BEST OVERALL
Costa Rica may only be the size of West Virginia, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in captivating landscapes, remarkable biodiversity, and unforgettable experiences. Situated between the Pacific Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Nicaragua, and Panama, this country in Central America boasts diverse attractions ranging from tropical beaches and lush jungles to natural hot springs and towering mountains. As if the sights weren’t enough, Costa Rica also offers incredible value for money and is easily accessible via direct flights from major U.S. cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Atlanta.
Practicalities aside, Costa Ricans are some of the kindest, friendliest people you’ll meet. They’re also experts in appreciating life’s simple pleasures, something encapsulated in the national saying “pura vida,” meaning “pure life.”
For these reasons and more, we wholeheartedly recommend a Costa Rica honeymoon (even better if you make it a surprise honeymoon!). Here are the best areas to explore, activity recommendations, and honeymoon resort and boutique hotel suggestions so you can make the most of your honeymoon in Costa Rica.
Given the country’s stunning natural beauty and array of activities, it’s tough to go wrong planning Costa Rica honeymoons. In fact, you’ll probably run into too many options. To help you narrow your choices, here are the must-visit destinations.
Costa Rica’s capital, San José, is home to the country’s largest airport, making it an ideal starting point for your journey. Within this bustling city of 2 million, you’ll encounter 19th-century colonial architecture, charming cafés serving local coffee beans, and a thriving gastronomic scene.
Immerse yourself in culture with a visit to various museums, including the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum and the Museum of Costa Rican Art. For nature, explore the La Paz Waterfall Garden or the Spirogyra Butterfly Garden.
While San José provides ample attractions for a multi-day stay, it’s also a perfect launchpad for day trips. For instance, the Poás Volcano is a mere two-hour drive from the capital. Manuel Antonio National Park, a jungle paradise along the Pacific Coast, is three hours away.
Situated in the rolling hills of northern Costa Rica, approximately three hours from San José, La Fortuna is a charming town bursting with attractions. Primarily recognized as the entry point to Arenal Volcano National Park, it features both the active Arenal Volcano and the dormant Chato Volcano.
Thanks to its volcanic landscape, you’ll find many hot springs and spa resorts in La Fortuna. These mineral-enriched pools not only provide a perfect setting for relaxation, but also health benefits. Many resorts feature swim-up bars where you can savor a cocktail while luxuriating in the warm waters with your new spouse.
Beyond the allure of hot springs, La Fortuna invites exploration through chocolate and coffee farm tours, as well as visits to animal sanctuaries. For those seeking a more exhilarating experience, the town provides ample opportunities for whitewater rafting, zip-lining, kayaking, and mountain biking.
This area is renowned for its luxurious resorts, pristine white-sand beaches on the mainland coast, cozy eco-lodges, and lush national parks on the southern Nicoya Peninsula. Tamarindo, the province’s largest town, is a renowned surfing destination but also offers catamaran tours and wildlife boat excursions.
As one of Costa Rica’s foremost eco-tourism hubs, this region attracts visitors from all over with its Monteverde Cloud Forest, a high-altitude area enveloped in a low-hanging mist that gracefully descends below the canopy. Explore the area by hiking, traversing the suspension bridges, and taking a tour with a local guide. Continue your wildlife exploration by visiting the Monteverde Frog Pond or the Bat Jungle.
For a tranquil escape with your partner, set your sights on the Osa Peninsula. Nestled in southwestern Costa Rica, this region is only accessible via a tough 4×4 journey, making it the epitome of off-the-grid seclusion. Your reward for making the trip is an untouched rainforest teeming with abundant wildlife. Don’t worry, though; there are numerous upscale lodges to ensure your comfort amidst this pristine wilderness.
Between all your adventures, you’ll want a beautiful place to rest and recharge. Thankfully, resorts in Costa Rica are some of the best in the world.
Recognized as one of the world’s best resorts, Nayara Springs Hotel is a secluded, adults-only hotel — but calling it “just” a hotel is underselling it. Rather, Nayara Springs is a luxury eco-lodge close to the Arenal Volcano. Each private villa and suite features a garden terrace and a volcanically-heated private plunge pool. The hotel offers a range of activities, too, from exploring the on-site sloth sanctuary to participating in a rejuvenating yoga class.
With its prime location near Arenal Volcano National Park and honeymoon suite, Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa is one of the best honeymoon resorts Costa Rica has to offer. Alongside the captivating on-site hot springs, the resort boasts a state-of-the-art fitness center, exclusive couples spa packages, and two restaurants specializing in authentic Costa Rican cuisine.
Unforgettable Honeymoons offers a Costa Rica honeymoon package that includes a six-day/five-night stay at Tabacon Thermal Resort. The package includes breakfast, garden access, and potential room upgrades.
One of our favorite Costa Rica honeymoon resorts, this Four Seasons is situated on the Pacific Coast, with two beaches: one facing the ocean and the other facing the Bay of Culebra. There are also four swimming pools (including an adults-only pool), tennis courts, and a private golf course. For those looking to go farther afield, the resort offers surfing classes, guided hikes, and scuba diving excursions.
Andaz Costa Rica is a Hyatt-owned resort offering jungle views, private beaches, and locally inspired activities. Expect cooking demonstrations, live music, and custom-designed spa treatments.
The Unforgettable Honeymoons Andaz package includes discounts on room upgrades, special honeymoon services, and a $100 gift certificate for future vacations.
Spanning 165 acres, The Springs Resort & Spa offers a stunning view of the Arenal Volcano, natural hot springs, five distinctive dining experiences, and a comprehensive spa. Activities abound, with rafting, horseback riding, and rock climbing.
Casa Chameleon is an adults-only boutique hotel high above Las Catalinas, a town that blends storybook sites with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. It’s also close to the Pacific Coast, giving guests access to Guanacaste Province’s best beaches. Water activities like snorkeling, diving, and kayaking abound, but don’t forget to explore the thousand acres of tropical forest nearby.
Costa Rica regularly ranks among the top honeymoon destinations in the world, and it’s easy to see why. Those seeking a relaxing experience can enjoy dozens of powder-soft beaches between luxury spa treatments. At the same time, thrill-seekers can satiate their appetite for excitement through heart-pounding activities like zip-lining, kayaking, or hiking.
Costa Rica isn’t a cheap honeymoon destination, nor an overly expensive one. Ultimately, how much you spend will depend on activities, time of year, and accommodations. Generally, a couple can expect to pay $3,000–$5,000 for a weeklong stay.
Costa Rica experts recommend honeymooning during the dry season, December–May, avoiding Christmas and Easter. However, opting for the rainy season has its merits, too, with fewer crowds and more budget-friendly options. It’s also worth noting that the rain takes a break in June and July, making the summer months attractive as well.
Allocate a minimum of seven to 10 days for your Costa Rica honeymoon itinerary. This will give you enough time to visit the country’s most famous sites or venture to off-the-beaten-path destinations. Ideally, consider extending your stay to at least 14 days so you have enough time to see everything at a leisurely pace.
From the captivating landscapes and remarkable biodiversity to the warm hospitality of its people, Costa Rica is truly a dream honeymoon destination. But this destination guide is just the start of your honeymoon planning adventure. Check out The Groom Club’s Perfect Honeymoon Planning Guide for packing tips, activity recommendations, and more.
