Valentine’s Day in Costa Rica: Romantic Hotels, Experiences & Travel Tips

Valentine’s Day in Costa Rica is the perfect excuse to plan a romantic, adults-only getaway. February falls in the heart of dry season so, you can expect warm days, cooler evenings, and (usually) zero rain. It’s a great time for a little mid-winter escape if you live in the Northern Hemisphere! We also like that Costa Rica delivers romance without feeling staged or overdone.

We’re Sarah and Thomas, the couple behind Costa Rica Vibes. We got engaged and married in Costa Rica and have spent years exploring the country through relaxed getaways. We’ve stayed everywhere from jungle lodges and hot spring retreats to quiet beachfront hotels. Because we live here and help couples plan trips every day, we know which hotels and activities truly feel intimate and which ones just use the word “romantic” in their marketing. In other words, we’ve got your back for planning the perfect trip.

This guide is designed to help you plan Valentine’s Day in Costa Rica from start to finish. We cover what February travel is really like, where couples love to stay for a romantic atmosphere, and meaningful experiences you can enjoy even if you’re not staying at a luxury resort.

Let’s get to it!

What to Expect in Costa Rica in February

February is one of the most reliable months to visit Costa Rica because it sits right in the middle of the dry season. You can expect warm, sunny days, low humidity, and very little rain across most of the country. Daytime temperatures usually fall in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F (24–30°C), and ocean conditions are typically calm.

Because of this, February is also peak travel season. Popular beach towns and national parks can feel busier than at other times of year, and mid-February is especially popular with couples planning romantic getaways. Valentine’s Day itself isn’t widely celebrated locally but, boutique and adults-only hotels often book up quickly around this time.

Pricing definitely reflects the demand here. Hotel rates, rental cars, and tours are typically at a higher price point than they are during rainy season. Also, the most sought-after romantic properties can sell out weeks or even months in advance.

That said, Costa Rica rarely feels overwhelmingly crowded if you choose your destinations and accommodations carefully. Smaller hotels, jungle lodges, and adults-only resorts tend to maintain a intimate atmosphere even during peak season.

For More Info Check Out:

• Costa Rica in February: What to Expect
• Dry Season in Costa Rica: Should You Visit at this Time of Year?

Best Hotels & Resorts for Valentine’s Day in Costa Rica

The hotels below are, in our opinion, some of the best options in Costa Rica for couples traveling around Valentine’s Day.

We chose them based on their atmosphere, privacy, service, and setting. Many are adults-only or naturally geared toward couples.

Amor Arenal

We love Amor Arenal as a jungle, adults-only, exclusive retreat. This hotel is located in La Fortuna. It offers private casitas with plunge pools, volcano views, and a strong focus on privacy. We like that it feels remote, but is still close enough to enjoy all the action La Fortuna has to offer (if you want to).

⤷ Check Availability and Book Your Stay

Nayara Springs

Another hotel in La Fortuna, this place is often considered one of the most romantic hotels in Costa Rica. Nayara Springs is adults-only and designed entirely around couples. Think private plunge pools, exceptional service, lush gardens, and easy access to hot springs. For Valentine’s Day, this is one of the most reliable choices if you want luxury, romance, and zero stress.

⤷ Check Availability and Book Your Stay

Rancho Pacifico

Rancho Pacifico is a small, adults-only boutique hotel perched above the Pacific coast in Uvita. It’s quiet, intimate, and perfect for couples who want dramatic views, privacy, and a slower pace. This is a great option for Valentine’s Day if you’re looking to disconnect and spend most of your time enjoying the setting rather than sightseeing.

⤷ Check Availability and Book Your Stay

Kura Boutique Hotel

Kura is also located in Uvita. It is one of Costa Rica’s most exclusive adults-only hotels. It has striking architecture, panoramic ocean views, and a very limited number of rooms. We love it here!

⤷ Check Availability and Book Your Stay

The Retreat Costa Rica

The Retreat is perfect for couples who want a romantic getaway with a wellness focus. This adults-only property is set in the hills near Atenas (only about an hour from the San Jose International Airport). This hotel combines luxury accommodations with spa treatments, healthy cuisine, and peaceful surroundings. It’s a really great place to deconnect.

