ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: I recently visited Costa Rica with two friends for our annual girls’ trip and stayed part of the time at Nayara Gardens in La Fortuna. We rented a car and took the scenic drive from Juan Santamaría Airport in San José, which takes roughly 2.5 hours. Upon arrival we were directed to the Nayara Gardens entrance—part of the larger Nayara property that also includes Nayara Tented Camp and Nayara Springs. Attendants greeted us, unloaded our luggage and parked our vehicle.
The reception area felt warm and inviting, full of greenery and natural light. Staff welcomed us at the front desk and offered a refreshing welcome drink—somewhere between a mojito and a piña colada. Check-in was smooth, and the team provided useful information about the spa, rainforest tours and our dinner reservations. A complimentary breakfast is available just behind reception with striking views of Arenal Volcano and the surrounding rainforest. We were then driven by golf cart to our suite: one of the newly renovated Arenal Pool Casitas.
GUEST QUARTERS: Opening the suite revealed airy white curtains around the bed and sliding doors that opened to a deck with a private plunge pool and rainforest views. A bottle of Champagne awaited us, a lovely touch to begin our stay. The suite also featured generous closet space, a large double shower, dual vanities and a second private patio with an outdoor shower.
The décor throughout the room echoed the reception’s aesthetic—light, natural and relaxed while keeping a luxurious feel that matched the overall resort atmosphere.
© Nayara Gardens
SERVICES/AMENITIES: Nayara Gardens functions seamlessly with Nayara Tented Camp and Nayara Springs, and golf carts regularly shuttle guests across the property. Each morning the resort offers yoga in an open-air pavilion, where you can listen to the rainforest wake up and sip a chilled fresh coconut afterward. Each property hosts its own spa with a variety of treatments. Spa guests are led past whirlpools and mud baths to private changing areas, then escorted to their own open-air treatment pavilion, complete with massage tables, spa tubs and showers. Visiting at the end of April, I enjoyed the soft chorus of cicadas in the surrounding forest.
The resort features multiple pools. Our favorite was the Kali Kali swim-up bar: an infinity pool with a panoramic view of Arenal Volcano and expertly mixed cocktails. Dining options are varied and excellent; highlights for us included Asia Luna, which serves Asian-inspired dishes, Ayla with Mediterranean flavors, and Nostalgia Wine Bar for wine flights and small plates.
Overall, our stay at Nayara Gardens was memorable. Beyond the comfortable accommodations and lush setting, the attentive service stood out. The property is well suited for a romantic escape, honeymoon or a restorative couples’ getaway.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
- The spa is exceptional—treatments take place in beautiful, private pavilions and are deeply relaxing.
- Visiting in April can be ideal; there is often less rain in this region of Costa Rica.
- Be alert for wildlife during your stay—sloths, birds and other rainforest creatures are frequently spotted around the grounds.
- Though the hotel can arrange airport transfers, driving in Costa Rica is scenic and enjoyable if you are comfortable with winding roads.
NAYARA GARDENS
702 Road 21007
Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, Costa Rica
tel 844 865 2002