20 Best Hotels in Costa Rica for Families in 2025

Lots of people ask us about the best hotels in Costa Rica for families. Honestly, it’s one of the most common questions we get messages about. So instead of letting you scroll through endless reviews and blog posts, here’s everything in one place.

Costa Rica just works for families. You’ve got beaches, volcanoes, hot springs, wildlife… basically something for everyone, even the easily bored kids.

The tricky bit is choosing where to stay. Some spots are all about beach days, others are better if you want adventure or peace and quiet. That’s why we prepared this full list. We included great accommodations that are worth your money, from fancy resorts to small family-run hotels that just feel right.

10 Best Picks: Hotels in Costa Rica for Families

Finding the right hotel in Costa Rica can feel like a full-time job. You want space for the kids, good food, and somewhere that actually feels like Costa Rica, not just another resort with palm trees and WiFi. So, we did the digging for you.

If you have limited time or don’t want to go through the whole article, these are the absolute best Costa Rica hotels you can book for your trip as a family.

Hotel	Location	Rates
Tabacón Thermal Resort	La Fortuna	$1,200 – $1,700
Arenas Del Mar Beachfront Resort	Manuel Antonio	$800 – $1,200
Hotel Belmar	Monteverde	$800 – $1,000
Cala Luna Boutique Hotel	Tamarindo	$460 – $600
Hacienda Guachipelin Hotel	Liberia	$340 – $400
Casa Luna Hotel & Spa	La Fortuna	$320 – $370
Valle Escondido Nature Reserve Hotel	Monteverde	$200 – $250
Ballena Rey Hotel	Uvita	$120 – $200
Barceló San José	San José	$100 – $250
Hotel Giada	Sámara, Guanacaste	$100 – $150

What Makes a Hotel Family-Friendly in Costa Rica

It helps to know what makes a hotel family-friendly in Costa Rica. Things work a little differently compared to back home.

Most hotels outside San José are small and owned by locals instead of international chains. That’s part of the charm. That means more personal service and a more local feel. That said, it also means facilities can vary from place to place. Instead of tall buildings full of identical rooms, many properties have freestanding cabins, bungalows, or villas.

Then, room layouts. You’ll often find one king bed, a king and a single, or two smaller double beds (locally known as matrimoniales). Larger family rooms do exist but aren’t common. Suites with separate bedrooms are a little hard to find, but we included them in the list below.

As a family of five, you might have a tough time finding one room for everyone. Some hotels do have some but you’ll probably need two units. Connecting rooms aren’t, again, very common, and it’s worth asking for rooms next to each other. Also, showers are much more common than bathtubs.

So if you’re travelling with a baby, maybe pack a small inflatable tub.

Many properties include a coffee maker and mini-fridge, but full kitchenettes are rare. On the bright side, almost all hotels include breakfast. It’s usually a proper meal. Fresh fruit, eggs, gallo pinto, and strong local coffee. It’s a small thing that makes mornings a lot easier when you’re travelling with kids.

Best Hotels in San José

San José is where most trips to Costa Rica start and end. So it’s worth spending a night or two here. The city is busy and it doesn’t compare with the gorgeous beaches and mountains in the country.

That being said, you’ll find solid family hotels close to the airport and restaurants. It’s a good place to rest after a long flight, grab a proper meal, and get ready for the slower pace waiting elsewhere. If you stay more than a night, you can maybe join one of the day trips from San Jose, which are actually very much worth it.

But for now, these are the best places to stay:

Luxury: Barceló San José

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 8.4/10 | Price Range: $$$$

Why we love it:

• Big comfy rooms with city views.
• Huge breakfast buffet with loads of options.
• Close to the airport, very handy for travel days.

Barceló San José feels more like a small resort than a city hotel. It’s probably the best pick if you’re staying one day in San Jose. There’s a huge outdoor pool surrounded by palm trees. There’s also a tennis court, as well as different restaurants serving Costa Rican and international dishes.

