The 22 BEST Boutique Hotels in Costa Rica for Amazing Vibes

1. Kura Boutique Hotel

Touted as “the most glamorous romantic resort in Costa Rica” by Forbes Magazine, Kura is an exclusive, boutique, adults-only hotel nestled high in the Uvita rainforest with stunning views of the South Pacific Coast. 

With its 8 Luxury Suites showcasing tropical minimalist design and panoramic views, Kura offers a setting for ultra-personalized luxury, relaxation, and privacy. 

The property features an infinity pool, restaurant, bar & lounge, and spa. 

They also offer the option to upgrade to a full board experience. This is great because you will likely be spending most of your time on the boutique hotel property. 

Location:

Uvita, Costa Rica

Pros:

• With only 8 Luxury Suites, the hotel provides an exclusive and personalized experience, catering to those who value privacy and high-end amenities.
• Kura takes pride in its environmental awareness efforts and sustainability programs, aligning with the values of eco-conscious travelers.

Cons:

• This hotel does not have direct beach access. It is located in the hills above the ocean. However, the resort provides daily beach shuttles. 
• The hotel’s secluded location limits accessibility for guests seeking a more central or bustling atmosphere.
• The glamorous and ultra-personalized nature of Kura may come with a higher price tag, making it more suitable for those with a flexible budget.

Check Availability and Book Kura Boutique

2. Pacuera Lodge by Böëna

The main focus of Pacuare Lodge is white water rafting. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t still thoroughly enjoy this place if white water rafting is not your thing. 

This is the place to go if you want a completely unique boutique hotel experience.

So much is included in your stay here!

• Pick-up from San José hotels and transfer to the Pacuare Lodge (and back)
• Canopy Tour
• Canyoning Tour
• Bird-Watching
• Indigenous Hike
• Ancient Trail & Hidden Waterfall Hike
• Sustainability Tour
• Daily breakfast, lunch & dinner
• Afternoon coffee

There is also a pool on the property, a spa, and a restaurant.

The food here is excellent and there are a wide variety of meal options for all dietary needs and taste preferences.

Location

Near the small village of Bajo Tigre

Check Availability and Book Pacuare

3. The Retreat Costa Rica

I’ve got to preface this by saying I’m kind of obsessed with The Retreat Costa Rica.

It’s the perfect boutique hotel. I’ve been waiting for a chance to take my sister here because it seems like the perfect place for a fun girls’ getaway.

On the property you can enjoy:

• The Vida Mia Ayurvedic Healing Center & Spa
• An outdoor Pool
• Jacuzzi
• Fitness Center
• Yoga House
• Steam Room

There is a restaurant on the property and it is possible to book an all-inclusive package.

The menus here are centered around an anti-inflammatory diet and food philosophy. Emphasis is placed on sourcing ingredients locally and sustainably, supporting the community and the environment with a significant portion of the produce cultivated on-site.

Location:

Arenas (this is the closest place on this list to the Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose)

Check Availability and Book The Retreat Costa Rica

4. Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis

Tifakara Boutique Hotel is located just outside Arenal Volcano National Park. The property offers stunning volcanic views and a secluded jungle feel. 

The hotel features an outdoor pool, a restaurant, complimentary WiFi, air-conditioned rooms with balconies, coffee machines, and private bathrooms. There is a garden, bar, tour desk, and free parking, with breakfast included. 

We love this place for the great food, nice atmosphere, and excellent staff.

Location:

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Check Availability and Book Tifakara Boutique Hotel

5. Noah’s Forest by Tifakara

Noah’s Forest offers a serene escape with rivers, a natural lake, and breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano. 

This is the sister hotel to Tifakara Boutique Hotel and has a very similar overall vibe. 

We like that the accommodations here are all individual bungalows.

Location:

La Fortuna

Check Availability and Book Noah’s Forest Hotel by Tifakara

6. Drake Bay Getaway Resort

Nestled in nature with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, this small and exclusive eco-resort features five rustic luxury cabins.

Each spacious cabin offers a large balcony with seating, a king-size bed with a high-quality mattress, a ceiling fan, and a tiled bathroom with two rain shower heads.

This rainforest resort prides itself on providing a serene escape, and guests can indulge in the beauty of nature while enjoying modern comforts.

Location

Drake Bay

Pros

• Breathtaking Views: The cabins offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the famous Drake Bay jungle, and Corcovado National Park.
• Rustic Luxury: Combining rustic charm with luxury, the cabins provide a comfortable retreat.

Cons

• Remote Location: Drake Bay is very remote. The fastest and easiest way to get here is by taking a domestic flight from San Jose.

Check Availability and Book Drake Bay Getaway Resort

7. Copa de Arbol

This is a great place to go if you would like a remote more eco-accommodation option

On the property, there are paddle boards, kayaks, and snorkel gear that guests can use. There are also hiking trails, direct beach access to a beautiful beach with beach chairs, an infinity pool, and a jacuzzi. 

