Where to Stay in Costa Rica
A regional guide to accommodation across the country
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Regions of Costa Rica
Each region offers a distinct character and accommodation scene. Find the one that matches your travel plans.
The country's urban and cultural heart offers the most conventional accommodation options, from international chain hotels to boutique properties in colonial buildings. This region serves as a common arrival and departure base, with many travelers spending minimal time here before heading to coastal or mountain destinations. Coffee plantation lodges in surrounding hills provide unique highland experiences.
Dominated by the iconic Arenal Volcano, this region specializes in nature-focused accommodation with hot springs as a major draw. Properties range from budget hostels in La Fortuna town to luxury thermal resort complexes. The area has evolved into one of Costa Rica's premier adventure tourism hubs with accommodations catering to activity-focused travelers.
This misty mountain region is famous for its cloud forest reserves and offers predominantly eco-conscious accommodation integrated into the forest environment. Properties tend to be smaller, family-run operations that emphasize sustainability and naturalist experiences. The cooler climate and mountain setting create a distinctly different atmosphere from coastal areas.
Stretching from the Nicoya Peninsula to Guanacaste, this is Costa Rica's driest and most developed beach region with the country's widest range of coastal accommodation. From backpacker surf camps to all-inclusive mega-resorts, the diversity here is unmatched. The region benefits from proximity to Liberia's international airport, making it highly accessible.
Home to the famous Manuel Antonio National Park, this compact coastline offers the highest concentration of hotels and visitors in Costa Rica. Accommodation is densely packed on hillsides overlooking beaches, with options skewing toward mid-range and upscale. The proximity to San José makes it popular for weekend getaways and shorter trips.
Costa Rica's wildest and most remote coastal region features limited but high-quality accommodation, with many properties accessible only by boat or small plane. The Osa Peninsula is considered the country's premier destination for serious nature enthusiasts, and lodges here typically operate on all-inclusive models due to isolation. This region offers the most authentic rainforest immersion experiences.
Culturally distinct with Afro-Caribbean influences, this laid-back coastline offers a different vibe from the Pacific side, with more rustic, locally-owned accommodation options. The region attracts independent travelers seeking authentic experiences and has less resort development. Rainfall patterns differ here, with the driest months being September-October and February-March.
This mountainous inland region surrounding Costa Rica's highest peak attracts hikers and those seeking cooler climates and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Accommodation is limited and basic, centered around mountain lodges that serve as bases for Chirripó treks. The area sees far fewer tourists than coastal regions.
This rainforest region north of the Central Valley offers accessible jungle experiences with a strong focus on eco-tourism and sustainable agriculture. River-focused lodges and working farm stays provide unique accommodation experiences. The area is less touristy than Arenal but offers excellent wildlife viewing and river rafting.
The less-visited inland portion of the Nicoya Peninsula offers a more authentic Costa Rican experience with cattle ranches, small towns, and traditional culture. Accommodation is limited and basic but provides access to uncrowded beaches and rural experiences. This area appeals to travelers seeking to escape tourist crowds.
Accommodation Landscape
What to expect from accommodation options across Costa Rica
International chains including Marriott, Hilton, Best Western, and Barceló operate primarily in San José, Guanacaste beach areas, and near Liberia airport. Spanish chain Meliá has a presence in beach destinations. However, Costa Rica's accommodation sector is dominated more by independent properties than chains, reflecting the country's emphasis on boutique and eco-focused tourism. Regional Central American chains like Real InterContinental have select properties in the capital and major tourist zones.
Costa Rica excels in locally-owned accommodation, from family-run 'cabinas' (simple bungalows) to sophisticated boutique eco-lodges. Many properties are owner-operated with fewer than 20 rooms, providing personalized service and local expertise. The 'soda' culture extends to accommodation, with many small hotels offering home-cooked meals. Bed and breakfasts are common in tourist areas, often run by expats who've settled in Costa Rica. Cooperative-owned lodges exist in some indigenous territories and rural communities, offering cultural immersion opportunities.
Eco-lodges are Costa Rica's signature accommodation type, ranging from rustic jungle platforms to sophisticated sustainable resorts with solar power, rainwater collection, and organic gardens. Tree house hotels have emerged as a unique niche, offering elevated sleeping platforms in the canopy. Biological stations and research facilities sometimes offer basic lodging for nature enthusiasts. Working coffee and cacao plantations provide agro-tourism stays where guests participate in harvesting and processing. Wellness and yoga retreats, particularly in coastal areas and Monteverde, combine accommodation with structured programs. Some former banana plantation buildings have been converted into heritage lodges, particularly in the Caribbean zone.
Booking Tips for Costa Rica
Country-specific advice for finding the best accommodation
Properties in Tortuguero, Drake Bay, and the Osa Peninsula have limited capacity and often include boat or plane transfers that must be coordinated. These eco-lodges frequently sell out 4-6 months ahead for peak season. Many operate on all-inclusive models and require minimum stays of 2-3 nights.
Many Costa Rican accommodations, especially eco-lodges, require 4WD vehicles to access or are only reachable by boat or small plane. Confirm transportation logistics when booking and whether the property offers transfer services. Some properties include transfers in their rates, while others charge separately, which can significantly impact total costs.
Remote lodges often operate on all-inclusive or half-board basis because of limited nearby dining options. Verify whether meals, activities, park fees, and transfers are included in quoted rates. Some eco-lodges bundle guided hikes and naturalist tours, while others charge separately. In beach towns, most accommodations are room-only with restaurants nearby.
Costa Rica's road conditions mean short distances can require long travel times. When booking, consider proximity to specific activities—Manuel Antonio for beach and wildlife, La Fortuna for volcano and hot springs, Monteverde for cloud forests. Staying near your primary interests minimizes time spent on bumpy roads and maximizes activity time.
Some smaller properties, particularly in remote areas and the Caribbean coast, close entirely during the rainiest months (September-October). Others reduce services or offer limited availability. Confirm operational status when booking shoulder or low season dates, and verify whether restaurants and tour operators in the area will also be open.
Costa Rica's Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program rates properties on sustainability practices from 1-5 leaves. Many eco-lodges prominently display their certification level. While not mandatory, these certifications can help identify genuinely sustainable properties versus those simply using eco-branding for marketing purposes.
When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability across Costa Rica
For travel during December-April peak season, book 3-6 months in advance, especially for Christmas/New Year (book 6-12 months ahead), Easter week, and popular areas like Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, and Arenal. Remote eco-lodges in Osa Peninsula and Tortuguero require even earlier booking due to limited capacity. Last-minute availability during high season is rare in top destinations.
November and May shoulder months offer more flexibility, with 1-2 months advance booking usually sufficient for most properties. Early December (before holiday rush) can sometimes be booked just weeks ahead. These periods offer better value while still providing decent weather, particularly on the Pacific coast.
September and October low season often allows for last-minute bookings, sometimes even walk-in availability, with significant discounts of 40-60% off peak rates. However, verify that properties and local tour operators are actually open, as some close for maintenance. The Caribbean coast, which has different rainfall patterns, may require more advance booking during its drier September-October period.
As a general rule for Costa Rica, book 2-3 months ahead for most travel during dry season, 4-6 months for peak holiday periods and remote eco-lodges, and 2-4 weeks for green season travel. Flexibility increases dramatically outside December-April. Consider booking refundable rates during rainy season in case weather forecasts look particularly unfavorable.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information for Costa Rica