⤷ Check Availability and Book Your Stay

Hotel Three Sixty

Hotel Three-Sixty offers dramatic views and a strong sense of seclusion. It is a great choice for couples who want privacy and nature without a large resort feel. Its hilltop location creates a peaceful, almost retreat-like atmosphere.

⤷ Check Availability and Book Your Stay

Nekajui – A Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Nekajui is the new player in the luxury resort scene here. This Ritz-Carlton Reserve resort is located on the Papagayo Peninsula, and is only about a 30 minute drive from the Liberia International Airport. It is designed for travelers who want world-class service, privacy, and a refined beachfront setting.

⤷ Check Availability and Book Your Stay

Hacienda AltaGracia

Hacienda AltaGracia is a secluded luxury retreat set in the mountains of southern Costa Rica. We think it is perfect for couples who want privacy, personalized activities, and a sense of being completely removed from everyday life.

Just keep in mind, this is not an adults-only resort. However, I think it feels exclusive and spread out enough that you definitely don’t get the feeling of it being a loud family place.

⤷ Check Availability and Book Your Stay

Romantic Things to Do in Costa Rica

These are some of our favorite romantic things couples can do in Costa Rica.

Soak in the Hot Springs in La Fortuna

One of the most iconic romantic experiences in Costa Rica is soaking in natural hot springs with a volcano backdrop. In the La Fortuna area, many hot springs stay open into the evening, which makes them especially romantic at night. It always cracks me up though because a lot of the hot springs have signs that say, “No love scenes.” Haha, so keep it PG-13! 😉

For couples, I recommend Tabacon or Eco Termales. The Springs Resort is also nice, but I would go to the lower hot springs which are more peaceful. The ones next to the resort are very filled with families during the day. At night they are usually quiet.

Plan a Spa Day for Two

Costa Rica has some really nice spas, particularly at high-end and adults-only hotels. We love taking advantage of the features of the country and enjoying volcanic mud baths, cacao wraps etc. A spa day is really an easy way to slow down and reconnect, especially if you’re balancing adventure with relaxation.

Travel Tip: In Costa Rica, you are typically welcome to book a spa treatment at a resort even if you are not staying there. Just call the hotel and they will help you to arrange it.

Watch the Sunset from the Beach (or Over Dinner)

The Pacific coast is perfect for catching the sunset. All year round, the sun sets between 5:15PM and 6:00PM. We typically enjoy this in one of two ways.

1. Bring a towel to the beach and maybe a bottle of wine and enjoy the lapping of the waves in front of you while you enjoy the sunset view.
2. Book an early dinner at a restaurant with an ocean view. Towns like Manuel Antonio (where a lot of restaurants are on the cliff front) are especially great for this.

Go for a Hike Together

A hike might not sound traditionally romantic, but in Costa Rica it often turns into one of the most memorable shared experiences of a trip. Walking through the rainforest, spotting wildlife, crossing hanging bridges, or reaching a waterfall is always an adventure. In February, trails are typically dry and accessible. Check out our guide to national parks in Costa Rica for great hiking destinations

Take a Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Many sunset catamaran cruises include drinks, light food, and snorkeling. I think they can be the perfect romantic activity.

However, be selective about which catamaran cruise you choose. I suggest one on a smaller boat or that is especially geared towards adults. We have been on some catamaran cruises which have been pure madness with tons of kids.

Plan Your Valentine’s Day Trip Without the Stress

If planning a Valentine’s Day trip to Costa Rica is starting to feel overwhelming, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. We’ve built several planning resources to help you plan a trip that actually fits your relationship, budget, and travel style.

• 👉 Check Out Our Booking Page Discover all the companies and services we use to plan the perfect trip
• 👉 Ready-Made Costa Rica Itineraries If you want a clear plan you can adjust, our itineraries take the guesswork out of route planning, timing, and destination choices.
• 👉 Join Our Costa Rica Travel Facebook Group Get real-time advice, hotel feedback, and planning tips from other travelers and couples planning their trips right now.
• 👉 Ask Slothy Our AI Costa Rica travel assistant can help you compare destinations, decide where to stay, and answer quick planning questions as you go.

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