The rooms are quiet, they’re spacious, and some even have mountain views. Breakfast is buffet-style and pretty generous (we especially liked the local gallo pinto). It’s close to the downtown area to explore and for short trips from San Jose. Still, it’s far enough to stay peaceful.

There’s a nice spa, free WiFi, many restaurants and shops within walking distance. The master suites are excellent for families, and we highly recommend checking them out.

Mid-range: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 7.7/10 | Price Range: $$$

Why we love it:

• Staff are genuinely kind and helpful.
• Nice pool for a quick swim after sightseeing.
• Free breakfast and great location near the airport.

Next, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson. This hotel is a solid pick if you want comfort without overspending. Yes, it’s Radisson but it’s surpringly affordable.

The rooms are simple but well-kept. There’s a nice garden with multiple pools where your little ones can play safely. Their breakfast buffet includes plenty of fresh fruit and good coffee to start the day off on the right foot.

The staff are friendly and used to helping with SJO airport transfers or tours. On top of that, it’s in a convenient area of town. It’s just a short drive from both the airport and the center of San José. All that makes travel days easier and you’re guaranteed a great time here. No matter how long you stay.

Budget: Costa Rica Guesthouse

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 8.2/10 | Price Range: $$

Why we love it:

• Feels homey and welcoming.
• Great price for such a central spot.
• Lovely garden area to relax in.

Many families decide to save on hotels when in San Jose. That’s a good choice, you get to keep your budget for the rest of the Costa Rica itinerary.

This guesthouse is cheap, but in a good way, and the staff is very warm and welcoming. The rooms are quite basic but they’re clean nonetheless. The big windows and wooden furniture give a bit of old-school charm. There’s even a daily breakfast for only 3,500 Colón, $7 USD!

There’s a shared patio area where you can have breakfast or even relax after your flight. You can walk to the National Museum and the city center in less than ten minutes. Meaning you don’t really need a car here. It’s simple, affordable, and super practical.

Best Hotels in La Fortuna

Located at the foot of Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna has that rare mix. Easygoing, packed activities, and somehow perfect for families.

The drive from San José takes only three hours. Maybe a bit less if you take the bus or private shuttle. Once you arrive, everything’s close by. Hot springs, waterfalls, hanging bridges. And even wildlife refuge tours that are easy for kids.

It’s also one of the most convenient bases in Costa Rica. There are many attractions in La Fortuna without having to spend hours in the car every day.

Many hotels here offer volcano views, pools surrounded by jungle, and on-site restaurants serving hearty local food.

Luxury: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 9.2/10 | Price Range: $$$$$

Why we love it:

• Incredible natural hot springs.
• Tropical gardens that feel private.
• Super comfortable beds and spotless rooms.

You can tell that Tabacón has been built with care as soon as you get there. It’s very clear that this is one of the best hotels in Costa Rica, and it shows. The rooms have big windows that give direct views to the forest. On top of that, you’ll hear and spot birds before anything else in the morning.

It’s right at the base of Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, which is a nice advantage. The suites are very comfortable, they can accommodate up to three people, and the balcony has incredible views over the jungle.

There’s a small spa and a hot tub. Plus, there’s a bar that brews its own beer. The restaurant uses ingredients from their own farm, and that’s a nice touch. We ate there twice, everything was fresh and delicious. It’s calm, clean, and feels properly local, not like a chain hotel. It’s expensive, yes, but it’s worth every penny.

Mid-range: Casa Luna Hotel & Spa

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 8.8/10 | Price Range: $$$

Why we love it:

• Warm, personal service.
• Perfect pool and spa for relaxing.
• Arenal views right from your balcony.

Casa Luna feels homey but polished. A sweet spot between comfort and nature. The rooms are comfortable, and they all come with balconies or terraces overlooking the gardens. There’s a large pool outdoors for the kids and a spa with jacuzzis, as well as babysitting services, all that is quite nice.

Breakfast is included in all rates, which we appreciate a lot, and it’s surprisingly good, with local fruit and made-to-order eggs.

