Costa Rica Luxury Travel Guide
Explore Costa Rica’s Best Five-Star Hotels, Luxury Resorts, Private Villas & Exclusive Eco-Retreats in 2025
Costa Rica has a way of captivating the heart of travelers with its emerald rainforests, volcanic hot springs, and sunlit Pacific beaches, creating a seamless blend of adventure and world-class luxury. Whether it’s a cliffside infinity pool with ocean views or an open-air villa in the heart of the jungle, the country’s top hotels and resorts are designed to immerse guests in unforgettable natural beauty paired with indulgence.
From the thermal springs of Arenal to the white-sand beaches of the Papagayo Peninsula, Costa Rica leads Central America in luxury travel. Couples retreat to private villas perched above the sea, wellness seekers recharge at holistic jungle retreats with thermal waters and nature rituals, while adventurers find thrills in surfing, ziplining, and private wildlife safaris. Families, meanwhile, are welcomed at upscale, kid-friendly resorts that combine relaxation with discovery, ensuring Costa Rica offers something extraordinary for every type of luxury traveler.
This guide explores the best luxury hotels, resorts, and private villas Costa Rica has to offer, chosen for their world-class amenities, stunning natural settings, commitment to eco-luxury, and ability to deliver unforgettable experiences tailored to every type of traveler. To make planning simple, you’ll find direct booking links throughout, and some may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us continue creating unbiased luxury travel guides to the world’s most extraordinary destinations.
For those seeking even more luxury destination inspiration, please explore our curated guides to the world’s best yoga retreats, luxury longevity escapes, and iconic destinations like Bali, Santorini, and The Maldives, each showcasing hotels and resorts that redefine global luxury travel.
Whether you’re planning a wellness retreat, a honeymoon escape, or a family vacation, let’s dive right in to Costa Rica’s best luxury hotels, alongside boutique gems, eco-lodges, beach resorts, and private villas, that define the country’s “pura vida” spirit with an unmatched commitment to luxury.
Article Overview
The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s luxury travel calendar has two distinctive seasons set the rhythm for vacationers, each inviting travelers to discover the country in a different light.
- Dry Season (December to April): Costa Rica’s summer unfolds with bright sunshine, tranquil seas, and perfect beaches. Luxury resorts along Papagayo and Nicoya come alive, welcoming travelers for sailing charters, world-class surfing, and water sports amid postcard views. Adventure seekers savor clear skies for ziplining, hiking Arenal Volcano, or exploring the wild beauty of Manuel Antonio National Park.
- Green Season (May to June, September to November): Tropical rains bring the landscape to life, mornings are lush, afternoons vibrant, and crowds fade away. This is prime time for eco-conscious visitors, with luxury eco-lodges offering exclusive packages and privacy, plus rare wildlife encounters and sustainable travel experiences. Whether watching sea turtles nest or retreating to a rain-kissed villa, the green season reveals Costa Rica at its most intimate and untamed.
Costa Rica’s Best Cities for Luxury Stays
Costa Rica’s high-end accommodations span a spectrum of regions, each delivering a unique luxury experience. Here’s what travelers will find in the country’s top destinations:
- Papagayo Peninsula: The crown jewel of Costa Rica luxury, this region is home to elite resorts like the Four Seasons and Andaz. Expect secluded beaches, private yacht charters, and cliffside infinity pools with sweeping Pacific views perfect for both honeymooners and families seeking a five-star escape.
- Arenal & La Fortuna: Renowned for thermal hot springs and dramatic volcano vistas, this lush area features wellness-focused resorts where guests enjoy private plunge pools and immersive spa rituals. It’s a paradise for couples and those craving nature and relaxation.
- Manuel Antonio: Where upscale comfort meets untamed beauty. Resorts in this region offer proximity to the iconic Manuel Antonio National Park and its abundant wildlife while still boasting top-tier amenities and access to pristine beaches.
