These are The Best Places to Stay in Costa Rica for Every Budget

October 13, 2023

Discover the Pura Vida enchantment of Costa Rica! In this dynamic country, there are accommodations to fit every budget and need. Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a high-end vacationer, your idyllic getaway is waiting for you in this tropical paradise.

Get ready to explore the diverse landscapes, unwind in charming lodges, and embrace eco-friendly hideaways with the help of our local guides at Find My Costa Rica. We’re about to tell you the best places to stay in Costa Rica to make your journey unforgettable.

Explore the best places to stay in Costa Rica for your ideal getaway today!

Luxury Stays

Let us help you find the best luxury hotels in Costa Rica, where you can enjoy the best amenities and personalized service while immersing yourself in the rich biodiversity. These exquisite retreats offer a harmonious blend of luxurious comfort and pristine beauty.

Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa, Arenal (La Fortuna)

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or memorable events, Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa has it all.

With breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano, it offers a unique and tranquil experience in the heart of Costa Rica’s rainforest. On 27 acres of lush countryside, this eco-friendly luxury hotel offers thermal water spas, hydromassage hot tubs, and spacious suites.

Additionally, you can enjoy personalized service, complimentary access to hot springs, and award-winning cuisine with outstanding views.

Santarena, Las Catalinas – Guanacaste

Santarena Resort at Las Catalinas is a tropical escape that beautifully captures the essence of “pura vida.” This bohemian gem sits on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, within the beach town complex of Las Catalinas. Conveniently located just 45 minutes from Liberia International Airport. Accessing this vibrant and welcoming oasis is easy, where relaxation and adventure harmoniously coexist.

The hotel’s accommodations, featuring king beds, sustainable wood floors, and locally sourced amenities, provide a luxurious retreat for all guests. Also, whether traveling solo, with family, or with friends, Santarena offers many activities, including nature adventures and sea exploration.

Mid-Range

Our selection of mid-range stays in Costa Rica perfectly balances affordability and quality, offering a comfortable and memorable base for your Costa Rican adventures.

Parador Resort & Spa – Manuel Antonio

The Parador Resort & Spa in Manuel Antonio is a tropical haven with Spanish-inspired architecture. This gorgeous resort has a spa, four restaurants, and three pools. The rooms are tastefully decorated, some with ocean or rainforest views.

Wildlife abounds on the resort’s 12-acre grounds, including monkeys, sloths, and birds.

Also, it’s an excellent base for exploring the area’s natural wonders, including guided hikes in Manuel Antonio National Park or kayaking at Biesanz Beach.

Buena Vista del Rincón – Rincón de la Vieja

Buena Vista del Rincon is an amazing destination for nature lovers. Here, you can connect with nature and experience true wellness. In the heart of the primary rainforest, this eco-adventure park allows you to reconnect with yourself and immerse yourself in our country’s culture committed to ecotourism.

Located in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, this mountain hotel offers lush vegetation, hot springs, trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the pampas and the Pacific Coast. It’s an authentic paradise where you can find harmony with nature.

This hotel includes 76 well-equipped rooms that blend seamlessly into the natural environment. You can unwind and find comfort in each hotel room while listening to forest sounds and mountain breezes.

Budget-Friendly

Get a taste of Costa Rica without breaking the bank. Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on comfort or experiences. Take a look at our selection of affordable accommodations that will make your trip unforgettable.

Hostels and guesthouses

Staying in hostels and guesthouses is one of the best ways to stretch your travel funds. You can find excellent options in the vibrant capital city of San Jose, Costa Rica. These cozy and wallet-friendly accommodations provide affordability and a chance to connect with fellow travelers.

Here are some of the most popular accommodations:

Selina San Jose

Selina San Jose is nestled within Barrio Otoya’s historic neighborhood. Its location offers convenient access to the National Museum of Costa Rica, the Spirogyra Butterfly Garden, and the Jade Museum, all within a 10-minute walk. It’s also near vibrant farmers’ markets, historic art galleries, and Barrio Escalante, a foodie haven.