We had dinner at their Luna Grill, and it was genuinely better than some pricier spots nearby. Free WiFi, friendly staff, and easy access to La Fortuna Waterfall make it a great mid-range pick.

Budget: Arenal Xilopalo

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 8.9/10 | Price Range: $$

Why we love it:

• Clean rooms with garden views.
• Owners go above and beyond to help.
• Close to town and restaurants.
• The dining room has volcano views!

For want something low-key, comfy, and close to everything in La Fortuna, Xilopalo is a great place. You get clean rooms with air-con, hot showers, and really fast (and stable!) WiFi. It’s a little more rustic than other hotels in Costa Rica, but for this price, we can’t complain.

You can make your own meals because apartments have a kitchen, or you can grab breakfast in town. Everything is just a few minutes’ walk away.

There’s free parking, a small garden where you can relax in the evenings, and staff who are genuinely helpful (they’ll even help you book tours if you ask). It’s simple, affordable, and feels local in a good way.

Best Hotels in Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde is one of those places in Costa Rica that actually lives up to the hype. It’s all misty forests, hanging bridges, and that calm mountain air that makes you forget about your phone for a bit. The drive can be bumpy to get to Monteverde, however.

Expect winding roads and slow climbs, especially if you’re coming from San José or La Fortuna. Most people take a shuttle or rent a car; both are fine as long as you don’t rush it.

When you arrive, you’ll find eco-lodges, boutique hotels, and cozy cabins tucked into the hills. And with all the accommodation options, you’re guaranteed to have a great couple of days in Monteverde (or maybe more?). Some sit right by the cloud forest, others are surrounded by gardens and wildlife.

Luxury: Hotel Belmar

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 9.1/10 | Price Range: $$$$$

Why we love it:

• The yoga studio and the jacuzzi
• Delicious local food and great coffee.
• Peaceful views over the forest.
• The most spacious rooms we had in Costa Rica!

After some comfort with a real connection to nature? Hotel Belmar nails it. It’s safe to say that you won’t be disappointed.

The rooms are bright and spacious. They have big windows and gorgeous balconies, and talking about balconies, they open right onto the cloud forest. Waking up with the mist all around never gets old.

There’s a small spa, a jacuzzi, but also a yoga studio, as well as a restaurant that uses ingredients from their own nearby farm.

We had dinner there one night, and the trout was genuinely one of the best meals we had in a long time. The little bar and on-site brewery were a nice surprise too. Everything feels calm, local, and quietly thoughtful.

Mid-range: Valle Escondido Nature Reserve Hotel & Farm

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 8.6/10 | Price Range: $$$

Why we love it:

• Quiet location surrounded by nature.
• Trails you can walk straight from your room.
• Friendly staff who love to chat about the farm.

Located inside a private reserve just outside Monteverde town, Valle Escondido starts off strong. You’re close enough to restaurants and shops in town. But you’re still surrounded by nature. Every room faces the forest, with a terrace that feels made for slow mornings. Coffee in hand, mist rolling through, that’s Pura Vida.

There are a few room types available, but we personally recommend the Superior as they can accommodate up to four people.

You can walk straight from your room onto the hiking trails in the reserve. You’ll spot monkeys and sloths, or stop by the farm to see how they grow their food! The café serves great local coffee and fresh pastries during the day, and breakfast is cooked to order each morning.

The staff help with everything. Tours, taxis, or even just a chat about life in Monteverde. It’s a laid-back, personal stay that makes you feel part of the place.

Budget: Cabinas Capulin & Farm

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 8.7/10 | Price Range: $$

Why we love it:

• Family-run and very authentic.
• Kids love meeting the animals.
• Simple, clean cabins with nice views.

If you’re after something simple and peaceful but still want that real Costa Rican warmth, Cabinas Capulín is a fantastic one. It’s family-run and surrounded by fruit trees and open fields. Here, you’ll sometimes see toucans land in the mornings.

The cabins are spotless and cared for but are primarily made of wood. We like it, but not everybody does, so we’d rather mention it. Each cabin has a small porch perfect for watching the sunset drop behind the hills.

