Where to Stay in Costa Rica

Your ultimate destination guide.

Planning an adventure in Costa Rica must always begin with the question, where to stay in Costa Rica? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! At Not in the Guidebooks, we’ve scoured this tropical paradise (if you’d like to learn more see here) to find the perfect places for you to rest your head after a day of exhilarating experiences. While it is true, there are so many great accommodations, there are also definitely some recommendations we need to make. We loved every minute of our trip, and we know you will too if you consider going with one of our accommodations. 

Of course, any good Costa Rican adventure might involve staying in a few different places, and for that reason we want to give options for a few different places. There are so many fun adventures to do in all the different locations too, so we’ll let you know what each accommodation is perfect for. And, of course, if you don’t want to plan all this by yourself, choose one of our holidays and we’ll put together all the accommodations and fun activities for you. So, lets kick it off:

Finca la Rose in San Jose, Costa Rica for where to stay in Costa Rica

San Jose – Finca la Rose

Urban Luxury Meets Jungle Views

San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica, and for that reason probably where you will fly in and so,, it is good to have your first accommodation here. San Jose has a rich history, delicious food and some of the friendliest people you will ever meet. As for accommodation, Finca la Rose is the place to be. You’ll have a balcony overlooking a lush jungle and the clear blue sea just beyond. Luxury meets authenticity and uniqueness in this truly beautiful and comfortable accommodation. When you walk in there is the most incredible sitting area with plants everywhere. Once you get up to your room you’ll have a modern bathroom with a large cosy bed, what more could you ask for? 

The pool in Laguna Lodge in Tortuguero, Costa Rica

Tortuguero – Laguna Lodge

Beach Paradise and Turtle Haven

Next on our “where to stay in Costa Rica” tour is the enchanting Tortuguero region. Laguna Lodge offers luxury right on the beach, complete with a large pool for those who prefer chlorine to salt. But the real magic happens at night – step onto the beach for a chance to witness sea turtles nesting. It’s nature’s own late-night show!

  • Costa Rica Coast to Coast image

    Costa Rica Coast to Coast

    calendar/duration icon 14 Nights location icon Costa Rica
    • Travel from Caribbean canals to Pacific shores
    • Turtle-filled waterways, volcanoes and cloud forests
    • Meet farming families and local artisans
    • Adventure, wildlife and beach time combined

    Price from

    £3268 pp*
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  • Ultimate Costa Rica image

    Ultimate Costa Rica

    calendar/duration icon 16 Nights location icon Costa Rica
    • Explore Costa Rica from Caribbean canals to Pacific rainforests
    • Visit Tortuguero, Arenal, Monteverde and Corcovado
    • Share meals and stories with local families
    • The most complete journey across Costa Rica

    Price from

    £4849 pp*
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  • Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Marine Life image

    Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Marine Life

    calendar/duration icon 10 Nights location icon Costa Rica
    • Hike through Corcovado National Park
    • Snorkel alongside dolphins and turtles
    • Learn coffee traditions with local familie
    • Discover Costa Rica's natural wonders

    Price from

    £3233 pp*
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  • Active Costa Rica image

    Active Costa Rica

    calendar/duration icon 14 Nights location icon Costa Rica
    • Surf, zipline, kayak and quad bike your way across Costa Rica
    • Explore cloud forests, mangroves and Pacific beaches
    • Visit rural communities and family-run projects
    • Costa Rica's most action-packed itinerary

    Price from

    £3132 pp*
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  • Costa Rica’s North Pacific Coast image

    Costa Rica’s North Pacific Coast

    calendar/duration icon 10 Nights location icon Costa Rica
    • Uncover Costa Rica's Pacific hidden gems
    • Surf beaches and tropical forests
    • Cook with locals in rural villages
    • Beach time and outdoor adventure

    Price from

    £2071 pp*
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  • Balcony view in Koora Hotel in Monteverde, Costa Rica

    Monteverde – Koora Hotel

    Cloud Forest Comfort

    No Costa Rica trip is complete without visiting Monteverde’s cloud forest. Stay at Koora Hotel for easy access to ziplines, river rafting, and quetzal spotting. After a day of adventure, return to your luxurious forest retreat. It’s the best of both worlds – wild excitement and pampered relaxation!

    Villa Caletas swimming pool and loungers in Jaco Beach, Costa Rica

    Jaco Beach – Villa Caletas

    Coastal Luxury and Crocodile Adventures

    For beach lovers, Jaco is a must-visit. Villa Caletas offers that perfect blend of luxury and uniqueness we adore. And here’s an insider tip: take a crocodile tour for an adrenaline rush! Glide through mangrove-lined rivers, spotting these prehistoric creatures sunbathing on the banks. It’s a heart-pounding way to appreciate Costa Rica’s diverse wildlife!

    Aguila de Osa in Drake bay swinging hammock in Costa Rica

    Drake Bay – Aguila de Osa

    Waterfront Wonder in the Wilderness

    Last but not least on our “where to stay in Costa Rica” journey is Drake Bay. Aguila de Osa is your gateway to endless adventures. Snorkel with vibrant sea creatures or take a mystical mangrove tour. For the ultimate experience, book a night tour in the nearby Corcovado National Park. As darkness falls, the forest comes alive with nocturnal creatures – from tiny, glowing fungi to elusive big cats. It’s like stepping into another world!

    Choosing where to stay in Costa Rica is part of the adventure. Each of these accommodations offers a unique glimpse into the country’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. Whether you’re ziplining through cloud forests, watching sea turtles nest, or exploring mangroves, you’ll have a cosy, eco-friendly base to return to.

    If you’re ready to start your Costa Rica journey then take a look at some of our amazing Costa Rica holidays. We have found all the amazing accommodations you could want and combined them all with thrilling activities that you’ll be telling all your friends and family about for years to come. Or, if you’d like, have a look at our other Costa Rica blog posts and learn more about this amazing country.

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