The 447-room Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica is an upscale all-inclusive resort with a quiet and secluded beachfront location. Contemporary decor complements the natural beauty of the rainforest and beach surrounding the resort. Rooms have views of either the pool, ocean, or gardens, plus terraces with whirlpools, minibars refilled daily, AC, and flat-screen TVs. The comprehensive all-inclusive plan covers nearly everything, including meals at five specialty restaurants and three eateries, top-shelf drinks at seven bars (including a swim-up bar), activities and entertainment, and even tips. Note that long pants are required for men at some restaurants, but reservations are not. Expect several pools, including an adults-only pool and waterslide pool, kids' and teens' clubs, and water sports. Note that the airport is a 90-minute drive away. Couples may prefer the adults-only Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica, which is also closer to Liberia.
The 447-room Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica is an upscale all-inclusive resort with a quiet and secluded beachfront location. Contemporary decor complements the natural beauty of the rainforest and beach surrounding the resort. Rooms have views of either the pool, ocean, or gardens, plus terraces with whirlpools, minibars refilled daily, AC, and flat-screen TVs. The comprehensive all-inclusive plan covers nearly everything, including meals at five specialty restaurants and three eateries, top-shelf drinks at seven bars (including a swim-up bar), activities and entertainment, and even tips. Note that long pants are required for men at some restaurants, but reservations are not. Expect several pools, including an adults-only pool and waterslide pool, kids' and teens' clubs, and water sports. Note that the airport is a 90-minute drive away. Couples may prefer the adults-only Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica, which is also closer to Liberia.
This 66-room, mid-range bungalow resort feels like a replica of a tightly packed suburb -- and also involves jockeying with neighbors for parallel-parking spaces on its narrow lanes. It's popular with Costa Ricans, and is about a 15-minute drive from La Fortuna, but has seen better days. Its musty, worn bungalows have old tube TVs, and the views of the volcano from the grand windows are marred by the swarms of guest cars parked on the lanes outside. Guests looking for a rustic rainforest experience in this price range may prefer Hotel Kokoro Arenal, or the slightly pricier Hotel El Silencio del Campo, which has extra-hot hot springs (some guests feel the ones here aren't warm enough).
This 66-room, mid-range bungalow resort feels like a replica of a tightly packed suburb -- and also involves jockeying with neighbors for parallel-parking spaces on its narrow lanes. It's popular with Costa Ricans, and is about a 15-minute drive from La Fortuna, but has seen better days. Its musty, worn bungalows have old tube TVs, and the views of the volcano from the grand windows are marred by the swarms of guest cars parked on the lanes outside. Guests looking for a rustic rainforest experience in this price range may prefer Hotel Kokoro Arenal, or the slightly pricier Hotel El Silencio del Campo, which has extra-hot hot springs (some guests feel the ones here aren't warm enough).
At the end of a winding rural road in Costa Rica’s stunning, 2,000-acre cloud forest, the mid-range Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel and Nature Reserve feels like a hotel at the end of the world. All 35 rooms are rustic, freestanding bungalows with free Wi-Fi, minibars, wood-burning fireplaces, and private patios with lovely views. An authentic Costa Rican restaurant/bar, on-site dairy farm, exclusive hiking trails, a modern movie theater, and a historic chapel for destination weddings are among its most notable amenities. The absence of attractions within walking distance may dissuade some guests, but others may find that that’s exactly what they’re looking for. Although rooms aren't as modern, Lands in Love Hotel & Resort (Tierras Enamoradas) offers similar amenities, plus a pool and an outdoor adventure park for similar rates.
At the end of a winding rural road in Costa Rica’s stunning, 2,000-acre cloud forest, the mid-range Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel and Nature Reserve feels like a hotel at the end of the world. All 35 rooms are rustic, freestanding bungalows with free Wi-Fi, minibars, wood-burning fireplaces, and private patios with lovely views. An authentic Costa Rican restaurant/bar, on-site dairy farm, exclusive hiking trails, a modern movie theater, and a historic chapel for destination weddings are among its most notable amenities. The absence of attractions within walking distance may dissuade some guests, but others may find that that’s exactly what they’re looking for. Although rooms aren't as modern, Lands in Love Hotel & Resort (Tierras Enamoradas) offers similar amenities, plus a pool and an outdoor adventure park for similar rates.
Guests willing to brave the rough, winding road to Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel will be well rewarded. Everything about the hotel -- including the remote location and the lush, green grounds -- helps this hotel truly live up to its name. The three-and-a-half-pearl property’s list of noteworthy amenities includes an open-air restaurant, an outdoor pool, and an eclectic Turkish-inspired lounge. The 26 rooms draw on modern and rustic aesthetics and come with minibars, bathrooms with outdoor garden showers, and spacious furnished balconies. Beyond the adjacent volcano park and the Rio Celeste river, there are few attractions of any kind in the immediate area. The nearest comparable accommodations can be found at Celeste Mountain Lodge -- a slightly cheaper, three-pearl alternative with an eco-conscious philosophy.