There’s free WiFi, a small play area for the kids, together with a shared kitchen if you feel like cooking. You can wander the little farm or help feed the animals — kids usually take over that job fast. It’s quiet, affordable, and feels more like staying with friends than at a hotel.

Best Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio is a little busy, but it earns the hype. Manuel Antonio National Park is right next to town, so you can spot monkeys stealing snacks one minute and be swimming ten minutes later.

Getting here takes around four to five hours from San José. Otherwise, you can hop a short flight to Quepos if you’d rather skip the drive for an easier itinerary to Manuel Antonio.

The area’s built for families. Beaches, restaurants, and hotels all close enough that you don’t spend your trip in a car. Most places have pools, ocean views, and family rooms with enough space for everyone. It’s lively, yes, but still feels small enough to manage.

Luxury: Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 9.2/10 | Price Range: $$$$$

Why we love it:

• Right on the beach and next to the rainforest.
• Staff and the infinity pool are incredible.
• Wildlife sightings all day, even from your balcony.

Hidden between the rainforest and the ocean, Arenas Del Mar pulls off that rare mix of luxury and nature. You might spot monkeys outside your balcony one minute and be sipping coffee by the beach the next.

Rooms are modern, spotless, and kid-friendly. They’re big enough for families who always overpack. Staff are friendly in a genuine way. Helpful without hovering. The food’s actually great, not just fancy-looking, and breakfast comes with gallo pinto, tropical fruit, and strong coffee.

Even with kids running around, there’s a calm energy everywhere. It’s expensive, but you walk away thinking it was worth it.

Mid-range: Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 8.7/10 | Price Range: $$$

Why we love it:

• Spacious rooms with ocean views.
• Good pool setting without being crowded.
• Close to the park and restaurants.

A short walk from the ocean, Shana manages to feel relaxed but still a bit polished. The pool is quite big, and that’s enough for kids to enjoy while you unwind with a drink.

Rooms are bright and pretty spacious. You get a balcony that catch the sea breeze and a decent view of the trees below. The restaurant’s solid with easy choices like pasta and grilled fish. Plus, the staff always seems one step ahead.

The uphill walk back from the beach might test you, but that’s Costa Rica for you. For families after comfort without overspending, this one fits perfectly.

Budget: Oceanfront Hotel Verde Mar

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 7.7/10 | Price Range: $$

Why we love it:

• Can’t beat the beach access.
• Simple rooms with everything you need.
• Affordable and walkable to shops and cafés.

Right on the sand, Verde Mar is all about location. You open the door and the beach is basically your front yard. Rooms are simple but clean, and the little kitchenettes make life easier when kids want snacks every hour.

The pool’s small but handy when the tide’s high, and the nearby restaurants keep meals stress-free. Staff are laid-back and quick to help when needed, never in your face. It’s not trying to impress you, it just works. Families who want a low-cost, no-drama beach stay will feel right at home here.

Best Hotels in Guanacaste Beaches

If you want sun and easy days, Guanacaste’s hard to beat. Fly into Liberia, grab a car, and you’ll be at the beach in under an hour.

It’s the dry side of Costa Rica, so rain rarely ruins plans. Costa Rica resorts here are bigger, but not in a bad way. There’s space, reliable WiFi, and often a kids’ club or two.

Tamarindo’s got surf lessons and smoothie bars; Nosara’s slower and better for longer stays. Hermosa’s the quiet one where you actually hear the waves at night. It’s not wild or remote, it’s just Costa Rica on vacation mode.

Luxury: Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 8.8 | Price Range: $$$$

Why we love it:

• Amazing food and cocktails.
• Private, spacious villas with outdoor showers.
• Peaceful setting, perfect for winding down.

Cala Luna is a luxurious property for a good reason. It feels hidden away but you’re barely ten minutes from all the activities in Tamarindo. You hear the ocean, the trees, and the calls of birds to add to the setting.

The rooms and villas are big, bright, and made for families who like their space. Private pools, outdoor showers, shaded patios, you get all that and more.

