Looking for the perfect place to stay on your family’s trip to Costa Rica? This guide’s for you! As parents raising our kids in Costa Rica since 2013, we’ve had the unique opportunity to stay in hotels all across the country. Several times a year we travel with our kids, checking out new places with an eye for our clients’ and readers’ needs.
In this guide, we’ll share our insider knowledge on the best hotels in Costa Rica for families. We’ll cover what makes hotels in Costa Rica different from what you might be used to, the types of lodging available, and our top recommendations by region. This guide is part of our Costa Rica with Kids hub, which includes activities, itineraries, and practical travel tips.
Ready to explore a specific destination? Jump to: La Fortuna Hotels | Monteverde | Manuel Antonio | Guanacaste Beaches | FAQs
Map of Family-Friendly Hotels in Costa Rica
Check out our interactive map showing the hotels we recommend in this guide. Click on the markers to see each hotel’s location and price category.
Why Trust Our Recommendations?
Unlike most hotel roundups you’ll find online, every property in this guide meets at least one of these criteria:
- We’ve personally stayed there with our kids.
- We’ve arranged stays for clients and received their direct feedback.
- We’ve done on-site inspections of the properties.
Learn more about us.
How Are Family Hotels Different in Costa Rica?
Before getting into specific recommendations, here are a few important things to keep in mind about family accommodations in Costa Rica.
Hotel Size
Most hotels in Costa Rica are smaller and locally owned, not chain hotels. In the capital of San Jose, you will find Hiltons and Marriotts, but these are much less common in the rest of the country.
Room Types
In Costa Rica, a common hotel style is freestanding bungalows or villas instead of rooms all in one building. This is great for families because it gives more space and privacy.
Room Configurations & Suites
Costa Rican hotels often have different bed configurations than what you might expect. Many offer only one king bed or a king plus a single bed or sometimes two double beds that are smaller than queen size (called matrimonial – about the size as full beds).
Dedicated family rooms with multiple beds are less common, but we’ll point some out in this article.
Suites with separate bedrooms are harder to find as well. If you want multiple bedrooms, Costa Rica does have many options for vacation rentals on sites like Airbnb and VRBO. Read our tips for staying in vacation rentals in Costa Rica.
Families of Five
We’ve helped a lot of families of five with their trips to Costa Rica, and finding a hotel room that can hold five people is definitely a challenge. See our FAQs below for some options that allow 5+ people in a room.
Connecting Rooms
Connecting rooms aren’t very common here. If you need multiple rooms, be sure request rooms next to each other when booking.
Showers vs. Bathtubs
Showers are much more common than bathtubs, even in upscale properties. If you’re traveling with a baby, you could always buy an inexpensive plastic tub when you arrive or bring an inflatable tub. Check out our Traveling with a Baby in Costa Rica post for more tips.
Kitchens
Most hotels have a mini-fridge and coffee maker but rarely offer kitchenettes. If you’d like to cook, vacation rental homes are the best option.
Breakfast
Almost all hotels in Costa Rica include a good breakfast in the nightly rate, which is a huge plus!
What Makes a Hotel “Family-Friendly” in Costa Rica?
Through our experiences, we’ve found some key factors that separate family-friendly hotels from the rest. The hotels below all have:
- Room configurations that work for families
- Safety features like pools with shallow sections for young swimmers, secured balconies, etc.
- On-site restaurants or options a short drive away (for smaller properties)
- A good location that minimizes drive times and is close to nature/wildlife viewing
- A family-friendly vibe
Types of Family Hotels in Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers many different types of hotels for families. Here are the basic options.
Price Guide
$ = Under $130/night
$$ = $130-200/night
$$$ = $200-350/night
$$$$ = Over $350/night
All-Inclusive Resorts
What they offer: Multiple pools, organized kids’ activities, on-site restaurants, babysitting services
When they work best: For families wanting minimal planning and predictable costs
What to know: Primarily in the Guanacaste region on the beach; limited authentic cultural experiences
Price range: $$$-$$$$
Examples: Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, Westin Reserva Conchal, JW Marriott Guanacaste, Dreams Las Mareas, Riu (all in Guanacaste)
Resort Hotels (Non-All-Inclusive)
What they offer: Large properties with multiple pools, restaurants, and many amenities
When they work best: For families wanting resort facilities with flexibility to dine and do activities elsewhere
What to know: Usually more integrated with local culture than all-inclusives
Price range: $$$-$$$$
Examples: Parador Resort & Spa (Manuel Antonio), Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge (Manuel Antonio), Tulemar Resort (Manuel Antonio), Diria Beach Resort (Tamarindo)
Hot Spring Resorts
What they offer: Natural hot spring pools of varying temperatures and volcano views
When they work best: For families visiting the Arenal area wanting on-site hot springs
What to know: Many feature water slides and kid-friendly pool areas
Price range: $$-$$$$
Examples: The Springs Resort (luxury – more below), Nayara Gardens (luxury), Arenal Springs Resort & Spa (mid-range – more below), Baldi Hot Springs Resort (mid-range – see our post about Baldi’s hot springs and kids’ area).
