Pulse Reviews and Analysis
Top 10 Resorts in Costa Rica
Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO, CRO Syndicate
Top 10 Resorts in Costa Rica (2027)
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Costa Rica's resort scene splits between the sun-baked Guanacaste/Papagayo Pacific coast and the misty rainforest interior around Arenal and the Osa Peninsula. The Best Overall pick is Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve on the Papagayo Peninsula — Costa Rica's newest ultra-luxury resort, from roughly $1,500–$3,500+/night.
The Best Value pick is The Westin Reserva Conchal, an all-inclusive beachfront resort in Guanacaste from about $400–$700/night. Every resort below is real, currently operating, and ranked on location, service, nature access, and value for 2027.
1. Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve 🏆 BEST OVERALL
Opened on the Papagayo Peninsula, Nekajui is Costa Rica's first Ritz-Carlton Reserve — clifftop and beachfront villas, a hilltop spa, and rainforest-meets-ocean design. Rates run $1,500–$3,500+/night. It ranks #1 for the country's most polished service and setting, blending jungle seclusion with Pacific beaches.
2. Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
The longtime flagship of Papagayo, the Four Seasons sits on a slim isthmus with two beaches, an Arnold Palmer golf course, and a renowned kids' program. Rates run $900–$2,500/night. It ranks #2 for family-friendly luxury with two coastlines and full resort amenities.
3. Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
A design-forward Hyatt resort tucked into Culebra Bay, the Andaz offers three beaches, a hillside spa, and locally inspired dining. Rates run $500–$1,000/night. It ranks #3 for stylish, nature-integrated luxury at a relative value among the Papagayo trio.
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4. The Westin Reserva Conchal 💎 BEST VALUE
On Guanacaste's Playa Conchal, this all-inclusive beachfront resort includes a Robert Trent Jones golf course, multiple pools, and a kids' club. Rates run $400–$700/night. It ranks #4 — and is the best value — for an all-inclusive family beach stay on one of Costa Rica's prettiest beaches.
5. Nayara Tented Camp
In the rainforest beneath Arenal Volcano, Nayara Tented Camp offers luxury tents with private plunge pools fed by hot springs and resident sloths in the canopy. Rates run $900–$2,000/night. It ranks #5 for the best volcano-and-jungle luxury experience.
6. Lapa Rios Lodge
A pioneering eco-lodge on the wild Osa Peninsula beside Corcovado National Park, Lapa Rios has 17 thatched bungalows in a private rainforest reserve. Rates run $600–$1,200/night (often inclusive of meals and guided hikes). It ranks #6 for immersive, conservation-driven rainforest luxury.
7. Nayara Springs
An adults-only sister property at Arenal, Nayara Springs features private villas with spring-fed plunge pools surrounded by tropical gardens. Rates run $700–$1,500/night. It ranks #7 for a romantic, couples-focused volcano retreat.
8. El Mangroove, Autograph Collection
A modern boutique resort on calm Culebra Bay in Papagayo, El Mangroove pairs a long infinity pool with a yoga deck and easy water sports. Rates run $400–$800/night. It ranks #8 for relaxed contemporary style on a swimmable bay.
9. Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
At the foot of Arenal, Tabacón is built around natural thermal hot-spring rivers flowing through rainforest gardens. Rates run $350–$700/night. It ranks #9 for the most famous hot-springs experience in Costa Rica.
10. Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection
A highland ranch resort in the Talamanca Mountains near Pérez Zeledón, AltaGracia offers casita suites, horseback riding, and its own airstrip and spa. Rates run $700–$1,400/night. It ranks #10 for a distinctive mountain-and-wellness escape away from the coast.
How to Choose
What to Know Before You Book
- Two coasts, two climates: Pacific Guanacaste is drier and sunnier; the interior rainforest (Arenal, Osa) is lush and wetter.
- Dry season: December–April is peak; the green season (May–November) brings lower rates and afternoon rain.
- Getting there: Liberia (LIR) airport serves Guanacaste/Papagayo; San José (SJO) serves Arenal and the Osa. Some lodges need a regional flight or transfer.
- Wildlife: Book guided hikes early at Lapa Rios and Arenal lodges to spot sloths, monkeys, and toucans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best resort in Costa Rica for 2027? Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve on the Papagayo Peninsula is the top overall pick for its new ultra-luxury villas and rainforest-meets-ocean setting.
Which Costa Rica resort is the best value? The Westin Reserva Conchal offers an all-inclusive beachfront stay with golf and a kids' club from about $400–$700/night.
Should I stay on the beach or in the rainforest? Choose Papagayo/Guanacaste beaches for sun and water sports; choose Arenal or the Osa Peninsula for volcanoes, hot springs, and wildlife.
What are the best resorts for families in Costa Rica? The Four Seasons Papagayo and Westin Reserva Conchal lead for kids' clubs, pools, and beach access.
When is the best time to visit Costa Rica? The dry season, December through April, offers the most reliable sun; the green season (May–November) is quieter and cheaper with afternoon showers.