The restaurant leans on local ingredients, and dinners under the stars feel really special. Staff treat you like returning friends. Of course, they help you get around, tours, and everything else.

It’s calm, upscale, and the kind of place where you forget what day it is halfway through your stay. The best part? Breakfast is always included, and that’s a treat that families will love.

Mid-range: Ten North Tamarindo Beach Hotel

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 9/10 | Price Range: $$$

Why we love it:

• Clean rooms with a modern look.
• Short walk to the beach and nightlife.
• Lovely small pool for lazy afternoons.

A short stroll from the sand, Ten North keeps things relaxed and friendly. It’s small, easygoing, and built around a sunny pool that ends up being the social hub for most families.

Rooms are simple but cool and comfortable. You get everything you actually need, like cold air-con, good beds, and plenty of storage.

Mornings start with strong coffee and fruit by the pool, and the beach is close enough that you’ll probably walk there barefoot. Staff are happy to point you toward surf lessons or a good local dinner spot. It’s great value in Tamarindo without feeling cheap or cramped.

We recommend checking out the Two Bedroom Poolside Apartment, which is a great option for up to four people.

Budget: Hotel Giada

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 8.7 | Price Range: $$

Why we love it:

• Great value for the location.
• Two pools and an open-air restaurant.
• Friendly staff who make things easy.

Hotel Giada has a pleasant small-town-by-the-beach feel. It’s clean and run by people who clearly care about the place. Plus, it’s right in the heart of Sámara.

The rooms are simple but spotless and modern. Most open onto the pool or garden, that’s handy when you’ve got kids who live in swimsuits. Breakfast is cooked to order and surprisingly good, especially the pancakes and local fruit.

You can walk everywhere: beach, restaurants, markets. Everything is within minutes. It’s not trying to be fancy; it’s just easy, genuine, and comfortable. Perfect if you like small hotels that still have a pulse and personality.

Don’t get fooled by the low rates, this is a genuinely fabulous hotel.

Best Hotels in Off-the-Beaten-Path

If you’d rather skip the crowds, these spots feel more real. Liberia’s not glamorous, but it’s handy. You can be in a waterfall or national park within an hour.

Río Celeste looks like someone dyed the river turquoise on purpose, and it’s worth the detour. Sámara is small and friendly, with calm water and beach bars that don’t mind sandy kids.

Down south, Uvita is great for families, whale watching, and quiet beaches. It has that long stretch of coast you mostly get to yourself. None of these places is flashy, but that’s the point. This is why people fall for Costa Rica in the first place.

Liberia: Hacienda Guachipelin Volcano Ranch Hotel

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 8.8/10 | Price Range: $$$$

Why we love it:

• Fun yet premium hotel near Rincon de la Vieja.
• Hot springs and waterfall hikes on-site.
• Spacious rooms that fit families well.

Want something different than beaches? Hacienda Guachipelin is not very famous but it’s an amazing hotel in Costa Rica. It’s part working ranch, part eco-lodge, with the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano looming nearby.

Rooms and suites lean rustic but comfortable. Some with volcano views and verandas for slow mornings. It’s the kind of place where you won’t hear city noise, just wind in leaves, birdcalls, maybe distant waterfalls.

Kid-friendly activities is on your doorstep as well, with zip lining, canyoning, and you can even go horseback riding.

The spa and wellness offerings are incredible too. There are 3 on-site restaurants and they push local ingredients and ranch fare.

It’s not resort luxury, and you shouldn’t expect marble everywhere. But it is real. You come for nature, adrenaline, and a deep, slow connection to place.

Rio Celeste: Casitas Tenorio B&B

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 9.8/10 | Price Range: $$$

Why we love it:

• Hosts treat you like old friends.
• Homemade breakfast with farm-fresh ingredients.
• Tons of wildlife right outside your door.

Casitas Tenorio feels like staying with friends who happen to live deep in the forest. The owners actually do, and it shows. Everything feels cared for and special.

