Best Areas to Stay in Costa Rica: A Complete Guide for Every Traveler

Costa Rica is a dream destination for travelers seeking stunning beaches, lush rainforests, thrilling adventures, and vibrant wildlife. Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts, budget-friendly eco-lodges, or beachfront bungalows, Costa Rica offers a wide range of accommodations in diverse regions.

From the surf towns of the Pacific Coast to the volcanic landscapes of the interior, this guide will help you choose the best areas to stay in Costa Rica based on your travel style and preferences.

Best Places to Stay in Costa Rica

1. San José – Best for a Short Stay and Cultural Experience

San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is the gateway to the country. While most travelers pass through quickly, spending a night here offers a chance to explore museums, local markets, and historic sites before heading to the beaches or rainforests.

Best for:

• Travelers on a short layover
• Culture lovers and history buffs
• Food enthusiasts

Top Things to Do in San José:

• Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica and Gold Museum
• Explore Mercado Central for authentic Costa Rican food
• Take a day trip to Poás Volcano or Irazú Volcano

Where to Stay:

• Gran Hotel Costa Rica (Luxury) – A historic hotel in the heart of the city
• Hotel Presidente (Mid-Range) – Stylish boutique hotel close to museums
• Selina San José (Budget) – A trendy hostel with coworking spaces

Best for: Short stays, city explorers, cultural trips

Tip: Avoid staying in San José for too long—Costa Rica’s best attractions are outside the city.

2. La Fortuna and Arenal – Best for Adventure and Hot Springs

La Fortuna is home to Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most famous natural wonders. This area is perfect for adventure seekers, offering activities like ziplining, waterfall hikes, and hot springs.

Best for:

• Adventure travelers and nature lovers
• Couples looking for a romantic getaway
• Families who enjoy outdoor activities

Top Things to Do in La Fortuna and Arenal:

• Relax in the Tabacón or Baldi Hot Springs
• Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall and swim in the natural pool
• Take a canopy tour or go white-water rafting

Where to Stay:

• Nayara Gardens (Luxury) – One of the most romantic jungle resorts in Costa Rica
• Arenal Manoa Hotel (Mid-Range) – Beautiful views of the volcano
• Arenal Backpackers Resort (Budget) – A fun, social hostel with a pool

Best for: Adventure seekers, couples, and families

Tip: Book your hot springs visit in advance—they fill up quickly during peak season.

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3. Monteverde – Best for Cloud Forests and Wildlife

Monteverde is famous for its mystical cloud forests, biodiversity, and adventure activities. It is the perfect place for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring unique ecosystems.

Best for:

• Nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers
• Eco-tourists and sustainable travelers
• Adventure seekers

Top Things to Do in Monteverde:

• Walk across hanging bridges in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
• Spot rare wildlife, including the resplendent quetzal
• Go ziplining through the misty forest canopy

Where to Stay:

• Hotel Belmar (Luxury) – An eco-friendly lodge with mountain views
• Monteverde Lodge and Gardens (Mid-Range) – A peaceful retreat surrounded by nature
• Selina Monteverde (Budget) – A great social hostel for backpackers

Best for: Eco-tourism, adventure, and wildlife spotting

Tip: Bring warm clothing—it can get chilly in the cloud forest.

4. Manuel Antonio – Best for Beaches and National Parks

Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s top beach destinations, combining stunning coastlines with rich wildlife. The Manuel Antonio National Park is famous for its monkeys, sloths, and tropical beaches.

Best for:

• Beach lovers and wildlife enthusiasts
• Families and honeymooners
• First-time visitors to Costa Rica

Top Things to Do in Manuel Antonio:

• Hike through Manuel Antonio National Park and spot wildlife
• Relax on Playa Espadilla or Playa Biesanz
• Take a catamaran cruise with snorkeling and dolphin-watching

Where to Stay:

• Arenas del Mar Beachfront Resort (Luxury) – A beachfront eco-resort with private beach access
• Parador Resort and Spa (Mid-Range) – Stunning views and great amenities
• Millenium Hostel Manuel Antonio (Budget) – A top-rated budget option near the park

Best for: Beaches, wildlife, and luxury stays

Tip: Visit the national park early—visitor numbers are limited each day.

5. Tamarindo – Best for Surfing and Nightlife

Tamarindo is a lively beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula, perfect for surfing, beach relaxation, and nightlife.

Best for:

• Surfers of all levels
• Solo travelers and backpackers
• Those looking for a mix of relaxation and nightlife

Top Things to Do in Tamarindo:

• Take a surf lesson on Tamarindo Beach
• Enjoy sunset cocktails at beachfront bars
• Visit Las Baulas National Marine Park to see nesting sea turtles

Where to Stay:

• Cala Luna Boutique Hotel and Villas (Luxury) – A stylish retreat near the beach
• The Coast Beachfront Hotel (Mid-Range) – A relaxing stay just steps from the ocean
• Selina Tamarindo (Budget) – A fun social hostel with yoga and coworking spaces

Best for: Surfing, nightlife, and solo travelers

Tip: Tamarindo gets busy—if you want a quieter surf town, try Nosara or Santa Teresa.

6. Puerto Viejo – Best for Caribbean Vibes and Laid-Back Atmosphere

Puerto Viejo offers a completely different experience from the Pacific Coast, with Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae music, and stunning beaches.

Best for:

• Laid-back travelers and backpackers
• Beach lovers looking for hidden gems
• Cultural experiences and local vibes

Top Things to Do in Puerto Viejo:

• Relax on Playa Punta Uva and Playa Chiquita
• Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center to see rescued wildlife
• Explore Cahuita National Park for hiking and snorkeling

Where to Stay:

• Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel (Luxury) – A chic beachfront retreat
• Hotel Banana Azul (Mid-Range) – A relaxed stay with ocean views
• Selina Puerto Viejo (Budget) – A lively hostel with a great social scene

Best for: Relaxation, local culture, and untouched beaches

Tip: The Caribbean Coast has different weather—visit between February and April for the best conditions.

Get Costa Rica Ready!

Costa Rica offers a variety of experiences, from adventure in the rainforest to relaxation on pristine beaches. Whether you prefer luxury resorts in Manuel Antonio, eco-lodges in Monteverde, or surf towns like Tamarindo, there is a perfect place for every traveler.

Plan your Costa Rica adventure today and discover the best places to stay in this tropical paradise