Sometimes you just want to go on vacation and have everything taken care of for you — a stress-free, no-hassle, and easy getaway letting you make the most of every moment. Fortunately, there are many all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica where this wish may become a reality, and many offer lovely beachside sites that give you as few or as many watery activities as you’d like to get down into.
Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo
Right on Flamingo Beach in Guanacaste, this family-oriented all-inclusive hideaway is a favorite with all ages. Colorful and spacious rooms, many with ocean views, give you a refuge after a long day’s kayaking, boogie boarding or a peaceful spa treatment. Dine at one of four in-house restaurants, which obtain vegetables and produce from their own organic garden. Cocktail aficionados will appreciate the swim-up pool bar.
Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica
The Riu is a personal favorite where we celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary. With an oceanfront perch 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 contemporary suites all contain a hydromassage tub, and many living spaces have beach views. Book in for some me-time treatments at the wellness facility.
Drake Bay Getaway Resort
This premium ecolodge hidden into the hills of the Osa Peninsula is the ideal all-inclusive if you want to remain away from the beach hordes. Just five wooden cottages created from recyclable materials complete the Drake Bay portfolio, all with patios and hammocks facing the Pacific Ocean, while bathrooms look right into the jungle. The all-inclusive meal frequently includes the catch of the day, while smoothies and speciality coffee run on tap.
El Mangroove, Guanacaste
El Mangroove is conveniently located about 20 minutes from Liberia International Airport and 15 from the lively beach community of Playas del Coco. However, once you arrive, you’ll feel a world apart from everything. There are seven magnificent rooms, two gourmet restaurants, a world-class spa, a fantastic selection of activities and trips, and stunning beaches within easy reach.
La Paloma Lodge, Puntarenas
This rainforest hideaway is nicely positioned on Drake Bay on the Osa Peninsula. There are one- and two-story ranchos and rooms, and a private three-bedroom mansion. All packages include family-style dinners in the clubhouse (think fresh fish and shrimp) and guided visits 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 surrounding Agujitas River, embarking on a whale and dolphin-watching cruise or exploring the local mangroves (look out for those crocs and caiman) are more active alternatives.
Nayara Gardens, Alajuela
This opulent and romantic resort is a stunning spot to come to after a day of excursions. There are private villas and premium casitas, with a fantastic spa, many gourmet eating options and a great range of ecotours. Plus, the vistas and landscape here are fantastic. A personal host, twice-daily maid service, breakfast buffet and minibar are all included.
Check out any of these resorts and you will not be disappointed.
