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