Guests willing to brave the rough, winding road to Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel will be well rewarded. Everything about the hotel -- including the remote location and the lush, green grounds -- helps this hotel truly live up to its name. The three-and-a-half-pearl property’s list of noteworthy amenities includes an open-air restaurant, an outdoor pool, and an eclectic Turkish-inspired lounge. The 26 rooms draw on modern and rustic aesthetics and come with minibars, bathrooms with outdoor garden showers, and spacious furnished balconies. Beyond the adjacent volcano park and the Rio Celeste river, there are few attractions of any kind in the immediate area. The nearest comparable accommodations can be found at Celeste Mountain Lodge -- a slightly cheaper, three-pearl alternative with an eco-conscious philosophy.
Travelers seeking minimalist jungle luxury will find it at the Andaz Peninsula Papagayo — an architectural stunner that appears to be built into the side of a cliff. Hyatt’s hip boutique line, Andaz, is known for its high style and creative approach to hotel design, and the chain’s luxurious Papagayo’s outpost is no exception. Spread across 28 hilly acres, the Andaz’s 153 minimalist rooms, three restaurants, 11,000-square-foot spa, and 24-hour fitness center, are housed in dozens of tree house like buildings. But the hotel’s high design isn’t always functional, or convenient, as seen by the hordes of guests who continually wait for golf carts to shuttle them around the property. The neighboring Four Seasons is even more luxurious, while El Mangroove by Enjoy Hotels is cheaper but still chic, and has a more convenient location.
Travelers seeking minimalist jungle luxury will find it at the Andaz Peninsula Papagayo — an architectural stunner that appears to be built into the side of a cliff. Hyatt’s hip boutique line, Andaz, is known for its high style and creative approach to hotel design, and the chain’s luxurious Papagayo’s outpost is no exception. Spread across 28 hilly acres, the Andaz’s 153 minimalist rooms, three restaurants, 11,000-square-foot spa, and 24-hour fitness center, are housed in dozens of tree house like buildings. But the hotel’s high design isn’t always functional, or convenient, as seen by the hordes of guests who continually wait for golf carts to shuttle them around the property. The neighboring Four Seasons is even more luxurious, while El Mangroove by Enjoy Hotels is cheaper but still chic, and has a more convenient location.
Secrets Papagayo Resort & Spa is an adult-only, four-pearl property located on the Gulf of Papagayo. The resort’s 202 rooms have elegant decor, along with thoughtful features like special two-sided compartments for room service delivery. From the sizable fitness center to the attractive pool areas, the resort’s facilities are polished and modern. Secrets offers all the perks you would expect from an all-inclusive property -- including lots of dining and entertainment options -- along with a few welcome bonuses like a la carte restaurants that don’t require reservations. It all comes at a price, however, with the resort’s rates among the highest in the area. Travelers looking for a more affordable all-inclusive alternative might consider Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica on Playa Matapalo.
Secrets Papagayo Resort & Spa is an adult-only, four-pearl property located on the Gulf of Papagayo. The resort’s 202 rooms have elegant decor, along with thoughtful features like special two-sided compartments for room service delivery. From the sizable fitness center to the attractive pool areas, the resort’s facilities are polished and modern. Secrets offers all the perks you would expect from an all-inclusive property -- including lots of dining and entertainment options -- along with a few welcome bonuses like a la carte restaurants that don’t require reservations. It all comes at a price, however, with the resort’s rates among the highest in the area. Travelers looking for a more affordable all-inclusive alternative might consider Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica on Playa Matapalo.
Hacienda Guachipelin is a rustic, three-pearl property located on a working cattle ranch on the border of Rincon de la Vieja National Park. The ranch’s 64 rooms and suites are simple, yet appealing, and some offer mini-fridges and coffeemakers. The ranch features wonderful hiking trails, an outdoor spring-fed swimming pool, and free access to a set of natural hot springs. For a fee, guests can also enjoy activities ranging from horseback riding to river inner-tubing. While the ranch’s remote location is part of its allure, it also means that guests should be prepared for a rough, 30-minute journey to the nearest shops and restaurants (although the ranch has an adequate restaurant of its own on-site and serves free breakfast). Guests may want to compare rates and amenities with nearby Buena Vista Lodge, which offers a similar experience.
Hacienda Guachipelin is a rustic, three-pearl property located on a working cattle ranch on the border of Rincon de la Vieja National Park. The ranch’s 64 rooms and suites are simple, yet appealing, and some offer mini-fridges and coffeemakers. The ranch features wonderful hiking trails, an outdoor spring-fed swimming pool, and free access to a set of natural hot springs. For a fee, guests can also enjoy activities ranging from horseback riding to river inner-tubing. While the ranch’s remote location is part of its allure, it also means that guests should be prepared for a rough, 30-minute journey to the nearest shops and restaurants (although the ranch has an adequate restaurant of its own on-site and serves free breakfast). Guests may want to compare rates and amenities with nearby Buena Vista Lodge, which offers a similar experience.
