Introduction
As business owners in the area, we’ve put together this guide to share our personal knowledge of the best hotels and resorts in Guanacaste. From luxury all-inclusive resorts to charming budget-friendly hotels, there’s a perfect place for every type of traveler.
We’ll guide you through your options and show you what makes each place special, helping you find the perfect spot for your stay.
You can find quiet hotels on the beach with beautiful ocean views. There are also modern places to stay inland, great for exploring. If you care about the environment, there are eco-friendly lodges that are both comfy and good for nature. With amazing hospitality and a focus on making your stay enjoyable, the hotels in Guanacaste will make your visit to Costa Rica truly memorable.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or an adventure-filled trip, read on to uncover where you should stay in Guanacaste. We’ll provide insights on location advantages, special amenities, and unique experiences to help you make informed choices for an unforgettable vacation.
Why Choose Guanacaste?
Before we talk about where to stay, let’s look at why Guanacaste is a great place to visit. This area has something for everyone. Here are some reasons to choose Guanacaste for your next trip:
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Beautiful Beaches
Guanacaste has some of the prettiest beaches in Costa Rica. You can have fun at Playa Tamarindo, which is busy and full of activities. If you want to relax, head to Playa Conchal. It’s quiet and has unique sand made of tiny shells. There’s a perfect beach for everyone!
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Incredible Nature and Wildlife
If you love nature and wildlife, Guanacaste is the place to be. It’s home to amazing national parks like Rincon de la Vieja and Palo Verde, where you can explore volcanoes, hike through lush jungles, and take guided tours to see exotic animals like birds and monkeys. Guanacaste is full of natural beauty just waiting for you to discover.
- Cultural Experience
Guanacaste is not just about beautiful beaches and nature; it also offers a rich cultural experience that shows off traditional Costa Rican life. You can meet local artisans, enjoy live music and traditional dances, and taste delicious local food. If you visit in July, you can join in on the Guanacaste Day celebrations, where there are colorful parades, folk performances, and fun traditional games. It’s a great way to see the region’s history and customs come to life.
In towns like Liberia and Nicoya, you can stroll through local markets filled with handmade crafts and fresh produce. Don’t miss the chance to try local dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans), casado (a traditional meal), and fresh seafood that shows off the area’s flavors.
By joining in these cultural activities, you’ll get to feel the warm and friendly lifestyle of Guanacaste and feel like part of the community.
Where to Stay in Guanacaste
Now that you know what makes Guanacaste special, let’s look at some of the best places to stay. Whether you want a luxury resort, a cozy boutique hotel, or a family-friendly option, Guanacaste has great choices for everyone.
Family-Friendly Resorts
Riu Guanacaste Hotel
If you want a fun and affordable vacation, the Riu Guanacaste Hotel is a great choice for families. It is right on Matapalo Beach, which is beautiful. This all-inclusive resort has many things to keep everyone happy.
If you are staying at RIU hotel then you can reach out to us as we are near RIU hotel and offering guided and family Guanacaste Tours.
The Riu Guanacaste Hotel has big family rooms that are great for larger groups. This way, everyone has their own space to relax. There are also several swimming pools, including a fun water park with waterslides and shallow areas for little kids.
If your family wants to stay active, there are lots of fun sports to try. You can play volleyball, tennis, or join fitness classes together. There are many ways to have fun as a family!
The hotel also has a kids’ club where kids can play and have fun with adult supervision. They can do activities like arts and crafts or join themed parties, making their stay even more exciting!
While the kids are busy, parents can relax by the pool or grab a drink at one of the bars.
Eating at the Riu Guanacaste is exciting. There are many restaurants that serve local Costa Rican food and international favorites. Families can choose casual dining with self-service or enjoy a nicer meal in a more formal setting after a fun day. Plus, since it’s all-inclusive, drinks and snacks are available all day. This makes it easy for families to eat whenever they want.
Hotel Riu Guanacaste, with 8,299 reviews and a 4.2 rating, is a lively all-inclusive 5-star option, great for activity-seekers.
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
The JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is a great place for families who want to relax and have fun. It’s right on the beach and has many activities for both parents and kids. There are multiple swimming pools, including a special pool just for children, and a fun kids’ club with supervised activities. Families can enjoy the beautiful beaches or go snorkeling and kayaking right from the shore.
