Search Hotels in Costa Rica

Top reasons to visit Costa Rica

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Costa Rica boasts breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests to picturesque beaches, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Adventure Activities: Engage in thrilling experiences like zip-lining, surfing, and hiking in national parks.
• Diverse Wildlife: Explore rich biodiversity, with opportunities to spot unique animals in their natural habitats.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in natural hot springs, particularly near the iconic Arenal Volcano.
• Charming Accommodations: Choose from delightful bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts, catering to all preferences.

Find great hotels in Costa Rica

In Costa Rica, you’ll discover a delightful array of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Whether you seek adventure, a beach getaway, or a family-friendly retreat, there is a perfect place for you. Explore the best hotels, including the renowned Hotel Aguas Claras, and enjoy the idyllic surroundings that make this destination truly special.

• Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive: Nestled on the stunning Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Hotel Riu Guanacaste is a vibrant 4-star resort ideal for adventure seekers and families. With an impressive array of all-inclusive services, guests can indulge in unlimited food and drinks, along with exciting activities like kayaking, snorkelling, and zip-lining. The resort features a plethora of amenities, including a children’s water park, a full-service spa, and outdoor pools, making it perfect for family vacations. Guests can also enjoy nightly entertainment and themed parties, ensuring a lively atmosphere. With its focus on adventure and recreation, this hotel promises a fun-filled stay for all ages.
• Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive: A luxurious 4.5-star All-Inclusive resort, Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica offers an elegant getaway for families and business travellers alike. This sophisticated hotel boasts unlimited gourmet dining options, spacious accommodations, and a range of activities such as kayaking and surfing. With dedicated facilities for meetings and a full-service spa featuring a swim-up bar, it caters to both relaxation and productivity. Families will appreciate the complimentary water park and supervised childcare services, ensuring everyone has a memorable experience. The beautiful surroundings and upscale amenities create an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and recreation.
• Barceló San José: Situated in the vibrant capital, Barceló San José is a charming 4-star hotel perfect for romantic getaways and business trips. The property features a full-service spa offering a variety of treatments and wellness options, ideal for couples seeking a tranquil escape. Business travellers can benefit from well-equipped meeting rooms and a business centre, while guests can indulge in romantic dining experiences through 24-hour room service. With its warm atmosphere and thoughtful amenities, this hotel promises a relaxing and intimate stay in the heart of Costa Rica.

Where to stay in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers an enchanting blend of adventure and relaxation, perfect for any traveller. Explore the lush Osa Peninsula, renowned for its biodiversity, or unwind in the soothing hot springs nestled near Arenal Volcano. Don't miss the vibrant Caribbean coast, where friendly locals and stunning scenery create a romantic atmosphere. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or secluded retreats, Costa Rica promises unforgettable experiences amidst its breathtaking landscapes.

• Ballena: Nestled along Costa Rica’s stunning Pacific coast, Ballena is a gem for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This charming area boasts a moderate influx of travellers, peaking from January to March, as visitors flock to witness its breathtaking scenery. The region is famous for its pristine beaches and the nearby Ballena National Marine Park, where you can indulge in activities such as zip-lining, snorkelling, and exploring lush tropical landscapes. With its array of resorts and adventure activities, Ballena offers a perfect blend of relaxation and thrill.
• La Fortuna: La Fortuna is a vibrant city located near the majestic Arenal Volcano, making it a must-visit for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. With a steady stream of visitors throughout the year, particularly from January to April, La Fortuna is renowned for its diverse outdoor activities, including hiking, hot springs, and waterfall excursions. The local national parks offer stunning vistas and abundant wildlife, ensuring a memorable experience. The city is also home to luxurious spas and resorts, providing a perfect retreat after a day of exploration.
• Tamarindo: A lively beach town on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, Tamarindo is perfect for families and couples alike. With visitor numbers peaking in March and December through January, this destination offers a unique blend of city life and coastal relaxation. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, Tamarindo also features excellent golf courses and a variety of resorts. The close proximity to national parks and the majestic volcano adds to its appeal, making it an ideal spot for those looking to bask in both leisure and adventure.

Things to do in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, making it an ideal destination for those seeking excitement and relaxation. Popular activities include visiting adventure parks, embarking on local tours, and exploring the lush forests. Additionally, you can unwind at luxurious resorts and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments. Embrace the vibrant natural beauty and thrilling experiences that await in this Central American paradise.

Shopping

For a vibrant shopping experience, visit Oxígeno Human Playground, which offers a mix of entertainment and shopping in Costa Rica. If you're up for a drive, check out Mercado Central and San Ramon Municipal Market for unique gifts and local flavour, both reflecting the lively city vibe.

Recreation

The National Stadium of Costa Rica offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, perfect for invigorating workouts. At Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course, enjoy stunning outdoor landscapes while playing a round of golf. For a serene escape, Manuel Antonio Nature Park & Wildlife Refuge provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and wildlife encounters.

Adventure

At Ecoglide Arenal Park, soar through the treetops on an exhilarating zipline ropes course, surrounded by lush rainforest. Enjoy the thrill of Costa Rica Stand Up Paddle Boarding, gliding over serene waters while soaking in the stunning scenery. For relaxation, unwind at Kalambu Hot Springs, a delightful waterpark perfect for families.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Costa Rica offers a delightful mix of culture and entertainment. Enjoy a performance at the National Theater for a romantic evening, or immerse yourself in family-friendly vibes at the Playa Guacalillo Bird Observatory. For nature enthusiasts, the Alexander Skutch Bird Sanctuary provides a unique entertainment experience.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Costa Rica

To save money while visiting Costa Rica, consider travelling between September and November for lower prices. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield significant savings, and using Expedia's last minute deals may also help. Saturdays are generally the cheapest days to stay, while Mondays are the most expensive. Make sure to utilise Expedia's search tool to compare rates and refine your preferences. Additionally, bundling your hotel with flights and activities can lead to further savings, ensuring a budget-friendly vacation experience.

• 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 Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Costa Rica with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. With an array of popular attractions including beautiful beaches, national parks, and nature reserves, visitors can immerse themselves in exhilarating experiences. Whether you're looking to relax by the coast or explore the great outdoors, Costa Rica offers a wealth of opportunities for every type of traveller, ensuring an unforgettable holiday.

• Arenal Volcano National Park: Experience the thrill of adventure with hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Arenal Volcano. This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring lush scenery and opportunities for activities like zip-lining and hot springs soaking.
• Coco Beach: Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Coco Beach, where golden sands meet vibrant ocean waves. It's the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, making it ideal for relaxation and fun in the sun.
• Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve: Wander through this enchanting cloud forest, home to diverse flora and fauna. The unique misty environment creates a magical experience, perfect for wildlife spotting and enjoying the serene beauty of nature.

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 (20.700000000000003°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	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

Arriving in Costa Rica is convenient with its major airports. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is situated 6.2km from the city, with excellent hotels nearby such as the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall, 3.1km away, and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, just 1.2km from the airport. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is 67.7km from Costa Rica, offering luxury at the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, located 6.2km away. Quepos (XQP), 21.1km from the city, features the 5-star Makanda by the Sea, only 1.2km from the airport. Most hotels provide airport shuttles and transportation services for added convenience.