Eco-Lodges
What they offer: Immersive nature experiences, wildlife viewing, and sustainability focus
When they work best: For nature-loving families seeking authentic experiences
What to know: On-site trails and guided nature walks are often available
Price range: $-$$$
Examples: Katira Treehouses (Bijagua/Rio Celeste); Arenal Oasis Ecolodge & Wildlife Refuge (La Fortuna/Arenal); Los Pinos Cabins & Reserve (Monteverde); Valle Escondido Nature Reserve, Hotel & Farm (Monteverde)
Boutique Hotels
What they offer: Personalized service, unique character, and intimate settings
When they work best: For families seeking local charm and personal attention
What to know: Special touches for children; staff remembers guest preferences
Price range: $$-$$$$
Examples: Hotel Belmar (Monteverde), Capitan Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel (Tamarindo), Cala Luna Boutique Hotel and Villas (Tamarindo), Tifakara Boutique Hotel (La Fortuna/Arenal)
Farm Stays
What they offer: Agricultural experiences, animal interactions, and rural settings
When they work best: For families seeking hands-on educational experiences
What to know: Farm-to-table meals; authentic Costa Rican rural lifestyle
Price range: $-$$
Examples: Finca Luna Nueva Lodge, La Finca Lodge, Rancho Margot (all near La Fortuna/Arenal)
Adventure Lodges
What they offer: On-site adventure activities with all-inclusive packages
When they work best: For active families with older children seeking thrills
What to know: Remote locations with spectacular natural surroundings
Price range: $$$
Examples: Pacuare Lodge, Rio Vista Lodge
Best Hotels in Costa Rica for Families by Region
We’ve stayed at properties throughout Costa Rica both before and after having kids. Here are our top recommendations for the best hotels in Costa Rica for families by region, with options for different budgets and preferences.
La Fortuna/Arenal Volcano Area
La Fortuna is one of Costa Rica’s most family-friendly destinations, with the iconic Arenal Volcano, hot springs, and countless activities for all ages. Read our La Fortuna destination guide for more information about the town.
🚗 Car Rental Tip
Planning to rent a car? This is usually the best option for families as it gives the most flexibility. Be sure to check out our Rental Car Discount through one of Costa Rica’s most reputable companies to save 10% and get free car seats for kids.
Luxury/High-End: The Springs Resort & Spa
Why we love it: This ultra luxury resort offers 28 hot spring pools of varying temperatures, multiple restaurants, and stunning volcano views.
Family perks:
- Club Rio adventure center with river tubing, horseback riding, and animal sanctuary
- Large family suites available; kids under 12 stay free in parents’ room
- Game room, mini golf, and waterslide
- Exceptional service
What to know: While expensive, the extensive facilities and on-site activities mean you won’t need to leave the property much if you don’t want to, creating good value.
Price range: $$$$
Check Rates and Availability at The Springs Resort & Spa
Mid-Range: Arenal Springs Resort & Spa
Why we love it: This is our go-to recommendation for families visiting La Fortuna. The layout, with standalone bungalows spread across beautiful gardens, gives families the space they need. Our family has stayed here and everyone loved it.
Family perks:
- Junior suites can hold 2 adults and 2 children comfortably. They can add a rollaway bed for a fifth person.
- Elaborate hot springs including a large pool with a swim-up bar (and virgin cocktails for kids)
- Kids’ play areas, game room, volleyball court and soccer field, and kid-friendly menu options
- Elaborate breakfast buffet that has something for everyone
What to know: The property is a bit outside town, so having a rental car is convenient but not essential.
Price range: $$$
Read our full review of Arenal Springs Resort and Spa.
Check Rates and Availability at Arenal Springs Resort & Spa.
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Monte Real
Why we love it: This cozy hotel is an excellent value. It’s in a convenient location and has comfortable rooms, making it a perfect budget option for families visiting La Fortuna.
