8 Hotels in Costa Rica That Will Change Your Outlook on Life

It’s little wonder travelers flock to Costa Rica. In this Central American country, “pura vida” isn’t just a tourism tagline, it’s a way of life that embraces simple pleasures and a relaxed, positive attitude. There’s also the fact that, even though Costa Rica makes up less than 0.1% of the world’s landmass, it’s one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet, with rainforests, mangroves and coral reefs that shelter more than 500,000 species of flora and fauna.

And you don’t have to sacrifice comfort—or even luxury—to experience Costa Rica in a sustainable, eco-sensitive way. Travelers have their pick of fantastic hotels, from family-run boutiques to luxe rainforest retreats. Hotel Aguas Claras, for example, is helmed by a mother-daughter duo and has colorful bungalows and suites steps from pristine Playa Chiquita. At Nayara Tented Camp, guests sleep in plush “tents” equipped with outdoor showers and private plunge pools. Whichever you choose, you can expect to leave transformed. (Photo courtesy of Nayara Tented Camp.)

Chase Travel is the first stop for your next adventure. At chasetravel.com, eligible Chase cardmembers can earn and redeem Ultimate Rewards points for hotels, flights, car rentals and more. Plus, Chase Sapphire Reserve cardmembers who book a hotel stay through The Edit by Chase Travel will earn 3 points per dollar and receive special cardmember benefits including daily breakfast for two and a $100 property credit, along with early check-in, late checkout and a room upgrade, when available.

Nayara Springs (La Fortuna)
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BOGO is good, but BOGT (buy one, get three) is better. And when you book a room at this adults-only resort near Arenal Volcano, you gain access to not only the amenities at Nayara Springs, but also those at its two sister resorts, each a quick golf cart ride away within the 36-acre estate. So, between dips in five thermal pools and massages at the spa, you can have breakfast with volcano views at Nayara Tented Camp’s Ayla; enjoy the plantain-forward sushi rolls at Nayara Gardens’ Asia Luna; and feast on the seven-course Tico tasting menu back at Nayara Springs’ restaurant, Amor Loco.

Nayara Gardens (La Fortuna)
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If your kids are fascinated by all things “Jurassic Park,” consider a vacation at Nayara Gardens, which could easily double as the setting for the film franchise. We can’t promise dinosaur sightings, but you’ll definitely feel the jungle love at this family-friendly hotel in Arenal Volcano National Park, where rainforest rambles in search of frogs, toucans and Tony (the resident three-toed sloth) will keep little ones busy. While they’re exploring nature, grown-ups can kick back with a cocktail in one of five thermal pools or retreat to the open-air spa, where treatments often incorporate volcanic mud.

Nayara Tented Camp (La Fortuna)
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Can honeymooning in a tent be romantic? You bet your boutonniere. Especially when it’s a tent at this resort in the heart of Arenal Volcano National Park. That’s because the “tents” here are effectively air-conditioned villas with huge indoor and outdoor showers, standalone bathtubs and private infinity-edge plunge pools fed by thermal springs that are perfect for evening dips à deux. Canvas-covered walls and draped ceilings complete the luxury safari look. 

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa (La Fortuna)
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Located within a 900-acre rainforest compound, this 105-room retreat grants guests exclusive early access to the largest network of natural thermal pools in Costa Rica. There are 18 pools surrounded by jungle foliage and connected by ornamental bridges, each containing mineral water that’s naturally between 72 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit, making them practically medicinal. Cool off under the waterfalls, then head to Tabacón’s spa, where tropical birdsong provides the soundtrack to muscle-melting massages.

Hotel Aguas Claras (Puerto Viejo)

Close to the Panamanian border, on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, this mother-and-daughter-helmed boutique hotel is a slam dunk for vacationers seeking tropical landscapes, powdery sand and calm, swimmable seas. Check in to any of the nine colorful, art-filled bungalows or six suites and you’ll find yourself steps from Playa Chiquita and three miles from the town of Puerto Viejo, which was settled by Jamaican immigrants in the late 19th century and is known for its dynamic culture.

Andaz Peninsula Papagayo (Guanacaste)

Wondering why homemade coffee never tastes as good as the brew from your favorite café? Luis Carlos Herrera, the head barista at this 152-room hillside hotel in Guanacaste, knows why. He’s been drinking coffee since he was 5 and has a degree in coffee science. Learn from his team during “Becoming a Barista” classes at Andaz, which are as popular as the resort’s exclusive single-origin, high-altitude cold brew. You’ll “graduate” knowing your Chemex from your crema, with practical tips for making your best cup yet.

Kinkára Luxury Retreat (Santa Elena)

Even if you’re not a camper, you’ll want to try this eco-friendly resort, lofted 3,000 feet up in the Talamanca mountains. The 31 comfortable canvas tents are arranged in a mandala-like formation and deliver glamping at its best. Each one is furnished with double or twin beds, illuminated by solar-powered string lights and surrounded by tropical forest and mountain peaks. Given the roster of on-site diversions, though—a river and waterfalls, running and mountain-biking trails, a temazcal sweat lodge and a full farm you can tour—you likely won’t be spending much time in your room. 

Kura Hotel (Uvita de Osa)

“Tropical minimalist” is how the architect and biologist owners of this adults-only, eight-suite retreat perched high in the Uvita rainforest describe its style. Whatever you call it, you can’t deny its appeal: The sleek, contemporary design puts the focus exactly where it should be—outside. In the open-plan suites, floor-to-ceiling windows and broad terraces with double hammocks encourage leisurely appreciation of the jungle. Whether in your room, at the open-air spa or by the pool, your toughest task here will be tearing your eyes from the panoramic Pacific views.

Booking With Chase Travel

Eligible Chase cardmembers can visit chasetravel.com for even more trip inspiration, including hotel recommendations, travel guides and editor-curated itineraries, and to earn and redeem points when booking hotels, flights, car rentals and must-do local experiences.

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