Costa Rica Backpackers

Since they opened in 2001, Costa Rica Backpackers has offered a personal and independent touch. Located in the city’s heart, it’s close to bus terminals, vibrant nightlife, and just 30 minutes from the airport, making it the perfect place to start your Costa Rican adventure.

There’s a pool, kitchen facilities, hammocks, and a welcoming atmosphere at Costa Rica Backpackers. Here, you’ll also find friendly travelers from all over the world sharing stories and experiences.

Hostel del Paseo

Hostel del Paseo is the perfect budget and family-friendly getaway for families. It’s only a 15-minute drive from the National Amusement Park and 1 km from downtown San Jose. Plus, you can find a playroom and board games.

With 10 rooms and a continental breakfast, you’ll be able to relax and prep with ease for your upcoming family adventure.

Eco-lodges

Ecotourism is booming in our country. You can find unique eco-lodges along Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast that offer a sustainable way to connect with nature and comfortable accommodations.

Take a look at these stays if you want to make your trip to Costa Rica really special:

Evergreen Lodge

Evergreen Lodge is located just 5 minutes by boat from Tortuguero National Park’s main entrance. Only accessible by air and water, this eco-lodge offers 66 comfortable rooms, a pool, an excellent restaurant, a bar, and bilingual tours.

Pachira Lodge

Pachira Lodge is another excellent place to stay near Tortuguero National Park. The Pachira Lodge offers 94 comfortable guest rooms, buffet-style meals, a bar, bilingual tour guides, and daily departures from San José with no minimum passenger requirement.

Mawamba Lodge

Mawamba Lodge is one of Costa Rica’s closest gateways to Tortuguero National Park. It’s located in the evergreen Tortuguero Canals and National Park. Its laid-back Caribbean style is excellent for people of all ages, whether they’re looking for soft boat outings or adventurous kayak tours.

Whether you're looking for boutique hotels or wallet-friendly hostels, we can show you the best places to stay in Costa Rica.

Ready to Enjoy Your Own Costa Rica Experience?

Pack your bags and get ready to discover paradise! Whether you’re drawn to explore Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, San Jose, Drake Bay, Quepos, or any other place in our country, you’ll find plenty of accommodations to suit your needs.

Contact Find My Costa Rica today, and let our local guides craft your perfect adventure!

FAQ

1. What part of Costa Rica is best to stay in?

Costa Rica offers diverse regions to stay in, allowing you to choose based on your interests. Still, popular choices include Arenal Volcano National Park for adventure, Guanacaste for beaches, and Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve for mountains.

2. How do I decide where to go in Costa Rica?

First of all, consider your interests. Are you looking to explore beaches, rainforests, adventure, or wildlife? Research each region’s attractions and choose the one that aligns with your preferences. You can also consult our local guides for the best recommendations.

The rainy season is genuinely wonderful for travelers who prepare for it. Crowds are smaller, forests are greener, and waterfalls are at their most dramatic. It rains hard, but usually in defined afternoon windows — mornings are often clear.

Want the full picture? Our guide to Costa Rica’s rainy season covers what to expect region by region.

What to pack by activity

Do not repeat your master checklist here these are the additions that matter for specific trip types. Grab what applies to your itinerary and leave the rest.