- Santa Teresa & Nicoya Peninsula: This is luxury at its best, with boutique hotels and private villas attracting celebrities, families, and digital nomads alike. Think laid-back but chic vibes, world-class surfing, and exclusive hideaways along Costa Rica’s most scenic coastline.
- San José & Central Valley: A gateway to culture and adventure, Costa Rica’s capital area is filled with boutique hotels offering quick trips to coffee plantations, volcanoes, and easy private transfers throughout the country.
With each region bringing its own flavor of “pura vida,” there’s a luxury experience for everyone, whether you prefer a tranquil rainforest villa, a chic beachside suite, or a five-star family resort.
Costa Rica Travel Planning Guide
Editor's Picks:
Costa Rica's Top 10 Luxury Hotels & Resorts
Hacienda AltaGracia is a luxury sanctuary in Costa Rica’s Talamanca Mountains, where 50 expansive casitas sit across 180 acres of rainforest, gardens, and stables. Guests arrive by complimentary charter flight and enjoy bespoke itineraries that include horseback riding, local coffee tastings, and guided jungle hikes. At the heart of the resort is THE WELL at AltaGracia, offering transformative wellness programs rooted in ritual and holistic therapy. With private plunge pools, organic fine dining, sweeping mountain views, and attentive service tailored to each guest, Hacienda AltaGracia redefines luxury in Costa Rica as both indulgent and deeply restorative.
The Four Seasons Resort at Peninsula Papagayo is the definitive address for luxury in Costa Rica, set on a private stretch of coastline with pristine beaches framing both sides of the resort. Its hillside villas offer private plunge pools and devoted staff, while guests enjoy championship golf, curated cultural programs, and a sprawling spa retreat. Families will appreciate the dedicated kids’ clubs and adventure offerings, while wellness seekers have access to yoga, beachside treatments, and exceptional dining in a range of settings, from oceanfront lounges to chef-driven tasting menus.
Nestled in lush rainforest near Arenal Volcano, Nayara Springs is adults-only luxury at its finest. Each villa features a private thermal plunge pool fed by natural springs, alongside open-air showers and personal hosts. Guests are invited to enjoy the property’s award-winning spa, which offers volcanic mud treatments, yoga, and local rituals inspired by the rainforest. Consistently listed among the world’s top luxury resorts, Nayara Springs delivers both pampering and adventure in a vibrant and eco-rich sanctuary.
Origins Lodge delivers refined jungle luxury with just six high-design lodges and a luxe private villa, all perched above Lake Nicaragua for sweeping panoramas. Its signature cliffside infinity pool floats above the rainforest canopy, an unrivaled setting for sunset swims or cocktails. Guests will be immersed in jungle treks, savor Michelin-starred cuisine, and unwind at the propety’s holistic spa, where every experience blends adventure and tranquility in extraordinary style.
Casa Chameleon is an exclusive adults-only sanctuary perched above the Pacific, celebrated globally for its privacy and romance. Each cliffside villa features a saltwater plunge pool, panoramic ocean views, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Guests can personalize every moment of their getaway, from diving, surfing, and private yacht charters to in-villa chef’s table dinners and sunset cocktails. Perfect for couples and honeymooners, this gorgeous retreat delivers both seclusion and thrill, with attentive service and curated adventures that shape an exceptional Costa Rican escape.
Bold architecture and vibrant design put Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo on the map for luxury-seekers who want both style and substance. The resort opens up to four idyllic beaches, a nature-inspired spa, and three celebrated restaurants where local flavors shine. Suites and villas come with expansive terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows, and open-air showers, making them favorites, offering both privacy and panoramic views. Between curated cultural activities, guided jungle adventures, and laid-back beach clubs, Andaz delivers a dynamic blend of Costa Rican spirit, barefoot comfort, and high-end amenities all designed for travelers who want to soak up the region’s natural beauty in elevated surroundings.