The JW Marriott has a spa that provides relaxing treatments for adults. While parents enjoy their time, kids can join fun family activities.
There are many dining options, and kid-friendly menus are available. Families can take part in cooking classes or guided nature walks to learn and have fun together.
You can also visit nearby places like Rincon de la Vieja National Park Tour. There, you can see beautiful waterfalls and lots of wildlife. This resort is perfect for families who want to relax and have adventures at the same time.
With a 4.6 rating from 1,557 reviews, JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is highly recommended for a luxurious and relaxing getaway.
Ready for adventure? Explore the 10 Best Tours In Guanacaste Costa Rica For Your 2024 Adventure to make the most of your trip!
Hilton Papagayo Costa Rica Resort & Spa
Another great family-friendly option is the Hilton Papagayo. This resort is in a beautiful bay and has access to lovely, quiet beaches. It’s an all-inclusive resort, which means everything you need is right there for a smooth vacation. The rooms are spacious and come with modern amenities, many of them offering amazing ocean views.
The Hilton Papagayo is all about family fun. There are lots of activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach games for everyone. Kids can join the kids’ club for crafts, games, and outdoor fun, while parents relax at the spa or in the adults-only area.
For food, there are plenty of choices. Several restaurants serve different kinds of meals. Families can enjoy tasty local dishes or favorite foods from around the world in a casual setting.
When it comes to food, there are many choices. Several restaurants serve different types of meals. Families can enjoy tasty local dishes or favorite foods from around the world in a relaxed setting. Themed dinners let everyone try the rich flavors of the region, making mealtime exciting and fun.
With its blend of adventure and relaxation, the Hilton Papagayo is a great choice for families. It’s the perfect place to make unforgettable memories while enjoying the beauty of Costa Rica.
With 3,481 reviews, this resort is highly popular, indicating a well-established reputation. Tourists should consider this option for its strong feedback and wide appeal.
Occidental Papagayo
For families seeking a luxurious vacation, the Occidental Papagayo is a great choice. This all-inclusive resort is in a private cove and offers both relaxation and fun activities, all surrounded by nature.
The resort has big family suites, giving everyone plenty of space to relax. There are many fun excursions for families, like snorkeling to see colorful fish or eco-tours to explore the tropical area. Kids can join the kids’ club for games, crafts, and other fun activities while parents enjoy the spa or check out the nearby beaches.
Dining at the Occidental Papagayo is a real treat! There are several restaurants for families to choose from. You can enjoy a mix of international dishes and local flavors. The buffet has many options, including fresh seafood and comfort foods that everyone knows and loves.
The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy for families to eat together and enjoy their meals. It’s a great place to try new foods and share special moments! Special themed nights make dining even more exciting, allowing families to experience different cultures with each meal. Don’t forget to try local dishes like gallo pinto, which adds a special touch to your dining experience.
With a rating of 4.3 from 3,382 reviews, Occidental Papagayo is an excellent option for adults looking for an all-inclusive getaway in a tranquil setting.
Planet Hollywood Beach Resort
Planet Hollywood Beach Resort is a great choice for families in Guanacaste. This fun and modern hotel makes everyone feel like a star. It has big rooms and many entertainment options. One cool feature is the “Star Class” experience. This lets families enjoy special seating at restaurants and access to a private pool.
Kids will love the themed kids’ club. They can go on treasure hunts and watch movies. The resort also has big pool areas with waterslides, swim-up bars, and lots of lounge chairs. Families can have fun and relax together!
Dining at Planet Hollywood is an eclectic experience, featuring various restaurants with a focus on international cuisine inspired by classic Hollywood. The buffet-style dining offers a lot of choices, so even picky eaters can find something they like. Parents can enjoy special date nights at nice sit-down restaurants. While they have gourmet meals, the kids can have fun at the supervised kids’ club. The menu includes tasty options like sushi and Italian pasta, so there’s something for everyone.
Families can also dine outside. The beautiful tropical scenery makes the experience even better. Eating under the stars creates a memorable evening for all!
