Traveling through Costa Rica was one of the most fulfilling experiences we’ve ever had. From rainforests bursting with life to postcard-perfect sunsets on the beach, every place offered something unique in our 18-day Costa Rica itinerary. But there’s one thing we quickly learned: choosing the right place where to stay in Costa Rica makes all the difference. It’s not just about sleeping well — it’s about waking up in the right spot to experience the best of each destination, something also highlighted by Visit Costa Rica, the country’s official tourism website.
That’s why, in this guide, we’re sharing our top accommodation picks — where we stayed, what we liked (or didn’t), plus two more options in each area so you can decide whether to spend more, less, or just choose something different.
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Best Places to Stay in Costa Rica
To help you better visualize the best regions to stay in Costa Rica and plan your trip more easily, we’ve included an interactive map below. You’ll find all the areas mentioned in this guide — from the mystical forests of Monteverde to the tropical beaches of Tamarindo and Puerto Viejo. Just click on the markers to see the exact location, accommodation suggestions, and what makes each destination unique. Perfect for organizing your trip with inspiration and ease.
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca – The Caribbean side of Costa Rica at its best
Puerto Viejo moves at its own rhythm. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, music flows through the streets, and each beach is more beautiful than the last. A must-stop for anyone wanting to experience Costa Rica’s Caribbean side — with great waves, great food, and good vibes — making it one of the best places to stay in Costa Rica.
Beaches worth exploring are Punta Uva, Playa Cocles, and Playa Negra — each one unique, all unforgettable. With a car, especially an SUV, you can hop between them without hassle.
Best Hotels to Stay in Puerto Viejo
- Budget – Casa Boho – A small guesthouse near the center, with a shared kitchen and cozy atmosphere. We stayed here, and it was a great base to explore the area.
- Mid-range – Hotel Banana Azul – Located right on the beach, with spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a super relaxed tropical vibe. Perfect if you want a bit more comfort.
- Luxury – Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel – A charming hotel with a spa, pool, and top-notch service. A stylish retreat to relax in comfort.
Tortuguero – Rainforest, canals, and wildlife
Tortuguero feels like it’s straight out of a National Geographic documentary and is one of the best places to stay in Costa Rica. It’s remote, only accessible by boat or plane, and surrounded by canals, dense jungle, and an incredible amount of wildlife. If you’re into raw nature, it’s a must.
The ideal setup is staying somewhere right on the water, so you can hop in a canoe early in the morning and spot monkeys, sloths, caimans, and all kinds of birds. It’s also one of the best spots to see turtles nesting — if you go during the right season, of course.
Best hotels to stay in Tortuguero
- Budget – Casa Marbella – A simple guesthouse right by the water with basic but comfortable rooms. We stayed here, and the direct access to the canal made all the difference for excursions. Plus, the price was unbeatable for the location.
- Mid-range – Pachira Lodge – A lodge surrounded by rainforest, perfect for those who want to be closer to nature. Access is only by boat, and the atmosphere is peaceful, with a pool and included tours.
- Luxury – Tortuga Lodge & Gardens – One of the most beautiful accommodations in the area, with a pool, excellent restaurant, and attentive service. Ideal for those who want comfort in the middle of the jungle.
Tip: Book in advance, especially during turtle season (July to October). And don’t forget insect repellent – the mosquitoes here don’t forgive.
La Fortuna (Arenal) – Volcano, forests and hot springs
La Fortuna is one of the most complete regions to stay in Costa Rica. You have the Arenal Volcano always on the horizon, trails in rainforests, impressive waterfalls, and of course, the famous hot springs. It’s one of the best places for those who want to combine adventure with moments of pure relaxation.
Here it’s really worth staying with a view of the volcano – and there are options for all tastes.
Best hotels to stay in La Fortuna
- Budget – Hotel Secreto La Fortuna – Great location, modern rooms and super helpful staff. An excellent choice for those who want something simple but with quality.
- Mid-range – Arenal Xilopalo – A cozy accommodation in perfect harmony with nature. We stayed here, and the view of the volcano at breakfast was one of those unforgettable experiences. Peaceful, comfortable and with an on-site restaurant.
- Luxury – Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa – A dream resort with exclusive access to natural hot springs. Ideal for those who want to pamper themselves and truly relax after a day of adventure.
Tip: Wake up early for hikes – you’re more likely to have clear skies and wildlife sightings first thing in the morning.
Monteverde – Cloud forest and hanging bridges
Monteverde is pure mysticism. The cloud forest is always wrapped in a light mist, the sounds of nature are constant, and there’s an energy there that can’t be explained – you feel it. It’s one of the best places to stay in Costa Rica and one of the best in the world for biodiversity observation, and walking along the hanging bridges above the treetops is truly unique.
The road there isn’t the best – many curves and uneven pavement – but it’s totally worth it.
Best hotels to stay in Monteverde
- Budget – Cabinas Eddy – A simple but super welcoming B&B. This is where we stayed, and we felt right at home. The homemade breakfast with local products gave us energy for the trails and the family atmosphere made everything easier.
- Mid-range – Monteverde Inn – Surrounded by nature, with its own trails and a very peaceful atmosphere. Good option for those who want proximity to the forest without spending a fortune.
- Luxury – Hotel Belmar – A classic in Monteverde, this hotel combines alpine charm with modern comfort. Amazing views, excellent food and strong commitment to sustainable practices.