Kurà, perched high above Uvita’s rainforest, is an adults-only sanctuary with just eight design-driven villas, each offering seamless indoor-outdoor living and jaw-dropping views. Its saltwater infinity pools float above the landscape, widely considered one of Costa Rica’s most photogenic panoramic vistas over Marino Ballena National Park and the Pacific Ocean. Spa treatments, gourmet local cuisine, and curated excursions like whale watching or rainforest hikes set the stage for romance and relaxation. With eco-conscious practices and an intimate atmosphere, Kurà is a retreat built for deep relaxation and connection to Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
Tucked into the mystical cloud forests of Bajos del Toro, El Silencio Lodge & Spa is a haven of peace, culture, and nature immersion. Each decadent villa offers a private deck and hot tub with views of waterfalls and lush valleys, while farm-to-table dining highlights local flavors sourced from the property’s own gardens. Wellness is central here, with a tranquil spa, yoga, and mindful rituals complemented by organic treatments inspired by Costa Rica’s landscapes. Guests can explore miles of private trails, guided birdwatching, artisan workshops, and curated cultural tours, creating a seamless blend of rustic luxury, authenticity, and restorative tranquility.
Located steps from Santa Teresa’s golden sands, Nantipa is the embodiment of world-class luxury blended with lively surf culture. Its beachfront bungalows feature private plunge pools, open-air design, and direct access to the ocean, creating a seamless connection between indoor comfort and coastal adventure. Guests enjoy a lively culinary scene, with menus built around local ingredients that reflect the spirit of the Nicoya Peninsula. With its modern style, wellness-focused amenities, and easy access to both yoga and surfing, Nantipa attracts style-conscious travelers seeking the perfect balance of sophistication, vibrant energy, and laid-back beach life in one of Costa Rica’s most desirable destinations.
Set in rainforest near Arenal Volcano, Nayara Tented Camp redefines eco-luxury with expansive safari-style tents featuring private hot spring plunge pools, outdoor rain showers, sweeping jungle terraces, and panoramic views. The camp welcomes both couples and families, offering amenities like guided nature walks, birdwatching, and stargazing, plus privileges at the neighboring Nayara resorts. It’s a seamless blend of adventure, relaxation, and refined comfort in one of Costa Rica’s most scenic natural settings.
Costa Rica’s Best Boutique Hotels & Hidden Luxury Retreats
Costa Rica’s boutique hotels offer a distinctive edge compared to its famed luxury resorts, delivering intimacy, stunning design, and an authentic sense of place. These hidden gems stand out for personalized service and natural surroundings that cater to travelers seeking uniqueness and immersion.
For nature lovers, Peace Lodge brings the cloud forest indoors with suites designed to echo the landscape. Located at La Paz Waterfall Gardens, each room features a fireplace, Jacuzzi tub, and direct access to wildlife encounters, making Costa Rica’s stunning biodiversity central to the stay. Those drawn to bold design and exclusivity gravitate toward Hotel Three Sixty in Ojochal, a refuge atop a jungle hill. Guests enjoy dramatic architecture and cuisine alongside sweeping 360-degree views and infinity pools for total privacy.
If Caribbean culture and elevated comfort are speaking to you, Hotel Banana Azul in Puerto Viejo delivers a boutique beachfront experience. Its oceanfront villas, vibrant local style, and direct access to sand combine laid-back charm with authentic Costa Rican flavor, ideal for luxury travelers seeking both local character and high-touch amenities.
Best Costa Rica Boutique Hotels & Hidden Gems:
The Best Luxury Eco-Lodges in Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s position as a leader in eco-luxury is showcased by properties where sustainability, wellness, and conservation take center stage without compromising on indulgence. These eco-lodges offer transformative experiences, blending adventure, nature, and comfort for travelers who seek more than just a beautiful place to stay.
