Costa Rica has long been alluring to backpackers and adventure travelers. The wild juggles, the remote beaches and the Central American location were once turn-offs to all but the bravest of vacationers – but no longer. Over the last decade, Costa Rica has invested heavily in its tourism industry, and today, luxury travelers from around the world find plenty of opportunity for R&R on Costa Rican shores.
In fact, unlike other Caribbean and Central American destinations, there is more than one region of Costa Rica that caters to luxury travelers. Here are the seven top spots offering comfort, class and Costa Rican culture.
Gulf of Papagayo
Perhaps the poshest spot in the country, the Gulf of Papagayo is world-renowned for its pristine beaches and perfect waves. Once the home of wide-open ranches run by Costa Rican cowboys, called sabaneros, Guanacaste Province is now the premiere luxury destination for all of Costa Rica, even boasting its own international airport to service incoming luxury travelers.
Though it is difficult to find accommodations in this area with fewer than four stars, the leader in the region is easily the Four Seasons Papagayo. This resort offers an award-winning spa, a golf course and exclusive white-sand beaches that allow travelers some much-needed R&R.
Santa Teresa
Second only to Papagayo in terms of high class and luxury offerings, Santa Teresa is a well-known vacation spot for the rich and famous. Though much of Costa Rica is navigable by car, Santa Teresa is isolated on the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, which means visitors need a chartered plane or ferry to reach this deluxe region.
Unlike other areas of Costa Rica, Santa Teresa doesn’t attract the big-name hotel chains like Marriot or Westin; instead, travelers should book rooms at Florblanca or Latitude 10, both of which are beachfront resorts with stellar reputations.
Arenal
The Arenal region is known for one of the most dominant features of the Costa Rican landscape: the Arenal Volcano. Though Arenal isn’t nearly as active as it once was – the freely flowing lava is now replaced by meager puffs of smoke. Still, years of volcanic activity have mad the Arenal region flourish with gorgeous rainforest, and luxury visitors have access to some unique features, as well.
For example, the Tabacon Grand Spa and Thermal Resort offers some of the most deluxe lodgings in the country. Here, travelers stay in world-class rooms and have access to award-winning restaurants – but more importantly, they can lounge in natural hot springs. These waters also feed lush gardens and spas, giving guests comprehensive Costa Rican luxury.
Manuel Antonio
Roughly one-quarter of Costa Rica is national park and nature preserves. Manuel Antonio National Park Is among the most beautiful in the country, and it is also among the most glamorous. Here, visitors will have greater opportunities to see some of Costa Rica’s most fascinating wildlife, including sloths, tropical birds, several species of monkeys and even giant cats like the jaguar, ocelot and margay – and even better, they can do so from the comfort of their luxury accommodations.
The best option in this region is Arenas Del Mar Beachfront and Rainforest Resort, which claims several awards for its sustainability efforts and world-class luxury. From the hotel, guests can walk to the park or to one of several top-tier restaurants, art galleries and even nightlife options. Visitors can also find world-class Costa Rica beaches just outside their doorstep.
Tamarindo
Though Tamarindo has long claimed a reputation as a scruffy and cheap beach town, the area is beginning to cater more to luxury tourists. First, the roads have been paved, allowing visitors staying in higher-class regions – like Papagayo or Arenal – easier access to the local flavor. Secondly, new restaurants and high-rise accommodations have appeared, providing more attractive and enticing options to potential guests.
The beach is Tamarindo’s best attraction, so travelers should primarily look to beachfront lodgings like The Westin Resport and Spa Playa Conchal. However, there are smaller, more authentic luxury options, to include Los Altos de Eros and Hacienda Pinilla.
Los Suenos
Just an hour outside Costa Rica’s capital city of San Jose, Los Seunos promises luxury on a budget. Though none of this region’s accommodations and attractions are quite as well-appointed as other posh spots around the country, Los Suenos does provide most of the amenities luxury travelers crave – e.g. spacious rooms, stunning swimming pools, beautiful golf courses, etc. – without the hassle of traveling from one place in Costa Rica to another.
