Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. Clicking on them may earn Costa Rica Vibes a commission, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

Are you looking for the best hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica? Well, look no further! We’ve got you covered with the 12 best high-end, mid-range, and budget-friendly hotels in the area. Plus, we included our favorite vacation villas and house rentals.

If you are new here, we are Sarah and Thomas. We are a couple from the United States and Germany who have been living in Costa Rica since 2016. Santa Teresa is our favorite area in the country and although we don’t live there, we hope to some day!

So, we have stayed at countless hotels in the area throughout the years. We created this guide based on our favorite places and things you need to know before staying here.

Let’s get to it!

hotel santa teresa

My Top 3 Picks: Hotels in Santa Teresa

#1 Pick (High-End)
12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ 9.7/ 10 ⭐️

  • Jungle and coastal views
  • Exclusive and luxurious setting
  • Private bungalows with plunge pools
#2 Pick (mid-Range)
12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ 9.1/ 10 Stars ⭐️

  • Beautiful pool and gardens
  • Close to downtown and beach
  • Variety of accommodation sizes
#3 Pick (budget)
12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ 9.1/ 10 Stars ⭐️

  • Centrally located downtown
  • Shared kitchen and garden area
  • Comfortable and clean dorms

High-End Hotels and Resorts

Here are the best high end resorts, luxury boutique hotels etc. in the area.

1. LALOON Luxury Suites

12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ RATING: 9.7/10 Stars on Booking.com | ✅ Book it!

LALOON Luxury Suites is an exclusive adult-only 5-star hotel nestled in Santa Teresa. This sophisticated retreat caters to those seeking unparalleled luxury and serenity. 

Keep in mind that this hotel is not located directly on the beach. It is in the hills above town with beautiful Pacific Coast views. 

This place is ideal for couples and adults seeking a tranquil and upscale escape.

All the suites on the property include a private entrance, a well-appointed kitchenette with a refrigerator and kitchenware, an ensuite bathroom with a shower and hairdryer, and a private pool with breathtaking views. 

Why We Like It: There is really no reason not to fall in love with LALOON. The rooms are absolutely beautiful and provide the highest level of luxury and privacy. The setting is amazing and the staff will go above and beyond to make sure you have an amazing stay.

I think the one negative is that the hotel is not located directly on the beach. However, this allows you to enjoy the amazing aerial coastal views and provides a more peaceful experience away from the beach crowds.

2. Hotel Nantipa

12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ RATING: 9.1/10 Stars on Booking.com | ✅ Book it!

Experience the epitome of a Tico beach retreat at Hotel Nantipa, where world-class service meets the charm of Santa Teresa Beach. 

As far as location, you really can’t get better than this place. It is set in the downtown area but is off the main road and feels secluded amid lush gardens. There is also direct beach access.  

This hotel is perfect for those seeking an elevated beach experience. Hotel Nantipa caters to guests of all ages, offering a range of accommodation options, from bungalows to beachfront villas.

Why We Like It: I love that they have a variety of accommodation options that can suit all group sizes. Everything is so beautifully designed here. You also can’t beat the location. From the hotel, you can easily walk to all the delicious restaurants in town.

3. Vista del Alma

12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ RATING: 9.3/10 Stars on Booking.com | ✅ Book it!

Vista del Alma features studios and suites located on a peaceful side street in downtown Santa Teresa. You can easily walk to the beach and nearby restaurants from here.

The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, spa and wellness center, snack bar with delicious lunch options, bar, and yoga deck.

This hotel is tailored for couples seeking a romantic and tranquil escape.

Why We Like It: I like that this is an adult-only hotel, making it the perfect retreat. I think that the Balanese boutique hotel style, epic views, and amazing service really make this place. 

4. Nala Luxury Living

12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ RATING: 9.4 /10 Stars on Booking.com | ✅ Book it!

This luxury apartment complex in Santa Teresa offers modern, stylish one-bedroom apartments designed for a high-end stay.

Each apartment features a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living areas, and private terraces or balconies.

The complex includes amenities such as a shared outdoor pool, garden, and secure parking.

It is located just a short walk from the beach and close to local dining and shopping options.

Why We Like It: We love this complex because it features the amenities of a hotel, but the privacy of your own apartment and the option of cooking in your private kitchen. The location is also great with many restaurants and the beach within a short walk.

Mid Range Hotels

5. Ohana Villas

12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ RATING: 9.1/10 Stars on Booking.com | ✅ Book it!

Ohana Villas is a boutique property in Santa Teresa offering hotel rooms and apartment style accommodation options.

The property is surrounded by lush gardens ands is just a short walk from the beach and local restaurants.

There is also a shared pool on the property and you can easily walk to restaurants and the beach.

Why We Like It: We love Ohana Villas for its private, luxurious setting that feels like a home away from home.

I think the lush garden surroundings and beautiful interiors make it the perfect for relaxation.