For a truly immersive rainforest escape, Lapa Rios Lodge in the Osa Peninsula is unmatched. Situated on a 1,000-acre private reserve, guests enjoy canopy-level suites, wildlife-filled trails, and elevated dining, all designed with the environment in mind. If arts, culture, and coffee culture are priorities, Finca Rosa Blanca just outside of San José, offers artful suites filled with local craftsmanship on an organic plantation. Its celebrated on-site restaurant highlights farm-to-table cuisine sourced from the estate, allowing guests to create a deeper connection to Costa Rica’s traditions.
Those drawn to dramatic ocean views and seclusion will find it at Drake Bay Getaway Resort: which features minimalist glass-walled villas opening onto wilderness, offering both privacy and close encounters with nature. For travelers interested in river adventures and ecological discovery, Mawamba Lodge in Tortuguero provides riverfront cabins and direct access to turtle nesting beaches, balancing rustic comforts with deep roots in conservation.
These luxurious eco-lodge options are proof that in Costa Rica, upscale travel and sustainability go hand in hand, creating getaways that are authentic, restorative, and unforgettable.
The Best Costa Rica Eco-Lodges:
The Best Private Villa Resorts in Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s private villa resorts set the standard for romance, exclusivity, and personalized luxury, inviting guests to savor sweeping views, private pools, and bespoke settings in the heart of nature. Each villa offers the freedom to craft an experience as relaxed or adventurous as desired, making it the ideal way to unlock the magic and privacy of the Costa Rican jungle.
Romantic travelers gravitate toward Casa Chameleon Hotel Las Catalinas, where cliffside villas feature saltwater plunge pools and uninterrupted Pacific panoramas. This adults-only retreat curates everything from surfing lessons to private yacht charters, striking a perfect balance between seclusion and adventure. Style-conscious guests will find their match at Kurà Boutique Hotel in Uvita. With just eight villas and a renowned infinity pool overlooking the coast, Kurà delivers intimate, eco-conscious luxury and sleek design.
For those wanting a sense of community alongside comfort, Sendero Hotel & Villas in Nosara offers modern villas steps from world-class surf and buzzy wellness cafes. Blending relaxed sophistication with wellness and connectivity, it appeals to travelers eager for both tranquility and Nosara’s signature lifestyle.
These villa resorts in Costa Rica embody the ultimate blend of privacy, personalization, and natural beauty, designed for travelers who seek both exclusive seclusion and immersive, one-of-a-kind experiences.
The Best Private Villa Resorts in Costa Rica:
The Best Costa Rica Luxury Beach Resorts
Costa Rica’s Pacific coast sets the gold standard for luxury beach resorts, with properties that cater to jet-setters, couples, and families seeking laid-back elegance by the sea. The Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo leads with a private peninsula retreat, two secluded beaches, and expansive villas complete with personal plunge pools. Guests can indulge in yacht charters, championship golf, and nature-inspired spa treatments, backed by the brand’s signature discreet service and curated experiences.
Ideal for couples and honeymooners, Secrets Papagayo offers a sanctuary of privacy and tranquil indulgence on the Papagayo Peninsula. Its ocean-view suites, infinity pools, wellness-focused programs, and elevated dining create an atmosphere designed for romance and connection, making it one of Costa Rica’s most sought-after luxury beach escapes.
Families and groups will gravitate toward The Westin Reserva Conchal, which offers a sprawling all-inclusive estate with a lagoon-style pool, top-tier golf, and dedicated programs for kids and teens. It delivers five-star comfort and activity-rich days in a spacious, scenic setting.
Ultimately, Costa Rica’s luxury beach resorts cater to every travel style, whether exclusivity, romance, or family-friendly ease is the goal, delivering five-star beachfront living along one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines.
