Last updated on September 27th, 2025
Costa Rica is a paradise of lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches, where luxury meets “pura vida” hospitality. For travelers seeking the ultimate indulgence, these 5-star hotels in Costa Rica blend eco-conscious design, world-class amenities, and breathtaking natural settings. From the Pacific coast’s golden shores to the misty highlands of Arenal, each property offers a gateway to adventure and relaxation.
Why Stay at 5-Star Hotels in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica’s 5-star hotels redefine tropical luxury:
🌿 Private beach access or rainforest hideaways
🌋 Volcano-view infinity pools
🍽️ Farm-to-table gourmet dining
🦥 Wildlife encounters right on-site
💆 Award-winning spas with jungle backdrops
Top 10 Five-Star Hotels in Costa Rica
1. Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
Perched on a golden peninsula, the Four Seasons Costa Rica offers two private beaches, a Arnold Palmer-designed golf course, and treetop suites with plunge pools. Its eco-luxury ethos includes solar power and sea turtle conservation programs.
- Location: Gulf of Papagayo, Guanacaste
- Highlights: 18-hole golf course, Bahía Beach Club, complimentary kids’ club
- Perfect for: Families & luxury purists
2. Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection
A 180-acre equestrian estate in the Talamanca Mountains, Hacienda AltaGracia redefines ranch luxury. Private casitas with outdoor showers, a coffee plantation, and a holistic wellness program (including horseback therapy) immerse guests in Costa Rican culture.
- Location: Pérez Zeledón, Southern Highlands
- Highlights: 50-foot waterfall hikes, bespoke spa treatments, farm-to-table cuisine
- Perfect for: Adventure seekers & wellness devotees
3. The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
With front-row views of Arenal Volcano, The Springs Resort & Spa features 28 thermal pools, a wildlife rescue center, and adventure concierges who arrange everything from ziplining to chocolate-making classes.
- Location: Arenal Volcano National Park
- Highlights: Club Rio Outdoor Center, Las Ventanas restaurant’s volcano views, free-form pools
- Perfect for: Nature lovers & thrill-seekers
4. Nayara Bocas del Toro
This overwater bungalow resort in Panama’s archipelago (accessible from Costa Rica) is Nayara Bocas del Toro. Glass-floor suites reveal marine life, while private decks with ladders let you dive straight into the Caribbean.
- Location: Bocas del Toro, Panama (near Costa Rica border)
- Highlights: Overwater spa, coral reef snorkeling, sustainable design
- Perfect for: Honeymooners & underwater explorers
5. Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort
Hyatt’s Andaz Peninsula Papagayo blends contemporary design with Costa Rican craftsmanship. Jungle-chic rooms, a 11,000 sqft spa, and three infinity pools overlooking Culebra Bay create a stylish eco-retreat.
- Location: Gulf of Papagayo, Guanacaste
- Highlights: Rio Bhongo tasting menu, mixology classes, complimentary Tesla transfers
- Perfect for: Design lovers & foodies
6. Barceló Tambor
On the Nicoya Peninsula’s secluded Tambor Beach, Barceló Tambor offers all-inclusive luxury with a sustainability focus. Its 1,200-acre grounds include a turtle nesting beach and an 18-hole golf course.
- Location: Tambor Beach, Nicoya Peninsula
- Highlights: All-inclusive gourmet dining, golf course, PADI dive center
- Perfect for: Golfers & families
7. Makanda by The Sea
A boutique adults-only escape, Makanda by The Sea perches above Manuel Antonio’s beaches. Ocean-view villas with private plunge pools and monkey-spotting terraces make it a romantic hideaway.
- Location: Manuel Antonio
- Highlights: Infinity pool with Pacific views, Sunspot restaurant’s sushi, wildlife sightings
- Perfect for: Couples & honeymooners
8. Umami Hotel
This 13-room boutique gem in Uvita, Umami Hotel, merges Japanese minimalism with tropical flair. A farm-to-table restaurant, waterfall hikes, and whale-watching from your balcony define the experience.
- Location: Uvita, Costa Ballena
- Highlights: Open-air sushi bar, private beach access, marine biologist-led tours
- Perfect for: Foodies & eco-travelers
9. Gaia Hotel and Nature Reserve
Overlooking Manuel Antonio National Park, Gaia Hotel offers luxury villas amid a private wildlife corridor. The 5-star spa features volcanic mud treatments, while toucans frequent the saltwater infinity pool.
- Location: Manuel Antonio
- Highlights: Rooftop jacuzzis, La Luna restaurant’s 360° views, sloth sanctuary tours
- Perfect for: Wildlife enthusiasts & spa lovers
10. Rancho Pacifico
A cliffside adults-only retreat near Uvita, Rancho Pacifico blends yoga, gourmet cuisine, and Pacific panoramas. Treehouse-style suites feature outdoor rainforest showers and private infinity pools.
- Location: Uvita, Costa Ballena
- Highlights: Daily yoga, farm-to-fork dining, whale-watching from your balcony
- Perfect for: Wellness retreats & digital detoxes
Conclusion: Your Costa Rican Luxury Escape Awaits
From the Four Seasons’ beachfront opulence to Rancho Pacifico’s jungle serenity, these 5-star hotels in Costa Rica promise unforgettable “pura vida” moments. Whether you’re soaking in Arenal’s hot springs or snorkeling in Papagayo, each property delivers eco-luxury at its finest. Pro tip: Book 6+ months ahead for peak season (December–April)!
FAQs About 5-Star Hotels in Costa Rica
Best Travel Tips
Book Your Flight
Find the cheapest flight by using Skyscanner. For over a decade I've found it to nearly always offer the best deals.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hotel or guesthouse with Agoda as it consistently has the best rates.
Always Use Travel Insurance
Travel insurance safeguards you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations, providing peace of mind if anything goes wrong. My top pick for excellent service and value is SquareMouth (best for all age groups.)
Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip?
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