10 Specialty lodgings in Costa Rica: Best hotel deals for 2023

May 2, 2023 Jacquiline Darosa

Embraced by the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica has been attracting eco-tourists for decades, thanks to rich biodiversity and abundant wildlife. Here you’ll find splendid beaches that spill into sparkling blue waters, peaceful conservation areas, and outstanding adventure sports. Get in touch with ancient civilizations at the National Museum or tiptoe to the edge of a crater at Poás Volcano National Park. Surfers will dig the unparalleled conditions of the Guanacaste province.
Things to do in Costa Rica

1. Paraiso Quetzal Lodge

Cerro de la Muerte, Ruta 2 Sur km 70, San Gerardo de Dota Costa Rica
Excellent
64%
Good
26%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
3%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 373 reviews

Paraiso Quetzal Lodge

Paraiso Quetzal Lodge has been recently selected by the European Association of Friends for Nature (EAFN).

Mind-Blowingly Beautiful Accommodations

Reviewed By saltysail0r

My partner and I stayed here for one night, but wish it could have been a week! Jorge, the owner of Paraiso Quetzal, actually picked us up and drove us from our other accommodations deeper in the valley of San Gerardo to Paraiso Quetzal. Jorge took great pride in explaining that the lodge is family run and built! The room we had was gorgeous--probably the coolest/nicest accommodation I've ever had. Though the trek to the dining area was a bit of a slog, it was all worth it for the incredible food. The trails around the property are all extremely well-maintained, and we had a wonderful time exploring the massive property. Be sure to head to the top of the overlook for sunset!

2. Suites & Villas Calathea

150 Metros Noreste De Escuela Los Llanos, 60109 Costa Rica
Excellent
88%
Good
13%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 32 reviews

Suites & Villas Calathea

Clean and safe B&B

Reviewed By mmayhemm

The rooms are clean and the place seems very safe, the owners/staff are really nice people. On some booking portals, this place is listed as 4* equivalent accomodation, which is wrong. It's a B&B, the rooms are basic and without aircon, bathroom looks nice and clean. What is actually lacking is some sort of space to put your stuff, being it in the main room or in the bathroom. Again, clean and basic B&B, reasonably priced.

3. Evergreen Lodge

5 Minutes By Boat From The Main Entrance To Tortuguero National Park, Tortuguero 11502 Costa Rica
Excellent
42%
Good
44%
Satisfactory
11%
Poor
3%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 1073 reviews

Evergreen Lodge

Evergreen is located in the northeastern corner of Tortuguero, 5 minutes by boat from the main entrance to Tortuguero National Park, and accessible only by air and water. Evergreen Lodge is the ideal location from which to explore this unique and magical area, surrounded by towering trees and exuberant vegetation and are adorned with tropical designs. This lovely lodge has 66 comfortable rooms, all are spacious, with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, hot water, and ceiling fans, swimming pool. The property has an excellent restaurant and bar services and offer bilingual guided tours in the area. The beautiful main dinning room with soaring ceilings provides first class meals in an atmosphere that reflects and compliments the jungle paradise surrounding it.

Unfortunate Experience!!

Reviewed By D4699QIannem

We stayed at this Rainforest Resort as part of a tour. We liked the setting of the resort and the only access by boat, but there were many things we didn't care about. The lack of glass window that contributed to a lot of noise from the neighboring cabins, by the pool and bar. Also the howling monkeys, but that was to be expected and didn't bother us as much as the people and music noise late into the night. The food service contributed to several of our tour group getting sick, which wasn't a good experience while on vacation. Our room was cleaned while we were out, which we hadn't expected so we didn't put things away before we went out. We discovered later that evening that a 7 day container of everyday medicine was missing, which was mostly vitamins and one RX drug. This we felt was inexcusable by the cleaning staff. My rating is based on an organized tour stay, so some parts of the review I can't answer as it didn't apply to our stay.

4. Marriott Vacation Club at Los Suenos

800 meters west of Herradura Entrance, Herradura, Garabito Municipality 028-4023 Costa Rica
Excellent
93%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
7%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 15 reviews

Marriott Vacation Club at Los Suenos

Enjoy the pura vida (pure life) at Marriott Vacation Club at Los Sueños in Herradura, Costa Rica. Tropical paradise surrounds you as you enjoy the pool, explore the surrounding rainforests or release yourself to spa treatments or a massage. You'll find it all at Marriott Vacation Club at Los Sueños.

