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The Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has an abundance of fabulous all-inclusive resorts for a hassle-free and memorable vacation
Costa Rica has an abundance of fabulous all-inclusive resorts for a hassle-free and memorable vacation | Courtesy of Andaz Costa Rica Resort / Expedia

Sometimes you just want to go on vacation and have everything taken care of for you – a stress-free, no-hassle and convenient getaway letting you make the most of every moment. Fortunately, there are plenty of all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica where this desire can become a reality, and many have dreamy beachfront locations that provide you with as few or as many watery activities as you’d like to get stuck into.

Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo

Resort

The outdoor pool, with thatched cabanas, sunbeds and palm trees at Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo
Courtesy of Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo / Expedia

Right on Flamingo Beach in Guanacaste, this family-oriented all-inclusive retreat is a hit with all ages. Colorful and airy rooms, many with ocean views, allow for a respite after a hard day’s kayaking, boogie boarding or a relaxing spa session. Dine at one of four in-house restaurants, which source vegetables and produce from their own organic garden. Cocktail fans will appreciate the swim-up pool bar.

Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica

Luxury, Chain Hotel

An aerial view of the pools, palm trees and grounds at Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica, with a view of the mountains and the sea
Courtesy of Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica / Expedia

With an oceanfront position overlooking Matapalo Beach in Guanacaste, plus five restaurants, four swimming pools and a swim-up bar, you’ll be hard pressed not to fall for the all-inclusive charms of Riu Palace. Airy and stylish suites all include a hydromassage tub, and many living quarters have ocean views. Book in for some me-time treatments at the wellness center.

Drake Bay Getaway Resort

Resort

Chairs and a small table on a balcony, overlooking the forest and ocean at sunset, at Drake Bay Getaway Resort
Courtesy of Drake Bay Getaway Resort / Expedia

This luxury ecolodge tucked into the hills of the Osa Peninsula is the ideal all-inclusive if you want to stay away from the beach crowds. Just five wooden cabins made from recyclable materials complete the Drake Bay portfolio, all with terraces and hammocks overlooking the Pacific Ocean, while bathrooms look directly into the jungle. The all-inclusive menu usually includes the catch of the day, while smoothies and specialty coffee run on tap.

El Mangroove, Guanacaste

Resort, Hotel

An outdoor pol with sunbeds and umbrellas, surrounded by trees, at El Mangroove in Costa Rica
Courtesy of El Mangroove / Expedia

El Mangroove is conveniently located just 20 minutes from Liberia International Airport and 15 from the happening beach town of Playas del Coco. However, once you arrive, you’ll feel a world away from everything. There are seven luxurious suites, two gourmet restaurants, a world-class spa, a great selection of activities and tours, and picturesque beaches within easy reach.

La Paloma Lodge, Puntarenas

Boutique Hotel, Eco Hotel

A balcony with a table and chairs, and a view out to the blue ocean, at La Paloma Lodge in Costa Rica
Courtesy of La Paloma Lodge / Expedia

This rainforest escape is perfectly placed on Drake Bay on the Osa Peninsula. There are one- and two-story ranchos and rooms, and a private three-bedroom house. All packages include family-style meals in the clubhouse (think fresh fish and shrimp) and guided tours to Corcovado and Caño Island. Days here are well spent chilling in the hammock and dipping in and out of the jungle-shrouded pool, while kayaking the neighboring Agujitas River, embarking on a whale and dolphin-watching tour or exploring the local mangroves (watch out for those crocs and caiman) are more active alternatives.

Nayara Gardens, Alajuela

Boutique Hotel, Garden Hotel, Spa Hotel, Resort

A bed in a hotel room, with a balcony with a hammock, chairs and a table with a bowl of fruit, at Nayara Resort, Spa and Gardens
Courtesy of Nayara Resort, Spa and Gardens / Expedia

This luxurious and romantic resort is a stunning place to return to after a day of adventures. There are private villas and deluxe casitas, plus an excellent spa, several gourmet dining options and a great selection of ecotours. Plus, the views and scenery here are spectacular. A personal host, twice-daily maid service, breakfast buffet and minibar are all included.