Beach and water sports

Rash guard sun protection in the water is more effective than sunscreen alone
Waterproof phone case or action cam housing
Reef-safe sunscreen mandatory in marine reserves; this is not a suggestion
Water shoes for rocky beaches and shallow reef walks

Hiking and national parks

Trekking poles especially useful on steep, wet trails in Corcovado or Chirripó
Gaiters for deep mud on rainy season trails
Extra headlamp batteries early morning wildlife walks start before dawn
Microfiber towel compact and dries fast between hikes

Wildlife watching

Binoculars note that most FMCR partner guides carry loaners, so check with your guide before packing yours
Zoom lens (200mm or more) for photographing birds and monkeys at distance
Early-morning layers wildlife is most active before 8am when temperatures are still low
Silent, dark-colored clothing neon colors startle wildlife

City and culture (San José and beyond)

Money belt or anti-theft bag pickpocketing exists in busy market areas
Light cardigan or blazer for nicer restaurants
Comfortable walking shoes cobblestones in Barrio Amón are tough on sandals

Traveler enjoying a Costa Rica sunset view from a scenic overlook

What NOT to pack for Costa Rica

This is the section most travelers wish they had read first. Overpacking is the number one complaint we hear from guests on their first day. Less really is more when you are moving between regions.

Jeans: They never fully dry in the humidity. Swap them for quick-dry pants or shorts and thank yourself on day two.

High heels or dress shoes: You will not need them. Even nice restaurants in Costa Rica are casual. One pair of clean trail sandals does the job.

Too many shoes: Three pairs maximum: waterproof sandals, trail shoes, and flip flops. Shoes are heavy and take space.

Non-reef-safe sunscreen: It is prohibited in several reserves and harmful to marine ecosystems. Bring reef-safe from home. Brands like Raw Elements and Badger are good options.

A hair dryer: Almost every hotel and lodge provides one. Leave yours at home.

Valuables you cannot afford to lose: Leave the expensive jewelry and the laptop you need for work. Use your trip as a proper break.

Cotton everything:Cotton absorbs moisture and stays wet all day. Pack synthetics or merino for everything except maybe one casual outfit.

Practical tips for packing smart: documents, money, and tech

Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your trip.

Customs also requires a tiquete de salida proof of onward travel out of Costa Rica. This can be a return flight or a bus ticket to a neighboring country. Have it printed or easily accessible on your phone. See Costa Rica national park regulations via SINAC for entry requirements at protected areas.

Money

Colones (CRC) are the local currency; USD is widely accepted but change is given in colones
ATMs are available in most towns withdraw colones there rather than exchanging at the airport, where rates are poor
Visa and Mastercard accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and tour operators; carry some cash for small sodas and local markets

Health prep

Check the CDC health recommendations for Costa Rica before your trip they cover vaccines, repellent, and food safety guidance. Travel insurance is not required by law, but we strongly recommend it for anyone doing adventure activities.

Tech

Costa Rica runs on 110V/60Hz US travelers need no adapter or converter
Cell coverage is solid in tourist areas; download offline maps before heading into remote zones
WhatsApp is the primary communication tool in Costa Rica make sure it is installed and working

Tropical hot springs surrounded by rainforest in Costa Rica

Do I need a visa to visit Costa Rica?

US, Canadian, and UK citizens do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica for stays up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your trip. You will need to show a return or onward ticket at customs.

Is tap water safe to drink in Costa Rica?

Yes in most areas. Tap water in San José, Guanacaste, La Fortuna, and other major tourist regions is safe to drink and often tastes good. In very remote or rural communities, confirm locally before drinking. Carry a reusable bottle and refill with confidence in most places.

What is the best luggage for a Costa Rica trip?

A soft-sided rolling suitcase works well if you are staying in one or two places. If you are moving between regions beach, rainforest, and volcano a mid-size backpack (40–50L) is far more practical. It fits in small boats, shuttles, and keeps your hands free on trails. We see guests arrive with giant hard-shell suitcases and spend the trip wishing they had packed a bag.

Do I need to bring bug spray to Costa Rica?

Yes. We recommend a picaridin-based repellent like Sawyer 20% over DEET it works just as well in tropical conditions, does not damage gear or plastics, and has no harsh smell. Apply it especially at dawn and dusk during the rainy season.

Ready to plan your trip? Let Find My Costa Rica handle the details from itinerary to insider tips. Contact us!