A Wonderful Retreat

Reviewed By SCCanuck

Our friends invited us to join them for a Costa Rican vacation at MVC. From the moment we checked in until our departure the staff were friendly, welcoming and attentive to every need. The full access to the Marriott resort makes this an even more attractive destination accommodation. Although the restaurants in the resort appeared to be short-staffed and we only ate on premise twice during our week stay, we were served quickly and never had to wait even when the dining area was fulll. Our waiters were knowledgeable and very professional. Our two bedroom villa provided everything we needed. The bedrooms are located on each side of the center common area. The bedrooms each feature their own kitchenette with refrigerator, microwave, coffemaker and dishwasher. Our room had a very comfortable queen bed as well as a lounging area with table and a sleeper sofa. The room had a flat screen TV mounted to the wall. The bathroom was sleek, modern and clean with the mandatory heavy duty hair blower for my wife. We had a pool view from our balcony. The other bedroom featured everything ours had but had a king bed and also a full-size washer and dryer. The common area had a full kitchen, a dining table for 6 as well as a living room with chairs and a sleeper sofa. There is also a balcony off the common area. The accommodations were first rate. We made use of the tennis courts once and enjoyed our time at the pool, where the staff were always quick to offer refreshments and food if need. The DJ had the pool rocking more than once! I am not an MVC owner myself but can certainly understand why our friends belong if this is any indication. A top notch experience in a wonderful destination with warm, friendly people everywhere.

5. Terrazas del Caribe

Calle Azania, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca 70403 Costa Rica
Excellent
67%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
4%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 46 reviews

Terrazas del Caribe

Terrazas del Caribe is an aparthotel located just 450 meters from the beautiful beach of Cocles, situated in the tropical forest and surrounded by exuberant nature where you can enjoy a warm climate, wonderful sunsets and a comfortable, private and safe environment. The property has 24 apartments (all completely independent from each other) in a private complex with a swimming pool. We offer 2 types of apartments: 1. Standard Apartment: Located on the ground floor and can accommodate up to 6 people. With proximity to our beautiful gardens and pool to enjoy all comfort making your stay a unique experience. Is composed of a large terrace with a dining table and hammock, a modern fully equipped kitchen (with breakfast bar and a double folding bed inside), a room with a desk (with a queen bed and a cabin) and two bathrooms. 2. Superior Apartment: Located on the second floor and can accommodate up to 8 people. With incredible natural views from its comfortable terraces, making them the perfect space to share. Is composed of a large terrace with a dining table and a sofa, a modern fully equipped kitchen (with a breakfast bar and a folding double bed inside) and a full bathroom. The main room has a double bed, a bunk bed, a desk and a spacious bathroom. There's also a mezzanine with two single beds.

Fantastic stay !! Really wonderful place.

Reviewed By SaprissAmericano

Our unit was very clean and modern. AC worked really well. Outdoor terrace overlooking the pool area was a wonderful place to enjoy our morning coffee and start our day. The staff is super friendly and helpful. Service was outstanding. The pool is great as is the pool bar staff. Fantastic, reasonably priced drinks and food. You will need a car to get to the beach, which is fine because you're going to want to visit other area beaches besides Cocles, such as Manzanillo, Cahuita, Playa Negra, etc. Everything you could hope for in a beach vacation. Loved every minute of our stay. The owners of the hotel also own an Italian restaurant called Cafe Viejo in Puerto Viejo and it is outstanding, not to be missed. Will absolutely stay here again.

6. OutBox Inn

20 Metros Diagonal De La Municipalidad, Santa Elena 60109 Costa Rica
Excellent
78%
Good
3%
Satisfactory
11%
Poor
3%
Terrible
6%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 36 reviews

OutBox Inn

Great stay!

Reviewed By calumam

Really nice hostel with a great common area (and comfy bean bags!) All travellers when I was here were so nice and big thanks to Sharon that was so attentive! They also organised all excursions which was really useful! Would definitely stay again!

7. Quetzal Valley Cabins

Km 80 on South Interamerican Hwy 3.5 Km Down San Gerardo Rd, San Gerardo de Dota 11701 Costa Rica
Excellent
86%
Good
9%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
3%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 160 reviews

Quetzal Valley Cabins

Located on the headwaters of Savegre River (designated as cleanest river in all Middle America by the FAO), within the new UNESCO Savegre Biosphere, the Valle del Quetzal Privat Nature Reserve maintains more than 500 acres (200 ha) under an environmental protection contract with FONAFIFO, most of which is primary Cloud Oak Forest between 2400 and 3000 m elevation (8200 to 10,000 ft). We have many nature trails including along a mile of exclusive river frontage with excellent Trout fishing, bird watching and pure natural beauty.

Best Part of Our Trip to Costa Rica

Reviewed By GarethLCarter

I could not recommend staying here highly enough. If you want a peaceful place to be surrounded by nature, to bird watch, or to just relax and get away from the world, Quetzal Valley Cabins are a paradise. You really are in the heart of the forest, and the views from the windows are incredible. You can see so many different species of birds just whilst sitting and having your breakfast. There are some nice little trails on the property as well as access to other trails in the area, and San Gerardo de Dota is one of the most beautiful places we've ever been. The cabins are beautifully rustic and the kitchen was well equipped with the shop just up the (very steep) road. The wood burning stove makes the cabin cosy in the cold evenings, and it is such a relaxing place to be. All in all, we had a perfect stay for the four nights we were here - Peter, the owner, was very helpful with advice and tips, and really made us feel welcome. We wish we could have stayed longer, and will definitely be back if possible in the future!