JW Marriott Guanacaste

Resort, Spa Hotel, Chain Hotel

An outdoor pool, umbrella, sunbeds on the beach and the ocean at JW Marriott Guanacaste
Courtesy of JW Marriott Guanacaste / Expedia

When it comes to all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica, JW Marriott Guanacaste is a popular choice. The large resort has five restaurants, two bars, a spa and a fitness center, plus a pool complex cascading to the beach. To cap a day of sea kayaking, hiking the on-site trails or exploring the nearby rainforest, speak to the hotel about organizing a beach bonfire.

Villa Buena Onda, Guanacaste

Boutique Hotel, Resort, Hotel

The exterior of Villa Buena Onda, with outdoor pools, and surrounded by forest greenery
Courtesy of Villa Buena Onda / Expedia

Villa Buena Onda is an adults-only boutique resort in the charming beach town of Playas del Coco. There are only eight rooms here, which makes an escape intimate and rather peaceful. But there’s also an elegant spa offering a variety of massages and cooking and yoga classes. Your rate includes meals with non-alcoholic beverages, free transportation to three different beaches and access to Coco Beach.

Secrets Papagayo Resort and Spa, Guanacaste

Resort

Outdoor pools and palm trees near the forest at Secrets Papagayo Resort and Spa in Costa Rica
Courtesy of Secrets Papagayo Resort and Spa / Expedia

Secrets Papagayo is an adults-only all-inclusive resort on the upscale Papagayo Peninsula in Guanacaste. The unlimited package includes your meals, beverages, 24-hour room and concierge service, nightly entertainment and themed parties, and a daily maid service. It’s a no-stress, no-plans-necessary romantic getaway.

Dreams Las Mareas, Guanacaste

Resort, Hotel

A hot tub and couches on a balcony at Dreams Las Mareas, overlooking the rainforest and ocean
Courtesy of Dreams Las Mareas / Expedia

Dreams Las Mareas is a beautiful all-inclusive beach resort ideal for couples, families and groups of friends looking to unwind in a tropical setting. The unlimited luxury package includes your meals – options include one buffet and five à la carte restaurants, a grill and a café – plus international and top-shelf beverages, a 24-hour concierge service, themed parties and nightly entertainment, and pool and beach service. There’s also a swim-up bar, beachfront bar and a nightclub.

Andaz Costa Rica Resort, Peninsula Papagayo

Resort, Hotel

A couch, table and chair in a room with bamboo slat walls at Andaz Costa Rica Resort
Courtesy of Andaz Costa Rica Resort / Expedia

This Andaz outpost on the Papagayo Peninsula has three beaches, three restaurants and a nine-room spa. The all-inclusive plan includes all your meals and most beverages. There are free-to-use kayaks, snorkeling equipment and paddleboards, or you can organize cooking and mixology demonstrations, Latin dance lessons or a Spanish class.

The Westin Reserva Conchal, Guanacaste

Resort, Spa Hotel, Golf Hotel

Chairs, tables and couches in an open-air seating area at Westin Reserva Conchal, with a view of the rainforest and mountains
Courtesy of the Westin Reserva Conchal / Expedia

The Westin Golf Resort and Spa sits on Playa Conchal, one of the most sought-after beaches in Guanacaste. If you’re seeking top-notch accommodation that also includes an abundance of amenities and luxuries, this is your spot. The Westin has it all, from a golf course and world-class spa to 11 restaurants and an impressive variety of recreational activities and tours. It offers various on-site activities, a kids’ club and nightly entertainment.

Looking for a different stay? Check out these luxury hotels or the best beach hotels in Costa Rica, then book your stay now on Culture Trip.

Sorrel Moseley-Williams contributed additional reporting to this article.

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