Costa Rica offers an unparalleled combination of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. From its tropical beaches to the lush rainforest, this paradise is a perfect vacation spot for those looking to escape it all.
With so much to explore and discover in Costa Rica, choosing a place to stay can be difficult. So to help you out, we’ve rounded up our top 10 list of the best places to stay in Costa Rica.
Whether you’re looking for the luxury living or budget-friendly accommodations, there’s something here for everyone – read on as we provide insight into each location!
#1 Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel, Puerto Viejo, Caribbean Coast
The Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, is a great place to stay for those looking for a unique Caribbean experience.
Situated on the picturesque shore of Playa Cocles, this boutique hotel offers guests incredible views of the lagoon and its mangrove forests. It is also known for its excellent service, as well as its modern amenities and stylish décor. You can reserve either heavenly beachfront properties, the gorgeous Ocean Suite, or the lush and cozy Romantic Suite.
Whether relaxing in one of the comfortable hammocks, taking a romantic stroll along the beach steps away from your room, or meeting new people in the bar and lounge area, Le Cameleon has a lot to offer for your stay.
Visitors can also take advantage of their daily activities, such as sailing trips and stand-up paddleboarding experiences, while they are here. For those looking to explore further, there are plenty of local attractions nearby, such as Cahuita National Park, Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge, or Punta Uva Beach & Reserve.
No matter what experience you desire from your Caribbean getaway, Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel is an excellent choice for luxury accommodations on the Caribbean Coast.
#2 Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is located on the southwestern coast of Costa Rica and is one of the most popular parks in the country. The park is known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife. In addition, visitors to Manuel Antonio can enjoy various activities and attractions that make the park one of Costa Rica’s most beloved destinations.
Accommodations near Manuel Antonio National Park range from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels, giving travelers plenty of options for their stay. Many nearby hotels offer guests direct access to the national park and other amenities like pools, spas, and on-site restaurants. For those looking for a more immersive experience, there are also camping spots right in the heart of the park, where visitors can truly appreciate its natural beauty.
Regarding activities in Manuel Antonio National Park, there is something for everyone! Families can participate in organized tours or hikes through the tropical rainforest to spot wildlife like sloths, toucans, and monkeys. Adventure seekers can challenge themselves with canopy tours or ziplining overhead. In addition, numerous water activities, such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and snorkeling, let visitors explore different parts of this vibrant ecosystem.
The sights at Manuel Antonio National Park are breathtakingly beautiful! Start by touring around some of its sandy white beaches, such as Playa Espadilla Sur or La Playita Beach. You can also take a short walk through dense vegetation to find hidden lagoons like Punta Catedral, which offer inviting waters perfect for swimming. Also, head to Lookout Hill, where you will have one-of-their-kind views overlooking both land and sea. Lastly, no visit here would be complete without taking time to appreciate its incredible wildlife – remember to keep a respectful distance!
#3 Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is an incredible destination for anybody looking to explore the wonders of nature up close. This stunning reserve is in Costa Rica and contains some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth.
It’s home to many plants and animals and unique forms of life not seen anywhere else in the world.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve offers visitors plenty of accommodations and activities. There’s something for everyone, from comfortable hotels and lodges to camping sites. There are also plenty of activities designed to take full advantage of the rich natural environment, ranging from bird-watching tours to canopy tours that take you deep into the forests with a guide.
When it comes to sights, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve has plenty to offer. The lush green vegetation makes it an excellent place for exploring and taking in stunning views. From towering trees that reach up into the clouds to the beautiful wildlife that calls this place home, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is the perfect place to explore. Many birds can be spotted throughout the forest, while larger animals like jaguars often move through the area unnoticed by visitors.
For those looking for something exceptional, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is home to one of the longest ziplines in Central America: The Sky Trek Zipline Adventure Tour. This tour takes visitors soaring across 13 platforms connected over 6 miles (9 km) through some of Costa Rica’s most impressive forests and mountainsides. With breathtaking views from up high and plenty of time spent trekking through thick foliage on foot, there’s no better way to experience this remarkable destination than with a tour on this zipline adventure!
#4 Tamarindo Beach
Tamarindo Beach is an ideal destination on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. With its inviting white-sand beaches, lush rainforest, and vibrant cultural scene, Tamarindo is rightly the most happening spot in Costa Rica. Tamarindo is also home to an array of top-notch accommodations sure to make your stay perfect. So whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a vacation rental that appeals to your budget, you’ll find plenty of options in this lovely coastal town.
Regarding activities, there’s no shortage of things to do. From ocean sports like swimming and surfing to land activities like horseback riding and ziplining, you’ll never run out of exciting ways to explore the area. For those looking to relax, there are plenty of gorgeous beaches where you can soak up some sun. In addition, the nearby estuaries are great spots for bird watching, while the Nature Reserve, with its pristine wetlands, offers unbelievable opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature walks.