Family perks:
- Spacious family rooms that can accommodate 4-5 people
- Walking distance to town but still in a rainforest setting next to a scenic river
- Swimming pool
- Free breakfast
What to know: While amenities are more basic than higher-end hotels, the friendly staff and location make up for it. No hot springs on property, but several affordable hot spring options are nearby.
Price range: $-$$
Check Rates and Availability at Hotel Monte Real.
Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio combines beach and rainforest, making it perfect for families with kids of all ages. It’s best known for easy wildlife viewing – every time we’re in Manuel Antonio, we see a lot, especially monkeys and sloths. Manuel Antonio’s small size means most hotels are walking distance or a short drive to both the beach and national park.
Read our post Manuel Antonio Trip Planning for lots more info.
Luxury/High-End: Parador Resort & Spa
Why we love it: This high-end resort has local charm, stunning ocean views, and excellent wildlife viewing right on the large property.
Family perks:
- Multiple swimming pools including a family pool and shaded toddler pool
- Mini-golf course, nice game room for teenagers, playroom for younger kids
- Likely to see monkeys, sloths, toucans, and macaws on property (we saw all of these during our stay!)
- On-site jungle trails with ocean views
What to know: Located about 10 minutes from the main area of Manuel Antonio. No direct beach access (like most hotels in Manuel Antonio), but the hotel can shuttle you to nearby beaches.
Price range: $$$-$$$$
Read our full review of Parador Resort.
Check Rates and Availability at Parador Resort & Spa.
Mid-Range to High-End: Si Como No Resort
Why we love it: This small resort is in an excellent location in the center of town, has two pools, and comfortable family rooms. Our kids loved the big waterslide at the main pool!
Check out our short video of the waterslide at Si Como No
Family perks:
- Family pool with 100-foot water slide
- Private wildlife refuge and butterfly garden with flat trails to explore
- Cinema on the property showing family movies
- Has an on-site restaurant and close to other options
What to know: No direct beach access, but the main beach in town is just a 5-minute ride away.
Price range: $$$
Check Rates and Availability at Si Como No Resort.
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Costa Verde
Why we love it: This mid-size hotel is known for its gorgeous ocean views and rainforest setting with lots of wildlife. It offers good value in an otherwise expensive area.
Family perks:
- A family section with its own pool
- Apartments and studios with kitchenettes available
- On-site restaurant with many kid-friendly options
- Easy wildlife viewing opportunities on the grounds
What to know: Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most expensive destinations so hotels are pricey too. To save some money, consider staying in a vacation rental.
Price range: $$-$$$
Check Rates and Availability at Hotel Costa Verde.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Monteverde’s cool, misty climate and activities like hanging bridges, cloud forest hikes, and zip lining make it a great stop for families. Accommodations here tend to be more rustic than beach areas, though there are some luxury cloud forest lodges.
For more information on planning your visit to Monteverde, read our full destination guide.
Luxury/High-End: Hotel Belmar
Why we love it: This Austrian-style chalet offers charm and comfort with amazing cloud forest views and an excellent farm-to-table restaurant. It’s an upscale hotel but still welcoming to families. Our family stayed in one of the suites and really enjoyed it.
Family perks:
- On-site trails with high likelihood of seeing wildlife
- Sustainability activities for kids
- Some suites have Jacuzzi tubs
- Kid-friendly menu options and a very helpful kitchen (that was able to accommodate our picky eater)
What to know: No pool (pools are uncommon in this area due to cooler temperatures).
Price range: $$$-$$$$
Check Rates and Availability at Hotel Belmar.
Mid-Range: Cala Lodge
Why we love it: Locally owned and operated, this comfortable eco-lodge offers personal service and lovely cloud-forest views in a peaceful setting.
Family perks:
- Well-equipped family rooms with kitchenettes
- Beautiful gardens with hummingbird feeders; has a trail on-site
- Close to main attractions but away from crowds
- Hearty breakfast included
What to know: No restaurant for dinner, but several options are nearby.
Price range: $$
Check Rates and Availability at Cala Lodge.
Budget-Friendly: Cabinas Capulin & Farm
Why we love it: Locally owned farm stay where you can have an authentic Costa Rican experience and learn about sustainable farming.
Family perks:
- Farm tour where kids can interact with animals
- Simple cabins with multiple beds for families
- Beautiful views; many hiking trails
- Friendly, welcoming atmosphere
What to know: Rustic and basic but clean and comfortable accommodations with friendly, helpful staff.
Price range: $-$$
Check Rates and Availability at Cabinas Capulin & Farm.