Blue River Resort & Hot Springs is a mid-range property located high in the mountains of Guanacaste’s Rincon de la Vieja region. Surrounded by wilderness (and yes, there really is a blue river), the setting is undoubtedly serene and includes natural hot springs, botanical gardens, and an incredible butterfly habitat. Rooms are housed in rustic-looking log cabins, which come complete with front porches and outdoor hammocks. Guests come to Blue River not only for the hot springs, but also for the resort’s array of outdoor adventure activities, such as zip-lining, horseback riding, and water tubing. The hotel’s one restaurant serves a free breakfast, as well as lunch and dinner, and is a popular spot for guests to hang out in the evening -- unsurprising considering there’s no nighttime entertainment and it’s the only spot on the property with Wi-Fi. Travelers looking for a similar hotel with more luxurious accommodations should check out Hotel Borrinquen Mountain Resort, which is also in Rincon de la Vieja, about two hours away.
Blue River Resort & Hot Springs is a mid-range property located high in the mountains of Guanacaste’s Rincon de la Vieja region. Surrounded by wilderness (and yes, there really is a blue river), the setting is undoubtedly serene and includes natural hot springs, botanical gardens, and an incredible butterfly habitat. Rooms are housed in rustic-looking log cabins, which come complete with front porches and outdoor hammocks. Guests come to Blue River not only for the hot springs, but also for the resort’s array of outdoor adventure activities, such as zip-lining, horseback riding, and water tubing. The hotel’s one restaurant serves a free breakfast, as well as lunch and dinner, and is a popular spot for guests to hang out in the evening -- unsurprising considering there’s no nighttime entertainment and it’s the only spot on the property with Wi-Fi. Travelers looking for a similar hotel with more luxurious accommodations should check out Hotel Borrinquen Mountain Resort, which is also in Rincon de la Vieja, about two hours away.
This secluded, upper-middle-range property located high in the mountains of Rincon de la Vieja is surrounded by wilderness, and completely serene except for the occasional chatter of local howler monkeys. The 23 rooms are rustic-luxe casitas, which come complete with private decks and outdoor hammocks. Guests come to Borinquen not only for the hot springs but also for the resort’s incredible array of outdoor adventure activities, like zip-lining, horseback riding, and water tubing. For those looking more for relaxation than adventure, there are also a large outdoor pool and a beautiful spa. The hotel’s one restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and is the only spot on the property with Wi-Fi. Borinquen’s hilly property means getting around can be difficult. Anyone looking for a more rustic resort should check out Blue River Resort & Hot Springs, which is also in Rincon de la Vieja about two hours away.
This secluded, upper-middle-range property located high in the mountains of Rincon de la Vieja is surrounded by wilderness, and completely serene except for the occasional chatter of local howler monkeys. The 23 rooms are rustic-luxe casitas, which come complete with private decks and outdoor hammocks. Guests come to Borinquen not only for the hot springs but also for the resort’s incredible array of outdoor adventure activities, like zip-lining, horseback riding, and water tubing. For those looking more for relaxation than adventure, there are also a large outdoor pool and a beautiful spa. The hotel’s one restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and is the only spot on the property with Wi-Fi. Borinquen’s hilly property means getting around can be difficult. Anyone looking for a more rustic resort should check out Blue River Resort & Hot Springs, which is also in Rincon de la Vieja about two hours away.
Buena Vista Lodge is a two-and-a-half-pearl property located on the outskirts of Rincon de la Vieja National Park. The lodge’s 76 rooms are plain and practical, with no TVs, no AC, and minimal natural light; however, it’s the exciting line-up of activities that draw guests to this property, rather than the rooms. The lodge’s back country location lends itself to adventure and nature pursuits ranging from canopy tours to lounging in hot springs. Free breakfast is included, and there are a handful of dining options on the property -- an important feature considering that the nearest restaurants and shops are a rough, one-hour drive away. Travelers interested in active getaways in Rincon de la Vieja might want to compare rates and amenities with Hacienda Guachipelin.
Buena Vista Lodge is a two-and-a-half-pearl property located on the outskirts of Rincon de la Vieja National Park. The lodge’s 76 rooms are plain and practical, with no TVs, no AC, and minimal natural light; however, it’s the exciting line-up of activities that draw guests to this property, rather than the rooms. The lodge’s back country location lends itself to adventure and nature pursuits ranging from canopy tours to lounging in hot springs. Free breakfast is included, and there are a handful of dining options on the property -- an important feature considering that the nearest restaurants and shops are a rough, one-hour drive away. Travelers interested in active getaways in Rincon de la Vieja might want to compare rates and amenities with Hacienda Guachipelin.