If sightseeing is what you’re after, then the fantastic sights around Tamarindo will spoil you. First, check out Playa Grande – one of Costa Rica’s most famous surf breaks – and Las Baulas National Park, where Leatherback turtles come ashore each year to lay their eggs in the sand. Then, head further inland and explore Santa Rosa National Park – one of the country’s most significant protected wilderness areas. Or take a day trip over to Palo Verde National Park, which boasts stunning savannahs and a plethora of tropical birds and other wildlife.
Whatever your interests may be, Tamarindo Beach has something special waiting for you!
#5 Tortuguero National Park
Tortuguero National Park is a great destination to explore for any nature lover. Located along Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast, this park allows visitors to observe some of the world’s most diverse and incredible wildlife. It also offers a variety of activities and sights that make it a perfect destination for those looking for an unforgettable experience.
Regarding accommodations, there are plenty of options near Tortuguero National Park. From luxurious resorts on the beach with breathtaking views to eco-lodges tucked away in the jungle, you can easily find something that fits your budget and provides you with a comfortable stay while exploring the area. Some of these lodges even provide transportation from San Jose International Airport or other nearby locations, so you don’t have to worry about getting around.
In terms of activities, you can do plenty of different things while visiting Tortuguero National Park. From kayaking through mangrove swamps and exploring secluded lagoons to hiking through lush rainforest trails and canoeing around islands filled with exotic wildlife – there’s no shortage of exciting adventures awaiting you here! However, if relaxation is more your thing, feel free to indulge in some tranquil beach lounging or take a leisurely boat tour down one of the park’s many rivers!
When it comes to sights to see, Tortuguero National Park does not disappoint! , this enchanting place will captivate your senses as you explore its vibrant wildlife habitat, filled with dense tropical forests and winding waterways. Keep an eye out for monkeys swinging through trees, caimans sunbathing on riverbanks, colorful toucans perched atop branches, and other endemic species unique only to this location. Don’t forget your binoculars; spotting rare birds such as macaws or ospreys is always a treat!
With unique accommodations, thrilling activities, and spectacular sights to see – Tortuguero National Park is truly a delight to visit! So pack up your bags and get ready for an adventure unlike any other – it’s time to explore one of Central America’s best-kept secrets!
#6 Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is an idyllic town in Costa Rica, known for its pristine beaches and stunning sunsets. Santa Teresa is sure to bewitch you whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an action-packed adventure. The town boasts a variety of accommodations for all budgets, from luxurious beachfront villas to charming budget-friendly hostels.
When it comes to activities, the possibilities are endless. Surfing is a popular pastime in Santa Teresa, with wave conditions that appeal to both experienced surfers and novices alike. The area also offers a variety of land-based activities, such as yoga classes and hikes up nearby mountains – or take a stroll along the beach and soak in the views. In addition, you can explore the local culture by visiting some of the town’s art galleries, restaurants, and shops.
No trip to Santa Teresa would be complete without reveling in some of its natural sights. The nearby Montezuma Waterfall offers breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls and lush rainforest scenery that will leave you spellbound. For those who prefer more tranquil surroundings, Playa Carmen Beach provides access to secluded coves ideal for swimming or just basking in the sun on a lazy afternoon.
#7 Arenal Volcano National Park
Arenal Volcano National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most famous national parks in the country’s northern region. It is known for its active volcano, which towers over the surrounding landscape and is a must-see sight for any visitor. The park covers 29,692 hectares (73,527 acres), making it one of the largest protected areas in Costa Rica. As such, there are plenty of activities and sights to enjoy while visiting this stunning natural wonderland.
Accommodations within Arenal Volcano National Park range from budget camping sites to luxury villas and lodges. For those looking for a more rustic experience, the park offers several well-maintained campsites with toilets and showers. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a more luxurious stay with private rooms or villas that offer direct access to nature’s beauty. As this park is extremely popular with tourists worldwide, many excellent hotels also provide comfortable accommodation options.
The park also offers a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy during their stay. Hiking trails wind through lush rainforest landscapes where you can spot native wildlife, including sloths and howler monkeys. Adventure seekers can also try out white water rafting in the nearby rivers or take part in thrilling canopy tours above the treetops. In addition, the visitors can enjoy other activities at Arenal Volcano National Park, including kayaking on Lake Arenal, horseback riding, mountain biking, hot springs relaxation, and bird-watching tours.
Of course, one of the main attractions at Arenal Volcano National Park is its namesake – Arenal Volcano itself! This mighty active volcano stands at 1,633 meters (5365 ft.) high. It provides stunning views across the local landscape below it during clear mornings or evenings when it’s illuminated by moonlight or sunlight, respectively. Those who wish to get even closer can book a guided tour that takes visitors on an unforgettable journey up close to this incredible natural phenomenon before returning them safely with plenty of spectacular photos as souvenirs!