Guanacaste Beaches
Guanacaste offers some of Costa Rica’s most family-friendly beaches with gentler waves and golden sand. While many families visit popular Tamarindo (see below), we highly recommend Samara for its calmer beach, relaxed atmosphere, and kid-friendly activities.
Why Samara for Families: Samara’s protected bay creates one of Costa Rica’s best swimming beaches for kids. Its walkable town, authentic atmosphere, and manageable size make it our top overall recommendation for families visiting Guanacaste.
For lots more information about Samara, read our post, Samara: Guanacaste’s Most Overlooked Beach Town.
Best Overall: Villas Kalimba
Why we love it: This small property offers the perfect blend of comfort, location, and value in a family-friendly setting.
Family perks:
- Located across the street from the beach right in the main area of Samara
- Well-designed villas with multiple bedrooms and kitchenettes
- Beautiful pool and tropical gardens
- Excellent on-site restaurant and more restaurants are steps away
What to know: While Samara doesn’t have true luxury hotels, this mid-to-high-end boutique hotel is a great option for families.
Price range: $$-$$$
Check Rates and Availability at Villas Kalimba.
Mid-Range: Residencias Samara
Why we love it: This smaller, boutique-style hotel is right in the heart of Samara so you’re walking distance to the beach and many restaurants.
Family perks:
- Central location, walking distance to everything
- 2-bedroom units with a kitchenette available
- Swimming pool
- Friendly, helpful staff
What to know: Some units are close to a busy road so can be noisier.
Price range: $$-$$$
Check Rates and Availability at Residencias Samara.
Budget-Friendly: Villas Verdes
Why we love it: These simple but comfortable apartments offer great value and independence for families looking to stay longer in Samara.
Family perks:
- Fully equipped kitchens for cooking
- Separate bedrooms for parents and kids
- Small pool and garden area
- Right in town and a 5-minute walk to the beach
What to know: No daily housekeeping; more like a vacation rental than a traditional hotel.
Price range: $$
Check Rates and Availability at Villas Verdes.
Popular Alternative: Tamarindo
If you prefer a more developed beach town with lots of amenities and shopping, we recommend Tamarindo. Tamarindo can be great for families, especially with older kids because there’s a lot going on (see our Tamarindo activities guide).
For hotels, we’ve loved our stays at Cala Luna Boutique Hotel (high-end hotel in quieter Playa Langosta) and Hotel Arco Iris (budget to mid-range hotel just outside town). Tamarindo also has lots of options for condos and Airbnbs.
You can learn all about the town with our destination guide, Tamarindo: Where Paradise Meets Convenience.
For Luxury Seekers
For families looking for a luxury beach experience in Guanacaste, there’s the Andaz Papagayo or Four Seasons Resort Papagayo. The Papagayo Peninsula is more remote but our clients have raved about these resorts. They have everything you need onsite.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Family Destinations
Looking for something different? These lesser-known areas offer wonderful family experiences.
Rincon de la Vieja Area: Hacienda Guachipelin
Why we love it: This working ranch near Rincon de la Vieja volcano has many adventure activities and offers an authentic Costa Rican experience.
Family perks:
- On-site adventure park with ziplines, tubing, and horseback riding
- Property has many waterfalls and natural hot springs and mud baths (all included for hotel guests)
- Swimming pool
- Options for larger ground-floor rooms that are great with kids
What to know: Although Hacienda Guachipelin is remotely located and off-the-beaten-path, the property does attract organized tour groups due to its popular on-site activities. This can create a busy “touristy” feel at times, though it hasn’t bothered us on our visits.
Price range: $$-$$$
Check Rates and Availability at Hacienda Guachipelin.
Rio Celeste: Casitas Tenorio
Why we love it: This charming B&B is set in the jungle near the popular Rio Celeste Waterfall. It offers an authentic farm stay experience with comfortable accommodations and great access to nature.
Family perks:
- Standalone casitas with space for families
- Farm tour with opportunities to milk cows and collect eggs
- High chance of seeing wildlife on property
- Homemade breakfast included
What to know: Located in a rural area so best visited with your own vehicle.
Price range: $$-$$$
Check Rates and Availability at Casitas Tenorio B&B.
Learn more about the small town of Bijagua with our post, Bijagua: A Gateway to the Rio Celeste.
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Conclusion
We hope this guide to our favorite Costa Rica hotels for families helps with the planning for your own family’s trip. We’ve created so many amazing memories with our kids while exploring this beautiful country over the last decade. The right accommodations definitely have been key to those experiences.
