Home & Jet — home, travel, lifestyle

View Original

Honeymoon in Costa Rica: 8 Best Hotels and Resorts

Costa Rica is an underrated honeymoon destination. It is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world and has the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, wildlife, and luxury all in one beautiful country.

Whether you are looking for a luxury beach vacation, adventure through the rainforest, or accommodations with breathtaking views of volcanoes, Costa Rica is the place for you.

Is Costa Rica good for a honeymoon?

Yes, Costa Rica is the perfect place for a honeymoon! Costa Rica is a very safe country to visit and is one of the few countries in the world that does not have an army. 

On top of being a very safe country, Costa Rica is extremely focused on sustainable tourism and preserving the environment. This is the perfect approach for this special country as it is home to about 5% of the world’s species in over 30 national parks.

Tropical locations are often a sought-after destination for honeymoons and Costa Rica surely hits the nail on the head for that criteria. With over 800 miles of coastline and 300 pristine beaches, you have so many options to choose from. 

Furthermore, there are plenty of hotels and resorts that offer all-inclusive packages and honeymoon suites for your special occasion. More on that later. 

How much does a honeymoon in Costa Rica cost?

According to ROAM Wild Travel Co, the average mid-range week-long honeymoon in Costa Rica costs $3,800 ($1,900 per person). This price includes airfare, hotel accommodations, food, and transportation. 

However, the cost of a honeymoon in Costa Rica will vary depending on the time of year, length of stay, and preferred accommodations.

It is important to remember that a honeymoon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you are going to splurge on any trip in your lifetime, the honeymoon is a good opportunity to do so!

How do I plan a honeymoon to Costa Rica? 

To start the planning process for a honeymoon in Costa Rica, it is wise to discuss with your spouse the type of honeymoon you are looking for. 

For example, if you are interested in a more adventurous honeymoon, you should consider staying in La Fortuna for days filled with hiking, waterfalls, hot springs, and views of volcanoes. 

On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxing trip filled with romantic activities then we highly recommend checking out Papagayo Peninsula as your home base. 

Once you determine your preferred style of honeymoon, then all you have to do is find the perfect hotel or resort to host your honeymoon. Don’t worry, we have the perfect list of hotel recommendations later on in this post. 

Still need help planning your honeymoon in Costa Rica, check out some suggested itineraries from the Costa Rica Tourism Board. You are bound to find the best possible itinerary to cater to all of your needs and interests. 

It is wise to create a must-visit list of places you want to visit. Costa Rica has so much to offer and you don’t want to miss out on anything! 

Where do couples go in Costa Rica?

The most popular honeymoon destinations in Costa Rica are broken down into different regions of the country: 

Guanacaste

With 400 miles of coastline, Guanacaste has become one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica. It is located on the Northern Pacific Coast and is known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and 5-start hotels. 

Top Destinations:

  • Arenal Volcano 

  • Monteverde National Park

  • Nicoya Peninsula

  • Gulf of Papagayo

Northern Costa Rica

Northern Costa Rica is the ideal location for nature-loving couples who enjoy incredible hikes, bird watching, and adventure tours. There are no beaches in this zone of Costa Rica but you will still find romantic spas around the Arenal Volcano and stunning tropical plants in the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

Top Destinations:

  • Arenal Volcano National Park

  • Monteverde Cloud Forest 

  • Sarapiquí 

Osa Peninsula

The Osa Peninsula is one of the most remote locations in Costa Rica. Unlike Northern Costa Rica, you will find plenty of breathtaking beaches on the Osa Peninsula. Furthermore, you might feel like you are walking through a scene of Jurassic Park when visiting the Osa Peninsula. It is home to over 400 species of birds and exotic animals. This is the perfect location for an “authentic” Costa Rica experience. 

Top Destinations:

  • Corcovado National Park

  • Drake Bay

  • Uvita

All in all, there is a destination for everyone in Costa Rica. Couples swoon over this idyllic country. Costa Rica should absolutely be on the top of your list of honeymoon destinations!