This place is perfect for for couples or small families.

6. Fuego Lodge

12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ RATING: 9/10 Stars on Booking.com | ✅ Book it!

Fuego Lodge is a charming boutique hotel in Santa Teresa. this place offers a range of accommodations, including private bungalows, suites, and studios.

Each unit is tastefully decorated and equipped with modern amenities, such as air conditioning, kitchenettes, and private terraces.

The property features a beautiful outdoor pool surrounded by tropical gardens.

This hotel is located in the downtown area and is just a short walk from the beach.

Why We Like It: We love Fuego Lodge for its location and variety of accomodation options. They have rooms that are perfect for couples and places that can also fit up to 7 guests.

I love that the property is close to all the best that Santa Teresa has to offer, but feels like a secret jungle oasis.

7. Lua Villas

12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ RATING: 9/10 Stars on Booking.com | ✅ Book it!

Lua Villas is a boutique hotel located in the northern part of Santa Teresa within walking distance of Playa Hermosa.

Each villa is fully equipped with a kitchen, air conditioning, a private terrace, and access to a shared outdoor pool.

The property emphasizes privacy and relaxation. It is ideal for couples and small groups.

Guests can also enjoy the wellness center, which offers yoga classes and massages.

My Opinion: We have stayed at Lua Villas a few times and have always had a great time. I love the property and villas.

The only downside could be the location, depending on what you are looking for. There are a few restaurants within walking distance, but you will need to drive to all the action in Santa Teresa.

8. Ventura Santa Teresa

12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ RATING: 9.2/10 Stars on Booking.com | ✅ Book it!

Ventura Santa Teresa is a modern boutique hotel in Santa Teresa.

It offers sleek, minimalist rooms with private balconies or terraces.

The property includes an outdoor pool, a well-equipped fitness center, and an on-site restaurant that serves fresh, locally sourced cuisine (and it’s really good).

The hotel is located close to the beach and in walking distance to many restaurants.

My Opinion: I think Ventura Santa Teresa is perfect if you are looking for a stylish and contemporary stay close to the beach.

I think it is a great place to stay if you want something with boutique vibes but at a reasonable price point.

9. Villas Solar

12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ RATING: 9.4/10 Stars on Booking.com | ✅ Book it!

Villas Solar Santa Teresa is a boutique property offering stylish and comfortable villas just steps away from the beach.

Each villa is equipped with modern amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, and a private terrace.

My Opinion: I think Villas Solar is a great place to stay if you are traveling as a family and wnat a mid-range accommodation option with privacy and amenities such as a kitchen. The one bedroom and two bedroom villas are simply designed, but really have everything you need.

Plus the location is excellent.

The biggest downside is that there is no pool here.

10. Altamar

12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ RATING: 9.5/10 Stars on Booking.com | ✅ Book it!

Altamar Apartments in Santa Teresa offers modern, well-equipped apartments with private terraces.

The property features a shared outdoor pool, lush gardens, and provides easy access to the beach and local attractions.

Each apartment is designed with comfort in mind, offering air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, and stylish furnishings.

Why We Like It: I love this place for the hotel amenities but with the features of an apartment. The apartments are all clean and modern as well as equiped with everything you need. The shared pool is excellent as well.

Budget Friendly Hotels in Santa Teresa

11. Surf Paradise

12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ RATING: 9.2/10 Stars on Booking.com | ✅ Book it!

Surf Paradise Santa Teresa is a centrally located hotel and hostel. It offers cozy and budget-friendly accommodations that are ideal for surfers and beach lovers.

The hotel features a variety of room options from a bed in a shared dorm to private bungalows. The property also has a garden, restaurant, and terrace area for guests.

My Opinion: I think Surf Paradise is perfect for travelers seeking a straightforward, no-frills stay with easy access to town and the beach.

I really like the setup here. All the rooms and hostel bunks are set up in small houses with shared kitchen facilities. This gives it a cozy vibe and makes it so easy to socialize with other travelers.

12. ICO Living Hostel

12 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for All Budgets

⭐️ RATING: 9.1/10 Stars on Booking.com | ✅ Book it!

ICO Living Hostel is a budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Santa Teresa.

The hostel offers both private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations.

There is a communal kitchen, a shared lounge, and a garden that guests can use.

The rooms are clean and simple, equipped with essential amenities like free Wi-Fi and air conditioning.

My Opinion: I think ICO Living Hostel is such a great hostel. The location is excellenty with the beach and so manzy restaurants within walking distance. The dorms are always clean and nicely maintained and the staff is so kind.

Plus, the overall vibe is friendly and laid-back. If you are a solo traveler you will definitely meet cool likeminded people here.

One thing though, this place is very popular because it is budget friendly, definitely book early if traveling during the high season.

Santa Teresa Retreats

santa teresa beach hotel

Want a completely unique way to stay in Santa Teresa? This area is known for being a surfing and wellness paradise.

