Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Gulf of Papagayo, Province of Guanacaste

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.

Casa Conde Beach-Front Hotel is a laid-back all-inclusive property with an outstanding beachfront location. The upper-middle-range hotel has 50 rooms split between older and newer sides -- newer rooms are worth the upgrade, considering they’re larger, brighter, and have more modern amenities, while older rooms have paper-thin walls and lack natural light. Casa Conde's best features are its two large pools and direct access to the humongous Playa Panama. While there is only one restaurant, food at the hotel is surprisingly tasty for an all-inclusive. Additional amenities include free Wi-Fi, a small fitness center, and a kids' club, but most of the guests here are adults. Families may prefer the more lively Flamingo Beach Resort & Spa in Playa Flamingo.  

Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica is a four-pearl resort located on Playa Matapalo. The hotel’s 538 rooms and extensive facilities are more sophisticated than one might expect of a chain property, and the array of activities and restaurants is sure to satisfy fans of big, all-inclusive hotels. Aside from access to Playa Matapalo beach, there aren’t really any attractions or dining options within walking distance, but the all-inclusive package encourages most guests to dine on the property and take advantage of its on-site entertainment anyway. The nearby Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica offers a more intimate, all-inclusive experience but rates are typically higher than Riu Palace’s. 

Occidental Papagayo is an adult-only, three-and-a-half-pearl property located on the Gulf of Papagayo. The resort’s 163 rooms aren’t especially chic, but they’re nonetheless adequate, offering coffeemakers, minibars, and flat-screen TVs. Occidental’s all-inclusive package covers food, drinks, and entertainment. Guests also have access to a solid roster of amenities that includes a picturesque pool, four restaurants and numerous bars, as well as beach access. While this resort lacks wow factor, travelers looking for a fun, all-inclusive vacation are likely to be satisfied. Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica has sleeker facilities and a better beach, but its rates are generally higher.