Costa Rica is a pioneer in eco-tourism, captivating travelers who seek not only natural beauty but also responsible luxury. Known for its lush rainforests, biodiverse ecosystems, and commitment to conservation, the country offers eco-conscious resorts that prioritize sustainability without compromising on luxury. Here’s a curated list of the top eco-luxury resorts in Costa Rica where you can enjoy both world-class comfort and immersive experiences that bring you closer to nature.
1. Lapa Rios Lodge – Osa Peninsula
Situated within a private, 1,000-acre rainforest reserve on the Osa Peninsula, Lapa Rios Lodge is an iconic Costa Rica eco-lodge committed to protecting its pristine surroundings. Designed to harmonize with the natural landscape, each of the 17 bungalows features panoramic ocean and jungle views.
Things to Do and See: Explore the rich biodiversity of Corcovado National Park, embark on guided bird-watching tours, and experience night hikes to witness nocturnal wildlife. Guests can also participate in a local community tour to learn about sustainable practices and conservation.
Family Focus: Lapa Rios is perfect for families with older children and teens, especially nature lovers and budding conservationists. Kids can participate in educational wildlife tours, and with its family-friendly programming, they’ll have endless opportunities to engage with nature safely.
2. Pacuare Lodge – Talamanca Mountains
Nestled along the Pacuare River, this award-winning lodge is only accessible by river raft or via a rugged off-road journey, making it an ideal getaway for adventurous souls. Built to blend with its natural environment, the lodge is powered by sustainable energy sources and offers private suites with thatched roofs and jungle views.
Things to Do and See: Adventure meets luxury here, with activities like white-water rafting, zip-lining, and waterfall rappelling, all set against the stunning Talamanca Mountains. Enjoy guided nature walks with expert naturalists, or simply relax with a spa treatment overlooking the river.
Family Focus: Families with older children or teens looking for a luxury family travel experience will find Pacuare Lodge an exciting destination, as it combines high-end comfort with adrenaline-pumping activities. Safety measures are in place for adventurous activities, and nature walks are adapted for curious young minds.
3. El Silencio Lodge & Spa – Bajos del Toro
El Silencio Lodge offers a peaceful retreat in Costa Rica’s central highlands, surrounded by cloud forests and waterfalls. This boutique eco-lodge emphasizes wellness, with suites and villas designed to immerse you in tranquility. With a mission to protect the fragile cloud forest ecosystem, the lodge follows strict sustainability practices.
Things to Do and See: Discover the wonders of the Bajos del Toro region by hiking through the lush forest, participating in bird-watching expeditions, or taking part in a regenerative planting experience. The lodge also features wellness and culinary programs, emphasizing local ingredients and natural therapies.
Family Focus: For families seeking relaxation and nature immersion, El Silencio provides interactive culinary and eco-experiences that are child-friendly, such as making traditional tortillas or planting a tree. Younger kids can join guided nature walks tailored to encourage exploration and appreciation.
4. Kasiiya Papagayo – Guanacaste
Located on the pristine beaches of the Papagayo Peninsula, Kasiiya is a unique eco-lodge in Costa Rica that blends luxury with nature. Built with minimal environmental impact, Kasiiya’s seven tented suites are crafted from natural materials and positioned to maximize privacy and views of the surrounding landscape.
Things to Do and See: Enjoy exclusive beach access and partake in guided snorkeling or scuba diving. Guests can also hike private trails, practice yoga on the beach, or unwind with eco-conscious wellness treatments. Nearby, you can explore the rich marine life of the Guanacaste coastline.
Family Focus: Kasiiya Papagayo is ideal for families looking for a beach getaway. Kids can enjoy water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling, while parents appreciate the luxury accommodations. For a memorable experience, the lodge can arrange special family yoga sessions and educational marine biology excursions.
5. Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort – Manuel Antonio
Arenas del Mar stands out as a luxury eco-resort with direct access to both beach and rainforest in Manuel Antonio. The resort uses sustainable building practices, and all energy comes from renewable sources. Its rooms and suites offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean or the surrounding rainforest.
Things to Do and See: Explore the nearby Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its diverse wildlife, including sloths and capuchin monkeys. Kayak through mangroves, take a night tour, or relax on the beach. Arenas del Mar also offers guided eco-tours, making it easy to experience the local ecosystem.
Family Focus: This resort caters exceptionally well to families, with activities like animal-spotting tours designed specifically for young explorers. The resort also offers safe beach access and educational nature walks, allowing children to connect with nature in a safe, enriching environment.
6. Nayara Tented Camp – Arenal Volcano National Park
Nayara Tented Camp is a luxurious tented experience in the Arenal Volcano area, blending the safari-lodge concept with Costa Rica’s rainforest charm. Each tent features a private plunge pool fed by natural hot springs and unobstructed views of the iconic Arenal Volcano.
Things to Do and See: Adventure awaits, with options like guided volcano hikes, waterfall visits, and canopy tours. The camp offers wildlife-watching experiences as well, giving guests a close-up view of local species, from vibrant tree frogs to howler monkeys.
Family Focus: Nayara is a great choice for families with younger kids due to its variety of child-friendly activities, like wildlife safaris and introductory hikes. The camp’s heated pools provide a relaxing, safe spot for family bonding, while supervised nature walks captivate curious young minds.
Sustainable Luxury with Family-Friendly Comfort
Costa Rica’s eco-luxury resorts provide families an incredible opportunity to explore pristine wilderness while enjoying all the comfort of a high-end retreat. Resorts like Arenas del Mar and Nayara Tented Camp cater specifically to families, offering a luxury family vacation with activities that are both engaging and safe for younger guests. These destinations emphasize hands-on educational activities—from learning about the rainforest’s unique biodiversity to exploring Costa Rica’s vibrant marine life—making it easy to create unforgettable family memories rooted in the natural world.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or an educational journey, Costa Rica’s eco-luxury resorts offer travelers a one-of-a-kind sustainable travel experience that’ƒs as enriching as it is luxurious. Contact us to book your next vacation!