Best Hotels and Resorts for a Honeymoon in Costa Rica

Below we have ranked the best hotels and resorts for a honeymoon in Costa Rica to help save your time:

1. Nayara Tented Camp, La Fortuna

Source: Nayara Tented Camp

Nayara Tented Camp is located in La Fortuna of Northern Costa Rica and was ranked the 2nd best hotel in the world by Travel & Leisure for 2021.

With stunning views of the Arenal Volcano, Nayara Tented Camp features 29 air-conditioned tents that are about 1,700 square feet each with their own private plunge pools fed by natural mineral hot springs and double-head outdoor showers.

Source: Nayara Tented Camp

Your room rate also includes daily breakfast, wireless internet, access to the gym, and complimentary daily yoga.

Looking for some fun on-site activities? You can participate in a wine-pairing experience, indulge in a mixology class, or try some new coffee during a roasting experience. Or you can explore the beautiful grounds and spot plenty of cool and interesting wildlife such as sloths, toucans, and frogs.

You can also relax in the rainforest during a couples massage followed by a romantic dinner for two!

2. Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica, Papagayo Peninsula

Source: Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica

The Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo is a top contender for a honeymoon in Costa Rica. From the hillside perch overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this expansive Costa Rican resort offers privacy while being your launching pad into boundless adventures.

After a day of zip-lining, surfing, or hiking a volcano, return to a tropical retreat for farm-and-sea-to-table dining, refreshing swims in one of four swimming pools, or relaxing spa treatments. With customized itineraries for couples, you are in for the honeymoon of a lifetime with “pura vida” vibes at Peninsula Papagayo.

Source: Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica

The resort features two private beaches, a golf course, and an expansive gym for all of your desired activities. Located only a 35-minute drive from Daniel Oduber International Airport, shuttle services are available upon request.

3. Andaz Costa Rica Resort, Papagayo Peninsula

Source: Andaz Costa Rica Resort

Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo – A concept by Hyatt, is situated in lush countryside near the beach and is a luxurious yet laid-back resort offering an on-site spa and gym.

Located just a 1-minute walk from the beach, this luxury resort features a spa and three on-site restaurants that serve fresh meals that draw inspiration from the local culture. Each room features stunning views of the ocean side of the Costa Rican jungle, along with wooden décor and a private bathroom with premium toiletries.

Source: Andaz Costa Rica Resort

World-class golf courses, the longest zip line in Costa Rica, and a gorgeous white-sand beach are just a few of the numerous attractions at Andaz Papagayo. The hotel is within a 1-hour drive of Palo Verde National Park and a short 16-mile drive from the Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport.

4. El Mangroove Papagayo, Papagayo Peninsula

Source: El Mangroove Papagayo

The El Mangroove, Autograph Collection, overlooking the Gulf of Papagayo, is a modern hotel providing exceptional service and elegance in Guanacaste. The hotel itself is inspired by lush forests, sun-kissed beaches, and the vibrant culture of Costa Rica.

Spend the day exploring Papagayo attractions such as Santa Rosa National Park or indulge in an afternoon of pampering and massage at Bearth Spa. Keep up with your fitness routine in a fully equipped gym and outdoor pool.

Source: El Mangroove Papagayo

As the only resort in the area with two private tour boats, adventure awaits! After a day of exploration, dine at one of the two beautiful restaurants, both with views of the Gulf of Papagayo, and ease into the comfort of a spacious suite with plush beds and spa-like bathrooms. Each suite offers a balcony with a hammock for the ultimate in relaxation.

5. Rancho Pacifico, Uvita

Source: Rancho Pacifico

Rancho Pacifico is a luxurious resort located in a forest among the Pacific. The resort was named the World’s Most Romantic Retreat by the Boutique Hotel Awards and was recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the Top Hotels in Costa Rica.