8. OPacifico Hotel

Playa Naranjo del Atracadero del ferry 600 m, Naranjo 60101 Costa Rica
Excellent
89%
Good
6%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 54 reviews

OPacifico Hotel

O’Pacifico Hotel is a boutique hotel in the middle of one of the privileged Blue Zones in the Gulf of Nicoya, Playa Naranjo, Costa Rica. Our hotel is designed to achieve a perfect combination of adventure and rest. Its privileged beach-front location and natural surroundings offer a transformational vacation experience. We offer a wide variety of tours and activities in and around the hotel, allowing you to be as active as you want. From Stand Up Paddle, Kayak, and Yoga, to bird watching and hiking. We also offer tours to unique places located close to us: waterfalls, biological reserves, and beaches. O’Pacifico Hotel is a magical place to disconnect and relax in front of an exclusive beach. Each of our beachfront rooms has their own terrace and garden, offering a perfect setting for your getaway. Disconnect, relax and enjoy!

Great little hotel!

Reviewed By robiel541

This place is great! Everything is newly remodeled and the grounds are kept so clean and pristine. There are only 14 or so rooms, so even at max capacity there are not very many people here at all. The room is on the smaller side, but really plenty big for 2 people. There are multiple shelves and one huge long table to put your luggage and spread out. I read one review that there is hardly space for luggage for 2 people and I entirely disagree. The bed is super comfortable, the best we’ve had on this trip having stayed in 4 other locations. The staff has been great. The restaurant staff is very friendly and polite. No, most of them do not speak perfect English, but guess what, this is Costa Rica! It’s so frustrating to see reviewers complain about staff in a different country not speaking English. Regardless of the language barrier, these folks did their job and they did it well. Food was great too! Really great outdoor seating and relaxing areas and furniture both poolside and beachside. I would highly recommend this place!

9. Paradise Flamingo Beach

Flamingo Beach Road Near to Flamingo Marina Resort, Playa Flamingo 50304 Costa Rica
Excellent
38%
Good
29%
Satisfactory
16%
Poor
9%
Terrible
9%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 270 reviews

Paradise Flamingo Beach

Don’t!

Reviewed By bessobecker

This place was absolutely horrible. We checked in and checked out within the hour. The room was bare. Nothing but a bed, dresser and night tables. The balcony had those cheap plastic chairs. I first tried to change rooms but every room was basically the same. The place is worn out and shabby, paint peeling, anti-slip strips at the pool were peeling, the gazebo was falling apart, A/C only in the rooms and calling it A/C was being kind. Wi-Fi with one bar in the rooms.I could go on..the only bright spots in this tedious and stressing situation were Luis at the front desk and Maria who, I assumed, was in housekeeping. They tried hard to make us happy, but there was no way I could allow this place to ruin another amazing trip to Costa Rica. We moved .3 miles to Margaritaville where we are now. I’ve never done this before. Never had to, but so happy we left the place. If they want to attract international travelers, they need to give this place a serious facelift.

10. Cabinas and Hotel Vista Al Golfo

Meters Southeast Of the Supermercado la Espera 300, Santa Elena 60109 Costa Rica
Excellent
41%
Good
37%
Satisfactory
12%
Poor
5%
Terrible
6%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 390 reviews

Cabinas and Hotel Vista Al Golfo

Monteverde Budget Cabins Cabinas vista Al Golfo offers cheap lodging in Santa Elena Monteverde, we are located very close to the town of Santa Elena,we offer cheap cabins for you to spend your vacations in Monteverde Costa Rica, come and stay with us at this small and clean hostel.Cabinas Vista Al GolfoWe are located in an ideal spot, from our lodge balcony and look out point you can enjoy a beautiful and exuberant view, you can see the dinamyc climate changes of the monteverde cloud forestfrom our look out point experience one of the best views of the mountains of Monteverde and the Nicoya Gulf Community kitchen fully equipped, refregirator, microwave, toaster, coffe maker and everything you should need Deluxe Apartments fully equipped kitchen private bathroomprivate balcony with the best view for the mountain and nicoya gulfExcellent hot water system Cable T V Security Box FREE BREAKFASTWI-FIFREE INTERNETFREE COFFEE AND TEACabinas Vista Al Golfo Is costarican family run hotel in Santa Elena the owner Jorge Campos and his wife Anali Lopez will assist you personally with everything you should need, they do speak very good English so if you do not speak our language that should be no problem, you can enquire for tours in the area among other things

Great value for money, would recommend

Reviewed By BartH838

Great value for money. Very friendly staff, breakfast is made fresh and a lot more than you would expect for the price, location is good, free parking spot next door, clean n cosy rooms. Nice communal areas. We were there in december, the wind was noisy. Stayed in room nr8 with double and single bed.

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