If you are here, you are most likely thinking of visiting Costa Rica for a beach vacation. Imagine yourself listening to the relaxing sound of waves crashing on the beach and enjoying an amazing view of Costa Rica’s Pacific Ocean. In order to experience an awesome beach vacation in Costa Rica, you should consider staying at any of the 5 beach hotels I recommend in this article; these hotels are either located right on the beach or they have direct beach access. Plus, you’ll also enjoy amazing panoramic ocean views… the perfect setting for an awesome beach vacation. There are various types of rooms that are available at these beach hotels, some rooms provide direct access to the beach and others are just a short distance away from the beach.
Costa Rica Offers Different Hotel Types For All Preferences
Costa Rica is home to more than 200 hotels, and if you plan on looking for a hotel to stay at while in Costa Rica, then things can become quite difficult. For example, you might be looking for a beachfront hotel that is kid-friendly, or maybe you want a resort that features an amazing nightlife or you might be interested in staying somewhere that is more secluded. One thing is true, it doesn’t matter what type of hotel you want to stay at, there is at least one lodging option that will meet your preference.
Great Hotel Variety In The North Pacific Coast
Costa Rica’s north pacific coast offers different types of lodging options, from high-end five-star beach resorts to small luxury boutique hotels and even budget lodging options; there are even a few all-inclusive resorts for the all-inclusive hotel lovers. If you are looking for a hotel close to where the nightlife action is, then consider staying at a hotel in the heart of Tamarindo town, and if you want to stay in a less crowded area but still close to town, consider staying at a hotel either on the far north of Tamarindo, for example Playa Grande or on the south of Tamarindo. One hotel option I recommend is Cala Luna, which is a family friendly beach hotel that offers spacious villas, suites and superior rooms.
The Nicoya Peninsula
The Nicoya Peninsula is in a remote location and this is where you want to go if you are a fan of surfing and yoga. There are plenty of boutique hotels, as well as nature reserves and it is a great option to go and relax if you need to escape the daily grind. Also, it is worth mentioning that there are quite a few swimming holes located throughout the area, and you will be able to relax and unwind while there.
Manuel Antonio In The Central Pacific Coast
Manuel Antonio is part of Quepos and it is located in Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast. This touristic destination offers many lodging options most of them being small boutique hotels, however you can also find high end Costa Rica beach resorts and hotels such as The Preserve At Los Altos, this beach resort is an awesome lodging option to stay at if you want to experience an amazing breathtaking ocean view surrounded by green nature. It is also a great place for couples and families alike.
Osa Peninsula On The South Pacific Coast
If you love more dense nature and wildlife, uncrowded pristine beaches, and close to none development, make sure to visit the Southern Pacific coast. Couples and families who want to explore nature at its best should stay at Aguila de Osa. While staying in this rainforest adventure eco-lodge you will be able to explore the tropical jungle. Harboring over 460 species of birds alone, this region is considered a paradise for birdwatching, if birding is your thing, we highly recommend Costa Rica Focus to help you arrange your birding tour in Costa Rica.
My Top 5 Costa Rica Beach Lodging Options
1. Cala Luna
Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas is a leader among top Costa Rica beach hotels. This hotel is located in Costa Rica’s northwestern shoreline on the south of Tamarindo, specifically on Langosta Beach. Although Cala Luna is close to the busy tourist town of Tamarindo, it is secluded enough to avoid the high season crowds ensuring more privacy to their guests. This hotel is perfect for families and couples as well. Some of the amenities and services they offer include, in-house gourmet restaurant, snack bar, white sand beach access, spa, yoga lessons, surfing lessons in Tamarindo, and much more.
2. Latitude 10
Latitude 10 is a beautiful Costa Rica beach hotel located in Santa Teresa on the Nicoya Peninsula. If you want something remote, then visit this hotel, as you will be right on the beach. Plus, you will love the jungle setting that is found on the property, and let’s not forget to mentioned that the resort is home to a pool and it offers you beachfront dining and there is even a private chef. If you want to leave the resort and explore, then you will easily be able to do it, as the hotel offers their guests free bikes that they can use.
3. The Punta Islita
This secluded Costa Rica beach resort offers two types of rooms, spacious villas and hotel rooms, and it is located close to Playa Samara. The property has a canopy tour that you will want to try, and there is even an executive golf course right on the property. Tennis courts, a beach club and a pool can also be found on the property, and if you are looking for something unique to do, then go on a sunset cruise or even take some cooking lessons.
4. Copa de Arbol
Copa Del Arbol is a rainforest and beach hotel located in Drake Bay, Peninsula De Osa. If you want to stay in a unique jungle tree-house, you must stay at the Copa de Arbol resort. This is a good option for those who want amazing views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as the jungle. You will love their customer service.
5. Aguila de Osa Rainforest & Marine Adventure Lodge
Aguila de Osa Rainforest & Marine Adventure Lodge is a secluded eco-luxury hideaway perched above the Aguitas River, offering sweeping views of Drake Bay on Costa Rica’s pristine Osa Peninsula. Accessible only by boat or a jungle trail, this off-the-beaten-path lodge immerses guests in nature, far from the crowds.
The property features 11 guest rooms and 2 suites tucked into the rainforest hillside, each designed with vaulted hardwood ceilings, large screened windows for natural airflow, ceiling fans, and elegant Italian-tiled bathrooms. The open-air Great Room serves gourmet Pan-American cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients—many grown on-site—and encourages communal dining and conversation.
The lodge is a gateway to some of Costa Rica’s most renowned natural wonders, including Corcovado National Park and Caño Island. Guests can enjoy guided adventures such as snorkeling, scuba diving, sport fishing, mangrove tours, birdwatching, horseback riding, zip-lining, and nighttime rainforest hikes. Committed to sustainability, Águila de Osa emphasizes eco-conscious practices like water conservation, composting, recycling, and community engagement.
Though surrounded by untouched rainforest, the lodge is praised for its comfort and service, earning top ratings for its cleanliness, spacious rooms, and welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for eco-minded travelers, Aguila de Osa offers an authentic and enriching blend of adventure, relaxation, and sustainability in one of Central America’s most biodiverse regions.