There are several great retreats in the area that have accommodations included.

Our favorites are:

7 Day Discover Your Inner Wisdom

⭐️ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars on RetreatBooker | ⏳ RETREAT LENGTH:  7 Days | ✅ Book it!

Includes: 6 Nights in Private Accommodation, Welcome Rebirthing Breathwork, 3 Yoga or Pilates classes, Reiki session, Meditation & Sound Healing, Aura Reading, Cacao Ceremony, a 60 Minutes Massage, Airport Shuttle Service, 5 breakfasts, and so much more!

7 Day “Relaxing Waves” Surf & Yoga

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars on RetreatBooker | ⏳ RETREAT LENGTH:  7 Days | ✅ Book it!

Includes: 6 nights accommodation, 3 yoga classes on an ocean view deck, 5 surf lessons, full daily breakfast, surf equipment, snorkel equipment to dive at a secret location, a 60-minute massage, daily lunch, and more!

Santa Teresa Vacation Packages

santa teresa costa rica hotel

Another way to experience this area without the stress of organizing everything yourself is with a guided Costa Rica vacation package.

Our two favorite vacation packages for this area are:

Beaches and Nature with Santa Teresa (from Liberia Airport)

Liberia, Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, San Jose, Tortueguero, La Fortuna, Monteverde

⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars on TourRadar | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  15 Days | ✅ Book it!

  • Take a boat and snorkel day trip and search for marine life in Samara
  • Visit Tortuguero National Park and maybe see sea turtles nesting
  • Go on a thrilling white water adventure through the lush jungle

Costa Rica Adventure

San Jose, La Fortuna, Monteverde, Santa Teresa

⭐️ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars on TourRadar | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  10 Days | ✅ Book it!

  • Zip line over the dense Monteverde cloud forest
  • Soak in thermal hot springs with a view of Arenal Volcano
  • Take a sunset yoga class while the waves lap in front of you on Playa Santa Teresa

Tips for Finding the Best Place to Stay in Santa Teresa

  • Book Early: Santa Teresa is a very popular beach town. It is always a good idea to book early to secure the best places at great price points.
  • You will want a place with air conditioning here. This town is very warm and it typically doesn’t cool off too much at night. Plus, during the rainy season the humidity can be a lot.
  • Check Booking.com: Booking.com is our go-to website for booking hotels. We typically always find great prices here. Plus, most hotels offer excellent cancellation policies.
    ⤷ Search Santa Teresa hotels on Booking.com here
  • Check VRBO: VRBO is our favorite site for finding private vacation rentals throughout Costa Rica. In Cahuita, you can find a lot of nice houses with private pools, cozy bungalows, etc.
    Search Santa Teresa vacation rentals on VRBO here
  • Pay Attention to Amenities: Some amenities to consider include kitchen facilities, swimming pools, and if breakfast is included.
  • Consider Location: Think about what you want to be close to. If you will not have a rental car it is a good idea to stay directly in the downtown area so you can easily walk to the beach and restaurants. If you want a more peaceful experience you might opt to stay on the beaches north of town or in the jungle above town.

For more info, check out our complete guide to Santa Teresa

Conclusion: Hotels in Santa Teresa

There you have it! All of our favorite hotels in Santa Teresa at all price points and for all interests.

If you have any questions about any of these places don’t hesitate to leave them in the comment section below. We are always happy to help you plan!

You Might Also Like:

Costa Rica Travel Details: What You Need to Know

🚗 Should I rent a car in Costa Rica?

Having a rental car will give you the most flexibility when traveling in Costa Rica. This will also allow you to take fun day trips on your own.

🏄🏽 How can I book things to do?

We find that Viator tends to have the most comprehensive selection of activities with secure booking and good cancellation policies.

🍍 I’m overwhelmed with planning. Can you help?

Of course! I suggest joining our Facebook group for specific questions and head to our Start Here Page to get started planning.

✈️ What is the best way to book a flight?

Usually, we have the best luck finding great prices with Skyscanner. Check for flights to both San Jose Airport (SJO) and Liberia Airport (LIR).

🛏️ What is the best way to book my Costa Rica hotels?

We highly suggest Booking.com for hotel bookings and typically use VRBO for Costa Rica vacation rentals.

🗣️What is the main language in Costa Rica?

The main language in Costa Rica is Spanish. Most people working in tourism speak at least some English.

💰 What is the currency in Costa Rica?

The currency used in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC). However, the US dollar is widely accepted in most tourist areas

📞 What is the best way to stay connected?

An eSIM from Airalo is the easiest way to get 4G data while traveling in Costa Rica.

🌴 Is Costa Rica safe?

Generally, Costa Rica is considered safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it’s best to use caution and be aware of your surroundings.

🛂 Do you need a passport to go to Costa Rica?

Yes, Costa Rica is its own country. You will need a passport to visit.