Overall, Arenal Volcano National Park is a fantastic destination full of beautiful experiences – no matter what type of accommodation or activity! From camping under starry night skies to relaxing by hot springs surrounded by lush forests, and thrilling adventures across rivers by whitewater rafting to getting up close to Arenal’s lava flows, this unique corner of Costa Rica has something for everyone!
#8 Playa Flamingo/Potrero: Accommodations, Activities, and Sights to See
Playa Flamingo/Potrero is a famous beach town located on the northwestern part of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. It’s an ideal spot for travelers seeking a tranquil getaway, with plenty of activities and attractions to discover during your stay. Accommodations in the area range from luxurious resorts to cozy cabins, while nearby activities are perfect for those looking to explore the outdoors.
When it comes to sights to see, there’s no shortage of beauty here. The crystal clear waters and white sand beaches offer stunning views, while lush greenery creates a peaceful atmosphere.
Visitors can also explore the local wildlife by taking boat trips out on the Caribbean Sea or kayaking through Lake Arenal in search of bird-watching opportunities. Playa Flamingo/Potrero offers plenty of lounging spots along its sandy shores for those who want to kick back and relax. With its dynamic natural landscape and vibrant culture, this destination is sure to provide an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget!
#9 Dominical Beach/Uvita Beach
Uvita Beach, also known as Dominical Beach, is part of the Bahia Ballena Marine National Park in Costa Rica. It’s a gorgeous beach that offers an abundance of activities and sights to see for visitors.
Located just north of Manuel Antonio National Park, Uvita Beach stretches for over six kilometers (3.7 miles) and provides stunning views of the nearby Osomba Mountain. With its white sand shores, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical rainforest surroundings, Uvita Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Costa Rica.
Accommodations near Uvita Beach include luxurious resorts, villas, budget-friendly hostels, and private homes. Various options are available, so there’s something suitable for any traveler. Additionally, due to the beach’s proximity to national parks, many guests stay in eco-friendly lodges where they can explore the surrounding wildlife and enjoy nature at its finest.
Uvita Beach offers travelers plenty of activities to keep them entertained. From surfing and snorkeling to hiking along the coastal trails or kayaking through mangroves – there’s something for everyone! For those looking for a more relaxing day, you can spend time soaking up some sun on the beach or relaxing with a good book under a palm tree.
Sights around Uvita Beach are awe-inspiring – from cascading waterfalls hidden deep within the jungle to spotting exotic sea life such as turtles, dolphins, or whales – this beach has it all! After exploring the gorgeous coastline, you can take a boat tour around the nearby islands, such as the Cano Island Biological Reserve, where you can expect an unforgettable experience filled with incredible wildlife sightings!
Overall, Uvita Beach is a fantastic place that caters to adventurous explorers seeking outdoor thrills and relaxation seekers looking for quiet by the ocean. Whether you come alone or with family and friends – Uvita Beach promises a one-of-a-kind vacation experience that will leave you wanting more!
#10 Puerto Viejo de Talamanca/Cahuita National Park
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and Cahuita National Park are two of the most spectacular places in Costa Rica. These locations provide stunning scenery, great accommodations, and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained on the Caribbean coast,
Puerto Viejo de Limon is a charming coastal town with many inviting hotels and vacation rentals. Many of these properties overlook the beach, providing breathtaking ocean views. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars to explore and shops where you can pick up traditional souvenirs, such as carved wooden animals or colorful textiles.
Cahuita National Park offers more than just beautiful views – it is home to various wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and over 200 species of birds. While there, you can take a guided tour of the park’s lush rainforest to spot wildlife or enjoy a stroll along its white sand beaches.
Other activities in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and Cahuita National Park include snorkeling, diving trips to observe coral reefs, kayaking tours around mangrove forests, and ziplining through the canopy of tall trees.
If you’re looking for something more relaxed, there are plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying exploring the area’s unique culture. You might even stumble upon one of the local festivals that occur throughout the year!
In short, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and Cahuita National Park offer various activities that all ages can enjoy. With so much to see and do here – not to mention an abundance of wildlife – this destination should be at the top of your must-visit list!
About Us
If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Costa Rica, Puerto Viejo, Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel should be top of mind when booking your trip.
With a scenic beachfront property and gorgeous suites overlooking the vast, beautiful ocean, Le Cameleon is every traveler’s dream stay.
While here, you can enjoy our unique, custom-made GoFit & Engage program, participate in exclusive nutrition & well-being workshops, and enjoy private tours of this picturesque town. Call us at +506 2750 3096 or visit our website to reserve your dates.