Rancho Pacifico offers 7 luxury suites, all of which are set in different areas of the rainforest, ensuring each guest has plenty of privacy to enjoy their romantic retreat.

The resort has its own private spa where guests can cure their stress by indulging themselves in a couple’s massage. South America’s leading chefs are employed to cater to your culinary cravings during lunch or dinner. And an on-site beauty salon ensures that you can always look your best.

Source: Rancho Pacifico

If active vacations are more your thing then there are plenty of itineraries and excursions available for you two to choose from. The honeymoon package is stellar and includes 6 nights in a suite, all-inclusive dining, a bottle of sparkling wine upon arrival, a 60-minute couples massage, a private starlight dinner for two, and one adventure for choice.

6. The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal, Fortuna

Source: The Springs Resort & Spa

The Springs Resort & Spa offers a truly world-class vacation experience. This luxury hotel offers an exuberant view of the Arenal Volcano, five unique restaurants, a full-service spa, and daily tours to the natural hot springs. The accommodations and amenities have been featured in CNN Travel's list of the seven most spectacular hotels in the world.

Source: The Springs Resort & Spa

All guest rooms, suites, and villas at The Springs Resort & Spa include private terraces and balconies overlooking the picturesque view of the volcano. Rooms are equipped with hammocks, rockers, minibars, and luxurious marble bathrooms with Jacuzzi tubs.

Don’t forget to check out the amazing honeymoon suites with a private hot-spring-fed jacuzzi.

7. W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal, Cabo Velas

Source: W Costa Rica

A modern oasis in the heart of Guanacaste, Costa Rica—this hotel is a perfect setting in which to let your spirit run free. With its luxury rooms, gourmet dining, and exotic landscapes, the hotel is located on Playa Conchal, a sugar-white beach surrounded by mangroves.

The W Costa Rica resort blends bold design with local culture to create an unforgettable experience. Enjoy sweeping views of the rainforest from your plush bed, then slip into the private plunge pool of your suite before heading in for a full-body treatment at the jungle spa.

Source: W Costa Rica

When you're ready to hit the sand and surf, they've got you covered with golfing lessons and equipment rentals or just spend a day lounging by the pool. When it's time to eat, choose from fine dining at one of our 5 restaurants -- including The Grill, serving gourmet cuisine in a casually elegant atmosphere-- or dance the night away at Zona Azul.

Whether you're on an exotic adventure or looking for luxury travel, W Costa Rica -- Reserva Conchal has everything you need for the perfect honeymoon in Costa Rica!

8. Nayara Springs, Fortuna

Source: Nayara Springs

Nayara Springs is a beautiful, adults-only hotel surrounded by tropical rainforests and situated just 4.3 miles from La Fortuna Town Center. The property offers free daily breakfast, an on-site spa, and a large outdoor pool.

Each suite here features a private pool and offers a romantic ambiance with contemporary decor. The suites feature extra seating areas, flat-screen TVs, and mini-bars that are restocked daily.

Source: Nayara Springs

You can reach Arenal Volcano National Park in about 20 minutes by car, and Juan Santamaria International Airport is a 3-hour drive.

Nayara Springs includes its own coffee bar; the coffee is a Nayara Signature that can only be found on the property. Guests can also enjoy Nayara Springs's open-air yoga pavilion or work on their fitness at Nayara Springs's new state-of-the-art gym.

Nayara Springs is connected by two footbridges perched 150 feet high above the rainforest canopy to neighboring Nayara Gardens.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're interested in a resort-style honeymoon, active honeymoon, or a combination of both, Costa Rica is sure to give you every angle you could want.

Which of its eight best hotels or resorts is the best? The answer will be different for everyone, but no matter where you stay, you'll have the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Costa Rica's immaculate natural surroundings will be the backdrop for your new life together!


Other posts we think you might like…

See this gallery in the original post