Costa Rica’s Best Luxury Beach Resorts:
Final Takeaways: Costa Rica Luxury Travel Guide 2025
Costa Rica has firmly established itself as one of the premier destinations for global luxury travelers, where untamed natural beauty meets sophisticated indulgence. From the remote eco-lodges of the Osa Peninsula to the award-winning five-star sanctuaries of the Papagayo Peninsula, Costa Rica’s top hotels, resorts, retreats, and villas have set a new benchmark in elite global travel, delivering curated experiences, relaxed elegance, and world-class service for the most discerning guests.
What sets Costa Rica apart as a dream destination for luxury travelers is its intuitive and personalized approach to hospitality, where every detail is tailored to individual desires. Couples will find seclusion in cliffside villas and intimate spas designed for romance. Families will enjoy adventure seamlessly woven into elegant surroundings, from wildlife encounters to surfing. Wellness seekers will immerse themselves in transformative yoga, hydrotherapy, and holistic therapies, while eco-conscious travelers will discover conservation-driven resorts that blend sustainability with refined comfort. In Costa Rica, luxury is not just a standard, but a dialogue, and every journey feels intentional, inspiring, and deeply meaningful.
With its unrivaled mix of luxury hotels, beach resorts, boutique retreats, private villas, and eco-lodges, Costa Rica is more than a destination: it’s a lifestyle of adventure, renewal, and indulgence. In 2025, it remains a top choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, refined comfort, and authentic connection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Costa Rica Luxury Travel
What is the best time to visit Costa Rica for luxury travel?
The best time to visit Costa Rica for luxury travel is during the dry season (December–April), when the weather is perfect for beaches, yachting, and outdoor adventures. The green season (May–June, September–October) offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and more exclusivity at five-star resorts.
Where are the most luxurious areas to stay in Costa Rica?
The most prestigious destinations for luxury hotels and villas in Costa Rica include the Papagayo Peninsula (ultra-private resorts and exclusive beaches), Arenal & La Fortuna (volcano views and thermal springs), Santa Teresa & the Nicoya Peninsula (barefoot luxury with surf culture), and Manuel Antonio (wildlife-rich luxury by the sea).
What are the top luxury hotels in Costa Rica?
The top-rated luxury hotels in Costa Rica include Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection, Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo, Nayara Springs, Origins Lodge, and Casa Chameleon Las Catalinas. These properties are globally recognized for exceptional service, seclusion, and eco-conscious luxury.
Are there private villa retreats available in Costa Rica?
Yes, Costa Rica offers some of the most exclusive private villa resorts in Central America, such as Kurà Boutique Hotel, Sendero Hotel & Villas in Nosara, and private estates on the Papagayo Peninsula. These villas cater to elite travelers seeking privacy, dedicated staff, and bespoke luxury services.
What luxury experiences can travelers enjoy in Costa Rica?
Luxury travelers in Costa Rica can indulge in private yacht charters, helicopter tours over volcanoes, holistic spa treatments, exclusive wildlife safaris, surfing with private instructors, and Michelin-inspired dining in rainforest settings. Many resorts also offer curated wellness retreats and conservation-driven eco-adventures.
Is Costa Rica a good destination for luxury honeymoons?
Yes, Costa Rica is a premiere choice for luxury honeymoons, with secluded beachfront villas, romantic jungle lodges, and five-star spas. Popular honeymoon regions include Santa Teresa for barefoot romance, Arenal for hot springs and wellness, and the Papagayo Peninsula for ultimate exclusivity.
How much does a luxury vacation in Costa Rica cost?
Luxury vacations in Costa Rica typically range from $800 to $3,000+ per night, depending on the level of exclusivity. Ultra-luxury options such as private villas with full staff, wellness programs, and private tours can increase costs significantly but deliver unmatched experiences.
Why choose Costa Rica over other luxury destinations?
Unlike many destinations where luxury feels detached from place, Costa Rica offers immersive luxury rooted in its natural environment. Here, five-star hospitality comes with volcano views, rainforest adventures, thermal springs, and untouched beaches, making it one of the few places in the world where travelers can experience authentic culture, sustainability, and indulgence in a single journey.