This is an all-inclusive resort, so breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included in the rate. 

The accommodations here are actually bungalow-style villas. Some villas can sleep up to five guests. Every villa has a small private kitchen and amazing views. 

There is a nice open-air restaurant on the property where all meals are served. There is a focus on organic local ingredients. Also, they are happy to accommodate allergies and dietary needs.

Location

Drake Bay

Check Availability and Book Copa de Arbol

9. Jardin del Eden Boutique Hotel

Jardin del Eden in Tamarindo offers a unique blend of privacy and relaxation on the Pacific Coast. 

The property boasts a private beach garden with an outdoor swimming pool. There is also a spa and wellness center on the property.

Gourmet breakfast and three-course dinners at the on-site restaurant are included in the room rate. The food here is awesome and they are happy to cater to any specific dietary needs. 

This is an adults-only hotel.

Location:

Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Check Availability and Book Jardin del Eden

10. Hotel Amor Arenal

Amor Arenal is one of our absolute favorite hotels in the La Fortuna area (and that is saying something because there are TONS of hotels in this area). 

This is an adult-only luxurious five-star rainforest lodge offering stunning views of the volcano and surrounding jungle.

With a five-star restaurant, a full-service spa surrounded by lush vegetation, spacious rooms, and mineral water-fed pools, it is the perfect place for a romantic retreat.

Location:

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Pros:

• Luxurious Accommodations: The lodge provides upscale cabins made from precious tropical hardwoods. Each room is equipped with a private pool, king-size bed, air conditioning, and high-end amenities.
• Culinary Excellence: El Rancho Restaurant offers a five-star dining experience with breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring fresh, local, and organic ingredients.
• Full-Service Spa and Wellness: There is a spa, high-end fitness center and mineral water-fed pools on the property for ultimate relaxation.

Cons:

• High-End Pricing: While offering luxurious amenities, the 5-star hotel status can come with a higher price point.

Check Availability and Book Hotel Amor Arenal

11. Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel

Capitan Suizo is a beachfront oasis with an environmentally conscious approach.

The hotel is set within lush gardens and located directly on the beach with Pacific Ocean views. It’s perfect if you are seeking a serene getaway but want to be close to the action of Tamarindo.

The hotel has an outdoor pool, spa facilities, massage services, direct beach access, meeting rooms, and free private parking.

Location:

Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Check Availability and Book Capitan Suizo Boutique Hotel

12. Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge

Lagarta Lodge was recently named a Top Resort in Central America by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2023

This vibrant boutique hotel offers an infinity pool, excellent meals at Chirriboca Restaurant, and treatments at the Vista Manglares Spa. 

Adventure seekers can explore the private biological reserve (which is so cool) and yoga enthusiasts will enjoy the on-site yoga classes, including Aerial Yoga.

Lagarta Lodge is designed for couples, families, and solo travelers. 

Location:

Nosara, Costa Rica

Pros:

• From premium suites and a mesmerizing infinity pool to signature dining and wellness offerings, the hotel provides a diverse range of experiences.
• The views are amazing. The hotel is located at a bit higher elevation so you can enjoy panoramic views. 

Cons:

• While this spot is ideal if you are seeking tranquility, the secluded setting may be less convenient if you want easy access to town activities. It is located a bit north of the Nosara action. 
• This hotel is not located directly on the beach. You will have to walk about 10 minutes to Playa Pelada. To get to the popular Guiones Beach for surfing you will need to drive about 15 minutes.

Check Availability and Book Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge

13. Makanda by the Sea

Makanda By the Sea is an adults-only accommodation option.

The hotel features an amazing infinity pool, restaurant, tour desk, and more!

The accommodations include fully equipped Villas and Studios nestled in the lush tropical gardens. 

Location:

Manuel Antonio

Pros:

• Positioned 100 meters above the ocean, the hotel provides stunning views of a sixty-mile coastline.
• We love love the interior and exterior design of this place. Everything is kept up very nicely. 
• With a focus on “romance in nature,” Makanda By the Sea is great for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
• This hotel is close to Manuel Antonio National Park, several excellent restaurants, and beaches. 

Cons:

• This hotel is located in the hills above the ocean. It is not directly on the beach. 

Check Availability and Book Makanda by The Sea Hotel

14. Lapa Rios Lodge

Lapa Rios Ecolodge is nestled in a 1000-acre private nature reserve.

The property overlooks Golfo Dulce and the Pacific Ocean and is home to an abundance of wildlife, including monkeys, scarlet macaws, pumas, toucans, and tree frogs.

Lapa Rios proudly holds the distinction of being one of only 24 National Geographic Unique Eco Lodges of the World. How cool is that? 

