Costa Rica remains a largely unspoiled paradise where visitors can immerse themselves in landscapes and experiences that feel profoundly grounded. Leading resorts here skillfully blend the country’s natural riches—rainforests, wildlife and pristine beaches—with authentic culture and abundant outdoor activities. It’s no surprise Costa Rica ranks high on many best-of lists for 2024. Below are three independently owned resorts that showcase the nation’s strengths in adventure and well-being.
© Tabacón Thermal Resort & Springs
Tabacón Thermal Resort and Spa, La Fortuna
Tabacón set an early benchmark for sustainable hospitality, becoming the first hotel in Costa Rica to achieve Elite Level Certification for Sustainable Tourism in Lodging, Gastronomy and Hot Springs & Spa through the Costa Rican Tourism Institute. Nestled beneath Arenal Volcano and surrounded by more than 900 acres of protected rainforest, the 105-room resort offers an immersive natural retreat. Guests enjoy the largest network of naturally flowing thermal hot springs in the country, with cascading waterfalls and river pools woven into the landscape. For over three decades Tabacón has led regional sustainability efforts, including species tagging, exclusive use of organic and biodegradable products, comprehensive water management, reforestation, energy-saving technologies and a “plant-a-tree” initiative. The Spa at Tabacón complements these efforts with treatments featuring locally produced, female-owned products that emphasize nourishment and connection with place.
© Hotel Nantipa
Hotel Nantipa, Santa Teresa, Nicoya Peninsula
Long before wellness travel became mainstream, the Nicoya Peninsula cultivated lifestyles associated with longevity and balance—so much so that the region is one of only five global Blue Zones. Nantipa—its name inspired by the Chorotegan word for “blue”—translates those traditions into a luxury beachfront setting. Spread across 5.7 acres, the property features 29 bungalows, suites and villas that emphasize relaxed, low-key luxury. Its beachfront location invites guests to unplug, slow down and adopt healthier daily rhythms while enjoying personalized service. The hotel’s Blue Wellness Experience integrates local pillars of well-being—social connectedness, time in nature, active days, meaningful encounters and nourishing meals prepared with regional Nicoyan superfoods—delivered through tailored programming and service.
© Río Perdido
Río Perdido, Guanacaste Province, Western Costa Rica
Set within a 1,500-acre private reserve, Río Perdido emphasizes conservation and cultural respect alongside adventurous, restorative stays. The resort’s reforestation programs and careful stewardship preserve a rare mix of ecosystems, from jungle terrain and volcanic hot springs to a distinctive dwarf forest. On-site activities—hiking, mountain biking, yoga, wildlife viewing, zipline canyon tours and white-water tubing—make full use of the dramatic landscape, while nearby options include white-water rafting on the Tenorio River and exploration of Palo Verde National Park. This year Río Perdido expands its accommodation offerings with West Bungalows, luxury treehouses crafted from sustainably sourced materials and designed with biophilic principles, reinforcing the property’s boutique wellness ethos.
Each of these resorts reflects a different facet of Costa Rica’s appeal: geothermal healing waters, longevity-focused lifestyle traditions and immersive nature-based conservation. Together they highlight why this small country remains a major destination for travelers seeking both adventure and rejuvenation.