Note: Bring a jacket! Even during the dry season, Monteverde can be cool and humid, especially at night.
Tamarindo – Beach, surf and postcard sunsets
Tamarindo is that classic surf town that looks like it came out of a movie. Golden sand, perfect waves for beginner surfers, chill bars, and a sunset that never disappoints. It’s also one of the best areas in Costa Rica when it comes to tourist infrastructure, which makes things easier in terms of restaurants, markets, transportation, and accommodations.
It was one of the stops where we were truly able to slow down — switching between the sea, good food, and rest was the plan during the three days we spent there.
Best hotels to stay in Tamarindo
- Category: Budget – Mai Ke Kai Surf House – A laid-back hostel, just a few minutes’ walk from the beach, with a garden, common areas, and a shared kitchen. Perfect for young travelers, couples, or backpackers looking to save money and soak in Tamarindo’s vibe.
- Mid-range – Gardénia Tamarindo – An apartment close to the center, with a well-equipped kitchen and calm atmosphere. This is where we stayed and it was perfect to rest, cook simple meals, and explore everything on foot.
- Luxury – Jardin del Eden Boutique Hotel – Adults only, with a tropical garden, pool, and private beach access. A true oasis in Tamarindo, ideal for couples or anyone looking for more privacy.
Local tip: don’t miss Playa Conchal or Playa Langosta — both nearby and stunning. If you rent a car, they’re super easy to explore.
Playa Hermosa – Tranquility and charm by the Pacific
After the buzz of Tamarindo, Playa Hermosa was a breath of fresh air. It’s a much quieter place, with a bit of a retreat vibe. The beaches are wide, lined with palm trees and calm waters (great for swimming), and there are far fewer tourists. We focused on relaxing, eating well, and enjoying the peace — definitely one of the best places to stay in Costa Rica.
It’s also close to Playa del Coco, so you can easily visit both without long drives.
Best hotels to stay in Playa Hermosa
- Category: Budget – Villa Acacia Beach Hotel – Just a few minutes from the beach, with simple and comfortable rooms, a tropical garden, and breakfast included. A great budget option in Playa Hermosa.
- Mid-range – Villa del Sueño – A peaceful hotel just a short walk from the beach, with a pool and breakfast included. This is where we stayed, and the location was a real highlight. Perfect if you’re looking to relax with no fuss.
- Luxury – Hotel Bosque del Mar – Right by the sea, with elegant suites and a fantastic restaurant. One of the most exclusive choices in the area, ideal for a romantic getaway.
Extra tip: Playa Hermosa is more expensive in terms of accommodation, so it’s worth booking in advance to get a good deal and secure your spot.
Return to San José – Just to sleep before the flight
The last day of our trip was more about logistics than sightseeing. We left Playa Hermosa and headed back to San José to spend one night before catching our flight. The city itself didn’t really appeal to us, but it worked well as a logistical stop.
The drive was smooth, with a few tolls along the way (they accept cards), and we even managed a quick stop at Multiplaza Escazú shopping mall.
Best Hotels to Stay in San José
- Budget – Selina San José – With modern decor, bar, and coworking spaces, it’s a practical and social option for anyone still up for one last night in the city vibe.
- Mid-range – Garden House – Mentioned above, it’s where we stayed again. Comfortable, quiet, and close to the airport. Ideal for a transition night.
- Luxury – Grano de Oro Hotel – A boutique hotel with a top-notch restaurant and excellent service. A great way to end your trip in style.
Choosing where to stay in Costa Rica isn’t just about location — it’s also about your travel style. If you’re into adventure, raw nature, and hiking trails, areas like Monteverde or Arenal will feel like home. If you’re looking for beach time and relaxation, Puerto Viejo, Tamarindo, or Playa Hermosa are must-stops. And if your goal is to dive into Costa Rica’s wild biodiversity, Tortuguero will blow you away.
Throughout this trip, we realized that the type of accommodation really makes a difference — from simple guesthouses where you feel the local culture to luxury resorts where you can pause and soak in the natural beauty.
No matter your budget, there are always good places to stay in Costa Rica — the trick is mixing the right spots and balancing comfort, location, and travel goals.
FAQs
What’s the best area to stay in Costa Rica for first-timers?
If it’s your first time in Costa Rica, La Fortuna (Arenal) is a great pick. It blends adventure, hot springs, trails, and solid infrastructure — perfect to get in tune with the country’s vibe.
Is it worth renting a car to explore Costa Rica?
Yes, especially if you want to visit places like Monteverde, Tortuguero (up to the pier), or more remote beaches. An SUV is recommended as many roads are unpaved or bumpy, especially outside cities.
Is it safe to travel in Costa Rica and stay in budget accommodations?
Generally, yes. Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America. Budget stays are usually clean and welcoming. Just follow basic safety tips — like not leaving valuables in the car and avoiding deserted areas at night.
What’s the best time of year to visit Costa Rica?
The dry season, from December to April, is the most popular. But the rainy season (May to November) has its perks: everything is greener, prices drop, and there are fewer tourists. Just be ready for some rain.
Do accommodations in Costa Rica include breakfast?
Many do, especially B&Bs and mid- to high-range hotels. Budget options like hostels or guesthouses might not, but there’s usually a kitchen or markets nearby to whip something up.