Need help putting it all together? Check out our resources below or reach out for personalized advice.
Planning Help
Video Chat Service: We’ve been helping families plan their vacations to Costa Rica for over 10 years. If you’re just starting out, feel free to reach out through our Video Chat Service. We can help sort through initial logistics like an itinerary and transportation and recommend specific hotels.
Private Shuttles: We also book private shuttle transfers all around the country through a select network of transportation companies. Get pricing or book a shuttle on our Shuttle Booking page.
Tour Bookings: We offer free online tour bookings in many destinations in Costa Rica. We’ve done all these activities ourselves so feel free to reach out with any specific questions. Check out our Tours page to learn more and read reviews.
More Family Travel Planning Resources:
- 15 Local Tips for Traveling to Costa Rica with Kids
- Best Things to Do in Costa Rica with Kids
- Costa Rica with Kids: A 10-Day Itinerary
- Traveling with a Baby in Costa Rica
- Hotel Guides: More guides and detailed hotel reviews.
- Our Costa Rica with Kids section
FAQs About Hotels in Costa Rica for Families
How far in advance should we book a family hotel in Costa Rica?
For high season (December-April): 6-9 months in advance, especially for popular hotels. Green season (May-November): 3-4 months. For peak season (Christmas, New Years, Easter): 8+ months in advance is ideal.
Is it safe to drink the tap water at hotels in Costa Rica?
Most hotels in tourist areas have safe drinking water, but quality varies by region. Higher-end properties typically have filtered water systems. See our drinking water safety post for more information.
What’s the typical cancellation policy for Costa Rican hotels?
Policies vary but most hotels allow for a full refund with at least 30 days’ notice. With less than 30 days’ notice, you may receive only a partial refund or no money back. Be sure to read the hotel’s specific policy when booking. Keep in mind that most properties have a stricter policy for busy times of year like Christmas/New Years and Easter.
Which hotels can accommodate a family of 5 in one room?
- Arenal Springs Resort & Spa: Junior suites can add a rollaway bed for a fifth person.
- Los Lagos Spa & Thermal Resort (La Fortuna/Arenal): Superior rooms have 2 trundle beds that can accommodate up to 6 people.
- Hotel El Silencio del Campo (La Fortuna/Arenal): Has family rooms with 3 beds.
- Cala Lodge (Monteverde): Has family rooms for 5 people.
- Parador Resort (Manuel Antonio): Some of their larger rooms and suites can hold 5 people.
- Mango Moon (Manuel Antonio): Has a family suite.
- Hacienda Guachipelin (Rincon de la Vieja): Offers family rooms for 5 people.
Airbnbs/VRBOs are also a good option for families of five.
What’s the best way to get around Costa Rica with kids?
Most families we work with choose to rent a car so that they have more flexibility to go at their own pace. Many destinations in Costa Rica are spread out, making a car more convenient. Be sure to check out our Rental Car Discount to save 10% and get free extras like car seats for kids. For more information on insurance and what to look out for, read our post, Renting a Car in Costa Rica: Clearing Up the Confusion.
Are cribs/pack-n-plays available at hotels?
Most hotels, especially mid-range and high-end, offer cribs upon request. Availability is limited so always request one in advance.
What age do kids stay free until?
This varies a lot depending on the hotel. Usually, kids under 6 are free. Otherwise, the range is from around age 8-12.
How reliable is Wi-Fi at family hotels in Costa Rica?
Wi-Fi is available at almost all hotels in Costa Rica except for some remote eco-lodges.
Can hotels accommodate food allergies/special diets?
Higher-end properties can typically handle common allergies and dietary restrictions upon request. Budget properties have more limited options.
Should I book through the hotel’s websites?
You can book directly through the hotel’s website or we recommend booking.com (it’s what we use). Sometimes the price can be lower on booking.com or they have a more flexible cancellation policy.
Are childcare services (babysitting) or kids’ clubs available at Costa Rican hotels?
Only larger resorts (mostly in Guanacaste) offer formal kids’ clubs. Babysitting is not a typical service offered in Costa Rica, but it can sometimes be arranged at mid-range and luxury properties. Our family has used local guarderias (day cares) in the past when traveling.
Do Costa Rican hotels offer laundry services for families on longer stays?
Most mid-range and high-end properties offer laundry service (often expensive). Budget accommodations offer it for a more reasonable fee (usually charging a flat fee per bag).
If you’re planning an extended stay, vacation rental homes are the best option since they typically have laundry. Airbnb has a handy search tool where you can limit the results based on washer/dryer availability.