Costa Rica is a beautiful travel destination in Central America. Just west of the Caribbean, the coastal country is filled with rainforests, waterfalls, and pristine beaches. In this article, we have handpicked 8 of the best places to stay in Costa Rica that offer an unmatched holiday experience.
Hotel Fermata
Hotel Fermata is one of the best luxury boutique hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. Recently opened, the hotel is the latest addition to the iconic surf town on the West Coast. The beachfront escape is home to 35 accommodations, ranging from cozy guest rooms to two-bedroom villas. They come in a serene ivory palette, each designed with textured furnishings, natural materials, and organic bath products.
In the heart of Hotel Fermata is its outdoor pool, perfect for refreshing dips and hanging out. The hotel also offers surfboard rentals and different surfing lessons. Helmed by chef Olivier Palazzo, the culinary experience on-site blends simple Mediterranean flavors with refined French technique. Fermata Kitchen is the main dining space, while the beach house and the lawn are social hubs for drinks & light bites.
Río Perdido
Río Perdido is one of the most beautiful places to stay in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Surrounded by 1,500 acres of unspoiled landscapes, it is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. The 38 bungalows are dotted across the property, all designed with wooden furniture, stainless steel, and polished concrete floors. We particularly love the West Bungalows, which boast an open-air terrace, shower, and oversized tub.
Wellness is a major priority at Río Perdido. The crown jewel of the hotel is definitely its 50-meter thermal canyon & spring, featuring dozens of hot and cold pools. There are also three outdoor mineral pools, a swim-up bar, cliff-side yoga pods, maintained trails, and a rejuvenating spa. For meals, the open-air restaurant offers Costa Rican cuisine that highlights homegrown and organic produce.
The Gilded Iguana
The Gilded Iguana is one of the coolest surf escapes to stay in Costa Rica, perfect for surfers and outdoor lovers. Located in the coastal town of Nosara, it has been a vibrant surf retreat since the 1980s. Designed by Studio Saxe, the hotel evokes a breezy tropical charm. The 29 guest rooms are outfitted with wooden furnishings, concrete floors, geometric bathroom tiles, private balconies, and modern amenities.
At the center of The Gilded Iguana is its breezy outdoor pool, surrounded by sun beds, umbrellas, and lush greenery. The hotel also boasts a cutting-edge athletic center, an organic spa, yoga classes, and different outdoor experiences. As for culinary, the in-house restaurant offers fresh, locally-sourced cuisine from breakfast to dinner. You can always enjoy a botanical cocktail or a healthy smoothie at the bar, too.
Nantipa
Nantipa is a secluded luxury boutique hotel to stay on the western coast of Costa Rica. Nestled in the heart of Santa Teresa, it is the perfect beachfront escape to visit. It comprises a collection of bungalows, suites, and private villas. Their design revolves around soothing neutral hues, accented by wooden furnishings and vibrant pops of royal blue. The bungalows and villas also boast a private plunge pool.
At the center of Nantipa, you will discover an irregular-shaped outdoor pool, surrounded by loungers and luxuriant greenery. The hotel is also home to the Numu Wellness Center, which offers open-air treatments and cardio sessions. Manzú will be in charge of your culinary experience. Opening throughout the day, the breezy restaurant serves locally-inspired dishes with picturesque ocean views.
Hotel Belmar
Hotel Belmar is one of the best luxury hotels in Monteverde, Costa Rica. Nestled in the mountains, the 40-year-old lodge is a dreamy escape surrounded by the Cloud Forest. It is home to 27 spacious guest rooms, studios, and suites. Echoing its facade, they are all crafted with lacquered wood, large floor-to-ceiling windows, and a scenic private balcony. Some rooms even have a freestanding bathtub.
Besides, Hotel Belmar features a spring water pond, a soaking hot tub, guided yoga sessions, massages, and many more experiences. The culinary journey at the hotel is also remarkable, featuring three dining & drinking spaces on-site. For instance, Restaurant Celajes offers a refined menu rooted in sustainability and local flavors, while Cervecería Belmar is a relaxed tap room with comforting dishes.
Sendero Hotel
Sendero Hotel is one of the coolest luxury boutique hotels in Costa Rica, a beautiful coastal country southwest of the Caribbean. Situated in the surf destination of Nosara, it is hidden inside a nature preserve beside the Playa Guiones beach. Working with LOOP Design Studio, the hotel’s tropical architecture draws inspiration from traditional haciendas, with lush gardens weaving throughout.
Sendero Hotel offers 32 light-filled guest rooms, suites, and villas. They all feature a relaxing neutral palette with breezy modern furniture and colorful artwork. They also have well-appointed amenities such as a private balcony, premium linens, organic bath products, and more.
At the center courtyard, you will discover a unique outdoor pool surrounded by sprawling greenery and white loungers. There is also a spacious fitness studio with weekly yoga, pilates, and cardio circuits classes. The hotel even offers surf lessons and surfboard rental for guests. For meals & drinks, Sendero Kitchen is an al-fresco neighborhood restaurant with vibrant organic dishes.
Santarena Hotel
Santarena Hotel is a small luxury hotel in Costa Rica, set between two pristine Pacific beaches. Tucked away at the coastal town of Las Catalinas, it sits quietly inside a white colonial-style building. Inspired by old coastal mansions, the interior exudes an elegant vintage charm. The 45 rooms and suites come in a white, dark brown, and deep teal palette, accented by tall ceilings and tasteful furnishing.
During your stay, you will have access to the stunning rooftop terrace, which boasts an infinity pool and sweeping ocean views. You will also discover two quality epicurean concepts on-site. Ponciana is the signature restaurant that specializes in Mediterranean and locally inspired dishes. For more casual meals, Cuatro Calle la Ronda is a modern bakery with homemade breads and healthy bites.
OCiO Villas
OCiO Villas is one of the most intimate boutique hotels in Costa Rica. Perched above the forest near Mal Pais and Santa Teresa, the luxury retreat offers unmatched tranquility and privacy. The property is made up of just two exclusive private villas. The two-bedroom Villa Numu is great for couples or families, while the lavish five-bedroom Villa Nimbu is ideal for larger friend groups or families.
Both villas feature an open-air design with custom wooden furnishing, natural materials, and traditional elements. They come with all your amenities, including a scenic infinity pool, a fully stocked kitchen, outdoor decks, an al fresco dining table, and more. To further elevate your stay, the hotel can also help arrange customized spa experiences or private dinners prepared by its head chef.
also check out