Here you can relax in the pool, get an in-room spa treatment, explore the property on your own or with a guided tour, go birdwatching, take a night tour, and learn about medicinal plants in the area.

The beach is located just below the property. You can easily walk there (but the hike back up is a bit much) or they will happily drive you down and set up beach chairs for you. 

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included daily.

Location

Puerto Jimenez

Pros

• Lapa Rios is a pioneer in sustainable tourism, setting an example as a model ecotourism project and receiving numerous awards for social and environmental excellence.
• Beyond its eco-friendly practices, the lodge features amenities such as a pool, spa, and complimentary shuttle services, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Cons

• This hotel is ideal if you are seeking a great time in a remote destination. However, it is somewhat of a challenge to get here.

Check Availability and Book Lapa Rios Lodge

15. Ylang Ylang Beach Resort

Ylang Ylang is a family-owned haven known for its natural tropical beauty, diverse wildlife, and exceptional customer service. 

This resort is directly on the beach (which is one of our favorite beach walks in the country)  and is a 10-15 minute beachfront walk from Montezuma.

The restaurant at Ylang Ylang is amazing. Breakfast and dinner are included in your stay.

Location:

Montezuma, Costa Rica

Check Availability and Book Ylang Ylang

16. Rio Perdido Hotel & Thermal River

I would describe this place as pure comfort. It is a resort and you will enjoy all the amenities of a resort, but it doesn’t feel at all pretentious.

Families are welcome. There are tons of things to do. And honestly, I’ve never heard a bad review of this place. 

The property has a concierge, on-site pools, hiking trails, daily yoga classes, ziplining, white water rafting, mountain biking, hot springs, and a spa. 

Dining

There is one large open-air restaurant on the property. If you would like a more secluded experience it is possible to reserve a private dinner on a floating platform.

Breakfast is included in your stay. 

Location:

Near La Fortuna

Check Availability and Book Rio Perdido

17. aWà Beach Hotel

One of the many things we love about boutique hotels is the unique design elements, and this place does not disappoint! Everything has a very modern feel to it but also perfectly blends wooden elements with nature.

The hotel feels secluded in the jungle but is also steps from the beach.

Location:

Puerto Viejo (this is the only place on this list on the Caribbean Coast)

Check Availability and Book aWà Beach Hotel

18. Casa Chameleon – Mal Pais

Casa Chameleon is a small luxury boutique hotel located in the hills above Mal Pais. Here you can enjoy amazing views of the Pacific Coast.

This is an adults-only hotel featuring private pools off of each room.

Location:

Mal Pais

Check Availability and Book Casa Chameleon Mal Pais

19. Casa Chameleon – Las Catalinas

This is the sister property to the Mal Pais Casa Chameleon.

On the property, you can relax in your private plunge pool, enjoy the large infinity pool with ocean views, take a yoga or fitness class, and enjoy a spa treatment.

There is complimentary high-speed wifi throughout the property, a 24-hour concierge service, a daily cleaning service, and a fully stocked mini-bar in every room.

There are three different room options at this resort. All rooms include a private plunge pool with a balcony. 

Breakfast is included in the room rate and there is an excellent restaurant, bar, and poolside bar service available. Also, the chef here is seriously amazing.

Location:

Las Catalinas

Check Availability and Book Casa Chameleon Catalinas

20. Casa Marbella

Casa Marbella is a boutique hotel perched on a mountain slope in Santa Teresa. This beautiful place offers a tranquil retreat with a panoramic ocean view.

It is located about a five-minute walk from the beach, restaurants, and stores.

The hotel features an infinity pool, Wi-Fi, and an intimate feel with only 8 rooms.

We like the minimalist tropical decor, ocean-view yoga deck, and attentive service here.

Location:

Santa Teresa

Check Availability and Book Casa Marbella

21. Nayara Springs Adults Only

Nayara Springs, an exclusive adult-only luxury property, offers 35 villas, each spanning 1,500 square feet. The villas feature private plunge pools fed by water directly from the volcano. 

Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, a minibar, laundry services, daily yoga classes, and on-property concierge service.

Nayara Springs boasts two exceptional restaurants, Amor Loco and Mis Amores. They offer gourmet and casual Italian fare. 

The property includes a swim-up pool bar, Cielito Lindo, a signature Nayara coffee bar, an open-air yoga pavilion, and a state-of-the-art gym. 

Connected by two footbridges 150 feet above the rainforest canopy, Nayara Springs is linked to its sister property, Nayara Gardens.

Location:

La Fortuna

Check Availability and Book Nayara Springs

22. Three Sixty Boutique Hotel

One of the nicest hotels in the area, with 12 guest rooms, an infinity pool, and amazing Pacific Coast views. 

This is an adult-only hotel.

We love that every room has great views, there is a delicious gourmet restaurant, and am infinity pool.

Location:

Ojochal

Check Availability and Book Three Sixty Boutique Hotel