Each cabin is built among the trees. The casitas have wide windows, premium bedding, even a private kitchen. It’s a little rustic but it’s gorgeous and really unique. You’re very close to Rio Celeste Waterfall too!

You can start your morning with breakfast and hear the howler monkeys in the distance.

Talking about breakfast: it’s made with ingredients from the farm. Fresh cheese, organic fruit, and coffee roasted nearby.

You can go hiking right around the corner, watch for sloths (you won’t need to join a tour), or stop by to feed the animals. It’s simple, relaxed, and genuinely welcoming.

Uvita: Ballena Rey Hotel

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 9.1/10 | Price Range: $$

Why we love it:

• Clean, quiet, and close to the beach.
• Nice pool to cool off in after exploring.
• Good local breakfast every morning.

Uvita happens to be one of the hidden gems in Costa Rica (we suggest including it to your itinerary). Ballena Rey is the right place for your trip here.

It’s just off the main road. A short drive from Marino Ballena National Park and the beach. The apartments are modern, very clear, and with all the amenities you need. Air conditioning, good beds, and lots of space to unpack comfortably. Just to list a few.

The pool is very beautiful and clean, and there’s a local restaurant next door that serves casados and fresh juices. Staff are friendly in a natural way, and they’ll remember you and small details. That’s one of these small elements that make a stay at a hotel nicer.

It’s not fancy, but it’s dependable and easy. A good base if you want something simple and local without unnecessary extras.

Nosara: Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reviews: 9.4/10 | Price Range: $$$$

Why we love it:

• Infinity pool that feels private.
• Gorgeous views over the ocean and mangroves.
• Peaceful spot with great food and sunsets.

Lagarta Lodge is only a few minutes away from Playa Pelada in Nosara. The rooms feel bright and calm with light wood, local art, and sliding doors that open to balconies

Of course, WiFi is included. Air conditioning as well, a modern bathroom, and enough space for the whole family.

There are several pools, all quiet and you can move between them depending on whether you want sun or shade. The restaurant has locally caught fish and organic produce from the farms in Nosara. Sure, a bit pricey, but quality matches the cost. Service is polished yet personal. The staff know when to check in and when to leave you alone.

It’s not a party spot or a yoga retreat. Lagarta works best for people who want time to breathe. Good food, real comfort, and views that don’t need filters.

Tips for Booking Family Hotels in Costa Rica

Last but not least, we want to give you a few local tips to book your property. First, you want to book early if you’re travelling in high season (which runs from December to April). The hotels that accept families (and with that, with family rooms) fill up very quickly. Especially around tourist places such as Arenal and La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, and Tamarindo.

Also, check if breakfast’s included. It usually is, and it saves money and makes mornings easier when you’re with kids.

Look for hotels with pools or beach access whenever possible because even the calmest kids get bored after a few hours on the road.

When renting a car, double-check the parking situation. Some smaller hotels have tight or limited spaces. That’s normally not an issue in San Jose but it can be in smaller towns.

And always read recent reviews. They’ll tell you if the Wi-Fi is good, how helpful the staff are, and whether the “family room” actually fits a family.

When it comes to booking platforms, Booking.com and Expedia usually work best in Costa Rica. They list most hotels, handle local payment methods well, and often include free cancellation. Airbnb can be hit or miss. It’s great for longer stays or villas, but less reliable for quick trips (or remote areas).

FAQs About Family Hotels in Costa Rica

Conclusion

The right hotel really depends on the kind of trip you like to plan. Some families like being close to the beach. In contrast, others prefer the cooler air around La Fortuna or Monteverde.

Whatever you end up booking, try not to cram too many stops into one trip. Driving around can be tiring and locations can further than they look on the map, especially if you only have a week or 10 days in Costa Rica.

Focus on three or four areas, and book early if you’re travelling in peak season. In addition, don’t stress too much about finding “the perfect” place.

Costa Rica is pretty forgiving. Even simple hotels usually have friendly staff, clean rooms, and a bit of nature right outside your door, and that’s really what the trip is all about anyway.