Costa Rica Travel Guide for Adventure & Relaxation
From misty rainforests to sun-soaked beaches, Costa Rica balances thrilling adventures with serene escapes. Whether you crave zip-lining through canopies or lounging by the ocean, here’s how to plan your perfect trip.
Nature, Adventure & Culture
- Rainforest & Wildlife
- Explore Monteverde Cloud Forest, Corcovado, or Tortuguero for zip-lining, wildlife tours, and hiking.
- Beaches & Water Activities
- Surf in Tamarindo, snorkel in Cahuita, or raft the Pacuare River for unforgettable aquatic adventures.
- Cultural & Scenic Highlights
- Visit San José’s museums, art galleries, and local markets, or enjoy volcano hikes and thermal springs for a mix of nature and culture.
- Easy Exploration
- Rent a car or use shuttle services to navigate between jungles, beaches, and towns with ease.
Costa Rica Hotels for Every Traveler
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, these hotels offer comfort, style, and easy access to Costa Rica’s best experiences—available on Expedia.
Location & Setting
5.0-star luxury resort in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, surrounded by rainforest with stunning Arenal Volcano views and hot springs.
Pools & Wellness
15 outdoor pools, children’s pool, waterslide, swim-up and poolside bars, spa, gym, five on-site restaurants, hot springs, airport shuttle, and free WiFi.
Rooms & Comfort
74 rooms with premium bedding, air conditioning, laptop-friendly workspaces, jetted tubs, balconies/patios, and 55-inch TVs with DVD players.
Guest Experience
Exceptional 9.8/10 rating, praised for breathtaking scenery, attentive staff, luxurious rooms, and immersive adventure activities.
Location & Setting
4.5-star all-inclusive resort in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, set on a tropical beach with designer shops and ocean views.
Pools & Recreation
Seven international cuisine restaurants, pool and children’s pool, beach and poolside bars, spa with massages and hydrotherapy, fitness classes, playground, free WiFi, and parking.
Dining & Amenities
292 rooms with premium bedding, air conditioning, in-room safes, balconies/patios, rainfall showers, and flat-screen TVs.
Guest Experience
Very good 8.2/10 rating, praised for friendly staff, clean rooms, and vibrant dining and entertainment options.
Location & Setting
4.5-star beachfront resort in Cabo Velas, Costa Rica, with turquoise waters, snorkeling, and golf access.
Rooms & Comfort
406 rooms featuring premium bedding, pillow menus, air conditioning, TVs with DVD players, and coffee/tea makers.
Pools & Recreation
Nine restaurants serving international and Spanish cuisine, outdoor pool with swim-up bar, spa with massages and body treatments, yoga and Pilates classes, tennis courts, water sports, free WiFi, parking, and bike rentals.
Guest Experience
Wonderful 9.0/10 rating, praised for attentive staff, clean accommodations, and exceptional beachfront location.
Location & Setting
3.5-star beachfront resort in Cabo Velas, Costa Rica, with tropical vibes, sun loungers, and kayaking.
Pools & Outdoors
Three restaurants, 2 outdoor pools with swim-up bar, Onzen Spa with aromatherapy and massages, yoga classes, tennis and pickleball courts, fitness center, and free parking.
Rooms & Comfort
120 rooms with premium bedding, air conditioning, free WiFi, safes, coffee/tea makers, and flat-screen TVs.
Guest Experience
Excellent 8.6/10 rating, praised for friendly staff, family-friendly atmosphere, and prime beach location.
Location & Setting
3.5-star beachfront resort in Sardinal, Costa Rica, offering oceanfront access with kayaking, snorkeling, and water activities.
Pools & Fitness
Seven bars/lounges including three swim-up bars, six outdoor pools with a children’s pool and waterslide, Renova Spa with massages and body treatments, fitness classes, tennis, volleyball, and a nightclub.
Rooms & Comfort
1,041 rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, minibars, in-room safes, flat-screen TVs, balconies or patios, and eco-friendly toiletries.
Guest Experience
Good 7.6/10 rating, noted for helpful staff, prime beach location, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Traveler Testimonials: Costa Rica Adventure & Relaxation
“Staying at The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal was a dream. The hot springs, rainforest views, and Arenal Volcano backdrop made our first Costa Rica trip unforgettable. Expedia’s booking process was quick and simple.”
Jessica M., Adventure Seeker
“Planet Hollywood Costa Rica offered the perfect mix of beach fun and entertainment. The kids loved the pools, and the dining options were fantastic. Expedia made planning a stress-free experience.”
Carlos R., Family Traveler
“The Westin Reserva Conchal was incredible. From the pristine beachfront to the attentive staff and delicious meals, it was a luxurious escape. Expedia’s platform helped us compare options easily.”
Emily S., Relaxation Enthusiast
“Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo captured the perfect tropical vibe. Friendly staff, amazing beach access, and a family-friendly atmosphere made our stay unforgettable. Expedia’s booking process was seamless.”
Daniel L., Beach Lover
“Hotel Riu Guanacaste gave us endless activities, from kayaking to relaxing by the pools. The staff was helpful, and the resort felt lively yet comfortable. Expedia made securing our all-inclusive stay effortless.”
Sofia T., Active Traveler
