribs. Couples can enjoy romantic packages, featuring 24-hour room service for intimate dining experiences. The property's spa services, including body treatments and manicures, make it a perfect retreat for relaxation. With its charming atmosphere and excellent facilities, Barceló San José promises a delightful stay for all visitors.

Where to stay in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation, with stunning landscapes and a friendly atmosphere. From vibrant cities like San José to idyllic resort towns such as Tamarindo, this Central American gem caters to every traveller. Experience the thrill of outdoor activities amidst breathtaking scenery, or unwind in tranquil surroundings. With its pleasant climate and welcoming locals, Costa Rica stands out as an ideal holiday destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.

• La Fortuna: Nestled at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. This vibrant city is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, zip-lining, and visiting natural hot springs. The peak seasons in January and March to April see an influx of visitors eager to explore its scenic beauty, while slightly quieter months like May and August offer a more tranquil experience. Key highlights include the nearby Arenal National Park, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife await, making La Fortuna a must-visit for those craving an unforgettable outdoor experience.
• Tamarindo: A charming coastal town, Tamarindo is renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, making it perfect for romantic getaways and family holidays. Visitors flock here during the peak months of March and December to January, drawn by the warm weather and excellent surf conditions. The town is home to a variety of resorts and a top-notch golf course, while the nearby beaches provide opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. With its laid-back atmosphere and a blend of city and beach life, Tamarindo offers a unique travel experience that caters to all ages.
• Quepos: Known for its proximity to Manuel Antonio National Park, Quepos is a bustling town that attracts outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore its lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems. The best time to visit is from January to March, when the weather is ideal for activities like hiking and wildlife watching. Quepos boasts a range of recreational areas, resorts, and spas, ensuring visitors can unwind after a day of adventure. The stunning beaches and the rich biodiversity of the national park make Quepos an essential stop for those seeking both relaxation and excitement in Costa Rica.

Things to do in Costa Rica

Shopping

At Multiplaza Escazú, you can explore various international brands and local boutiques, while the bustling Central Market offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can find artisan crafts and traditional souvenirs. Don’t miss out on discovering unique gifts at the Artisan Market in San José.

Recreation

Serenity Wellness Retreat offers tranquil yoga sessions amidst lush gardens and rejuvenating spa treatments inspired by local traditions. For outdoor enthusiasts, visit the stunning Arenal Volcano National Park, where you can hike scenic trails, soak in natural hot springs, and witness diverse wildlife in its natural habitat.

Adventure

At Rainforest Adventures Jaco, experience the thrill of soaring through the canopy on ziplines and tackling a ropes course amidst lush surroundings. Costa Rica Sky Adventures offers a similar exhilarating ziplining experience, while Selvatura Adventure Park combines adrenaline-pumping ziplines with the beauty of the cloud forest.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at El Pueblo in San Jose, where you can enjoy various bars and clubs. For a taste of local culture, visit Jazz Cafe for live performances. Don’t miss the lively atmosphere at La Avenida Escazu, filled with restaurants and entertainment options.

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 outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering stunning beaches, national parks, and nature reserves to explore. Visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of activities that highlight the country's breathtaking scenery and vibrant ecosystems. Whether you're seeking relaxation by the beach or thrilling adventures in the wild, Costa Rica promises an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty and excitement.

• Arenal Volcano National Park: Experience the thrill of adventure amidst breathtaking scenery at this stunning national park. The majestic Arenal Volcano, once considered one of the most active volcanoes in the world, provides a dramatic backdrop for hiking, wildlife spotting, and relaxing in natural hot springs.
• Coco Beach: Enjoy the laid-back beach vibes at Coco Beach, where golden sands meet vibrant nightlife. Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and indulging in local cuisine, this charming beach offers a delightful blend of relaxation and recreation.
• Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve: Discover the enchanting biodiversity of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, a lush sanctuary teeming with unique flora and fauna. Explore hiking trails that wind through the misty canopy, offering extraordinary views and a chance to spot elusive wildlife.

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 (20.7°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