Top 10 All-Inclusive Resorts in Costa Rica for the Ultimate Pura Vida Escape

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When most people think “all-inclusive,” they picture mega resorts with endless buffets and bottomless margaritas. However, in Costa Rica, all-inclusive experiences can be a little different and, honestly, way more magical. Here at these Costa Rica all-inclusives, it’s less about wristbands and more about waking up in a rainforest casita, sipping freshly brewed local coffee, and heading straight from your private plunge pool to a volcano hike or beachside yoga class, all without ever needing to pull out your wallet.

Whether you’re dreaming of lush rainforests, Pacific Ocean views, or wildlife right outside your room, these top 10 all-inclusive (or nearly all-inclusive) resorts in Costa Rica offer stress-free stays with the pura vida spirit baked in. Note that some of these options offer accommodations only, including half-board (breakfast) and full-board (all-inclusive) options. Be sure to inquire about these options when booking your stay.

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1. Nayara Gardens

Tucked into the jungle near Arenal Volcano, Nayara Gardens is a dreamy escape where luxury meets the wild. Private bungalows with outdoor showers and hammocks make you feel like you’re living in a treehouse, if that treehouse had 5-star service and gourmet food.

What’s included: Daily breakfast, access to multiple restaurants, and a full-service spa on site. Some packages include dinners and tours.

Why we love it: Incredible service, lush gardens, and easy access to volcano hikes and hot springs.

Tip: Book a casita with a plunge pool for the ultimate rainforest retreat.

Nayara Gardens - photo from TripAdvisor  

2. Nayara Springs

Nayara Springs is the more exclusive, adults-only sister resort to Nayara Gardens, and yes, it’s just as stunning. Think romantic villas with spring-fed plunge pools, jungle views, and personalized concierge service.

What’s included: Breakfast, complimentary minibar, yoga classes, and access to Nayara’s restaurants. 

Why we love it: Super private, ultra-luxury vibe with full access to nature.

Tip: This resort is adults-only, making it perfect for honeymooners or couples seeking tranquility and top-tier pampering.

 Playa Cativo Lodge - photo from TripAdvisor 

3. Playa Cativo Lodge

Accessible only by boat, Playa Cativo is what you book when you want to completely unplug. Nestled in the Osa Peninsula, one of the world's most biodiverse regions, this lodge offers a profound connection with nature without compromising comfort.

What’s included: All meals, non-alcoholic drinks, guided nature tours, kayaks, and paddleboards.

Why we love it: Off-the-grid vibes with soft linens, rainforest showers, and top-notch food.

Tip: Take the guided rainforest hike if avaiable as it’s like having National Geographic in your backyard.

 

4. Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge

Hidden in the southern tip of the Osa Peninsula, Bosque del Cabo is perfect for travelers seeking eco-luxury. You’ll fall asleep to ocean waves and howler monkeys and wake up to toucans and sunrise views over the jungle.

What’s included: Daily meals and guided hikes. Other tours are available for an added cost.

Why we love it: Spectacular clifftop views and an untouched rainforest setting.

Tip: Book early, as the lodge only has a few cabins and fills up quickly.

 

Copa de Arbol - copaydearbol.com

5. Copa de Arbol Beach & Rainforest Resort 

Set between the jungle and the sea at Bahia Drake in Drake Bay, Copa de Arbol seamlessly blends luxury and nature. It’s the kind of place where you can sip fresh-squeezed juice in the morning and spot whales from your kayak in the afternoon.

What’s included: Gourmet meals, boat transfers from Drake Bay, and some guided tours.

Why we love it: Peaceful and private, with only a handful of beachfront bungalows.

Tip: Try the night walk if available, as the jungle comes alive after dark.

 

6. Adventure Inn

This isn’t your typical resort, but Adventure Inn is a solid all-inclusive option near the airport, which is perfect for the first or last night of your trip. It has charm, comfort, and an incredibly helpful staff.

What’s included: Breakfast, airport transfers, and even some tour packages.

Why we love it: Super convenient and affordable with surprisingly great food.

Tip: Ask the front desk for last-minute tour bookings,  they’re pros at arranging day trips

 

7. Villa Buena Onda

This adults-only boutique resort is intimate, elegant, and totally relaxed. With just a few rooms and an ocean view infinity pool, it feels like staying in a private villa, but with staff who spoil you.

What’s included: Gourmet meals, snacks, and local experiences (yoga, cooking).

Why we love it: The perfect mix of beachy luxury and laid-back vibes.

Tip: Great for groups of friends or a couple’s getaway.

Drake Bay Getaway Resort - photo from Booking.com 

8. Drake Bay Getaway Resort 

This is a hidden gem with serious eco-cred. With just five cabins, incredible food, and guided wildlife tours, it’s the kind of place that feels totally personalized.

What’s included: All meals, coffee, tours to Corcovado, or snorkeling trips to Caño Island.

Why we love it: Personalized service and insane views of the Pacific.

Tip: The open-air showers are unforgettable, but in the best way.

 

9. Los Altos de Eros

Set in the hills just outside of Tamarindo, this adults-only spa retreat is perfect for those who want privacy but still be close to the beach scene.

What’s included: Breakfast and lunch, spa access, yoga classes, and shuttle into town.

Why we love it: Panoramic views, a fantastic spa, and quiet surroundings.

Tip: Book a massage and watch the sunset while you’re getting pampered.

Gaia Hotel & Reserve - photo from Booking.com

10. Gaia Hotel & Reserve

Gaia is a luxurious, adults-only eco-resort situated in its own private nature reserve, just minutes from the renowned Manuel Antonio National Park. With sweeping ocean views, gourmet dining, and white-glove service, it’s an excellent all-inclusive option for travelers seeking luxury and wildlife experiences.

What’s included: Daily breakfast, round-trip airport transfers (from Quepos), guided nature reserve tour, and some packages with full meals.

Why we love it: Close to beaches and Manuel Antonio, but totally secluded and peaceful.

Tip: Don’t miss the free tour of the hotel’s private nature reserve; you might spot monkeys, sloths, and rare birds without ever leaving the property. 

 

(Bonus Pick) Mix & Match for the Best Experience

Costa Rica isn’t the kind of place where you want to stay put, so our favorite travel tip is to split your time between two different regions, like rainforest + beach or coast + volcano.

Here's an Example Costa Rica Itinerary to consider:

3 nights at Nayara Gardens for both Volcano and Spa.

4 nights at Playa Cativo or Drake Bay Getaway for Jungle and Sea.

2 nights at Villa Buena Onda or Los Altos de Eros for Beach Relaxation.

This option is best if you rent a Car.  We love the local Costa Rica company, Vamos Rent-A-Car, and recommend renting directly from them for the best price, with no hidden fees that appear when you arrive to pick up your car. 

More Costa Rica Resources

Planning a Trip to Costa Rica? Be sure to check out Exploring Costa Rica’s Natural Wonders: An Itinerary from a Local  and How to Plan the Ultimate Costa Rica Getaway & Vacation like a Local

How to Choose the Right All-Inclusive in Costa Rica

If you’re looking for bottomless buffets and 500-room resorts, Costa Rica all-inclusives might surprise you. But if you’re up for immersive nature, high-touch service, and unforgettable experiences bundled into a stress-free package, this is your place.

Whether you’re here to explore the jungle, lounge on the beach, or indulge in spa treatments (or maybe all three), these resorts will make your trip effortless and unforgettable.

Don't forget: Always double-check what “all-inclusive” means at each resort. Some include full-board meals and tours, while others may offer à la carte packages with optional add-ons.

 


 

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