Rated 4.3 based on 2,178 reviews, Planet Hollywood Costa Rica offers a fun, all-inclusive experience perfect for travelers seeking a lively atmosphere and top-notch amenities.
Luxury Resorts
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
If you’re looking for luxury and privacy, the Four Seasons Resort is a fantastic choice. This five-star resort sits on a private peninsula with amazing views of the Bay of Papagayo. It has everything you need for a luxury stay, like a spa to relax in, a golf course, several restaurants, and an infinity pool that feels like a peaceful getaway. The large villas and private homes are beautifully decorated and have all the modern comforts to make your stay just right.
The resort also offers special experiences like sunset sailing, yoga on the beach, and guided nature tours. It’s a great option for those who want both adventure and relaxation.
With an impressive rating of 4.9 from 3,414 reviews, the Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo is highly recommended for travelers seeking luxury and exceptional service in a stunning setting.
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
Located in the beautiful Playa Avellanas, the JW Marriott is another top-tier resort that combines opulence with the charm of Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Each guest room has beautiful mahogany furniture, marble bathrooms, and private balconies with views of the Pacific Ocean. The resort also has a modern spa, several restaurants that serve both international and local food, and a huge swimming pool that looks like the ocean. With easy access to the beach, guests can enjoy many water sports or just relax in the sun on the clean sands.
Rated 4.6 from 1,557 reviews, the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is a top choice for travelers looking for a luxurious and relaxing getaway, offering exceptional amenities and stunning ocean views.
Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
The Andaz Resort at Peninsula Papagayo is perfect for travelers who appreciate eco-friendly designs and want to experience local culture. The resort’s unique architecture blends seamlessly with the surrounding nature, creating a peaceful and relaxing vibe.
Guests can choose from large rooms, suites, or private villas, all decorated with bright colors and local art to give a cozy, Costa Rican feel. The resort has everything you need for a comfortable stay. There are three outdoor pools, a full gym, and a spa that uses natural, local ingredients for its treatments.
When it comes to food, you’ll have plenty of choices, from international dishes to tasty Costa Rican meals made with fresh, local ingredients.
If you love outdoor fun, there are free snorkeling gear and bikes to explore the beautiful surroundings. It includes the guided tours to nearby national parks.
Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall, rated 4.5 stars from 1679 reviewsis a good choice for travelers looking for a premium experience, backed by positive feedback.
Boutique Hotels
Hacienda Guachipelín
If you want a real Costa Rican experience, visit Hacienda Guachipelín. It’s near Rincon de la Vieja National Park. This boutique hotel is on a lovely ranch with beautiful gardens. You can stay in cozy cabins or comfy rooms with a rustic feel. There are lots of fun activities, like hiking on volcanoes, horseback riding, relaxing in natural hot springs, and exciting zip-lining. The restaurant serves tasty traditional meals, giving you a true taste of Guanacaste.
With a solid rating of 4.4 from 2,313 reviews, Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin & Adventure Center is a great choice for travelers seeking adventure and comfort in a picturesque setting.
Casa Chameleon Hotel Las Catalinas
Casa Chameleon is an adult-only boutique hotel located on the hills of Las Catalinas. It’s famous for its stunning ocean views and luxurious rooms. Each villa has a private plunge pool and a beautiful design that blends with nature. Guests can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, personalized service, and a relaxing stay just for adults.
Guests can join yoga classes to relax or take guided sunset hikes to explore the beauty of nature. For those looking to unwind, the hotel has a quiet infinity pool where you can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean while sipping your favorite drink.
With an impressive 4.7 rating from 339 reviews, Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas is highly recommended for those looking for a luxurious and tranquil getaway.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for the best place to stay in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, you have many great choices. There are fancy resorts like the Four Seasons with family-friendly features and nice dining. You can also find charming boutique hotels that show off Costa Rican hospitality.
After looking at the top hotels, you’ll see lots of fun things to do. You can relax on beautiful beaches, go on exciting outdoor adventures (Check our adventure tours), or try tasty local food. These activities will help you make great memories.
As you plan your trip to this tropical paradise, think about what you really want. Whether you want a quiet getaway for two or a fun family vacation, Guanacaste has it all. Start dreaming about your Costa Rican escape today.
Book your stay in one of these amazing hotels for a vacation you’ll never forget!